5th China-Thailand JC set Dec 9

BANGKOK, December 7 (TNA) - Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak, who oversees economic affairs, is scheduled to lead a Thai business delegation to visit China later this week to attend the 5th Meeting of the Joint Committee on Trade, Investment and Economic Cooperation between China and Thailand (JC). Chinese State Councilor Wang Yong will jointly chair the 5th China-Thailand JC with the Thai deputy prime minister on December 9, aimed to develop strategic economic partnership between the two allied nations, focused on regional connectivity initiatives. On the occasion, the Thai business delegation is also scheduled to meet leading Chinese business operators to create their confidence in Thailand's readiness and potential in welcoming their expanding investment projects in the future. Currently, China is Thailand's top trading partner and 2nd largest export market, while Thailand is China's 13th largest trading partner and 10th largest import market. In 2015 alone, bilateral trade between China and Thailand totaled 65 billion US dollars and the value of two-way trade during the first 10 months of this year reached 54 billion US dollars. Major Thai exports to the immense Chinese market include plastic pellets, tapioca, rubber and chemical products, as well as computer sets and accessories, while major Chinese exports to Thailand include electric machines and parts, household appliances, chemical and steel products, as well as automobile parts and accessories. (TNA)