BANGKOK, April 30 – Thailand’s exports this year are likely to grow up to 15 per cent, higher than earlier expected at 12 per cent, boosted by the global economic recovery and greater demand for foods worldwide, according to Commerce Minister Porntiva Nakasai.
She said Thailand is considered one of the world’s key food producing countries. In particular, its agriculture products are recognized and demanded by many people around the world.
The Commerce Ministry instructed the Export Promotion Department to work actively to monitor the export situation of all countries closely.
She said Thai entrepreneurs must prepare themselves in all aspects. To this end, the ministry considered establishing a Council for SME Business for Export which could serve as a mechanism to boost collaboration between the state and private sectors.
It would also help bolster the SME export sector growth in a steady and sustainable manner amidst stiff and complex competition in the world market.
Mrs Porntiva said the ministry targeted an increase in the value of exports by SMEs from 30 per cent to 40 per cent of the country’s total export value in the next 5 years and to 50 per cent in the next decade.
Such export growth would contribute greatly to the overall economy and employment.
At present, more than 99 per cent of SMEs are local entrepreneurs and over 80 per cent of exporters come from the SME business sector. (MCOT online news)
