BANGKOK, 5 June 2013 The Ministry of Commerce is holding a seminar entitled “AEC Trade and Investment 2015” today to help Thai investors and foreign chambers of commerce learn about investment opportunities after ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) has been formed.
Many foreign investors are reportedly in the dark about how the investment landscape will be for Thailand once it is part of the AEC. They suggested during the seminar that the Thai government clarify investment procedures in order to increase their confidence in the country.
It will help them decide whether they should invest in Thailand or turn their attention elsewhere, given it currently takes as long as 6 months to establish a company in Thailand. They would like to know if they will be offered an easier path to doing that after Thailand enters the AEC.
Today’s seminar offers a platform for both Thai and foreign participants to exchange and share their thoughts regarding the AEC. According to the Department of Trade Negotiations, the tariff rates for most products traded among ASEAN members will be exempted except for coffee, dried coconut, flowers, and potatoes exported to Thailand.
However, the Department claims the collection of tariff on certain products would be still subject to negotiations between member countries. Foreign labors would also find it easier to seek job opportunities in other ASEAN countries. Agreements have been made between ASEAN and several countries such as China, India, Australia, New Zealand and Japan to provide and exchange business information among one another.
