BANGKOK, 26 July 2012 – As the realization of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) looks set to open more doors for Thailand, concerns have been raised as to how little Thai people are enthusiastic about a more liberalized Southeast Asian region.
The Commerce Ministry’s Inspector General Unchana Withayathamthat said on Wednesday that Thailand will soon shift its focus from only exports to more overseas investment, especially in Myanmar where abundance of natural resources, such as woods, minerals and natural gas are available.
Ms. Unchana added that Thailand will be able to capitalize on the opening up of Myanmar, after its government has passed a new law to allow foreigners to hold shares in local companies up to 100 percent and to enjoy up to 5 years of tax incentives.
Meanwhile, Vice Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce Pornsilp Patcharintanakul commented that Thai people have not been quite enthusiastic and ready about the emergence of AEC.
Mr. Pornsilp stated that such mediocre interest is worrisome for the country’s business environment and direction, as other countries have been more prepared for the arrival of the ASEAN Community.
