Japanese business operators have urged the government to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) to boost economic ties and trade between Thailand and Japan.
Prime Minister Prayut greets Akio Mimura, chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Government House yesterday. Thanarak Khunton
The Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry's (JCCI) Akio Mimura led executives of Japanese firms, members of the JCCI, in a meeting with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at Government House yesterday.
Gen Prayut said later their visit helped boost investor confidence in Thailand. The Japanese business executives are also confident in forging links with small and medium-sized enterprises in Thailand, cooperating in technology development, and supporting Thailand as their regional production base, the premier said.
"I would like Thais to learn how can we stand up strong in this world, who our friends are and that we will talk with our friends honestly and transparently," the prime minister said.
Deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak said Japan's private sector was urging Thailand to join the TPP pact, which Japan has joined. Japanese business operators believe the TPP can help boost supply and value chains between the two countries.
They also wish to use Thailand as their production base for the region and world markets and praised the Thai government for adopting a policy to give tax privileges to private operators which develop research and development centres in the country.
The JCCI is also willing to cooperate with the government on rail development in Thailand, including a high-speed train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and the Southern Corridor dual track railway development.
Gen Prayut said Thailand is considering the pros and cons of the TPP.
Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said the Bangkok-Chiang Mai high-speed train project is being studied with the results expected to be sent to the cabinet in the middle of the year.
Japan's private sector has also expressed an interest in investing in high-speed train projects linking Bangkok with Hua Hin and Rayong.
Regarding aviation, Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways will negotiate with Thai Airways International to increase business cooperation and promote tourism.
JCCI members have about 1,600 companies in Thailand and invest in hundreds of thousands of companies worldwide.