The cabinet has agreed to set up a panel to consider whether Thailand should sign up to a controversial Asia-Pacific trade agreement, amid widespread concerns doing so may harm the agriculture industry.
A House standing panel will seek public opinion about membership of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek told a news briefing.
"Its conclusions will be useful for the cabinet to decide on CPTPP membership.
"The government wants them to get it done within 30 days," she said.
The Commerce Ministry, citing a study previously said membership could lift economic growth to help offset the negative impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
However, the cabinet shelved a decision on membership last month following stiff opposition by politicians, civil society groups and prominent social figures who said it would hurt the economy, particularly the agricultural and healthcare sectors.
The deputy spokeswoman said the committee would allow parliament to be involved in considering and sounding out the matter. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit agreed with forming the committee.