Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said in his weekly
television program that the government would continue to maintain diesel
prices at 30 baht per liter until the end of September.
He cited excise tax reduction is the reason for further
fuel price pegging policy. Abhisit also said the Thai economy was expanding
well at present with the tourism industry and exports contributing to the
growth in the first quarter of this year.
The number of foreign tourists entering Thailand has
risen to 5 million people, more than earlier targeted. Meanwhile, he
reiterated the need to keep diesel prices at no more than 30 baht per liter
as agreed with the logistics sector as the increase might prompt farm
product such as eggs and fertilizer to rise further.
In response to the higher cost of living, Abhisit said
the Ministry of Labor would consider raising minimum wages for workers in
the middle of this year. The increase will be proposed to the Cabinet for
consideration next week. (NNT)
