Private sector to discuss impact of EU’s punitive measures against Thailand

0
1044

BANGKOK, June 24 — The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking will discuss impacts of the suspended European Union (EU) cooperation with Thailand. 

Meanwhile, the chief of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) says he understands international reactions but values Thailand’s dignity.

Suphan Mongkolsuthee, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said that the joint standing committee would discuss the impacts early in July.

There is some psychological impact, he said, but there had been no effect on trade as Thailand’s private sectors and the EU could proceed with their trade.

Postponement of free trade negotiations between EU and Thailand negatively affected the interests of both sides, he said.

Mr Suphan expects the Peace and Order Council to develop understanding with the EU. The NCPO had capable advisers on foreign affairs, he noted.

Meanwhile, Poj Aramwattananot, chairman of the Thai Fishery Producers Coalition, insisted that Thai fisheries were free of both child labour and illegal labour.

Any operators who were members of the coalition would be dismissed from membership if they violate labour law, and without membership they cannot sell their products to overseas markets.

NCPO chief Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha told a meeting of the council today that he understood the opposition of the United States and the EU to the military coup but the dignity of Thailand must be respected as well.