FTI cooking up reopening plans

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is in talks with industries across all sectors about measures to boost domestic purchasing power in light of the country’s second phase of rolling back lockdown restrictions.

The group will propose a plan to the government on how best to reopen the economy after the next phase of lockdown easing, said FTI chairman Supant Mongkolsuthree.

“The FTI expects to finalise a plan as soon as possible,” Mr Supant said. “Members mostly want the government to stimulate domestic purchasing power after the second phase of easing lockdown measures.”

The federation expects the government to further ease lockdown measures this month as coronavirus cases continue to decline in order to boost the domestic economy and employment.

The FTI said many businesses will support the government and follow health and safety measures to prevent a potential second wave of coronavirus infections.

“Businesses have agreed with the government’s measures and are happy if the government eases more lockdown measures because they hope more businesses can reopen,” Mr Supant said.

He said some businesses are prepared to adopt additional measures to prevent infections on top of those recommended by the government.

A source in business circles said Prime Minister Prayut Chano-cha plans to meet with parties from the private sector to discuss an economic recovery plan and gain insight on how best to reopen the country.

“Gen Prayut has scheduled to meet businesses in private soon, so there’s a chance for businesses to talk directly with the PM this week and the business sector has been

‘‘ Members mostly want the government to stimulate domestic purchasing power.

SUPANT MONGKOLSUTHREE Chairman, Federation of Thai Industries

preparing to make suggestions,” the source said.

Chonrungsee Chalermchaikit, president of the Federation of Thai SMEs, said her group is in discussions with members to come up with further relief measures.

“The federation has prepared measures to boost purchasing power that we will propose to the government, such as helping local markets and economies in each province follow government policy,” she said.

The federation agrees with the government’s policies so far of easing lockdown measures and supporting businesses.