CHIANG RAI SIGNS TRADE DEAL

Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce has signed a memorandum of understanding with four bodies in Myanmar’s Shan state to promote greater cooperation in several areas including trade and investment.

The agreement, which involves four chambers of commerce in the Myanmar cities of Muse-Nam Kham, Taunggyi, Keng Tung and Tachilek, seeks to expand and strengthen ties and cooperation based on the regulations of both countries.

The signing, which took place on Friday in Taunggyi, was observed by local authorities and leading business operators from Thailand and Myanmar.

The Thai delegation was led by Chiang Rai governor Boonsong Techamaneesatit.

Both sides are expected to pursue cooperation in trade and investment, education, labour and technology.

The signing followed the launch of Thailand Festival @Shan, an exposition of Thai products in Shan State yesterday and Friday by the Commerce Ministry’s Department of Foreign Trade.

Attending the launch were Shan state Chief Minister Linn Htut, Shan state Minister of Finance and Planning Soe Nyunt Lwin and DFT deputy director-general Adul Chotinisakorn.

Soe Nyunt Lwin said the government has put heavy emphasis on foreign investment and has been improving related laws.

He said the exposition should open up opportunities for Thailand and Myanmar to boost trade and investment.

Mr Adul said the department’s Young Entrepreneur Network Development Programme has been successful and will be expanded to include business operators in Shan state.

Young entrepreneurs from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand are brought together to share knowledge.