Bangkok: The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is expressing concerns over the caretaker government, warning that civil servants may become inactive, and highlighting the urgent need to drive economic growth, address border issues, and continue flood recovery efforts. Mr. Kriengkrai Thianukul, President of FTI, noted that Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul's announcement of the dissolution of parliament was anticipated, as signals had been present beforehand. The minority government, in power for about two months, dissolved approximately one month earlier than expected due to the People's Party's dissatisfaction with the Senate's continued power, which they perceived as a violation of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
According to Thai News Agency, FTI is concerned that during the approximately 60-day caretaker government period, the intensity of economic policy implementation might decrease, particularly impacting stimulus measures in the final quarter. These measures are crucial as the Q3 GDP growth fell below expectations to 1.2%. While "Quick Big Win" measures are starting to show positive results, their effectiveness could be hindered during the caretaker period.
Mr. Kriengkrai highlighted several unresolved issues requiring action from a fully empowered government, including recovery efforts in nine southern provinces following severe flooding, violence along the Thai-Cambodian border affecting trade, tourism, and agriculture, and important international negotiations, especially with the United States, which may face limitations.
He also cautioned about a recurring issue where civil servants tend to become inactive during a dissolved parliament, potentially reducing momentum and affecting necessary measures. FTI urges permanent secretaries of all ministries to expedite pending tasks and ensure the implementation of approved economic stimulus policies, especially "Quick Big Win" initiatives, to prevent further slowing of Thailand's GDP growth.