Bangkok: The Security Committee has called upon the Minister of Industry to shed light on the zero-dollar business issue, a matter that concerns both the opposition and the government as they unite to tackle the problem. Mr. Chutiphong Pipoppinyo, MP for the People’s Party list and secretary of the House Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy and National Reform, alongside Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, addressed the media before the committee’s meeting.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chutipong expressed gratitude to the minister for personally attending the meeting. The agenda focused on Chinese investments in Thailand, problematic industries in the Eastern region, and environmental and employment-related challenges. Concerns over chemical waste imports and zero-dollar issues related to steel and industrial factories with Chinese investments were also discussed. The committee invited the Minister of Industry, the Governor of Rayong Province, the President of Ray
ong Provincial Administrative Organization, and MPs from Rayong’s five districts to provide information and explore solutions, including potential discussions about BOI investment.
Mr. Chutiphong emphasized the importance of cooperation between opposition MPs and government ministers during times of national crisis. He highlighted that despite political differences, all parties must work together to safeguard the country’s interests, reflecting the public’s aspirations for unity in addressing national issues. The committee aims to act as a bridge and anticipates collaboration between the executive and legislative branches to resolve the country’s problems.
Minister Ekkanat mentioned that he had prepared extensive information for the committee and addressed misconceptions regarding two issues: the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) building and the suppression of zero-dollar businesses. He noted that zero-dollar activities pose significant challenges to the nation’s economy, safety, and envi
ronmental resources by introducing low-quality products and industrial waste. He called for collective action beyond the Ministry of Industry’s mechanisms, highlighting recent instructions from the Prime Minister for collaboration with the DSI to address low-quality products and illegal foreign businesses.
Lawyer Ekkanat acknowledged the need for support from the opposition, emphasizing that rapid and successful actions often rely on critical information from opposition members like Mr. Chutipong. He stressed that addressing these issues requires cooperation beyond the Ministry of Industry, involving the House of Representatives and the public sector. He underscored the influence and power behind these challenges and reiterated his commitment to working with all parties, prioritizing the resolution of issues affecting all Thai people over political lines.