Duke of York to talk trade with Somkid
In his mission to boost trade and investment between the United Kingdom and Thailand, His Royal Highness Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, will today meet caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak.
A source at the Commerce Ministry said the possibility of forming a free-trade agreement between the two countries would also be discussed. The meeting will be arranged on the sidelines of the prince's visit to Thailand for the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne. Prince Andrew, who will stay until Wednesday, is a special UK representative for international trade and investment. Each year he has at least five overseas visits to strengthen trade cooperation, and this year Thailand is his focus. Thailand has become an important trade and investment partner in the region. Both sides will also talk on the impact of China upon Thailand, the region and world's economy, the source said. The source said discussions would focus on the Kingdom's import ban on British beef. Thailand implemented the import ban when the UK was faced with the problem of mad cow disease. Thailand also launched new regulations covering beef imports from the UK at the beginning of this year. British exporters are afraid the new regulations will raise obstacles to the Thai market. Prince Andrew will also preside over the centenary celebrations of UK-based Boots, the well-known healthcare and beauty products chain, as well as visit Tesco Lotus's Rama I branch. Apiradi Tantraporn, director-general of the Trade Negotiations Department, said the two countries had had a close relationship for decades and the bilateral talks would not only strengthen the relationship but also create Thailand as a strategic partner for the UK. She added that Thailand could boost exports through the UK's modern distribution network. In addition, Thai goods will be displayed and distributed throughout the UK in Tesco Supercentre outlets. According to the Commerce Ministry, two-way trade amounted to US$1.41 billion (Bt54 billion) in the first four months of the year. Thailand had a trade surplus with the UK, and its exports rose 11.12 per cent to $988 million compared with the same period last year. UK investors are also interested in Thailand's mega-projects. Other items on the agenda include discussions on cooperation in trade promotion activities, increasing the number of UK tourists to Thailand, and trade issues that will it is hoped lead to the clinching of a new global trade era under the World Trade Organisation this year.
Petchanet Pratruangkrai The Nation
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