In keeping with the plan, exports are projected to grow 15 per cent to US$146 billion (Bt5.4 trillion) next year.

"The appropriate export target should be a sustainable figure for the country's export growth," said Commerce Minister Krirkkrai Jirapaet.

He met in Bangkok with commercial counsellors from overseas offices in 55 countries to assign them tasks under the government's trade policies. They have been asked to push efforts to increase export value in targeted markets.

He said the ministry would focus on three priority plans: reducing imports and promoting sustainable growth, solving problems in agricultural exports, and strengthening the competitiveness of Thai small and medium-sized enterprises. The strategy will promote Thailand's image as a trading nation, service provider and investment centre in the international arena.

To achieve import reduction, the ministry has initiated an "intelligent import" project, which will focus on only necessary goods and decrease luxury imports. Krirkkrai said he would not impose stringent controls on imports to curb the trade deficit. Instead, he will create awareness in people.

The country's manufacturing relies on imported raw materials and machinery, which account for 90 per cent of imports. The remainder are luxury goods.

Due to the fluctuating prices of farm goods, the government will draw up measures to stabilise prices.

In addition, the minister has ordered the Export Promotion Department to revise a plan that focused on promoting exports in each region under a so-called "regional hub" strategy.

Chantra Purnariksha, director-general of the Export Promotion Department, said the regional hub strategy has caused problems for the department due to conflict in export targets for each region and the overall export target.

 The department has wasted both time and budget through duplication because of the hub concept, she said.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

 The Nation