Under the system companies and agencies will be able to process some licences and fee payments.

Deputy Industry Minister Piyabutr Cholvijarn said the service would simplify the process of seeking and approving licences, which will save companies and agencies time and money.

Santi Vilassakdanont, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, warned, however, that the system might face glitches at the outset.

He called on the Department of Industrial Works to focus on training its officials, particularly in provincial areas, on how to use the system.

Santi was quick to point to the

system's cost-saving potential.

"Once the e-service system is completed it will help companies save costs, such as travelling expenses," he said.

But he doubted it could be universally applied. Obtaining a water-quality licence, for example, may not be feasible electronically, he said.

The e-service would need to be connected with other ministries and relevant organisations, he said.

Santi said the system would save executives having to certify copies of documents and cut paper costs.

Piyabutr said the ministry would also propose that the Cabinet today

fix the minimum price of sugarcane and allocate supply of the crop for factories.

Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul

The Nation