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The plan aims to capture more market share for Thai export goods in new potential markets, as well as facilitate exporters to promote the growth of each sector.

The plan came after a meeting between Commerce Minister Mingkwan Sangsuwan and trade associations - from frozen seafood, footwear, clothing designers, automobiles and parts, fruit and vegetables and construction - the Federation of Thai Industries, and the Agricultural Futures Exchange of Thailand.

"The plan will boost the export efficiency of the Kingdom, as the government intends 'real implementation' of a strategy to promote export growth, which is the driver of the economy," said Mingkwan.

Potential markets include India, as it has high demand for goods consumption, and China, Japan and Singapore, which have strong economic growth.

Starting late this month, the ministry will hear from exporters on targeted destinations and the potential products to be promoted.

"The quarterly roadshow will boost exports rapidly," Mingkwan said, adding that the strategy is aimed at diversifying markets and reducing exchange risk from the US dollar.

Currently, 19-21 per cent of the country's exports are to the US market, 12 per cent from direct exports and the rest indirect.

Thai exporters also use the dollar as the currency medium for exports, and this accounts for 71 per cent of overall export income.

The ministry will closely promote exporters, particularly those using local content, as it wants to ensure higher income for farmers and enterprises.

It will soon call a meeting with 60 trade counsellors overseas to explore new export strategies.

Mingkwan also promised to solve the private sector's problems as a result of the baht's appreciation. As deputy prime minister, he said the government would soon call a meeting with interested parties with a view to stemming the baht's rise.

These groups include exporters, importers, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Bank of Thailand and the Finance Ministry.

Mingkwan added that the government could not be specific on an exact value for the baht, as it involves many agencies. The meeting should come up with an appropriate rate to balance the interests of the export and import sectors.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation