On 28 September, EABC President Mr. Rolf-Dieter Daniel together with Executive Director Mr. Peter Bjork and Policy Manager Mr. Chaladbhum Temkasem participated in the Bangkok Post Forum 2016 titled ‘Moving Thailand Forward’ with H.E. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

The Prime Minister presented the Government’s ambitious plan to reform the country in many fields to move out from ‘the middle income trap’ to become a developed country in 20 years time, by 2036.

The reason for a 20 years span is to ensure that it will be continuity in the development of Human Recourses including Education. The Prime Minister also explained 4 guidelines for development as strengthening the economy at the grassroots level, connectivity of Thailand with its neighboring countries, Thailand 4.0 and development of future industries (the new S- curve) including robotics, aviation and logistics, biofuels and biochemical, digital and medical hub. The Prime Minister also concluded:

– Thailand’s GDP has improved from 0.8 % in 2014 and is expected to reach 3.5% in the 4^th quarter of 2016.
– Transport and logistics are key competitiveness for Thailand. The government seeks to extend 1.435-m gauge and dual-track system for Thai railways.
– Thailand ranks 77^th on e-Government in 2016, improved 25 places from last year. The government also aims to implement more on e-Government.

The Prime Minister thanked the business community for their recommendations.