Bangkok: Ekniti, a Bhumjaithai Party candidate for Finance Minister, is targeting new industries such as electric vehicles, smart electronics, and green electricity like floating solar power to supply the industrial sector. Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, a campaign assistant for the Bhumjaithai Party, a candidate for Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, outlined his ideas for developing the country's economy, emphasizing the potential of these emerging sectors.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekniti highlighted the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles, including electric cars and motorcycles. During his tenure overseeing the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Ministry of Finance, he initiated incentives for car manufacturers. These incentives included tax benefits, stipulating production in Thailand and the import of components such as electric motors and automatic transmissions. Manufacturers are also required to train Thai personnel and businesses to integrate into the supply chain. He pointed out that numerous companies are eager to expand their factories in Thailand for export production. Additionally, he noted the presence of skilled Thai motorcycle enthusiasts who need training to produce electric motorcycles, and there are plans to support the conversion of Thai vehicles from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles with affordable financing.
In the Smart Electronics industry, Mr. Ekniti emphasized Thailand's position among the top five globally, particularly in server and data storage production. He stated that any investment in Thailand must integrate Thai businesses into the supply chain and ensure training and technology transfer to Thai personnel.
Mr. Ekniti also addressed the demand for clean energy, highlighting the potential for solar farms and floating solar systems using numerous available reservoirs to enhance Thailand's clean energy capabilities. He noted that these initiatives could boost the country's potential in the industrial sector.
Furthermore, Mr. Ekniti mentioned the rapidly growing wellness business, focusing on the "Longevity" project aimed at healthy longevity. Tourists are willing to pay for these services, presenting a new service offering. The tourism industry, previously focused on quantity, must now prioritize quality and value. Wellness programs should be integrated into communities to ensure that income benefits local residents.
Lastly, Mr. Ekniti introduced policies to support Thai seniors, such as the "Senior Citizen Plus" policy, which encourages companies to rehire older employees by allowing them to deduct expenses at double the amount. Experienced seniors could be hired as consultants, providing them with income after retirement. Skill development programs for seniors, such as Skill Biz, will be implemented along with the "One Village, One Volunteer Nurse" initiative, establishing senior care centers in each province.