Bangkok: The Prime Minister offered encouraging words, likening the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) to a "Plus Economic Cabinet." The Prime Minister chaired the first meeting of the NESDC, discussing the country's OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) and establishing four subcommittees to address economic problems.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul chaired the first meeting of the Joint Public-Private Sector Committee for Economic Problem Solving (JPC) in 2026, with representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and related organizations in attendance. The Prime Minister stated that today's meeting of the Economic Development Committee (EDC) marks a new milestone. He emphasized that collaboration between the public and private sectors ensures the country's economic stability, strength, and sustainability.
The Prime Minister highlighted this opportunity to exchange ideas and suggestions for economic development in line with the current economic situation and to promote the private sector's greater participation to enhance its potential. However, this committee is like an economic cabinet plus, as it includes the private sector, making it another crucial force for the government. The focus is on building the country's capabilities with monthly meetings. Government policies requiring scrutiny regarding economic aspects can be presented to the Cabinet using the committee's resolutions, expediting the decision-making process.
The meeting acknowledged the order appointing the Joint Public-Private Sector Committee to address economic problems (JPC), summarized proposals, and results of discussions between the Prime Minister and the private sector, and reviewed Thailand's 2026 competitiveness ranking by the IMD Institute. Strategic initiatives, the setting of OKRs, and the grouping of operational activities under the EDC were discussed to enhance collaboration efficiency between the public and private sectors.
Additionally, the meeting considered appointing four subcommittees to drive work on key issues in line with the mission of the Economic and Social Development Council (ESSC) and to push policy proposals into concrete implementation. The focus remains on addressing economic obstacles, enhancing competitiveness, and building long-term confidence in the business sector and investment in the country.