Paris: The government is gearing up to enhance the connectivity of Thai businesses with European markets, a crucial move aimed at boosting Thailand's economic footprint across the continent. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, during his mission in France, unveiled policies to support Thai businesses operating in France, increase imports of Thai raw materials, and nurture the expansion of Thai franchise brands within the European market.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin engaged in discussions with top executives from three Thai private companies that have investments in France: Mr. Herv©n Villefer, President of Ambient Branded under Thai Union Europe Co., Ltd.; Mr. Hermes Panayotopoulos, Head of Sustainability Policy for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Indorama Ventures Co., Ltd.; and Mr. Supasit Sukhanin, CEO of Mud and Hound Co., Ltd. The meeting aimed to gather insights into their suggestions, opportunities, and hurdles in operating Thai businesses in Europe and to investigate ways to enhance economic collaboration between Thailand and France across multiple dimensions.
Following these discussions, Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the private sector made several proposals to the government. Key among them is the push to support and expedite the negotiation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union. This agreement would potentially eliminate the 24% tariffs currently imposed by the EU on Thai goods, thereby facilitating a more robust entry of Thai products into the European market. This move is expected to benefit Thai exporters across various product categories.
Additionally, there is a proposal to promote Thai brand franchises in the European market, particularly in the restaurant sector. While Thai cuisine enjoys international popularity, many Thai restaurants in Europe are operated by foreigners who may not possess the requisite skills to deliver authentic Thai flavors. Measures by the Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM Bank) are proposed to create opportunities for Thais in France and other European nations to establish and operate Thai restaurant businesses. This initiative is also expected to boost the import of Thai ingredients, thereby preserving the unique culinary identity of Thailand.
The Prime Minister has expressed keen interest in these proposals and has committed to continuing efforts to promote them. Plans are underway to bring Thai private sector companies with restaurant franchises to discussions with EXIM Bank to devise further promotional strategies.