Bangkok: Varawut Chan-o-cha, on his first day at the Ministry of Industry, promoted the "ONE MIND" initiative to unite Thai industry in overcoming the energy crisis, supporting SMEs in using clean energy in their production processes, and emphasizing the need for swift action during a crisis. Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Industry, began his first day at the Ministry of Industry, where he was warmly welcomed by executives, civil servants, and staff at the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry.
According to Thai News Agency, the Minister of Industry stated that he took the opportunity to greet the ministry's officials and discuss policies prior to the Prime Minister's official policy statement. He expressed his pleasure at assuming the position of Minister of Industry, a ministry previously served by Mr. Banharn, and considered it an opportunity to continue the work. He initially instructed that actions during this crisis must be swift. The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of the Ministry of Industry, highlighting its role in helping Thai people overcome this crisis. This includes prioritizing both small and large enterprises, as well as participation in international forums, and assisting businesses in adapting to the fragile energy and geopolitical situation.
He pledged to apply all his knowledge from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, including expertise in climate change, the circular economy, and green industry, to the ministry. Mr. Varawut further stated that the prepared plan will be announced on April 20th. Initially, they will support factories nationwide, mostly SMEs, to switch to clean energy in their production processes, including installing solar panels to reduce electricity consumption and operating costs. Low-interest loans will be provided through various tools, including loans from the SME Fund under the Pracharat initiative, the "Dee Prom" loan program of the Department of Industrial Promotion, and the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank). Further discussions will be held with the Ministry of Finance to help alleviate the hardship faced by entrepreneurs.
"Industry in this era will operate with 'ONE MIND,' meaning the industry will be unified. I've told the officials at the Ministry of Industry to prepare to switch from leather shoes to sneakers, to work together and to be open to suggestions to ensure the work is completed successfully."