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Published on July 9, 2007

This year the government will focus on promoting investment in Asean and China, said Rachane Potjanasuntorn, director-general of the Export Promotion Department.

Potential businesses include the energy sector and labour-intensive manufacturing. Businesses that want to boost markets and demand a high volume of raw materials, such as textiles, garments and processed food, will be approached.

He said the ministry would ask Commerce Minister Krirk-krai Jirapaet to seek Cabinet approval.

The fund will provide a soft-loan programme for enterprises that want to invest aboard. The investment capital would come from the Export-Import Bank of Thailand and other commercial banks.

Only a small number of Thai enterprises have invested aboard because of a lack of capital. Thai financial institutions seldom provide loans to invest overseas.

"The fund is intended to encourage more Thai enterprises to explore opportunities overseas," said Rachane.

The fund will be managed by the government and chaired by the deputy prime minister responsible for the economy. The committee will include representatives from government agencies and private enterprises.

The ministry will provide knowledge and training for enterprises and conduct a business-matching programme for Thai and foreign enterprises.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation