Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn said the ministry had not lowered its growth forecast and would focus on enhancement of Thai exporters’ competitiveness. Product development will also be emphasised and the service sector will be given more promotion, given its high rate of expansion. Consumers’ behaviour has changed rapidly with more concentration on e-commerce, she said, noting that more discussion on marketing for exports was required. She said agricultural products needed relief measures.

The ministry this year will lead Thai business operators to penetrate foreign markets in other countries, particularly Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam, whose economies are growing. Other places of interest are Iran, Africa, Central America, China and India, where cities will be particularly penetrated.

On the 64th anniversary of the Department of International Trade Promotion yesterday, the department signed five memoranda of understanding with private companies as guidelines to develop the country’s economy and promote exports.

These include cooperation on international trade promotion for halal products and services, on the “SMEs Genius Exporter” programme, on promotion of Thai business operators for international trade.