She said the ministry planned to increase the country’s competitiveness by modernising trade and investment laws and regulations no matter whether Thailand joins the TPP or not.

The ministry is discussing the TPP issue with all involved sectors, as well as conducting public hearings to allow the voicing of concerns and suggestions in every region.

It has also compared the feasibility study conducted by the Panyapiwat Institute with the latest reports from the United States and the 11 other countries in the TPP so that Thailand will have full information for considering whether to join the pact in June.

‘Beneficial for Thailand’

The primary results of the study found that the TPP would bring more benefits to Thailand than negative impacts or challenges. The pact would leverage the Kingdom’s economic growth and increase standards for Thai products and services.

Joining the TPP would also help draw more foreign investment into the country and maintain the investment that is already here.

As for the impacts on some sectors, including farming, the Agriculture Ministry has listened to concerns among farmers and agreed to strengthen the sector.

It will set up a centre to produce quality, low-cost seeds, as well as amend laws to ensure the protection of Thai plants. and prevent foreigners to use Thai plants

On the issue of pharmaceutical patents, the Public Health Ministry has studied concerns from the social sector about an upgrading of |the drug-patent registration procedure.

It will also increase the number of staff for registering drug patents so that Thailand to improve protection of such patents and other intellectual property.