Display mode (Doesn't show in master page preview)

4 May 2005

International Economy

British Elections, 2005: Opportunities for Trade/Investment/Tourism

คะแนนเฉลี่ย

Unlike the US Presidential Election in late 2004, the British general election to held on May 5, 2005, may not garner much Thai interest. In fact, Britain is one of Thailand's oldest friends in the West, having a long relationship with the Kingdom. More importantly, Britain is one of the Group of Seven (G-7) countries, whose economic size is significant. The United Kingdom (UK) is also among Thailand's top ten trading partners. Aside from this, British investments and tourist arrivals in Thailand are among the frontrunners. Thus, for Thais, the British general election deserves monitoring.

Thai businessmen should not overlook the British market due to its stable political situation and relatively healthy economy compared to other industrial nations. As a long-standing economic partner, Thailand should broaden its bilateral cooperation with Britain to enhance mutual benefits in the following areas:
  • Raise the standard of Thai exports to meet that of the EU ฏ of which the UK is a member ฏ including both food and non-food products. This would create confidence and ensure consumer safety.
  • Promote more UK SMEs in Thailand to steadily draw investment capital inflows from the UK, which would also help Thai SMEs in the exchange of knowledge and skills.
  • Conduct campaigns to promote Thai/UK tourism, particularly to attract British women who are interested in Thai traditions, culture, and lifestyle, as well as sightseeing to admire the beauty of nature and tourism that combines health and beauty enhancements using Thai herbs. However, for such visitors, the Thai authorities should take steps to ensure the safety of the lives and property of foreign tourists.-


International Economy