Economy
Incoming Commerce Permanent Secretary Outlines Nine-Point Economic Agenda
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, the incoming Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, has announced a nine-point urgent agenda to address global trade shifts and domestic economic fairness starting October 1, 2026.
According to Khaosod Online Thailand, Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, the current Director-General of the Department of Business Development and the incoming Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, has unveiled a strategic plan to be implemented upon taking office on October 1, 2026. The agenda focuses on nine urgent missions designed to help Thailand adapt to rapid global trade changes, including geopolitical impacts, technological shifts, and demographic changes affecting labor supply.
For residents and travelers, the most notable aspects of this plan involve the management of the cost of living and trade fairness. The Ministry intends to utilize legal measures and trade mechanisms to monitor and control the prices of essential goods and services, ensuring they remain reasonable. Proactive initiatives, such as the 'Thai Helps Thai' program, are expected to continue to help reduce financial burdens on the public. Furthermore, the Ministry aims to protect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by preventing larger entities with superior market power from engaging in anti-competitive practices or price suppression.
While these measures are intended to foster a more transparent and equitable economic environment, specific details regarding the enforcement of these regulations against foreign capital or the exact timeline for individual projects remain to be confirmed as the transition of leadership takes place.
