Thailand’s PM Anutin pledges swift action on economy and tourism amid political turmoil
Thailand’s PM Anutin Charnvirakul targets cost of living, tourism recovery and border stability in a four-month plan to revive the economy
Anutin’s already complex task is made more difficult by leading a minority government that only secured opposition support on the condition that he calls new elections.
Speaking to lawmakers, the construction tycoon-turned politician recognised that his time-limited government meant he would not be able to address structural issues.
“Four months from now, by January 31, I will dissolve parliament. That’s my commitment under the agreement,” Anutin told the lower chamber. “This is an interim government that has come in to address the damage caused by the previous administration”, including to the economy and “dignity of the nation”, he said.
Instead, Anutin vowed a quick roll-out of a co-payment scheme to subsidise food costs at restaurants, a measure designed to help Thais save money and boost consumption amid slow economic growth.