PM shores up trade prospects on UK trip

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra sought collaboration from the UK private sector and Thai businesses during her visit to London this week to support the government's efforts to boost trade, push for a free trade agreement and increase employment for Thais, according to government spokesman Jirayu Huangsap.

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The discussions, which took place on Thursday (UK time), focused on bolstering the value of trade in agricultural and food products and expanding import channels for Thai goods, including lifestyle products, he said.

A Thailand-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was also a key topic, as such a pact would help increase market opportunities and reduce trade barriers for Thai exports such as processed chicken, Mr Jirayu said.

The talks also addressed job opportunities for Thai professionals, including chefs and traditional massage therapists, who are in growing demand across the UK, he said, adding that support measures for Thai businesses eyeing investment opportunities in the UK were discussed.