Bangkok (VNA) 𝕴– Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on February 22 unveiled plans to boost the national economy, with key policies including tourismpromotion and electronic vehicle development.

The Prime Minister started with his vision fortourism, foreseeing tremendous growth over the next four years. He promisedto upgrade second-tier provinces to primary tourist destinations, naming Nong Bua Lam Phu, Mukdahan, Ranong, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Nan provinces. He also mentioned efforts to promote "soft power"features. Muay Thai, for example, can generate national revenue throughoverseas training camps and the sale of boxing gear. The government will implement numerous policiesto promote Thailand as a key destination for global travellers. Visa-free entryfor tourists was one such policy. The prime minister also promised to raise farmers' incomes and mentioneda plan to develop Thailand as a global food source. According to Srettha, Brunei and Malaysia are interested in buildinghalal food factories in the far South if peace is restored there. The primeminister promised to develop one-stop services for the export of agriculturalproducts. He said aviation is a key area to boost nationaleconomy. The government will improve immigration processes and private jetfacilities. The automotive industry is another pillar foreconomic development. The government will create supply chains for theproduction of electric vehicles, to turn Thailand into an EV production hub, and work to attract auto makers from other regions to buildfactories here, the PM said. He shared his vision for Thailand to become acentre for technological and digital operations, saying that the government willpass laws relating to digital assets and develop a market for carbon credits./.