New Thai PM’s reform agenda lacks specifics: Economists

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra lights an incense stick to pay respects to a shrine outside the Parliament chamber in Bangkok on Sept 12, 2024. - AFP

BANGKOK: Thailand’s new prime minister has a roadmap to deal with the most pressing issues ranging from a near-record household debt to a tepid growth rate and an ageing society. But the plan is short on details that would ensure time-bound outcomes, according to economists.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was sworn into office last week, outlined her government’s top 10 priorities at a joint sitting of the parliament on Thursday (Sept 12). The blueprint includes steps to tackle the more than 16 trillion baht (US$476 billion) of household debt, modernise the country’s farm sector, overhaul the energy and utility procurement terms to lower costs of living as among the priorities. She also highlighted the need for an urgent economic stimulus for the poor.