The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) plans to meet with the next government as soon as possible to submit a final draft of its white paper calling for support policies for businesses and the industrial sector.
"The FTI expects a stable situation post-election, with new MPs forming a coalition government very soon to mobilise the country," said chairman Supant Mongkolsuthree.
The industrial sector should be supported because it represents up to 70% of GDP, making it the prime economic engine, he said.
The white paper was presented on March 18 to five parties before the general election. The group proposed many development issues, including rules related to ease of doing business and establishment of related funds, centres and programmes for farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The white paper has been revised regarding four key industries: smart agriculture, quality of life improvement, networking and connecting, and service sharing.
"The FTI expects the new administration to accept our proposal," Mr Supant said. "These four industries are aimed to be developed and improved through innovation and technology."
He said the smart agricultural industry should put emphasis on the food industry because Thailand is an agricultural country, but the nation needs to upgrade with high-value-added products.
The FTI has proposed the Food Valley scheme as a national strategy, focusing on many types of food, including the halal hub for Muslims.
"The scheme will adopt innovation and technology for plantation zone, packaging design and biochemical development," Mr Supant said.
For quality of life improvement, the plan includes medical treatment and devices and herbal and cosmetic products. Mr Supant said Thailand has the potential to compete in the global market and meet international standards.
For existing industries, the FTI calls for the government to support new manufacturing of trains, railway equipment, electric cars, public vehicles, motorcycles and cruise ships.
Mr Supant said the FTI expects further support for e-commerce and logistics to encourage SMEs and startups to participate in the new business trend.
"We hope the next government will develop and improve the internet system and the Internet of Things to support the e-commerce platform," he said.
In addition, Thailand will soon become an ageing society, so the new administration should plan to create a smart elder centre to provide care in the long term, he said.
