Private Sector at Breaking Point: Urges Government to Combat Corruption and Boost Transparency
Thailand's private sector warned the government that corruption is unsustainable and demanded urgent anti-corruption measures and transparency reforms to improve the country's global standing and competitiveness.
At 9:50 a.m. on May 15, 2025, at Government House, Poj Aramwattananont, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Thai Chamber of Commerce Council, revealed details of a meeting with the "Zero Corruption" working group. The Thai Chamber of Commerce and allied business groups met with the Prime Minister to discuss next steps, with Deputy Prime Minister Prakorn Nilpraband assigned to represent the government in receiving private sector proposals.
The main discussion point centered on addressing corruption, described as a critical issue requiring serious, tangible action. Thailand aims to gain OECD membership, as global attention on this matter is intensifying. Current low credit ratings necessitate improvement efforts.
Pimjai Lee Isaranukul, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, added that multiple urgent issues require boosting national competitiveness and advancing anti-corruption and transparency initiatives. When asked about the government's first priority amid economic challenges, she emphasized focusing on vulnerable groups as a critical segment.
Poj noted that protecting vulnerable populations is essential, while the Prime Minister will hear from business leaders about economic conditions and urgent private sector proposals. He stressed that public-private cooperation is vital, especially on economic matters, where government sets policy but the private sector drives implementation.
Poj explained that since their May 2024 meeting, the private sector believes the country's situation is unsustainable due to pervasive corruption concerns. Though multiple networks and associations have campaigned together, a prior dissolution of parliament delayed progress. In January 2025, efforts focused on election-related matters and vote-buying surveys, which became a major issue. The Thai Chamber of Commerce, working with TDRI, released survey results confirming corruption concerns, particularly regarding bribery matters announced on May 14.
