Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, clarified that she hasn't disappeared, acknowledging the need to improve her communication with the public as advised by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. She emphasized her dedication to solving pressing issues such as international trade negotiations and addressing coconut and shrimp price challenges, which have started to yield results.
According to Thai News Agency, Supajee admitted that there had been a lack of consistent communication in the past, a situation that requires rectification. She apologized for not effectively communicating her operational results to the public, highlighting that her primary focus has been on work rather than content creation. This focus includes handling agricultural products, domestic trade, and complex international trade negotiations involving tariffs, non-tariff measures, and geopolitical factors.
Supajee stressed her active involvement in problem-solving and advancing the ministry's mission, from negotiating tariff measures with the United States to pursuing free trade agreements with trading partners and addressing trade barriers. She also manages domestic concerns like the cost of living and agricultural product pricing.
Highlighting her efforts in resolving the low fragrant coconut prices, Supajee explained that the Ministry of Commerce intervened by establishing market linkages and developing "community coconut packing houses" to add value to the produce. This initiative has improved coconut prices from 2 baht to approximately 12-15 baht per fruit.
In response to Malaysia's suspension of Thai shrimp imports, the Ministry of Commerce coordinated with trade outlets and restaurants to absorb surplus shrimp and explored new export markets. This initiative has helped improve shrimp prices, although challenges remain.
Supajee admitted feeling discouraged during overlapping crises, such as the Middle East conflict's impact on energy prices and the economy, compounded by government budget constraints. Despite being turned into memes and facing ridicule on social media, she affirmed her commitment to her responsibilities, including managing the economy and negotiating international trade deals.