The government spokesperson revealed that the Prime Minister emphasized the Cabinet and political officials to accelerate efforts in delivering results for public care, stressing the resolution of forest fire and PM2.5 problems and enforcing measures to avoid purchasing products from burning.
At 13:30 on 21 April 2026 at the Government House, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, the spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, reported on the Cabinet meeting that Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, urged the Cabinet to work diligently and swiftly to produce results and care for the people. He noted the various public demands from groups gathering in protests and requested the government and Cabinet to proactively reach out to the people rather than requiring them to travel from their hometowns to the Government House. With upcoming appointments of political officials, he asked for work to be distributed to reach people in their local areas, as many citizens face hardships. He also thanked all sectors for ensuring the Songkran festival atmosphere went smoothly, with the public happy and acting as gracious hosts, earning international praise.
Ms. Ratchada stated that Mr. Anutin emphasized, following his visits to the southern border provinces on 17 April and Chiang Mai on 20 April to address forest fire and PM2.5 issues, that these matters are of great importance to the Prime Minister due to their health impacts and effects on the economy and tourism. He urged all relevant ministers to proceed with full commitment and assured support with all available forces and budget for machinery to alleviate the forest fire and PM2.5 situation.
Regarding PM2.5 particulate matter, approximately 30-40% originates from cross-border haze. ASEAN mechanisms and Ministry of Commerce measures have been employed since 1 January 2026 to ban imports of agricultural products from sources involving burning. The Ministry's strict enforcement has led to a 70% reduction in corn imports. Currently, preparations are underway to categorize drought and flood as disasters, following the Prime Minister's directive to begin readiness from today onward.
Concerning the 2001 MOU, Mr. Anutin assigned Mr. Pakorn Nilprapunt, the Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs, to oversee the legal process for its prompt cancellation. Regarding the budget, the Prime Minister has already set policies for 2027 and urged all government agencies to strictly adhere to these guidelines.