Anutin is ready to use suggestions from major CEOs to strengthen Thailand's economy. He revealed that business tycoon Thanin said Thailand is a rice bowl with food security and emphasized the necessity of the Missing Link connecting Ranong and Chumphon before expanding to a land bridge. He noted that live broadcasting of the 2026 World Cup depends on how negotiations are conducted among the stakeholders.
At 14:10 on 16 May at the 2nd Cavalry Division King's Guard, Sanam Pao,Bangkok, Mr. AnutinCharnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke about his discussion with top private sector executives on 15 May, saying the meeting lasted two hours plus one hour of dining together. He listened to opinions and suggestions from business operators and said the government will compile these and use them to establish guidelines that best achieve the entrepreneurs’ expectations. He emphasized that the country depends on these operators to move forward, strengthening the economy, ensuring social peace, creating employment, and generating tax revenue. The government and private sector must move forward together.
When asked if there are projects the private sector wants the government to continue or any concerns, Anutin said regarding import-export goods, they want improvements in freight routes, logistics, and tariffs. Thanin Chiawvanont, Senior Chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, said we must elevate farmers as much as possible in today’s global context. He said something that aligns with Anutin’s previous statements, that our resources are like "oil on the ground"—meaning food, making us a rice bowl. This matches what Anutin told ASEAN leaders: that energy oil is inedible, but food, which Thailand has in abundance, sustains life. In worst cases, the country can endure longer due to food security. We rely on food security.
The Prime Minister said that ASEAN leaders have raised the importance of ensuring the food supply chain and food security are robust. Thailand is a leader in ASEAN in this regard. We must emphasize strengthening this to negotiate with the international community, which will strengthen Thailand overall.
When asked whether business operators discussed developing Ranong port and the missing rail link between Chumphon and Ranong, Anutin said this aligns with government policy. Whether the land bridge will happen or not, the missing link—the absent rail section to the west—needs to be completed. This will complete the rail transport network in Thailand, connecting neighboring countries north, south, east, and west, making it more comprehensive. These are the starting points for the land bridge.
The Prime Minister said the major land bridge project is under study. The government considers cost-effectiveness and whether it will boost Thailand’s potential as a transportation and economic hub. The land bridge study is ongoing, but at least the missing link leading to expansion toward a land bridge should happen.
He pointed out that live broadcasting of the 2026 World Cup depends on how negotiations among involved parties are handled.
Anutin also updated on the progress of live broadcasting rights for the 2026 football tournament afterthe Cabinet (Council of Ministers)approved the Public Relations Department to coordinate the live broadcast, saying the government is not directly involved; it depends on how the parties negotiate.