After chairing a cabinet meeting, Thai Prime Minister Pei Tongtan discussed the progress in combating telecom fraud gangs following measures to cut off electricity, oil, and internet. She noted a significant reduction in electricity consumption by 40-50%. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society mentioned that the data would stabilize within two weeks. However, data collection might face some difficulties due to the power cuts in Myanmar, while the situation in Thailand regarding the reduction of scam calls remains to be observed.
When asked about the handling of government officials and others involved in telecom fraud gangs, Pei Tongtan stated that those who err must be severely punished. Regarding the visa exemption policy, which some believe facilitates the entry of Chinese grey industries into Thailand, Pei Tongtan expressed that matters should not be generalized. The visa exemption policy does not restrict entry but has positively impacted tourism and stimulated the national economy.
Pei Tongtan argued that it is not appropriate to completely abandon the visa exemption policy just because of the entry of Chinese grey industries. Data shows that Thailand is expected to receive over 35 million foreign tourists in 2024, and it is essential to recognize the changes these tourists bring to the national economy (GDP) and the benefits to hotels and SMEs. Therefore, she believes that the issues of telecom fraud and visa exemptions should not be conflated, as it could harm the tourism industry, which is currently improving with the help of the visa exemption policy.
Furthermore, when asked about the progress of international cooperation to assist victims in Myanmar and Cambodia, Pei Tongtan mentioned that the cabinet discussed cooperation between Chinese and Thai working groups. China has shown a friendly attitude towards Thailand and suggested that the matter should be taken seriously and teamwork should be enhanced to accelerate progress.
It is difficult to distinguish the nationality of the deceived, hence the hope to promote international cooperation through working groups, which will be managed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
