Bangkok: The Prime Minister has mandated all relevant agencies to collaborate on addressing the PM 2.5 dust issue, with expectations of improvements compared to last year. The Cabinet has approved financial assistance for farmers and measures to curb illegal imports, aiming to bolster Thai SMEs.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra unveiled outcomes from the Cabinet meeting, highlighting discussions led by Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Prasert Jantarawongthong. The focus was on coordinating efforts among multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Royal Thai Police, to devise urgent measures against air pollution. The strategy includes addressing pollution sources from agriculture, vehicle emissions, and industrial activities. A significant example was cited from Chiang Mai Province, where heat spots and burning areas saw a 50% reduction in 2023, suggesting a less severe outlook for 2025.
In Bangkok, the governor has been tasked w
ith ensuring collaboration across sectors to combat the PM 2.5 issue. The detected dust levels have reportedly decreased by 20% compared to 2023, fostering optimism for improved management this year.
Additionally, Ms. Paethongtarn announced the Cabinet’s approval of a proposal from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. This initiative aims to alleviate hardships for 4.61 million targeted farming households by providing a management fee and quality development support at a rate of 1,000 baht per rai, capped at 10,000 baht per household.
The Cabinet also endorsed a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to extend the VAT collection period temporarily on imported goods priced up to 1,500 baht, from January 1, 2025, to December 11, 2025. This move is designed to prevent illegal imports from online platforms and support Thai SMEs.