Private sector to assess impacts from UDD mass rally

BANGKOK, 4 April 2010 (NNT) – The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) will meet on Monday to discuss impacts from the mass rally of the United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) on business areas.

According to Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) Deputy Vice Chairperson Pongsak Assakul, the JSCCIB will meet on Monday to assess the ongoing political situation in Thailand and issue a joint declaration after the end of the meeting.

The JSCCIB consists of the TCC, the Federation of Thai Industries, and the Thai Bankers’ Association.

The meeting is scheduled after the UDD has dispatched some of its demonstrators to Ratchaprasong Junction, which is a main business and tourist spot of Bangkok.

Mr Pongsak admitted that the mobilization of UDD supporters to Ratchaprasong has affected the economy in general, especially businesses in Ratchaprasong and its adjoining areas as entrepreneurs could not resume their business.

The vice chairperson then urged all sides to find an exit for the country, saying everything should end fast so that the country can move forward.

UDD protestors have been gathering at Ratchaprasong Intersection since Saturday while most of the shopping malls in the area have been closed to avoid damages to property. The UDD also retains a group of supporters at the main rally site at Phan Fa Bridge.