BANGKOK, Nov 29 (TNA) - The continued shutdown of the Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports by the anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has caused huge damages to the business sector, particularly tourism, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
FTI chairman Santi Vilassakdanont said the airport closure had also caused difficulties to investors who need to travel to do business.
It had dampened confidence in Thailand in the eyes of the international community because the airport is the key exit and entrance of the country.
He said the government's hope to make the Suvarnabhumi Airport become the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s aviation hub and logistics centre for the region had not yet been dashed.
However, the government needs to find ways to end the incident as soon as possible.
He suggested it hold a negotiation with key PAD leaders to seek a compromise to prevent a possible escalation of the situation.
Regarding damage caused to exports, he said, the sector had not been adversely affected because 90 of the country's exports are transported by ship.
Nevertheless, the airport closure had already caused significant damage to the economy.
Products hard hit by the incident include electronics and parts, and farm products. (TNA)
Business News : Last Update : 09:18:29 29 November 2008 (GMT+7:00)
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