The formation of a new coalition government in Thailand is gathering momentum with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin finalizing his cabinet lineup that will probably see the former property tycoon retaining control of the finance ministry to bolster growth through fiscal stimulus.
Nominees of Pheu Thai, which leads the 11-party coalition, are likely to keep key ministries such as commerce and transport in addition to finance, local media reported Monday. While military-linked United Thai Nation is set to be allotted energy and industry ministries, Bhumjaithai party, the second-largest group in the coalition, will occupy the ministries of interior, education and labor, the Bangkok Post reported.
The new government will announce its policy priorities before mid-September in parliament once the cabinet is sworn in, Srettha said, adding the focus will be on driving growth in the short term by promoting tourism.