The military administration has assured key Western trade representatives it will restore investors' confidence and create a climate conducive to commerce.
National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) chief Prayuth Chan-ocha met chamber of commerce representatives from the United States, Britain, Canada, Germany, France and Australia in Bangkok yesterday.
He spoke of the military's economic plan and stressed the council was committed to promoting partnership with the world community on all fronts, including economic exchanges.
He said the military will continue to improve existing international trade and investments.
"We recognise that Thailand cannot live in isolation," he said. "We still need to improve international relations on the basis of mutual trust and equal interest. We ask that you have confidence in Thailand."
He said the NCPO is speeding up preparations for entry to the Asean Economic Community next year and will resume investment projects halted due to political instability.
The Board of Investment has approved more than 18 investment projects worth more than 100 billion baht in total since the May 22 coup.
Rules concerning the employment of alien workers are being revamped. Leniency will be exercised regarding the hiring of illegal migrant workers.
Gen Prayuth said the improvements in labour laws and regulations are needed for the country's security and public safety.
Laws that are counter-productive to trade and investment will be changed and negotiations of trade pacts such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership will resume.
Expanding economic cooperation frameworks including those with Asean and the European Union is also on the agenda, he said.