CREATIVE ECONOMY ON AGENDA

       Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva will make the "Creative Economy" project part of the national agenda on Monday, Apirak Kosayodhin, an adviser to the PM, said yesterday.
       The government has allocated Bt15 billion to be spent on the project over three years, Apirak said at the "Post-Crisis Strategies for New Growth" seminar held by Bangkok University's Creative Entrepreneurship Development Institute.
       The project-through which the government will promote use of local wisdom and culture in the business sector - has already been allowed Bt3.8 billion for its first phase.
       Essentially, the project is divided into four strategic frameworks. The first will include creation of a state body within six months to implement a creative economy, creation of an information-and communications-techonology infrastructure and regulations and laws to support the project.
       The second will include establishment of an institute to encourage constructive thinking, while the third will promote a favourable business environment through such measures as matching funds and tasx incentives, all aimed at turning Thailand into the centre of Creative Economy in Asean. The last strategy would cover the creation of a creative society.
       Apirak said the "Creative Economy" project would cover mainly four types of business: cultural heritage and cuisine; art and performance art; music and digital content; and design.
       He said these businesses had a combined value of Bt800 billion, accounting for 11 per cent of Thailand's gross domestic product, and that he believed the project would boost their value further.
       "Creative Economy" is part of the governemnt's "Strong Thailand" project, which focuses on education, irrigation systems, alternative energy and business infrastructure, such as logistic facilities.
       Aprirak said South Korea had deployed a similar concept to create globally recognised brands and product design.