June 6, 2008
BANGKOK - Thailand may set up a national cargo airline dedicated to transporting goods from the kingdom in a bid to reduce soaring shipping costs.
Thai Airways already offers a cargo service, which could be spun off into a new subsidiary, according to Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee.
Businesses are struggling with the rising cost of transportation, due mainly to rising global prices.
The new firm could reduce freight costs by specialising on the service, according to AFP.
"The airline, if set up, would reduce transportation costs that are now rising due to high oil prices," Surapong said at a seminar about logistics and global trade.
The transport ministry is expected to finalise its proposal later this year.
