Bangkok [Thailand], April 3 (ANI): The collapse of a Chinese-constructed office tower in Bangkok following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has raised concerns over construction standards and China’s growing influence in Thailand.
Key Details:
- Only one high-rise in Bangkok collapsed despite tremors being felt across the region.
- Preliminary investigations revealed the use of substandard steel in the building’s construction.
- Thai authorities are probing the cause, while public sentiment increasingly questions Chinese investment practices.
Government and Public Reactions:
- Industry Minister Akanat Promphan suggested the public could judge the cause, subtly implying construction flaws.
- Chinese firms have been leading foreign investments in Thailand since 2019, surpassing Japan.
- New US tariffs on Chinese goods (including a 36% duty on Thai products) may impact China’s investment strategy in the region.
China’s Response:
The Chinese embassy in Bangkok stated that it expects its firms to comply with local regulations and cooperate fully with the Thai government’s investigation.
- The embassy assured that the Thai government’s inquiry would be fair and science-based.
As investigations continue, the collapse could intensify scrutiny of Chinese construction practices in Southeast Asia and influence Thailand’s future foreign investment policies. (ANI)
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