However, Kingsgate added that the start of arbitration proceedings still allowed both parties to engage in dialogue to settle the issue on mutually agreeable terms. Kingsgate executive chairman Ross Smyth-Kirk said he believed the arbitration could represent a major test of the Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (Tafta), which contains provisions related to investment protection. NCPO chief Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha issued the order for the suspension of the operation on Jan 1, 2017. After the closure, the Industry Ministry and the Public Health Ministry conducted investigations into the toxicity and pollution claims. “We hope both parties will opt for negotiations rather than arbitration proceedings,” he said.

Source: Bangkok Post November 03, 2017 11:15 UTC