BANGKOK: Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has endorsed Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's new cabinet, according to a notice in the Royal Gazette on Tuesday.

The approval clears the way for the cabinet to be sworn in before the king ahead of the delivery of a policy statement to parliament, after which ministers can formally take office.

The line-up keeps Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun in their posts, as expected. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also remains in position.

Former Industry Minister Akanat Promphan replaces ex-PTT chief executive Auttapol Rerkpiboon as energy minister.

Anutin said over the weekend that the new government would be in place by April.