The Confederation of Thai SMEs supports the state to ease the lockdown. and opening up the city to receive more foreign tourists, but must have clear care and prevention measures Worried that if the epidemic comes back for the 5th round, it will be more aggravated. Economic crisis and SMEs intensify Recommend urgent vaccination and control ATK price of not more than 100 baht per set so that everyone has access to self-protection. while urgent measures to help SMEs have to reduce interest, suspend principal, suspend interest for 6 months in the system
Saengchai Teerakulvanich, President of the Federation of Thai SMEs Revealed from the government’s policy that has relaxed the lockdown measures since September 1 and more unlocking during October, while also preparing to accept foreign tourists in the Bangkok area who have been vaccinated without quarantine On October 15, these will play an important role in driving the economy. which the SME Confederation ready to support But what is worrying is that the state will have to strict preventive measures and prevent the re-emergence of the fifth wave or another wave. This will further delay the recovery of the Thai economy and SMEs will become even more critical.
Even though the easing of lockdown measures will benefit SMEs and the overall economy But now we have to admit that the daily rate of new infections in Thailand is still above ten thousand people, although it has dropped somewhat from the previous one. As soon as possible, coupled with controlling the price of Covid-19 testing kits or ATK not to be higher than 100 baht per set and being a standard ATK for people to have easy access to take care of themselves and protect themselves. While accepting foreign tourists back, lessons from Phuket Sandbox should be applied. There are concerns that foreigners may be able to bring in new strains of COVID-19, strict preventive measures are needed.
“We strongly agree with both the gradual loosen the lockdown and accepting foreign tourists to create a better atmosphere for Thai economic But it must be coupled with strict surveillance measures that must be clearly laid out as it may risk causing Thailand to return to a new round of outbreaks, which until then will actually be heavier than before. The vaccination, if the state can do as planned or faster than the plan, will be very good. Because if foreigners come in and Thailand still has high infections per day, it probably won’t convince him. As for the ATK package after the government’s tax cut 1.5 times, it’s good for the private sector. But to reach all the people, the price must be controlled not to be too expensive,” said Mr. Saengchai.
For SME entrepreneurs after being affected by COVID-19 And the lockdown measures throughout the past resulted in many liquidity shortages. and if not expedited to resolve, will lead to non-performing debts (NPLs), which the confederation It has always been suggested that measures should be taken to suspend the interest rate for 6 months and cut interest rates, especially for vulnerable SMEs, to slow the emergence of NPLs, but such measures have not been accepted by the government.
In addition, for the recovery after COVID-19, there should be 3 funds: 1. SME Development Fund by bringing in SMEs that are not eligible for credit or non-NPLs to help and enhance their development; 2. NPLs rehabilitation fund to help SMEs fairly; and 3. Innovation funds. in order to drive SMEs back to start new businesses, etc.
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