PM briefed on measures to help SMEs
Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak and Finance Minister Uttama Savanayana have discussed measures to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Friday (January 3), and expect to propose them to the Cabinet next week.
After the discussions, Somkid told media that it was a great opportunity to discuss measures to help SMEs with the prime minister.
“We cannot reveal any details, such as the type of measures or when it will be launched, but we will propose to the Cabinet for consideration on January 7,” he said.
Somkid added that the 2020 Annual Budget Expenditure Draft Act should not be a problem and it will certainly pass the House of Representatives’ consideration next week. Regarding the baht's appreciation, he said he must learn more details.
Meanwhile, the chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), Supant Mongkolsuthree, said that it was good for the government to launch additional measures to help SMEs.
“The problems SMEs are facing include the economic slowdown that has caused a decrease in product sales and competitiveness, appreciation of the baht and the rapid change of technology,” he said.
“Besides, SMEs are also affected by the decreasing loans, because several banks have concerns about bad debts. If the government has measures to help SMEs, it will be a direct solution to the problem.”
