Thailand considers new relief packages for workers and businesses

The Thai government is considering rolling out new relief packages targeted for both individuals and businesses, as the country tackles its third wave of coronavirus outbreak. 

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed all economic agencies concerned — including the Finance Ministry and the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) — to speed up assessing the impact of the COVID-19 restrictions on economic sectors, said Traisuree Taisaranakul, deputy government spokeswoman, on Sunday, according to Bangkok Post. 

Such a move is required before details of the relief packages can be mapped out and subsequently submitted to the Centre for Economic Situation Administration for consideration, she said. 

She added that the new relief packages would be decided “carefully” to ensure that all those who are impacted by the pandemic will be covered. 

Past relief packages have helped with citizens’ living costs, subsidising electricity, cooking gas and water bills, and has proven effective in helping ease the economic impact of the spread of COVID-19, she said. 

READ: Thailand compiles list of 225,000 job vacancies for unemployed

In March, the government approved support measures worth 350 billion baht (US$11.29 billion) to support businesses affected by the pandemic. Of that, 250 billion baht (US$8.06 billion) was set aside as soft loans for SMEs that will help businesses access credit at below-market rate.