Many Thai industries in battle for survival

10 Sept 12:03 Key points summarised by AI

Thai manufacturing faces a severe crisis, with 1,700 factories closing and 42,000 workers laid off since early last year, including major Japanese automakers like Subaru and Suzuki.
The industry's decline is driven by fierce competition from cheaper Chinese imports, rapid technological shifts (e.g., EVs), a sluggish global economy, and underlying structural defects.
Businesses express deep concern over the government's planned nationwide minimum wage hike to 400 baht, fearing it will lead to more closures and layoffs, particularly among SMEs.
Despite a recovering services sector, the vital manufacturing sector, accounting for 35% of GDP, struggles with persistent contraction and the adverse impact of global trade tensions diverting cheap Chinese goods into ASEAN markets.

New home loan scheme aims to boost property sector with Bt125 billion

Today 11:38 Key points summarised by AI

The Cabinet approved a new Bt50-billion 'A House for Each PLUS' home loan scheme from the Government Housing Bank, offering up to Bt3 million with 40-year repayment terms for low- and middle-income earners.
This initiative aims to significantly boost the property sector and national economy, projecting to generate Bt125 billion in economic activity and create jobs.