BOT cuts interest rates on credit cards and loans by 2-4% from today

13 Sept 13:05 Key points summarised by AI

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) ordered commercial banks to cut interest rates on credit card balances and personal loans by 2-4% to ease the burden on small debtors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key reductions include credit card balances dropping from 18% to 16%, personal loans from 28% to 25%, and vehicle hire purchase from 28% to 24%.
The central bank also instructed banks to increase lending limits for good customers earning less than 30,000 baht/month and to offer debt restructuring options, such as extending repayment terms and reducing interest rates, for those struggling to make payments.

Thailand to host 5th round of IPEF negotiations in September

Today 00:04 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand will host the 5th Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) Negotiation Round from September 10-16, bringing together 14 founding signatories.
The Bangkok meeting will advance draft texts across IPEF's four pillars—trade, supply chain, clean economy, and fair economy—with a focus on legal review for the Supply Chain pillar.
Thailand plans to emphasize cooperation in capacity building, technical assistance, and the application of new technologies, particularly for the Clean Economy Pillar, including EVs and sustainable aviation fuel.
The nation also supports establishing a mechanism for IPEF's structure and financial support, while reaffirming its commitment to international anti-corruption and taxation standards.