Tourism Council of Thailand says Q1 2021 tourism confidence index drops to 53

25 Sept 06:49 Key points summarised by AI

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) reported a significant drop in the Q1 2021 tourism confidence index to 53, down from 62 in Q4 2020, driven by concerns over the latest COVID-19 outbreak.
The new outbreak is projected to affect 4 million tourism workers and could lead to an additional 2 million job losses, compounding the 1.04 million jobs already lost in 2020.
By Q4 2020, 10% of tourism-related businesses had temporarily closed and 3% permanently shut down, with 85% experiencing customer declines and 50% reducing staff.
TCT suggests urgent relief measures, including adjusting low-interest loan mechanisms and boosting domestic tourism, while anticipating a full industry recovery within two years.

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

20 Oct 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.