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Workers welcome wage rise but businesses concerned over higher costs

13 Sept 10:40 Key points summarised by AI

Thai political parties propose significant minimum wage increases (450-600 baht/day), creating a stark divide between workers welcoming the raise and businesses fearing higher costs.
Workers currently struggle with daily expenses, making the proposed wage hike appealing, yet many express concern that a sudden increase could lead to job losses or reduced overtime pay.
Businesses, including agricultural and industrial sectors, are seriously concerned about the impact of increased labor costs on production, with some farmers already turning to machinery to mitigate expenses.
Industry federations suggest that wage increases should be tied to worker skill development, reductions in other high costs like electricity and fuel, and addressing market oligopolies that control utility prices.

Today 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand secured a US$200 million loan from the World Bank to significantly invest in clean energy and low-carbon urban development initiatives.
The program aims to drive clean energy funding and low-carbon growth, ensuring a just transition for small and medium-sized enterprises, workers, farmers, and local communities.
Channelled through the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, the loan will fund energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas, including rooftop solar installations and electrical system modernizations, reducing initial capital burdens via Energy Service Companies (ESCOs).