Bangkok: DIPROM launches debt relief measures and liquidity boost to help SMEs in the South recover from the floods. Interest rates are 0% for up to 6 months. Ms. Lalida Periswiwattana, Deputy Government Spokesperson, revealed that, in accordance with the orders of Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkhongchana, Minister of Industry, the Department of Industrial Promotion (DIPROM) has been assigned to expedite assistance to SME entrepreneurs in the southern region affected by the floods. This initiative includes the “Debt Suspension – D-Prom Chue Chue Rak” program to alleviate financial burdens and enhance liquidity, enabling them to regain their footing.
According to Thai News Agency, relief measures include a suspension of principal and interest payments for up to four months for existing borrowers, installment reductions, and extended repayment periods (up to two years). New borrowers can apply for the “Easy Money, Recover, Help with Disasters” loan, with a maximum credit limit of 500,000 baht per borrower, at 0% interest for the first six months, and a three-month interest suspension for those seeking urgent relief. Existing borrowers who have been severely impacted can apply for refinancing to reduce their interest burden.
The deputy spokesperson stated that Mr. Thanakorn expressed concern for the people and entrepreneurs in the area and has ordered DIPROM to continuously visit the area to rehabilitate damaged businesses, assist with renovations, repairs, create liquidity, and provide businesses with the opportunity to resume operations as quickly as possible.