Ailing sector puts on brave face amid raft of challenges

Political instability has no significant impact on the retail industry, which is already grappling with negative factors, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association.

- KUAKUL MORNKUM

Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, honorary advisor to the association, said the government under former premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra failed to address fundamental issues such as the lack of competitiveness among small enterprises.

While large conglomerates benefit from diverse capital channels, the government should have shifted its focus to supporting small businesses by relaxing certain laws, offering tax incentives and creating mechanisms to enhance their competitiveness at the national level.

“When these small enterprises grow stronger, the government will ultimately benefit through higher tax revenues,” he said.

For the last four months of 2025, Mr Somchai expects ongoing challenges for the retail and wholesale sectors.