Parties court small businesses with pledges

Co-payment schemes and SME assistance dominate the campaign vows, writes Kuakul Mornkum

- Kuakul Mornkum

Business associations called on political parties to enhance support for small retail operators by streamlining the certificate application process and implementing tax reforms.

In addition, cost control measures are essential for restaurant operators as the industry faces challenges in 2026.

SUPPORT FOR SMALL FIRMS

Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, honorary advisor to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association, criticised the Thai government's longstanding focus on attracting foreign investment through incentives, while offering scant initiatives to improve conditions for local operators.

As a result, small businesses have struggled to compete with larger domestic and foreign players in the country.

He expressed hope that political parties would prioritise distributing economic benefits more fairly and broadly, rather than concentrating advantages among a few large operators with numerous outlets, while leaving smaller players behind.

Mr Somchai said cash handouts do not tackle the underlying issues affecting the Thai economy.

"Economic stimulus policies such as cash handouts do not address the root causes of the problems," he said.

Mr Somchai said he expects stronger support for small retail operators, as current regulations do not favour them.

Small operators registered as juristic persons face multiple tax obligations, including corporate income tax and value-added tax (VAT). Many struggle with these requirements due to limited resources for managing accounting and tax filings, he said.