Shippers offer mixed review of government

Much more work to be done

- PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), assessed the government's performance over the past year by categorising progress in three groups: achievements, pending tasks, and areas of concern.

Regarding the economy and investment, he said the government implemented its 10,000-baht cash handout despite some delays in implementation.

Measures to stimulate tourism by offering free visas for travellers from China, India, and other countries also proved effective, said Mr Dhanakorn.

The administration was also able to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in the electric vehicle (EV) and semiconductor industries.

However, several unresolved issues such as the sluggish economy and high household debt levels continue to hinder development, he said.

Tax reductions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have yet to be enacted, while the digital wallet initiative is still pending for the majority of working age Thais.

Mr Dhanakorn said the private sector is concerned about the budget’s capacity to sustain the government's populist policies, especially as public debt approaches the fiscal discipline ceiling of 64-65% of GDP.

In the agricultural and rural sectors, he acknowledged the government's success in expediting the income guarantee scheme for farmers, as well as enhancing agricultural processing and online marketing channels.

However, the government has struggled to address decreasing crop prices, particularly for rice, rubber and cassava, while the irrigation system still lacks comprehensive coverage, said Mr Dhanakorn.

Companies are also worried about the increasing severity of droughts and floods, especially as farmers continue to maintain high debt levels, he said.