CCSA to debate reopening plan: PM’s 120-day target ‘still within reach’. The government’s plan to reopen the country before the end of the year is seemingly still on track as Thailand’s Covid-19 outbreak is showing signs of slowing down. Bangkok Post
Unemployment expected to hit 2.5%: EconThai predicts jobless rate for Q2. Thailand’s unemployment rate is expected to have risen in the second quarter of this year, as prolonged and severe Covid-19 outbreaks took a heavy toll on Thai companies and entrepreneurs. Bangkok Post
Weak baht helps Thai exports surge in July: Thai exports are maintaining their growth momentum, surging by 20.2% year-on-year in July despite ongoing Covid-19 outbreaks. The increase was boosted by the robust global economic recovery, depreciation of the Thai baht, rising oil prices, and export promotions by the Commerce Ministry and the private sector. Bangkok Post
State okays extension of rice price scheme for 2021-22: The government has approved in principle the extension of the rice price guarantee scheme for the 2021-22 season, pledging to splurge 152 billion baht for the annual scheme operating for the third consecutive year. Bangkok Post
Cabinet approved the extension of the 7% VAT rate for another 2 years to help reduce the financial burden of consumers, enhance business confidence and boost econ recovery.
The government plans to turn 10,000 rai of Sor Por Kor land in three provinces that form the EEC into herb plantations growing cannabis, hemp and fa talai jone, under a project to develop and add value to Thai agricultural products.
BOT governor said Thailand is less vulnerable to any spike in global bond yields stemming from US tapering due to its low reliance on external sources for debt financing and its high foreign reserves.
Government Pharmaceutical Org (GPO) and the companies which won the bidding for a contract to supply the government 8.5m sets of the ATK will sign the contract this month, the 1st batch is expected to be delivered by September 8.
UK & Scotland add Thailand on the red list travel advice.
ERC holds off on investor reveal: The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has postponed announcing the investors selected for the much-delayed Energy for All renewable energy scheme until Sept 23 to allow those deemed underqualified to appeal. Bangkok Post
