Bangkok: The Minister of Industry is spearheading efforts to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to capital, aiming to empower them to navigate and overcome current economic challenges. This initiative includes an innovative push to transform these enterprises into new industries while implementing a draft law to collect fees on environmentally impactful products, which will be funneled into a fund to assist SMEs. Additionally, SME D Bank is preparing a significant loan package totaling 30 billion baht, offered at a favorable interest rate of 3% per annum, to enhance liquidity for these enterprises.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, the Minister of Industry, delivered a special lecture titled 'Elevating Thai SMEs to Sustainably Grow Through Crises', organized by SME D Bank. He highlighted the pressing challenges faced by Thai SMEs, such as intense competition, rapid technological changes, global trade regulations, and the increasing severity of climate-related disasters. He emphasized the need for SMEs to enhance productivity by leveraging technology and innovation, investing in machinery, or altering processes to transition into high-value industries. This transformation is crucial to align with future global demands and is underpinned by the use of clean, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy.
The government's policy directs SME D Bank to serve as a key facilitator for SME entrepreneurs to secure capital, thereby increasing their liquidity, reducing operational costs, and supporting their resilience in tough economic times. This is part of the government policy loan project (Public Service Account: PSA), which offers a comprehensive credit line exceeding 30 billion baht. It caters to all business groups and SME needs, aligned with promoting the shift towards the country's target industries. The loan features an attractive interest rate of 3% per year, fixed for the first three years, with a repayment term extending up to ten years and a principal repayment grace period of up to twelve months. The loan categories include: 1. "SME Green Productivity" loans, with a maximum credit line of 10 million baht, supporting investment in energy-efficient systems like solar panels; 2. "SME Empowerment" loans, with a maximum credit line of 1.5 million baht, intended for small entrepreneurs with annual revenues n ot exceeding 2 million baht; and 3. "Beyond SME Wings" loans, with a maximum credit line of 15 million baht, for entrepreneurs with annual revenues over 2 million baht, aimed at enhancing business operations and liquidity.
Mr. Pichit Mitrawong, Managing Director of SME D Bank, stated that the bank is committed to offering comprehensive services to SME entrepreneurs through its ONE Stop Service model. This approach will assist SMEs in boosting productivity, adopting clean energy solutions, and adjusting to emerging challenges, ultimately reducing costs and fostering long-term sustainability. This is especially pertinent for SMEs impacted by Trump 2.0 policies and the influx of foreign products into the domestic market.
SMEs can promptly express their interest in loan applications through the 'DX by SME D Bank' platform or apply at the event. Moreover, the initiative includes seminars featuring national experts who will provide insights into the economic landscape and discussions on the advantages of alternative energy. These activities will create opportunities for business partnerships, market expansion, income growth, and support for clean energy adoption, such as the installation of solar cells.