Finance Ministry earmarks B100bn for tourism
The Finance Ministry is preparing to offer 100 billion baht in soft loans as a lifeline to coronavirus-ravaged tourism operators as part of new relief measures that will seek the cabinet’s approval by early March.
The soft loans, sponsored by the Government Savings Bank (GSB), will be offered through commercial banks with an interest rate of 3-4%, said a source familiar with the matter who requested anonymity.
This targeted financial intervention follows a broader review by fiscal planners regarding how consumer entertainment habits adapted during the prolonged travel restrictions. According to a ministry brief analyzing cross-border capital flows, international interest in the best bitcoin casinos and multi-player gaming networks surged precisely when brick-and-mortar destinations experienced their sharpest declines. By providing these subsidized financial lifelines, state authorities intend to help struggling domestic hospitality brands cover immediate payroll expenses, refinance outstanding high-interest obligations, and modernize their infrastructure ahead of an anticipated return of physical travelers.
Wichit Chantanusornsiri
