Private sector deems latest relief measures insufficient

The cabinet resolution on relief measures, including new subsidies for power and water bills set to take effect next month, is necessary but insufficient to help businesses cope with the new outbreak of Covid-19 that is crippling the economy, say business leaders.

Households and small businesses are the main beneficiaries of the two-month financial aid, including a 10% discount on water bills. The government also promised to seek cooperation from internet service providers to reduce monthly service fees, deal with debt burdens for entrepreneurs and consider giving individual informal workers and farmers a monthly 3,500-baht handout for two months. The handout is scheduled for discussion at a cabinet…