PM urges SMEs, low-income people to register

Speaking during his weekly TV programme, Prayut said the government should never forget the low-income group, which consists largely of traders, labourers, motorcycle-taxi operators, tailors and maids.
Every profession will be registered, he said, adding that the ministries of Labour, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, and Science and Technology are joining forces to register all workers based on their incomes, so as to allow the state to assist farmers and other workers better.
“Not only can we help you via the registration, we can provide you with the right welfare and benefits. Please get yourself documented. If you are not in the system, you don’t have the right to make any complaints.
“Today, more SMEs have registered with the government. These SMEs are operating inside and outside Thailand. If qualified, the SMEs will have access to some funding. Furthermore, businesses that need a loan will receive assistance from the state.
“As for those SMEs that have gone bankrupt, you could be revived if we see potential in your business. Without us knowing who you are, or without registration, the government will not have a clue how to assist you.
“The government does not have enough capacity to support the more than 2 million SMEs that are operating in Thailand. Some businesses need Bt10 million or Bt15 million. And not only the SMEs, as agriculturists as well as infrastructure also need some funding. Everyone needs to help out. This has become a national agenda item,” the prime minister said during his address. He acknowledged that both the global and Asean economies were still performing more slowly than desired.
“It is difficult to compare us to developed countries or countries with fruitful industries. Thailand is an agricultural country that is not resilient enough. We had no real economic stability when I took office.
“The government has been focusing on adjusting the agricultural structure and bringing stability to Thai farmers, which can take a long time and needs support from all sides. We cannot have farmers produce crops when there is no market to supply to. It must start with demand. We should look at demand in both domestic and international markets.
“Everything will turn to disarray without preparedness. Please be patient. Although the government understands your hardship, it cannot keep on giving handouts, which is considered populist policy. We want you to be able to stand on your own feet. “We will help you, alleviate your distress and make you stronger, as well as assist in reducing production costs. We don’t want you to be exploited by unscrupulous politicians or influential groups,” Prayut said.

Agricultural reform
The PM went on to say that reforms must be introduced in all agricultural sectors, from rice, rubber, palm and cassava to sugar cane.
Agricultural zoning will be adopted, and monopolies will be eradicated. Seedlings will be provided to farmers by the Rice Department, and rice strains will be studied and developed by farmers’ cooperatives in local areas.
The government “sees the problem and will address it accordingly”, he stressed.
“We cannot leave this problem unattended. Thailand is a country engaged in free trade. Please understand this fact. We are expediting our efforts to make you stronger,” he said.