Briefs

The Export-Import Bank of Thailand has introduced “Instant SMEs Export Insurance” with a shortened application process and prompt approval within one day, as well as claims payment of up to Bt1 million in case of non-payment by foreign buyers.

The service aims to bolster SME exporters’ confidence to trade overseas and raise orders from new buyers, such as those from trade fairs.
President Pisit Serewiwattana said yesterday that Exim Bank has targeted to expand this service facility to SME exporters through various channels in addition to its head office and nine branch offices in Bangkok and provinces, comprising those via public and private entities, such as the Commerce Ministry, and financial institutions with extensive branch networks across the country.
The bank will also launch sales campaigns at its promotion booths throughout the year.

Food –price measures
To prevent price collapses of seasonal fruits, the Commerce Ministry’s Provincial Office will create linkages between local traders, exporters and fruit farmers in the South so that it could balance supply and demand during the harvest season running from this month to October.
Somchart Soithong, deputy permanent secretary, said yesterday that the ministry will connect farmers via the “Biz Club” business matching network with local traders and exporters.
It will encourage farmers to sell their products at produce outlets, fresh markets and modern traders.
For this year, the ministry expects that the supply of durian and mangosteen will be tight due to strong demand in overseas markets.
This will driver prices up – to Bt77-Bt80 per kilogram for durian from Bt43 last year, and to Bt30 for mangosteen from Bt15.
However, there is still some concern about an oversupply of rambutan and langsat, as demand is stable.
However, rambutan can be managed, as it can be canned.