Thai economy unaffected by MERS
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Fiscal Policy Office director-general Krisda Chinavicharana insisted Tuesday that the Thai economy has not yet been affected by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, reflecting through the number of tourist arrivals.
He said that during June 18-21, tourist arrivals through Suvarnabhumi Airport increased by 57.8 per cent compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, tour companies have not reported any cancellation.
The office will closely monitor the situation, he said. Hotels, restaurants, airlines and shopping malls would be the first to feel the impacts, if any, he said. History shows that the Thai economy resurrected 2-5 months after an outbreak.
He noted that the situation remains under control thanks to the timely release of information to the public and proper preventive measures, which helped lessen the severity of the disease compared to the SARS outbreak in 2003.
