BANGKOK – Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak has asked operators to continue employing their workers despite the economic slowdown resulting from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Mr Somkid made the request in his meeting with representatives of the Federation of Thai Industries and the Thai Chamber of Commerce at the Industry Ministry. They discussed the supplies of consumer products, face masks and alcohol.
“I would like the private sector to postpone layoffs; otherwise, workers would be in trouble. Please maintain employment at this moment for mutual survival although returns may be reduced,” the deputy prime minister said.
The government supported continuous employment by offering deductions worth three times of employment costs from operators’ taxable income, Mr Somkid said.
“This is a time of crisis. Layoffs would affect many workers,” he said.
In the meeting, the government and the private sector agreed to produce 10 million reusable cloth masks within two months and 1 million of them would be given to people free of charge.
The meeting acknowledged that there are enough alcohol spray and gel products for consumers and manufacturers would raise their production. Besides, there are enough supplies of instant foods, chicken and pork. (TNA)
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