Thailand to export fruit to Olympics

Agriculture Minister Somsak Prissanananthakul yesterday said the fruit would be distributed by superstores such as Lotus, Carrefour and Park & Shop. The produce will be given to shoppers and tourists to sample.

"We hope the strategy can increase fruit exports by 10-15 per cent," he said. - The Nation

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SMEs to get soft loans

Industry Minister Suwit Khunkitti expects the Finance Ministry will grant Bt40 billion worth of soft loans to boost the liquidity of small and medium-sized companies.

Suwit, who is also deputy prime minister, yesterday said the ministry would also consider increasing the SME Bank's capital fund worth Bt20 billion.

The proposals are expected to be finalised next month. Suwit needs to locate new sources of financing, as the Bank of Thailand is not allowed to provide soft loans under the fifth Monetary Act. - The Nation