• 
• 

"We have to improve the country's productivity by considering the overall system. Therefore, the government's policy needs stability, continuity and transparency. Otherwise, the private sector can be confused and get lost among the policy changes," executive director Phanit Laosirirat said yesterday.

He said complicated regulations were the main obstacle for small and medium-sized operators wishing to boost their productivity.

The flooding in many provinces will reduce local productivity, particularly in the agricultural sector, he added.

Due to the global financial meltdown, operators tend to face higher interest rates, while banks will require a higher value of collateral if they are to access loans, he said.

"Among forecasts of a murkier economic climate next year, it will be a good time for operators and the government to encourage human resources to develop a mindset for productivity improvement," Phanit said.

According to an institute survey among 1,043 local and international firms, 36.5 per cent have no training programme for their workforce.