Thai leather goods exporters optimistic
Thailand’s leather goods sector is one of several that considers its prospects will improve in the second half of the year.
In a survey conducted by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, exporters belonging to fifteen different sectors were asked to assess their prospects for the second half of the year.
Together with producers of vehicles, gems and jewellery, cosmetics, toys and furniture, the country’s leathermakers said they expected their situation to improve. However, they also called for less red tape and faster value-added tax refunds from the government.
In releasing the findings of the survey, the Chamber additionally demanded the revision of the tariff system that applies the import of raw materials, and for exporters to be allowed to lodge orders as collateral for commercial bank loans. This would give traders more working capital to make products. However, the chamber said regulations would be required to guard against the loans turning bad.
