Tourism, airlines hardest hit
Damage to the business sector caused by floods affecting several areas of the country since early last month is now estimated to have topped 50 billion baht (S$2.16 billion), according to the Federation of Thai Industries.
The tourism and airline industries are among those hit hard by the natural disaster, especially in the southern city of Hat Yai and the Samui Island in Surat Thani. Bangkok Airways, Nok Air and Thai AirAsia have either suspended or reduced flights.
The food processing and rubber sectors have been affected by the flooding, while bank and stock brokerage offices as well as retail and other business outlets in flood-ravaged areas have had to temporarily shut down.
A total of 123 bank and brokerage branches, 121 of them in the south, have been affected, according to the Bank of Thailand.
Tourism Authority of Thailand deputy governor Prakit Piriyakiat said the agency would have to work with the private sector to quickly clean up the mess once the flood waters recede.
Floating markets and temples in central provinces are among the top priorities, while there will be promotional tour packages to help restart businesses, especially those in Hat Yai and Surat Thani. -- THE NATION/ANN
