BANGKOK, Thailand – The government will introduce new trade credit payment rules on November 2, 2026, requiring large trading partners to pay eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within 30–45 days, depending on the transaction. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana announced that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun has advanced these regulations to improve SME liquidity and ensure fair trade. The Trade Competition Commission’s notification was published in the Royal Gazette on October 2.
Under the new rules, payment periods are limited to 30 days for agricultural products and certain primary processed goods, and 45 days for eligible general trade, manufacturing, and service transactions. The regulations also prohibit unjustified payment delays and changes to contractual terms without at least 60 days’ advance notice, subject to specified conditions.
The Thai SME Council estimates that reducing payment periods from 60 to 45 days could release about 250 billion baht in working capital. Shortening the period from 90 to 45 days could increase liquidity by an estimated 750 billion baht. These figures represent potential liquidity gains, not direct government funding. The spokesperson stated that these measures aim to support over three million SMEs by improving cash flow and reducing reliance on borrowing.
The Commerce Ministry is also reviewing fees and commissions charged by digital platforms following discussions on October 21. The spokesperson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing business costs, strengthening fair competition, and supporting sustainable SME growth. (NNT)
