Thailand has pegged the initial costs of evacuation and property damage from its recent five-day border conflict with Cambodia at over 10 billion baht ($307.88 million), with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira warning that the full economic impact could be significantly higher. The government is preparing an initial relief budget of 25 billion baht ($771 million) to address the fallout, covering reconstruction, house repairs, and economic stimulus measures.
To support recovery efforts, state-owned banks will offer deferred loan repayments, low-interest loans, refinancing options, and fee waivers. Tax relief measures include extended filing deadlines until September and deductions of up to 100,000 baht for home repairs and 30,000 baht for vehicle damages. Additionally, each affected province will receive 100 million baht in emergency funds, with the possibility of additional allocations if needed.
Pichai cautioned that the current damage estimate does not account for trade disruptions, which could further strain the economy. The conflict has already displaced residents and damaged infrastructure in border regions, with reconstruction expected to take months. The government remains prepared to seek additional funding if costs exceed projections.
While immediate relief focuses on stabilizing affected communities, the government views reconstruction as an opportunity to stimulate economic activity through infrastructure projects and financial support for businesses. However, the full extent of the conflict’s economic repercussions remains uncertain as authorities assess long-term trade and security impacts along the border.