The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce in Thailand have expressed concerns about the impact of the global e-commerce platform TEMU on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. While acknowledging the opportunities that international e-commerce platforms bring, they also highlighted the challenges they present, especially to local businesses.
In response to this, the government is working on immediate protective measures in collaboration with eight agencies to regulate the influx of online goods into Thailand. The entry of TEMU into the Thai market is seen as a significant development that is reshaping the e-commerce landscape and posing a threat to SMEs.
The Ministry of Commerce is taking proactive steps to address these challenges. Meetings have been held with various government agencies to assess the impact of e-commerce on consumers and businesses and to ensure that online products meet Thailand’s legal standards. This includes discussions on the possibility of imposing e-commerce taxes on international platforms to ensure fair competition and protect the domestic economy.
Furthermore, the government is focusing on promoting and supporting SMEs by enhancing their potential and helping them access new markets. Initiatives like hosting a Live-Commerce event in September aim to showcase Thai products to Chinese consumers, potentially generating significant export revenue.
The government emphasizes the importance of implementing self-protection measures and enhancing competitiveness among entrepreneurs to navigate the changing global trade dynamics. Instead of resorting to countermeasures, cooperation is seen as a more effective approach to addressing the challenges posed by international e-commerce platforms.
Overall, by balancing consumer protection, SME support, and the promotion of free trade and innovation, the government believes that the presence of international e-commerce platforms can ultimately benefit Thailand’s economy and society in the long run. They are committed to working with all relevant parties to address the issues arising from the impact of TEMU on local SMEs promptly.
