Thailand sees over $300 million in initial damage from border clash with Cambodia, prepares $771 million relief budget

Thailand has estimated initial damages from a five-day border conflict with Cambodia at more than 10 billion baht ($307.88 million), with the total economic impact likely to rise further, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said on Tuesday.

The government is preparing an initial relief budget of 25 billion baht ($771 million) to support reconstruction and stimulate the economy, Pichai told reporters.

"I have to gather the budget for this as it will also stimulate the economy because there will be construction, house repairs, and many more," he said. "It might not be enough and we may need to seek more," he added, noting that the current estimates do not include trade disruptions.

In a separate statement, the finance ministry said it had rolled out a series of relief measures for individuals and businesses affected by the conflict.

State-owned banks will offer loan repayment deferrals, low-interest loans, refinancing options and fee exemptions to aid recovery, while tax measures will include extended filing and payment deadlines until September, and deductions of up to 100,000 baht for home repairs and 30,000 baht for vehicle repairs.

Each affected province will receive 100 million baht to address immediate local needs, with the possibility of additional funding if required, the minister said.

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