SCB EIC says zombie firms (profits below interest costs for two straight years, and more than 3 years old) make up 12.3% of SMEs in 2025, nearly 3 times the large-firm share of about 5%. Highest shares are in property, hotels/accommodation and food & beverage, with healthcare, telecom and rubber also elevated. SCB EIC expects Thai GDP growth of 2.2% in 2026 and 2.1% in 2027, but says the recovery is K-shaped and SMEs are not sharing in it. For an SME owner, the practical implication is tighter credit scrutiny and more competition from weak rivals that survive on low rates and government support; check your own interest coverage ratio and whether your loan costs are covered by operating profit.
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