A majority of people are of the opinion that the overall economy became worse during the first half of 2018 and do not believe the situation will improve in the second half of the year. They believe that the economy will improve after a general election is held and a new government in place, according to the result of an opinion survey by the National Institute for Development Administration, or Nida Poll.
The poll was conducted on June 27-28 on 1,250 people aged 18 and over of various levels of education and occupations throughout the country to compile their opinions on "government policies to stimulate the Thai economy."
On the overall Thai economy during the first half of this year (January-June 2018), a slight majority, 54.88%, said they think the overall Thai economy became worse because of the low prices of farm produce, the higher cost of living and higher goods prices; 30.24% said the overall economic situation was the same without change; and, only 14.88% said the economy improved with the people having more income and farm prices rising.
Asked whether they have confidence in the government's economic stimulating policies, a majority, 56.64%, said "no", adding that the policies have not been effective; 38.32% said "yes", adding that many projects to stimulate the ecomony have proved effective because of the government's strong leadership; and, 5.04% were uncertain or had no comment.
When asked to suggest what policies should be used to spur the economy, 45.68% said the government should provide subsidies for farm prices; 42.80% say the good prices control should be imposed; 19.84% suggest promotion of occupations to reduce unemployment; 17.44% said the government should lower the interest rates and maintain tax rates; and, 17.04% said the labour minimum wage should be increased.
Asked whether a general election and a new government will help improve the Thai economy, 60.64% said "yes", adding that they expect to see more foreign investments with higher confidence in the government; 22.40% believed the economic situation will remain unchanged; 2.00% said the situation will be worse because of the lack of continuity in solving problems; and, 14.96% were uncertain or had no comment.
