Bangkok:The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has initiated a flood-related War Room to address the challenges faced by businesses due to recent flooding in various regions. This initiative aims to gather and assess information on the problems, impacts, and needs of affected businesses.

According to Thai News Agency, the flooding has caused significant damage to business premises, machinery, equipment, raw materials, and goods. It has also disrupted suppliers, manufacturers, and transportation services, affecting workers' ability to commute. Consequently, some businesses have had to delay or halt production, potentially impacting orders and exports.

Ms. Pimjai Leeissaranukul, President of FTI, emphasized the need for immediate and recovery measures. The FTI plans to collaborate with provincial industrial councils, industry groups, and regional networks to ensure effective assistance reaches businesses. It aims to understand the specific problems faced by entrepreneurs so that the recovery efforts can be tailored to their needs.

The War Room will connect data from various regions to assess the situation and coordinate assistance effectively. Meetings will be conducted with each province to outline the problems, impacts, and needs, which will serve as a foundation for FTI's assistance guidelines.

FTI has developed operational guidelines focusing on three areas Respond, Rescue, and Recover. This approach includes preparing businesses before floods, providing immediate assistance during floods, and supporting recovery efforts once the floodwaters recede.

For businesses in unaffected areas, FTI will urge preparations such as surveying suppliers for flood protection equipment and assessing the availability of necessary tools. For those already affected, FTI will expedite assistance by coordinating the provision of water pumps and other equipment.

Post-flood, FTI will support recovery efforts by ensuring the readiness of buildings, machinery, and supply chains. It will also coordinate financial, tax, and logistics assistance to help businesses regain liquidity and cover recovery costs.

Ms. Pimjai stressed the importance of not only restarting operations but also ensuring the workforce and supply chains are reconnected. FTI's network will assist businesses at each stage, ensuring they receive prompt and situation-specific support.