Potential flood losses in Thailand could reach IDR 6.3 trillion

Bangkok (ANTARA) - The recent floods hitting Bangkok and several provinces in Thailand have the potential to cause economic losses ranging from 6 billion to 12 billion baht (approximately IDR 3.2 trillion to IDR 6.3 trillion), depending on how quickly the floodwaters recede.

According to the President of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), Thanavath Phonvichai, data from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation shows that 27 provinces have been affected, with much of the inundated area consisting of residential settlements and several local business sites.

According to Phonvichai, estimated economic losses in Bangkok and surrounding provinces could reach 4 billion to 9 billion baht (approximately IDR 2.13 trillion to IDR 4.79 trillion), provided that drainage operations are completed by Thursday (1/10).

However, a decline in consumer purchasing power, travel disruptions, and the implementation of remote working systems are also contributing to regional economic losses.

Flooding in several other provinces has primarily impacted agricultural land, though it has not disrupted operations within industrial estates.

“If the situation in most areas can be resolved quickly and conditions return to normal by 1 October 2026, then significant losses can be mitigated,” said Phonvichai.

He added that economic activities could recover rapidly once the floods have subsided.