Thailand's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have seen a sharp decline in confidence and loan demand in early 2026, driven by rising energy costs and geopolitical uncertainties. This article analyzes the implications for expats and investors, and highlights new support measures from the SME Development Bank.

The rapidly evolving Gulf crisis is reshaping global energy, aviation, and tourism. Here’s what expats and investors in Thailand and Asia should watch as ripple effects reach the region.
As rising fuel costs and economic uncertainty challenge Thailand’s mobility and delivery sectors, Grab Thailand is deploying a multi-pronged strategy—introducing digital lending, expanding into new customer segments, and leveraging electric vehicles—to sustain growth and capture untapped market potential.