SAM Celebrates 25 Years With New Initiatives To Support Customers
On April 18, 2025, the State Asset Management Company (SAM) marked a significant milestone in its history, celebrating 25 years of operation as a government asset management firm. With a commitment to enhancing the financial stability of its customers, SAM has launched a series of initiatives aimed at providing comprehensive support to individuals and businesses alike, particularly those grappling with Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) and distressed assets.
Ms. Saowanna Narueethanaree, General Manager of Business Management at SAM, expressed pride in the company’s achievements over the past quarter-century. "Our 25th anniversary is not just a celebration; it’s a reminder of our role in driving economic recovery and providing relief to those in financial distress," she stated. SAM has been pivotal in negotiating debt restructuring for NPL customers, credit card debtors, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its "Debt Clinic by SAM" project.
Over the years, SAM has successfully managed distressed assets, injecting more than 250 billion baht into the economy to support recovery and enhance financial stability. "For the country’s economy to grow sustainably, both businesses and citizens must be strong. SAM must act swiftly to manage assets effectively to help people and businesses recover sustainably through appropriate debt restructuring programs," Narueethanaree added.
To commemorate its 25th anniversary, SAM has introduced two special debt restructuring measures aimed at a broader range of customers. The first initiative, "Happy Debt Restructuring, Good Payment Reductions," aims to assist all customers, both individual and business, with collateralized loans and all types of credit. This initiative is designed to facilitate rapid and fair assistance, encouraging customers to engage in negotiations to improve their existing debt structures.
The second initiative, "SAM Incentives for Early Payment Under Agreed Conditions," provides support for NPL customers across all types of loans, whether secured or unsecured, currently under civil litigation without a final judgment. This program aims to motivate customers to settle their debts according to the contract terms, expediting resolution and saving time and costs for both parties involved.
In addition to these debt restructuring initiatives, SAM is also focusing on managing and promoting the sale of non-performing assets (NPAs). The company has been actively organizing promotional events, including auctions, customer outreach programs, and booths at various exhibitions throughout the year. One of the highlights is the "SAM Flash Day," which offers gift vouchers worth up to 100,000 baht, along with attractive promotions such as "Free! One Lump Sum Fee" (not exceeding 1%) for assets priced below 10 million baht, and "Free! No Appraisal Fee" (not exceeding 2%) for assets valued at 10 million baht and above.
SAM is also collaborating with leading financial institutions such as Krungthai Bank, UOB Bank, TTB Bank, Kasikorn Bank, CIMB Thai, and the Government Savings Bank, offering special interest rates starting from 2.76% per year, subject to the banks’ terms and conditions.
Meanwhile, the Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM BANK) is also taking proactive steps to support Thai entrepreneurs impacted by the U.S. government’s reciprocal tariffs. Mr. Bandit Sae-Tiewchai, Director and Acting General Manager of EXIM BANK, outlined the bank’s readiness to assist under five key strategies. These include establishing an Export Clinic to provide financial support and advice for both importers and exporters affected by the tariffs.
"We are extending the repayment period for up to 365 days, along with liquidity support and interest rate reductions," Sae-Tiewchai explained. The Export Clinic aims to provide guidance on tariff policies and market trends, helping SMEs navigate challenges and expand into new markets.
EXIM BANK is also introducing co-financing programs to bolster confidence among Thai exporters, covering up to 75% of the value of losses incurred by foreign buyers who fail to pay for goods. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that Thai businesses can continue to thrive despite global trade uncertainties.
In 2024, Thailand's total export value reached 300.53 billion USD, with 18% of this value attributed to exports to the U.S. Approximately 3,700 Thai SMEs are expected to benefit from these initiatives, with an export value of around 7.63 billion USD. EXIM BANK, as a state financial institution, is committed to supporting Thai exporters and enhancing sustainable financial growth.
In a related development, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has opened registration for earthquake relief assistance, providing financial aid to victims affected by recent seismic events. Citizens can register for aid at local district offices, with compensation available for housing repairs, temporary accommodation, and support for funeral costs.
The compensation scheme includes a maximum of 49,500 baht for home repair costs, 3,000 baht per month for temporary housing, and additional support for those injured or deceased due to the earthquake. Registration is open until April 27, 2025, allowing affected individuals to receive the necessary assistance promptly.
As Thailand navigates through these challenging times, both SAM and EXIM BANK are demonstrating their commitment to supporting businesses and individuals in overcoming financial hurdles, ensuring a more resilient economic future for the nation.
