Financial problems and debt are common issues affecting people across Thailand, including in large industrial estates within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). When workers face financial difficulties, it becomes harder for them to concentrate on their tasks. This is therefore a crucial issue that every organization should pay attention to.
But where should one start?
As is well known, Thailand has been facing a continuously high household debt-to-GDP ratio, impacting many areas. Commercial banks may slow down lending due to increased risk concerns. There is also worry that some Thais are incurring debt for consumption, reflecting that many borrow to cover daily expenses or urgent problems. The heavier the debt, the more individuals may worry about immediate issues, which in turn begins to affect their work.
Giorgio Gamba, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Commercial Banking Group, HSBC Thailand, explained that data shows financial stress reduces work productivity by the equivalent of up to 7 hours per week and increases distraction by as much as five times.
Moreover, Thai workers currently face risks from cyber threats. In the past six months alone, Thailand reported over 170,000 online fraud cases, with losses approaching 9 billion baht.
These challenges are not something workers have to face alone. Dr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO), said that workers in the EEC already have incomes, but what will make them feel secure in life is practical financial knowledge they can apply daily. When they feel secure, they can work at full capacity, benefiting everyone—the workers, their organizations, and also attracting foreign investors who value high-quality labor.
To support workers in adapting to these challenges, HSBC Thailand has partnered with EECO and the Keenan Foundation to address the root problems by launching the MoneyWise in EEC: Building Financial Resilience & Cyber Security for Factory Workers project. This includes training and preparation to handle issues such as
Dr. Wimalakarn Kosumas, Chairperson and Acting Executive Director of the Keenan Foundation, explained that this project is not just a one-time training. They will provide ongoing support to those with real problems through the Resilience Clinic. The workshop curriculum follows the Bank of Thailand's "FinDee Happy Life" program to help workers sustainably improve their financial behavior.
Giorgio added that the MoneyWise in EEC project will run from August 2026 to December 2027. HSBC will provide funding and bring financial experts to lead the workshops, with the Keenan Foundation managing the project under collaboration with EECO.
The main goal is for 80% of participants to feel more confident managing their money and handling online scams. From their income, workers will learn how to budget, save, allocate emergency funds, and invest wisely to improve their lives—creating personal financial well-being that benefits organizations and human capital development in the EEC, ultimately supporting Thailand's long-term economic growth.
Read more about personal finance and financial planning with Thairath Money to help you achieve "Good finances, good life" athttps://www.thairath.co.th/money/personal_finance
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