The government is closing loopholes to prevent large businesses from delaying payments to SMEs by revising credit term regulations to require payments to agriculture within 30 days and trade, manufacturing, and services within 45 days.
On 14 September 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertviwatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the government is advancing fair trade and enhancing liquidity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supachai Sutthammanoon is driving revisions to Credit Term rules to address issues of large businesses delaying payment for goods and services, which cause SMEs to suffer cash flow shortages.
The Trade Competition Commission (TCC) has approved a draft announcement revising Credit Term guidelines, setting payment deadlines for SMEs at no more than 30 days for agricultural products or primary processed agricultural goods, and no more than 45 days for general trade, manufacturing, and service sectors, except where justified business reasons can be explained.
Ms. Lalida explained that the key point of this revision is not just the number of days, but also adding measures to prevent exploitation of SMEs. Large buyers must clearly notify payment procedures, are prohibited from unjustified payment delays, and cannot change credit terms or contract conditions without at least 60 days’ advance notice.
Moreover, if facts or evidence related to a complaint are known to the large buyer, they are obliged to present these to the TCC, reducing the evidentiary burden on SMEs, who typically have less information and bargaining power. Operators who violate or engage in unfair trade practices may face administrative fines up to 10% of their revenue in the year the offense occurred.
“SMEs that sell goods should receive payment in a timely and fair manner, rather than bearing the cash flow burden for large businesses. This rule adjustment will clarify large companies’ responsibilities, ease burdens on smaller operators, and help money circulate faster within SME businesses,” Ms. Lalida said.
The 30- and 45-day credit term limits already exist in previous guidelines. This revision aims to close enforcement gaps and clarify responsibilities for large operators. The draft announcement is currently under consideration and is not yet in effect. It will become effective 30 days after the day following its publication in the Government Gazette.