Businesses want cap on fuel tariff

Locals shop at Sampheng market in Bangkok. Mr Yol says small and medium-sized enterprises, which make up 80% of retail businesses, can hardly afford to pay for more expensive power bills. (Photo: Bangkok Post)

Key business leaders have jointly called on the government to put a cap on the fuel tariff (Ft), a main component of electricity prices, for one year as another "New Year gift" to help Thailand avoid unpleasant impacts as the economy recovers.

The Ft, which is increasing as a result of higher fuel prices, notably imported liquefied natural gas, is a key contributor to the power tariff, which is used to calculate power bills.