Acting Mayor Chalermporn Piyanarongroj said the pawnshop has seen a rise in demand, with over 200 people using the service daily.
To meet the increased need, the municipality has allocated B140 million in revolving funds to help local residents cope with economic pressures.
In a special measure running from May 1 to June 30, 2025, the pawnshop (in English also called the ‘Muang Phuket Municipal Pawnshop’) is offering reduced interest rates:
- Loans of up to B5,000 will carry an interest rate of just 0.25% per month.
- Loans exceeding B5,000 will be charged 1% per month.
From July 1 to Dec 31, 2025, the rates will adjust slightly:
- Loans up to B5,000 will be subject to a 0.50% monthly interest.
- Loans over B5,000 will continue at 1% per month.
These rates, determined in line with the Office of the Local Government Pawnshop Management Committee, are notably lower than those offered by private pawnshops, Mr Chalermporn noted.
Customers also have the option to repay their loans in installments with no minimum repayment amount required, he added.
“This is the lowest interest rate we’ve offered and is aimed at relieving the financial stress many families face during the school term,” Mr Chalermporn said.
“We invite anyone in need of financial assistance to make use of our services,” he urged.
The Phuket City Municipality Pawnshop is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm, at 17/5 Komaraphat Rd, Talat Yai, Phuket Town. For enquiries, call 076-211424.