Kaewjai Sondee, manager of the Phuket City Municipality Pawnshop, located on Komarapat Rd in Phuket Town, reported a noticeable increase in the number of people coming to use the government pawnshop, with more than 200 patrons per day seeking assistance.
The increased activity coincides with the start of the new school term, a period typically marked by heightened financial pressure on families, Ms Kaewjai pointed out.
To further support the community, the pawnshop has implemented reduced interest rates from May 1 to June 30, she added.
For loans with a principal amount not exceeding B5,000, the interest rate has been lowered to 0.25% per month. For loans exceeding B5,000, the interest rate is set at 1% per month.
From July 1 to Dec 31, the rates will increase to 0.5% per month for loans up to B5,000, while the rate for higher amounts will remain at 1% per month, Ms Kaewjai noted.
“These measures represent the lowest interest rates offered by the pawnshop to date, aimed at alleviating the financial burden on the public,” Ms Kaewjai said.
Ms Kaewjai urged those in need of financial assistance to use the pawnshop’s services.
The Phuket City Municipality Pawnshop operates Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. Tel: 076-211424.