EXIM Thailand signs an MOU with SME BANK and SBCG to provide liquidity and help mitigate risks in international trade for Thai gem and jewelry exporters amid the current financial crisis. Dr. Apichai Boontherawara (second right), President of Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM Thailand); Mr. Soros Sakornvisava (far right), President of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME BANK); Mr. Taveesak Foongkiatcharoen (second left), President of Small Business Credit Guarantee Corporation (SBCG); and Mr. Vichai Assarasakorn (far left), President of Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a gem and jewelry trader support program to increase liquidity and confidence of Thai gem and jewelry exporters. The ceremony was witnessed by Commerce Minister, Mrs. Porntiva Nakasai (center), at the Ministry of Commerce on March 16, 2009.Under the collaboration between the three state-owned financial institutions, Thai gem and jewelry traders will be given credit support and related services from SME BANK. SBCG will provide guarantees to entrepreneurs not having adequate collateral for credit approval. Meanwhile, EXIM Thailand will offer protection against non-payment from overseas buyers via Export Credit Insurance and Buyer/Bank Risk Assessment services. In order to enhance Thai entrepreneurs’ understanding about international trade risks and risk management, EXIM Thailand is to host a seminar titled “EXIMSurance : Thai Exporters’ Way to Survive” on March 26, 2009 between 8.00-12.00 hrs. at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld. Reserve your seat now! on www.exim.go.th. Admission to the event is free of charge. For further information, please call 0 2617 2244.