The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Management: A Case Study of Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

Abstract

This research aims to study 1) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, and 2) the assistance measures from the government and private sector for SMEs during the COVID-19 situation. This study is qualitative research involving 10 key informants selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used as the main data collection tool. The results showed that 1) the impact of COVID-19 significantly affected service sector entrepreneurs, particularly with a revenue decrease of 50-90% due to a lack of tourists from other provinces, severely impacting finances, service usage, and personnel. 2) Government assistance measures, including the “Khon La Khrueng” program, “Rao Chana,” and low-interest loans, had varying effectiveness depending on the type of business. Retail businesses benefited significantly, while service businesses experienced only temporary relief.