The Thai Bankers' Association welcomes the easing measures from the CCSA, allowing banking businesses in shopping malls in 29 dark red provinces to consider resuming operations. Customers are reminded to maintain social distancing and wear face masks when using services to prevent risks and reduce the spread of the virus.

On Monday, August 16, the COVID-19 Situation Administration Center (CCSA) decided to adjust the measures for essential goods/services in shopping malls in the 29 highest controlled provinces, permitting financial institutions located in shopping malls, shopping centers, and community malls to reopen starting August 18, 2021. This is subject to compliance with the 26 disease prevention measures set by the Thai Shopping Center Association.

The Thai Bankers' Association has coordinated with member banks to prepare for branch services, considering the safety of both customers and employees working under the management and measures within the branches.

Health authorities will strictly limit the number of customers and service counters to reduce congestion. However, each member bank will decide on reopening branches based on their suitability and risk, as well as announcements from local authorities and provincial declarations. The guidelines for reopening services are as follows:
1. Branches in shopping malls, shopping centers, and community malls in the 29 dark red provinces will consider reopening, providing services until 5:00 PM.
2. Branches in shopping malls, shopping centers, and community malls located in provinces outside the dark red areas or other controlled areas will remain open, but also until 5:00 PM.
3. Standalone branches can operate normally for 5 or 7 business days, depending on each bank's discretion, but will close by 3:30 PM.
4. Branches in the three southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat will provide services until 3:00 PM.

The opening of branches and the number of operational days will be determined by each member bank. Customers can check the list of open branches via the website or Call Center. However, the Thai Bankers' Association recommends that customers conduct transactions through Mobile Banking or ATMs and contact their banks through various channels such as Call Center, Line@, Facebook, and the website for convenience and to reduce the risk of virus transmission.
Additionally, the banking sector announces the suspension of coin and small banknote exchange services to minimize contact risks.