Toshiba voices frustration with state over waivers | Bangkok Post: business

Electronics manufacturer Toshiba Thailand is urging quick approval from the government for its proposal to waive import taxes on electronic goods to reverse a shortage of its products in the wake of the flood crisis.

Toshiba vice-president Nattaphong Areekul said the company asked the Finance Ministry last month to waive import duties _ usually 30% _ from December 2011 to May 2012 in order to restore brand loyalty, but the issue has yet to reach the cabinet.

"Of the total volume that we requested of 50-100 million units worth tens of millions of baht, we only asked for nine out of 10 [units to be waived taxes]," Mr Nattaphong said. "They [the government] don't see it as something urgent. Although they agreed in principle, there has been no written evidence, and they are saying they have already helped the private sector. In fact, they are only doing it for their image. I am really mad.