Are your VAT / Import Duty refunds affected by the Bangkok Shutdown?

[FRR]

We are manufacturer, buying raw materials locally as well as importing others and exporting finished goods. Our monthly VAT & and Duty refund varies between 2 - 3m baht per month. Typical it takes 2 - 3 months to get these refunds so at any time we have 6 - 9m baht owed to us by the Thai government. With the shutdown this has now increased to more than 15m baht and no sign of any action to reduce this by the Thai Tax office. As most will understand this is having a major impact on cash flow!

I would be interested to know whether any other business are suffering from the same experiences, be they a small, medium or large business. Also any methods that have been successfully with the relevant government departments in reducing these outstanding amounts (before anyone starts, we do not offer any under the table payments etc because, aside from the ethical dilemma they present, it is illegal for us do so some based on our home countries laws.)

Look forward to considered responses.

Edited February 7, 2014 by FRR