Thai Cabinet mulls 10,000 baht handout under pressure
The Thai Cabinet will discuss the third phase of the government’s 10,000 baht handout at its meeting next week, with the rollout planned for May to June.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed that the schedule remains unchanged.
“Everything is well prepared, and no changes have been made.”
Approved last month as part of a larger economic stimulus package, this phase targets 2.7 million Thai citizens aged 16 to 20, each receiving 10,000 baht via digital wallets. Previous phases provided the same amount to welfare cardholders, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens aged 60 and above through PromptPay.
Julapun noted smooth progress in technical system integration between financial institutions and government agencies.
Despite ongoing preparations, the programme faces scrutiny. Economists have questioned its effectiveness, stating that the initial phases did not significantly boost consumption.
Last week, political critics petitioned the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate the reallocation of 35 billion baht from the 2025 fiscal budget. The petition claims that funds initially designated for debt repayment are now funding the handout, potentially violating budget regulations.
Julapun responded by affirming that the budgetary process adhered to legal procedures, clarifying that debt repayment and interest are separate budget categories, and reallocated funds did not affect public debt servicing.
“As a committee member overseeing the 2025 budget, I affirm that the budget approval was thorough and lawful.”
He acknowledged the petitioners’ right to seek clarification and mentioned awaiting the Constitutional Court’s decision.
Addressing economic concerns, Julapun commented on the World Bank’s revised GDP growth forecast for Thailand, lowered from 2.6% to 1.6%, attributing it to US trade and tariff policies, reported Bangkok Post.
The minister noted that global trade dynamics remain uncertain due to ongoing negotiations.
“Forecasts are incomplete as tariff negotiations with the United States and other partners are still uncertain.”
A GDP estimate review will follow the conclusion of these talks, with the Fiscal Policy Office expected to announce updated economic projections soon.
“The key concern is the broader impact of global trade imbalances on various economies.”
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