Economy
Community Development Department Clarifies 996 Million Baht Training Budget
The Community Development Department has addressed concerns regarding a 996 million baht training budget proposed in the 2027 fiscal bill, emphasizing its role in local economic development.
On September 10, 2026, the Community Development Department (CDD) issued a statement regarding its 996 million baht training budget, which was recently questioned during the 2027 fiscal budget bill debates. Critics had raised concerns over the scale of the expenditure allocated for training purposes.
According to the CDD, the budget is divided into two distinct categories. Only 43 million baht, or approximately 4% of the total, is designated for the training of over 6,000 department officials and staff. The remaining 96% of the funds is intended for community-focused initiatives. The department argues that these programs are essential for enhancing the potential of local individuals and communities, improving the quality and value of community-made products, and creating new income opportunities for hundreds of thousands of local entrepreneurs.
For residents and those interested in the local economy, this clarification highlights the government's ongoing efforts to integrate community products into broader markets. While the department maintains that these investments are vital for economic growth, the effectiveness of these training programs in achieving their stated goals remains to be seen. Further details regarding the specific implementation of these community-level training sessions and their measurable impact on local product competitiveness are expected to be monitored as the 2027 budget process continues.
