Economy
Thailand Considers Extending 'Thai-Help-Thai Plus' Phase 2
The Ministry of Finance is evaluating a one-to-two-month extension of the 'Thai-Help-Thai Plus' stimulus program to mitigate rising living costs.
According to Khaosod Online Thailand, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas announced that the government is reviewing a potential extension for the 'Thai-Help-Thai Plus (60/40)' Phase 2 program. This initiative, originally launched to combat the economic impact of the energy crisis and high fuel prices, is currently under review due to ongoing global conflicts and sustained high energy costs.
For residents and long-term visitors, this program is significant as it currently supports approximately 40 million people, including 26 million general participants and 13 million state welfare cardholders, across 1.2 million participating shops. The first phase of the program reportedly generated 150 billion baht in economic circulation.
While many local merchants have expressed a desire for the program to continue, the Ministry of Finance is still determining the specific format and duration of the extension. The government has confirmed that there is remaining budget available for the project. A final decision is expected within two to three weeks, or by the end of September 2026. Until then, the exact terms of the extension remain to be confirmed by the Ministry.
