BANGKOK, Thailand – More than 20 million people have registered for the government’s “Thai Chuai Thai Plus” subsidy scheme on its opening day, drawing massive public interest as citizens look to offset rising living costs. The registration portal opened at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, quickly locking in a significant portion of the program’s 30-million applicant quota within the first few hours. Operating under a 60/40 co-payment structure, the government will cover 60% of the cost for food, beverages, and designated goods, while the consumer pays the remaining 40%.
The benefit is capped at 200 baht per day, up to a maximum of 1,000 baht per month.
The program will run for four months from June to September 2026, offering a maximum total of 4,000 baht per person, though any unused monthly balances will reset at the end of each month and cannot be carried over. Approved users can begin spending from June 1 through September 30, 2026. The subsidy is eligible for use at participating local retail stores, restaurants, street vendors, public transport, and designated food delivery platforms. Additionally, an estimated 13.18 million vulnerable citizens holding state welfare cards will automatically receive a monthly top-up of 700 baht directly into their accounts, exempting them from the general registration process. (TNA)
