BANGKOK, Thailand – The Cabinet has approved 7.74 billion baht from the central budget to help citizens and transport operators in managing high energy costs. This funding will support vulnerable groups, subsidize transport, and launch nationwide cost-of-living initiatives.
Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhanadirek announced on April 11, 2026, that the Cabinet has allocated 7,742 million baht across three key areas. 6,022.85 million baht will be allocated to maintain the 2022 State Welfare Registration Scheme. This includes 4,700 million baht to continue benefits through the 2026 fiscal year and 1,322.85 million baht for impact mitigation measures for vulnerable populations, as resolved on March 26, 2026.
To reduce fuel costs in the transport sector, the central budget will provide 1,458 million baht, with an additional 601 million baht from the Road Safety Fund. This combined 2,059 million baht will support 467,507 vehicles, including 180,332 public transport vehicles and 287,175 non-scheduled freight vehicles. Payments will be made via PromptPay to operators registered with the Ministry of Transport. Further registration details will be announced soon.
The government will implement cost-of-living mitigation measures totaling 260.60 million baht through three main projects. The Economic Green Flag Plus campaign will offer affordable agricultural supplies nationwide, reducing farmers’ production costs by an estimated 150 million baht.
The Public Living Cost Relief initiative will deploy “Blue Flag” trucks, mobile units, and vegetable carts to provide low-cost essential goods, saving citizens at least 228 million baht. The “Thai Help Thai – Boost SME Income” campaign will promote SME products online, generating at least 150 million baht in revenue for small businesses.
These measures aim to ensure public access to essential goods at affordable prices and expand market opportunities for farmers, community enterprises, and SMEs. The government expects these programs to boost incomes and reduce financial pressure during the economic slowdown. (NNT)
