Thailand launches nationwide economic recovery project.

Following discussions with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and relevant ministries, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai stated that the Ministry of Commerce has been tasked by the Prime Minister with developing a three-month economic recovery plan (from August 20th to November 20th) to stimulate the grassroots economy. The Thai government is committed to promoting this project over the next three months to boost job creation and income for local communities, before launching the digital wallet program in the fourth quarter of 2024, focusing on supporting small businesses.

According to Mr. Phumtham, during the three months of the project, Thai farmers can sell their produce at designated sales points free of charge. Meanwhile, consumers can easily access these sales points to buy produce and food at cheaper prices. Potential sales points that are easily accessible to the public include town halls, tourist attractions, Tong Chom market, and Thong Fah (Blue Flag) mobile units.

The Thai Ministry of Public Health will deploy volunteers to work with communities in remote areas, where there are no Green Flag mobile units, to promote the sale of agricultural products and essential daily necessities through poom puang trucks – a mobile grocery service serving the community.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham affirmed that through cooperation with the public and private sectors, the Thai government ensures that the project will not negatively impact small businesses, while agricultural products will not be undervalued.

In addition, the price reduction will help lower living costs by approximately 7 billion baht and stimulate spending, boosting the economy during the crucial year-end period. The project is expected to benefit all sectors, including consumers, farmers, and businesses of all sizes.