Ministry of Commerce is considering using its extensive network of retail outlets, shops and eateries, under the “Blue Flag” (Thong Fah) program, to allow people, who may have difficulty finding shops under the digital wallet 4km radius rule, to spend the 10,000-baht benefit under the scheme.

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has instructed officials to consider the possibility of leveraging the 144,821 Blue Flag outlets across the country, to overcome the limitation that the 10,000 baht can only be spent within a 4km radius of the recipient’s residence.

All Thais over 16 will receive 10,000 baht to spend on consumer products and services within six months. The scheme is expected to be launched early next year to stimulate the economy.

Blue Flag outlets offer more than 1,400 consumer products, including fresh and processed food, drinks, medicines and daily necessities, such as soap, tooth paste, tooth brushes, dish washing liquid etc.

Moreover, there are 250 “Must See” (Tong Chom) markets, such as the Sai Noi floating market in Nonthaburi, the Lam Phaya floating market in Nakhon Pathom and Suan Klang roadside roast chicken outlets in Khon Kaen.

There are also 69 farm outlets in 40 provinces, which help farmers to sell their products directly to consumers.