The Cabinet today approved the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” co-payment scheme, under which about 30 million Thai citizens aged 18 and over will receive a taxpayer-funded monthly benefit of 1,000 baht for four months to purchase goods and services.
About 13.2 million low-income people holding state welfare cards will each receive an additional allowance of 700 baht for four months, on top of the 300 baht they already receive each month, to spend on essential consumer goods at “Blue Flag” outlets.
Applications for those who have not yet registered for the benefit will open from May 25 to 29, while new retail outlets can register from May 25 to 30. The scheme will be launched on June 1.
After the Cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” scheme is designed to help low-income welfare card holders, middle-income earners with limited purchasing power and small retail outlets.
He also said the scheme will help small retailers become more familiar with digital payments, thereby improving cash flow and cost management.
“The ‘Thai Chuay Thai Plus’ scheme is intended to help all Thais get through the crisis together. This is a cost-of-living crisis affecting the majority of the population, including those on fixed salaries,” said Ekniti.
Under the co-payment scheme, the government will cover 60% of the cost of goods and services purchased by beneficiaries.
