Abhisit Blasts 400 Billion Baht Borrowing Bill as Economic Risk; Jabs at Anutin Over Energy Crisis – Says Fix the Root Problem, No Need to Drive Recklessly

At a Democrat Party press conference on May 13, 2025, party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva expressed strong opposition to the government's emergency decree allowing a 400 billion baht borrowing to address energy crisis impacts and support the country's energy transition. Abhisit argued the measure increases economic risk, pointing out that while some have borrowed before, Thailand's current economic situation differs significantly—with growth at 1.5%, industrial index up 0.8% in March, and Moody's improving its outlook. He cautioned that spending the full 200 billion baht allocated for cash handout and "Thailand Helps Thailand" programs within four months could worsen economic instability if another crisis emerges, especially amid rising inflation.

Abhisit proposed three alternative approaches: reducing diesel tax to 33 baht per liter through excise tax exemptions (costing only one-third of the borrowing plan), implementing a windfall tax that could lower prices to 30 baht per liter while increasing state revenue, and refocusing energy transition efforts. He criticized the current EV and solar roof support programs for relying heavily on foreign technology and creating minimal domestic value. Instead, he recommended expanding B20 and B50 biodiesel programs by increasing palm oil content, investing with vehicle manufacturers to retrofit engines, and supporting palm farmers—reducing oil dependency while strengthening the agricultural sector.

"If you're solving the problem at its root, you don't need to drive recklessly," Abhisit said, criticizing the government's approach as creating additional economic pressures and pushing public debt toward its ceiling without addressing fundamental issues.