Cabinet Set to Discuss 400 Billion Baht Loan Framework This Week for 'Thai Helping Thai' and Renewable Energy Plans
Thailand's cabinet will debate a 400 billion baht loan framework this week to fund welfare programs including a 50-50 cost-sharing scheme and renewable energy initiatives aimed at phasing out fossil fuels.
On May 3, 2025, Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, discussed the Thai Helping Thai Plus program scheduled for cabinet consideration this week. She explained that once welfare measures including the Thai Helping Thai Plus program (the 50-50 cost-sharing scheme), state welfare cards, and other initiatives are approved, the cabinet will then address the loan framework.
"This cabinet meeting will first consider the borrowing framework this week, with individual projects requesting funds to be considered sequentially," she stated. "We're committed to moving quickly to get money into people's hands by June. While there's been discussion of a 500 billion baht loan, a 400 billion baht budget is actually sufficient."
Ratchada outlined two main uses for the borrowed funds: the 50-50 cost-sharing program where the government pays 60% and citizens pay 40%, along with state welfare cards. The remaining portion will promote Thailand's transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and solar power.
The energy transition will require incentive measures including support for electric vehicles and motorcycles, solar roof installations, and infrastructure development. The government has identified the need for borrowing to cover these substantial costs, though she emphasized all spending will be transparent and auditable.
Read related news: PM rushes to bring loan authorization to cabinet on May 5, stating there's no need to go through the economic committee first.
