Government Subsidy Program Expands to Regional Airports
Thailand's government is expanding a subsidy program at regional airports to promote local OTOP products and reduce costs for travelers through participating retailers nationwide. The initiative aims to support grassroots entrepreneurs whil
The government is accelerating the rollout of local OTOP products at regional airports as part of a broader strategy to develop "economic and community development centers," inviting passengers to take advantage of the "Thai Help Thai Plus (60/40)" subsidy program at airport retailers. Deputy Transport Minister Pattrapong Pattraprasit stated that the program is a key government policy designed to reduce expenses for citizens, stimulate consumer spending, distribute income to entrepreneurs, and strengthen grassroots economies across Thailand.
The Transport Ministry is integrating civil aviation services with local economic development. The Airports of Thailand Department has elevated the role of provincial airports from mere transportation infrastructure to "economic and community centers" in line with government efforts to distribute income and create opportunities for people nationwide.
The department is promoting provincial airports as more than travel hubs—they are now spaces where citizens can access transportation, services, and commerce through participating airport retailers supporting the "Thai Help Thai Plus (60/40)" program. Services include food and beverage outlets, souvenir shops, and OTOP community products. The program benefits local entrepreneurs by increasing their income while reducing costs for passengers and airport users.
Passengers can purchase discounted goods and services from participating airport retailers under the Airports of Thailand Department at facilities including Nan, Lampang, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Roi Et, Krabi, Chumphon, Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, and Surat Thani airports.
The Airports of Thailand Department also supports provincial airports as key mechanisms for regional development by opening spaces for local communities and entrepreneurs to sell OTOP products. This creates jobs, generates opportunities, and expands distribution channels for community products to grow sustainably alongside the broader economy. The program reinforces the Transport Ministry and Airports of Thailand Department's role in using infrastructure as an "economic and community development center" that integrates transportation, commerce, and tourism.
