Parliament Debates 3.78 Trillion Baht Budget With 11.2 Billion Cut
Parliament reviewed Thailand's 3.78 trillion baht budget for fiscal 2570, with a special committee cutting 11.2 billion baht from projects deemed underperforming or no longer relevant to current conditions.
Parliament convened at 9 a.m. on September 7, 2569, with House Speaker Sophon Sararum presiding over deliberations on the 2570 fiscal year budget bill totaling 3.78 trillion baht in its second and third readings, following the special committee's review.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekkaniti Nitithanprayat, acting as committee chair, reported that the committee examined 3,286 budget-receiving units, prioritizing relief of public hardship, strengthening national competitiveness, managing economic volatility, and addressing rapidly changing challenges. Actions align with government policy, national strategy, master plans, national economic and social development plans, and national security policies, while supporting sustainable development goals.
Ekkaniti stated the committee reduced the budget by 11,162 million baht based on alignment with current conditions, actual performance results, value, readiness, and spending capacity. Budget cuts targeted delayed-delivery projects unlikely to be completed on schedule, items no longer relevant to current circumstances, postponable projects without affecting public services, and cancelled projects or those fundable from non-budget sources. Four key reduction categories were identified: underperforming procurement, outdated items, delayable projects, and alternative funding options. The committee emphasized good governance, integrity, transparency, and fairness to maximize benefit to the nation and people.
