PM launches 'Thai Helps Thai' scheme, visits market
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul launched the "Thai Helps Thai" cost-of-living relief programme on May 1, offering everyday goods at discounted prices across 800+ districts nationwide, with the initiative rolling out through markets and m
NONTHABURI — On May 1, 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul unveiled the "Thai Helps Thai" programme designed to help ease the cost of living, making a market visit in Nonthaburi where bargain merchandise attracted large crowds on opening day.
At 11:00, Anutin, who also holds the post of interior minister, walked through stalls at Bang Yai City Market alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthamphan and other government officials, inspecting and purchasing basic household items including cooking oil, rice and instant noodles.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Commerce and Interior ministries, provides goods at prices below market rates across more than 800 districts nationwide, with mobile trucks planned to bring items to communities in rural areas.
During the visit, an opposition People's Party lawmaker, Sutthat Meesiri, pushed the prime minister's shopping cart. Anutin invited him over and emphasized that the effort transcends party politics, stating that "people are helping one another," and the two posed together for photographs.
Observers noted that despite the oppressive heat, hundreds of shoppers and vendors turned out at the market. One vendor expressed frustration about economic hardship, asking whether officials had "made enough money" and calling on them to provide more assistance to struggling families.
Anutin sampled local dishes, including fish curry, durian and ice cream, and purchased fruit and ornamental fish, gifting some items to a young child at the market.
He also called officials in four provinces—Songkhla, Si Sa Ket, Trat and Chiang Mai—to monitor how the scheme was rolling out, instructing local authorities to maintain sufficient inventory and keep prices fair.
In remarks to journalists, Anutin explained that the programme aims to lower household costs by supplying everyday items at reduced prices while maintaining quality standards. He noted that savings come from cutting back on branding and marketing rather than reducing production quality.
The prime minister arrived at the event driving an electric vehicle, which drew the attention of onlookers eager to photograph its license plate.
