Suphajee Unconcerned Over Constitutional Court Petition Against 400-Billion-Baht Borrowing Decree; Government Accelerates Economic Support, Touts Q4 GDP Growth of 2.5%

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Sutthipanthawong stated on May 20 at Government House that she has no concerns about the Constitutional Court's acceptance of the opposition's petition challenging the 400-billion-baht borrowing decree (Royal Decree for Borrowing).

She explained that the government knows what it is doing because it understands the economic crisis already underway. While GDP may appear strong currently, Q4 of last year was projected at only 0.3 percent. The government is implementing various quick-win measures, and although the Commerce Ministry is a small cog, it is pushing hard to boost GDP growth to 2.5 percent in Q4, serving as wind beneath the economy's wings. January and February saw exceptional export performance.

Q1, which was affected by the energy crisis, still showed upward GDP momentum into March, though not yet fully felt. However, if efforts are halted, problems will return, and the economy cannot be revived as before.

Suphajee emphasized that the Commerce Ministry works proactively before crises occur, as addressing them afterward requires substantial budgets due to damage to citizens and businesses. Therefore, the ministry aims to prevent problems from arising.

Regarding response to the Thai Help Thai project, Suphajee noted that feedback has been positive, with the ministry conducting continuous satisfaction surveys. All departments within the Commerce Ministry are working in integration due to the project's origin in the oil crisis and its impact on living costs. The initiative seeks to provide affordable, accessible essential consumer goods as alternatives for citizens.

On June 4, coupons worth 100 baht will be distributed to shoppers to reduce prices and ease the burden on both consumers and businesses, while promoting SME and community products to grow and reach larger markets.