With Thailand’s 157-billion-baht economic stimulus budget expected to receive final approval by the end of June 2025, government ministries have submitted funding requests that far exceed the available allocation. Demand has reached over 400 billion baht, prompting careful scrutiny to ensure projects align with national development goals and maintain fiscal transparency.
The proposed budget is part of the government’s broader economic plan to bolster employment, enhance infrastructure, promote tourism, and stimulate technological advancement. However, questions have arisen over whether some initiatives may be politically motivated or skewed to benefit particular interest groups.
Among the most prominent requests is from the Transport Ministry, which is seeking 56 billion baht, primarily for infrastructure upgrades. The Industry Ministry has also submitted a 1-billion-baht proposal aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of which continue to face challenges stemming from the pandemic and global trade disruptions.
Efforts to support exporters were evident in the Commerce Ministry’s 3-billion-baht request, which has already seen cuts in preliminary reviews. Two projects from the Department of Foreign Trade, with a combined 27-million-baht budget, were approved in the first round. These focus on addressing the impact of US tariffs, including certification for rules of origin and legal assistance related to solar panel trade disputes.
The Department of International Trade Promotion also seeks funding to help Thai exporters access new markets and reduce dependency on volatile markets like the US. Officials have emphasized the importance of sustaining export momentum, which constitutes 60% of Thailand’s GDP.
Separately, the Tourism and Sports Ministry proposed projects such as improving public facilities at tourist sites, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand has requested 2.5 billion baht for an Entertainment Hub project. The initiative aims to attract globally recognized performers and music festivals, replicating the success of similar ventures in Singapore.
The Thai Hotels Association noted that exclusive agreements with international artists could significantly boost tourism revenue if executed effectively. They referenced government support for international productions like The White Lotus as examples of impactful spending.
The Digital Economy and Society Ministry has proposed upgrading its Anti-Online Crime Operation Center into a dedicated department to enhance efforts against online scams and call center fraud. Thailand Post is seeking funding to expand its online marketplace, PostMart, designed to support local SMEs.
In contrast, the Energy Ministry has not submitted any requests under this stimulus program. Instead, state enterprises such as EGAT and PTT Plc are continuing infrastructure development through internal funding, including projects related to power transmission and LNG facilities.
Final decisions on budget distribution are expected later this month. Many projects remain under review, and political dynamics within the ruling coalition may influence which initiatives move forward.
Key figures supporting various proposals include Poj Aramwattananont of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Industry Minister Akanat Promphan, Sangchai Theerakulwanich of the Federation of Thai SMEs, Digital Ministry spokesperson Wongakuea Boonson, Thailand Post president Dhanant Subhadrabandhu, and Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun of the Thai Hotels Association.
