Author: Chayut Setboonsarng, Panarat Thepgumpanat

Thailand’s government rolled out the first phase of its $14bn stimulus package, aiming to inject economic activity by distributing 10,000 baht to an estimated 45-million people. The initial phase targets welfare card holders and disabled individuals, with plans to complete distribution by the end of the month. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized the impact of putting cash directly into the hands of citizens, sparking increased spending. The program was initially set up as a “digital wallet” scheme, encouraging spending within local communities through a smartphone app within six months. Despite criticisms of fiscal irresponsibility from economists, the government remains committed…