BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai government has unveiled the timeline for the potentially final phase of its 2024 economic stimulus program that includes the handouts of a 10,000-baht fund through the digital wallet system.
The initiative aims to provide financial support to millions of citizens, stimulate economic growth, and reduce inequality. The program has been implemented in phases to address the needs of different demographic groups.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra shared details of the initiative during a speech in Chiang Rai. He announced that the second phase, focused on senior citizens, will coincide with Chinese New Year 2025. The third and likely the final phase, targeting individuals under 60, is set to launch in March. The success of this phase depends on the completion of technological infrastructure, which is expected to be ready by that time.
Eligibility for Phase 3 includes Thai nationals aged 16 or older as of September 15th of last year. Applicants must have an annual income below 840,000 baht for the 2023 tax year. Additionally, their total bank deposits across specified accounts must not exceed 500,000 baht as of March 31st of last year. Individuals who are imprisoned or disqualified from other state programs are not eligible.
The digital wallet program is a cornerstone of the government’s economic policy. It aims to promote financial inclusion while offering targeted support to millions of Thai citizens. (NNT)
