BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has confirmed that payments under the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme will be made to all eligible recipients, but no specific timeline for disbursement has been set. The scheme, seeking to boost domestic spending and support the local economy, will provide funds to Thai citizens over 16 who meet income and bank balance criteria. Priority will be given to vulnerable groups, including welfare cardholders and people with disabilities.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated that the first phase of the scheme, set to begin on September 25, will benefit around 14.2 million vulnerable individuals. More than 32 million people have registered for the digital wallet via the “Tang Rath” application, and further registration will soon be opened for those without smartphones.
The government has allocated 187 billion baht for the scheme’s second phase, which is expected to roll out next year, though specific dates still need to be determined. Julapun acknowledged delays in the scheme’s implementation due to the transition to the new government but expects the payment system to be fully operational by early 2025 after necessary testing.
There are still questions surrounding whether the payments will be made entirely in digital currency or partially in cash. Julapun said this will be clarified once the final number of eligible recipients is confirmed. (NNT)
