Thailand’s 500 billion baht ($13.53 billion) handout scheme has been designed as a stimulus package to support economic growth, according to a finance ministry official. Paopoom Rojanasakul, secretary to the finance minister, made this statement in response to concerns raised by the central bank about the need for targeted assistance. The central bank had mentioned at a press conference earlier that it had no objection to stimulus measures but preferred them to be targeted for specific groups.
While there have been concerns raised by the central bank about the need for targeted assistance, the government is committed to implementing measures that will benefit the economy as a whole. By providing financial support through this scheme, the government hopes to stimulate economic activity and aid in the country’s recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of the handout scheme is not solely focused on helping vulnerable populations but rather supporting economic growth and encouraging investment in the country.