Get the latest crypto news, updates, and reports by subscribing to our free newsletter.
Giấy phép số 4978/GP-TTĐT do Sở Thông tin và Truyền thông Hà Nội cấp ngày 14 tháng 10 năm 2019 / Giấy phép SĐ, BS GP ICP số 2107/GP-TTĐT do Sở TTTT Hà Nội cấp ngày 13/7/2022.
© 2026 Index.vn
Thailand’s cabinet has approved a large emergency relief package aimed at curbing inflation, protecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and strengthening energy security as Middle East tensions threaten economic growth. The government set aside more than 7.74 billion baht (about $241 million) from central funds to help households manage higher energy costs, subsidize transportation expenses, and roll out nationwide cost-of-living reduction measures.
In a statement on April 11, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said the package is intended to reduce the risk of stagflation—when growth is stagnant while inflation remains high—by combining direct government subsidies with credit support for industry.
To ease the rising cost of living, the government raised monthly subsidies for 13.22 million people on the state welfare card. It also increased the cap on spending for essential goods from 300 baht to 400 baht (about $11) per month, effective April 13.
The Finance Ministry plans to work through state banks to support energy independence. The Government Savings Bank will establish a 5-billion-baht loan fund for households installing solar panels or purchasing electric vehicles, with a maximum loan of 2 million baht per person. The Government Housing Bank will provide “Green Home” mortgages at a low interest rate of 2.2%.
To manage increased energy demand, the government allocated more than 2 billion baht in fuel subsidies for trucks and public transport over 42 days. It also earmarked 200 million baht to reduce public transport fares during Songkran.
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced a separate 20-billion-baht package to help SMEs facing higher operating costs.
In addition, the Thai Cabinet ordered all government agencies to tighten spending by canceling international study trips and choosing domestic alternatives. Public sector workers are also encouraged to work from home to reduce energy consumption during the crisis.
Premium gym chains are entering a “golden era” that is ending or already in decline, as rising operating costs collide with shifting consumer preferences toward more flexible, community-based ways to exercise. Long-term memberships are shrinking, margins are pressured by higher rents and facility expenses, and competition from smaller, more personalized…