The Secretary-General of the National Digital Committee revealed that negotiations to adjust the contract terms for the TH AI Passport project are not yet finalized due to many details requiring careful review by the acceptance committee. He acknowledged that the adjustment represents a cut to the private sector's share. Regarding whether this will lead to contract cancellation, he advised waiting for an announcement from the Ministry of Digital Economy.
Mr. Wetang Puangsap, Secretary-General of the National Digital Economy and Society Committee (BDE or National Digital Committee) under the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), revealed on 8 Jul 2026 the progress of negotiations with the private sector, the winner of the TH AI Passport project tender, stating that in principle, contract terms have been revised from a lump-sum payment of 1.6 billion baht to a Pay per Use model, which is expected to reduce the project value and likely decrease the number of users from the original target of 5 million.
“The adjustments to align with the Ministry of Digital Economy’s requirements involve many details. Importantly, the negotiating committee, which is the acceptance committee, must proceed carefully and cautiously, which may cause some delays. We ask for understanding for the workers involved, but the National Digital Committee has urged them to expedite the process to conclude it promptly.”
Mr. Wetang said the acceptance committee has officially met with the private sector twice but continues informal discussions. Once conclusions are reached, they will present them to the Minister and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy for briefing to the media.
When asked if the contract adjustment constitutes a cut to the private sector that might prompt contract cancellation due to the shift to Pay per Use potentially reducing compensation, Mr. Wetang confirmed it likely is a cut to the private sector. Regarding possible contract cancellation, he advised waiting for the Ministry of Digital Economy’s final decision. Concerning the 2027 budget request by the National Digital Committee for phase two of the TH AI Passport project being cut by the Budget Office, Mr. Wetang said this is normal since the requested budget is typically reduced by over 40%.
/read more news " Government Policy " here