Vendors in the border area of Buriram province urge the new government to promptly continue the 'Khon La Khrueng Plus' Phase 2 program as pledged during the election campaign to stimulate the sluggish economy following impacts from displacement and fighting, while also calling for the construction of a fence to resolve dispute issues.
On 18 Feb 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that vendors at the Ban Kruat Municipal Market in Ban Kruat district, Buriram province, have called on the incoming government to urgently continue the 'Khon La Khrueng Plus Phase 2' project as promised in the campaign, aiming to boost trade along the border areas.
After suffering from the impacts of two recent conflicts along the Thai-Cambodian border, especially losses from perishable goods like vegetables, fruits, and fresh food ordered for sale, vendors faced spoilage and financial losses. Although there are currently no clashes, the border situation remains unstable. Trade activity remains sluggish as people lack purchasing power. Therefore, they want the government to be formed quickly and the 'Khon La Khrueng Plus' program to be implemented as promised.
They believe the program will effectively stimulate trade since it benefits both buyers and sellers. Moreover, they want the government to expedite building a fence or wall along the Thai-Cambodian border to protect sovereignty and prevent Cambodia from claiming or encroaching on Thai territory. They also urge a swift resolution of border disputes to avoid further fighting.
Mrs. Suwipha Saope, a fruit vendor at Ban Kruat Municipal Market, said she wants the government to quickly continue the 'Khon La Khrueng Plus' project as promised to help revive the border economy and trade. During the conflict, she lost over 30,000 baht. After peace returned and shops reopened, sales have not recovered because people lack spending power. Some are saving money in case they need to evacuate due to uncertainty about the situation.
However, she believes that if the 'Khon La Khrueng Plus' program is implemented, it will greatly help stimulate the local economy and benefit both buyers and sellers. She urges swift action alongside resolving border disputes to prevent further conflicts.
