Siripong Angkasugkrit opposed the Senate, clarifying promptly that there is definitely no plan to raise VAT to 10% within the next 2-3 years. He stressed that the urgent policy is to revive the economy and pull it out of the slump first, rather than increasing taxes on the public. He urged people to have confidence in the government.
On 23 February 2026, Siripong Angkasugkrit, Deputy Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed the Senate Economic, Finance, and Fiscal Affairs Commission's proposal to gradually raise VAT to 10%, as well as credit rating agencies' perspectives and suggestions on Thailand's fiscal policy, which sparked criticism that the new government intends to increase taxes after election. He firmly denied this, explaining that the government is fully aware that this year it faces multiple economic challenges. The government's policy priority is to urgently restore the economy from its slump. Therefore, the government's first goal is economic recovery, not raising revenue through VAT increases.
Siripong stated that discussions have taken place about building creditworthiness to support various agencies that assess Thailand's credit, which may require additional revenue collection. However, this is not planned within the next 2-3 years because economic improvement must come first. When the Thai people feel the economy is strong and growing—not just in figures but with money circulating throughout various sectors—then it will be appropriate to reconsider adjustments following proper procedures. He reaffirmed that in the short term, within 2-3 years, there is definitely no VAT increase. He asked the public to trust the government led by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the economic team.