Supachai is still unsure whether the Thai Tourism Plus project will use the emergency loan budget, awaiting Akniti's decision before submitting to the Cabinet. She pointed out that it should be used to stimulate the tourism season and stated it is not necessary to implement it simultaneously with Thai Help Thai phase two.
On 7 August 2026 at the Government House, Supachai Suthumpun, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, overseeing the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, commented on Tourism Minister Surasak Pancharoenworakul's plan to use 1.75-2 billion baht from the emergency loan decree to implement the project.She said she is currently discussing with Akniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. They need to consider the overall picture, whether to use loan funds or regular budget, aiming for maximum efficiency and wide distribution, as well as generating income for tourism operators and travelers to stimulate the economy.She emphasized that careful consideration is required. Akniti also wants to review the results of the Thai Help Thai Plus project, so the entire picture must be assessed first. When asked about criticism regarding the urgent necessity of using loan funds for Thai Tourism Plus, Supachai said this is why they must examine the matter carefully first. No decision has been made yet on which funds to use because the money must be used most efficiently and distributed widely.
When asked whether the Thai Tourism Plus and Thai Help Thai Plus phase two projects will be implemented simultaneously, Supachai said it is not necessary to do so. They must consider necessity and appropriateness to achieve the greatest benefits.
When asked whether the Thai Tourism Plus project should be launched during the peak tourism season at year-end or early next year, Supachai said tourism should align with the tourism season. However, Thai Help Thai Plus must be considered based on urgent need and maximizing efficient use of funds. Therefore, they must await the committee's review led by Akniti before submitting to the Cabinet meeting.