The screening subcommittee approved the extension of the Thai Chua Thai Plus 60/40 program. Ekniti is preparing to propose it to the Cabinet on 22 September 2026, expecting a two-month extension.
On 17 September 2026, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, revealed that the government will certainly extend the Thai Chua Thai Plus program. The program was created to alleviate the energy crisis and rising rice prices caused by the war situation, which affects citizens' consumption. Currently, the war and energy crisis continue to persist. At present, about 50 billion baht remains from the first tranche of the 400 billion baht loan decree for public relief.
"The war situation is not over, oil prices continue to rise, and inflation is likely to follow. Therefore, it is necessary to proceed with extending the Thai Chua Thai Plus program to continue assisting the public. However, the amount of assistance depends on the budget since funds are limited. We want to maximize the use of the available funds."
Mr. Ekniti also stated that on 22 September 2026, the Ministry of Finance will propose to the Cabinet to extend the Thai Chua Thai Plus 60/40 measure using the existing budget. It is expected that the measure will be extended for two months, with spending continuing in the same manner.
Mr. Laworn Saengsanit, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Chairman of the screening committee for loan spending under the 2026 loan decree authorizing the Ministry of Finance to borrow 400 billion baht to address energy crisis impacts and support the country's energy transition, said the meeting agreed to extend the Thai Chua Thai Plus 60/40 measure beyond its original end date of 30 September 2026. The budget for relief, 200 billion baht, is expected to be sufficient for the extended period.
"The screening committee has approved this and is preparing to submit it to the Finance Minister for consideration before presenting it to the Cabinet for approval. Whether it will continue beyond that depends on the Ministry of Finance. Details cannot yet be provided and must wait for Cabinet approval," he said.
Mr. Laworn added that when the government extends the Thai Chua Thai Plus 60/40 measure for the public, funds will also be added for state welfare cardholders based on the number of registered cardholders who qualify. They will receive benefits starting 1 October 2026. Those who do not qualify for state welfare will still receive Thai Chua Thai Plus benefits.
A reporter reported that currently, 26 million people benefit from the Thai Chua Thai Plus program, with cumulative spending from 1 June to 16 September 2026 totaling 159 billion baht—88 billion baht from the government and 65 billion baht from citizens. Meanwhile, 9.5 million people qualify for state welfare cards, and about 5 million are under rights review.