Approved! The Prime Minister reveals agreement in principle to extend Thai Ruam Thai Plus Phase 2, awaiting Ekniti's official clarification. He requests no interference in each other's duties and stresses that this is not a populist policy but an economic stimulus during times of rising living costs.
At 12:35 p.m. on 18 September 2026 at the Government House, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul spoke about progress on extending the Thai Ruam Thai Plus Phase 2 program. He said Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has already reported on it. As for specific conditions, he asked Ekniti to provide the official details, but confirmed he has approved the principle.
When asked whether the 1,000 baht would be given as a lump sum covering two months, the Prime Minister said he would leave the explanation to Ekniti, as they do not interfere with each other's work. He added this is good news. The official announcement will explain the format, which will include both Thai Ruam Thai Plus Phase 2 and the state welfare card program to ensure wide coverage.
Asked about preparations following the U.S. Federal Reserve's announcement to raise its policy interest rate by 0.25 percent for the first time in over three years, Anutin said, "We will not do anything that causes hardship for the people."
When asked if this would affect energy prices, Anutin responded that there are many ways to reduce the public’s hardship. The Thai Ruam Thai Plus program is one such initiative aimed at easing living costs amid the current situation.
Asked whether there would be further measures between December 2026 and January 2027 after the Thai Ruam Thai Plus program ends, Anutin said the policy is not populist but rather an economic stimulus and cost-relief measure for people everywhere during this period of high living expenses.