Thailand considers emergency loan for tourism stimulus

Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, Paradorn Prisnanantakul, has defended the proposal to use emergency loan funds under the 2026 Emergency Decree to finance the 'Thai Thiao Thai Plus' project. He stated that utilizing these funds is not a violation of emergency protocols because the project aims to support small tourism businesses struggling due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The projected budget for the project is estimated between 1.75 billion and 2 billion baht. Paradorn emphasized that clear criteria must be established for both business owners and citizens to participate in the scheme. Regarding the implementation of 'Thai Thiao Thai Plus Phase 2,' a final decision rests with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas. Paradorn noted that Phase 1 should be completed and the situation assessed before proceeding with the next phase, given the instability of international conflicts.