Bangkok: Government spokesman Siripong is actively encouraging citizens to maximize their use of the “Half-Half Plus” program credits from October 29 to December 31, 2025, with daily spending permitted from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance is open for applications from businesses wishing to participate in the program until December 19.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the Government Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of utilizing the “Half-Half Plus” program credits through the “Paotang” application, with the deadline for spending set for December 31, 2025. Participants are required to make their initial purchase under the program by November 11, 2025, to avoid disqualification.
Mr. Siripong detailed that the program includes 20 million eligible participants, divided among 7.93 million individuals who filed taxes and received a 2,400 baht government subsidy and 12.07 million non-filers who received 2,000 baht. However, 194,210 registrants were disqualified due to various reasons, including holding state welfare cards, previous program violations, or association with mule accounts.
Over 620,000 stores are currently participating in the scheme. The Ministry of Finance assures that sales data will remain private and not be shared with the Revenue Department. Businesses interested in joining the program still have time to apply until December 19, 2025.
The Thai Retailers Association has observed encouraging trends since the announcement of these economic measures, especially as the festive season approaches in the fourth quarter. The association anticipates a significant sales boost, supported by Kasikorn Research Center’s forecast that the “Half-Half Plus” initiative will inject 60-70 billion baht into the retail sector, bolstering year-end spending.
Mr. Siripong also noted that the government will subsidize 50% of each participant’s costs and extend the program to public transportation systems, including land, water, and rail networks like the BTS and MRT. This expansion aims to lower living costs, increase transportation workers’ income nationwide, and encourage travel activity towards the year’s end.