Stimulus gets mixed reactions

Popular scheme spurs concerns about tax bills and digital divide, write Chakrapan Natanri, Assawin Pakkawan, and Prasit Tangprasert

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The next phase of the government's popular economic stimulus programme, "Khon La Khrueng Plus" — which is slated to be launched at the end of the month - has drawn mixed reactions across the country.

The Khon La Khrueng Plus offers an estimated 33 million beneficiaries between 2,000 and 2,400 baht per person, with usage capped at 200 baht per day over a period of up to two months.

The government believes the scheme will inject much-needed funds into the economy by spurring consumption at the grassroots level.

While the initiative has been generally praised by the public, enthusiasm for the next phase of the programme has been significantly tempered by concerns over taxation and the system's ability to offer timely payouts for workers in the public transport sector, which has just been included in the initiative.

For some merchants, the scheme presents a genuine dilemma, pitting short-term gain against long-term risk.

MERCHANTS FEAR TAXES

In Khon Kaen, many small-scale food vendors readily acknowledge the programme's benefits.

Anan Thongmaen, a 26-year-old soymilk stall owner, said he was keen to join the programme, calling the scheme an excellent economic boost.

Similarly, Sirimat Sirimuangrat, a grocery stall owner, praised its ability to increase sales and attract new customers.

However, she said that many merchants fear being hit by unexpected tax bills on sales made through the scheme.