Thailand Launches 40-Baht Meal Subsidy Program
Thailand is launching a subsidy program offering 40-baht meals at participating restaurants to help workers cope with rising living costs. The Commerce Ministry aims to recruit 100,000 restaurants initially, with government support ranging
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthammaphan announced that the Commerce Ministry is developing details for a cost-of-living relief initiative aimed at reducing expenses on prepared food for the public. The program builds on the existing 'Thailand Helping Thailand Plus' initiative by recruiting restaurants to offer affordable rice and curry dishes priced at 40 baht per plate. Approximately 250,000 restaurants in the Commerce Ministry network and participating in the Thailand Helping Thailand Plus program are eligible to join. Participating restaurants will receive government subsidies for food ingredients, with support amounts under consideration ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 baht per establishment. The program will initially target 100,000 restaurants for a minimum duration of three months, pending Cabinet approval. The Commerce Department will prepare details for Cabinet submission within the third week of this month. Suphajee emphasized the government's intention to alleviate the financial burden on salaried workers through this voluntary program, without forcing restaurants to reduce prices. Participating restaurants must offer quality prepared meals—such as rice with at least two curry or side options—priced not exceeding 40 baht per plate. The Commerce Ministry will place clear signage at participating establishments so the public can easily identify and choose affordable food options. If the program receives positive reception, the government plans to expand the number of affordable restaurants nationwide.
