Commerce Ministry plans 40 baht meal scheme to ease cost of living

2026-07-11T06:25:14Z

BANGKOK — 11 July 2026,

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said the proposed initiative, tentatively named “Khao Kaeng Thai Chuay Thai” (Thai Helps Thai Rice-and-Side-Dish Programme), will build on the existing

Under the proposal, restaurants joining the scheme would voluntarily offer selected ready-to-eat dishes that meet quality and portion standards at a maximum price of 40 baht per serving. A typical meal would include rice served with at least two side dishes.

To help participating businesses absorb costs, the government plans to provide subsidies for cooking ingredients. Officials are considering assistance packages of

The ministry expects to pilot the programme with

The project is expected to run for at least

Suphajee stressed that participation would be entirely voluntary and that the government would not impose price controls on restaurants. Instead, businesses choosing to join the programme would receive support in exchange for offering affordable meal options.

Participating restaurants would also receive official signs to display at their storefronts, making it easier for customers to identify outlets offering the subsidised 40-baht meals.

If the pilot proves successful, the Commerce Ministry plans to expand the programme and increase the number of participating restaurants nationwide.