Strategies revealed by Paetongtarn to enhance economic growth, aiming for a range of 2.3% to 3.3%
Thai Prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra unveils six strategic priorities and one key initiative in a bid to boost economic growth and improve citizens' quality of life. Speaking during the first reading of the annual expenditure budget bill for the fiscal year 2026, the Prime Minister outlined the objectives of the bill, emphasizing stability, growth, infrastructure development, and opportunities for all.
The proposed budget prioritizes national security, competitiveness, human resource development, social equity and opportunity, environmental sustainability, and public sector reform. Each strategic area is allotted with a specific budget allocation to achieve tangible results. In terms of national security, 415.32 billion baht has been designated for ensuring national stability and security. To boost competitiveness, a budget of 394.61 billion baht has been earmarked, while 605.92 billion baht has been allocated for human resource development, with a focus on improving education and quality of life.
To address social disparities and ensure equitable access to welfare and public services, the government has set aside 942.70 billion baht. Sustainable initiatives promoting a green and maritime economy, climate resilience, pollution control, and water management will receive 147.21 billion baht. The government aims to modernize the civil service, enhance efficiency through digital transformation, and combat corruption with a budget of 605.44 billion baht for public sector reform.
The government will also pursue a deficit budget policy in the 2026 fiscal year, with projected net revenue from tax collection, state enterprises, and other sources estimated at 3.06 trillion baht. To balance the fiscal deficit, the government plans to secure a loan of 860 billion baht, bringing total revenue for the fiscal year to 3.78 trillion baht, matching the total expenditure budget.
According to Minister Paetongtarn, the 2026 budget allocations aim to drive sustainable economic growth, improve citizens' quality of life, and maintain economic stability amid global economic challenges. By focusing on strategic areas, the government seeks to ensure effective spending for maximum public benefit and achieve lasting national development.
- The Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, plans to invest 605.92 billion baht in human resource development, with a focus on enhancing education and improving quality of life, to boost competitiveness.
- In an effort to address social disparities and ensure equitable access to welfare and public services, the government has allocated 942.70 billion baht.
- To boost tourism and business, the government plans to invest in sustainable initiatives promoting a green and maritime economy, climate resilience, pollution control, and water management, allocating 147.21 billion baht.
- The Thai government will pursue a deficit budget policy in the 2026 fiscal year, aiming to secure a loan of 860 billion baht to balance the fiscal deficit, bringing total revenue for the year to 3.78 trillion baht, matching the total expenditure budget.
- Speaking on international platforms, Minister Paetongtarn emphasized that the budget allocations for 2026 are geared towards driving economic growth, improving citizens' quality of life, and maintaining economic stability, while also prioritizing education and infrastructure development.
