Co-payment Scheme Spurs Thai Spending on Food and Essentials

A nationwide survey by Thailand's Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) has revealed that the "Thais Helps Thais Plus (60/40)" co-payment program has significantly boosted consumer spending, particularly on ready-to-eat meals and daily necessities. The survey, conducted in July with over 5,600 participants, found that 48.22% of respondents used the scheme primarily for ready-to-eat food, followed by fresh food at 38.78% and household essentials at 23.22%

Nantapong Charichan, TPSO director, explained that the program not only encouraged greater spending but also helped ease living costs for many Thais. "The scheme helped ease living costs and encouraged greater spending, while most respondents expect the Thai economy to remain stable or slightly improve after the program," said Nantapong. Many participants reported increased purchases from local or community businesses, with 32% saying they bought more locally, and 24.05% using their savings from the scheme for other essential expenses

Barriers to participation included difficulties with digital systems, such as smartphone apps and facial scanning, especially among older populations. Among non-users, the most common reason was that they had already received other state welfare benefits, while others cited missing registration or not meeting eligibility requirements. The survey also showed behavioral changes: 7.25% of respondents used the funds to repay debt, 8.06% saved the money, and 5.75% purchased higher-quality products

With the scheme set to end on September 3, only 0.88% said they would not return to the same shops, while 31.58% expected to continue shopping at the same places. OG Lab notes that initiatives like this not only provide immediate relief but also stimulate local economies—a trend worth watching for residents and visitors on Koh Samui, where similar programs could further benefit community businesses and daily life