State weighs relief for low-income groups, key industries

The government is eyeing low-income earners, farming groups, public transport operators, as well as the logistics, fishing and construction industries for special assistance as the energy crisis deepens, said Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.

He said the government is considering aid for vulnerable groups, including those earning less than 100,000 baht a year and state welfare card holders, totalling 13.4 million people. The assistance may partially cover food expenses, energy bills or subsidise the price of LPG for cooking.

He noted, however, that the details are still being worked out.

For public transport operators, he said there are currently about 360,000 trucks and 30,000 buses on the road, as well as tens of thousands of taxi and motorcycle taxi drivers, who may need assistance in the form of cash handouts or fuel discount coupons.

For farmers, Ekniti said the Commerce Ministry has been instructed to procure fertiliser for sale at below-market prices, while poorer farmers may also receive financial support.

For fishing vessel operators, he said they will be encouraged to switch from industry-discounted “green” diesel to B20 biodiesel, which is about five baht per litre cheaper than the pump price.

The finance minister also said contractors working on government projects may receive support through adjustments to “K” costs, which allow contractors to be compensated for higher costs, including the cost of construction materials and utilities.

Alternatively, the government may offer soft loans to contractors and businesses in the industrial and service sectors affected by the energy crisis.

Ekniti stressed that no special fuel quotas at preferential prices will be allocated to these businesses.