Bangkok: “Phiphat” invites public transport operators nationwide to join “Half-Half Plus”. Registration for Thung Ngern shops is open from October 15 to December 19, 2025. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, revealed that the government, through the Ministry of Finance, has launched the “Half-Half Plus” project to help reduce the cost of living for the public and stimulate the economy in all aspects. This initiative, particularly in the area of public transportation, is a key priority for the government. This initiative aims to ensure convenient, cost-effective travel for the public, and benefits all levels of transportation providers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pipat stated that the Ministry of Transport is fully committed to supporting the government’s policy to make the public transport system another channel through which people can truly exercise their “Half-Half Plus” privileges. This includes small operators, public transport vehicles, and agencies under the Ministry of Transport. All public transport service providers are invited to register as Thung Ngern merchants via the website www.com from October 15 to December 19, 2025.
Small-scale transportation service providers, such as taxis, tuk-tuks, public tricycles, songthaews for hire, motorcycle taxis, and pedicabs, that are properly registered and possess a public driver’s license, can participate in the program as “small-scale public transport service providers.” Previous participants in the “Kon La Khrueng” (Half-Half) program can immediately confirm their eligibility. New applicants will be subject to verification by the Department of Land Transport to verify their valid public driver’s license before approval.
Public transportation systems, including those from the government, state enterprises, and private companies, such as the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), and the Transport Company Limited (BKS), can be applied for by public transportation, including buses, provincial buses, and public boats, such as the Chao Phraya Express Boat and Saen Saep Canal boats. Krungthai Bank will also provide direct coordination with these operators.
Additionally, small-scale public transport operators with annual revenues not exceeding 1.8 million baht, such as daily charter or tour bus operators, are also eligible to apply for the program, aiming to expand opportunities for small-scale transport businesses nationwide.
Mr. Pipat added that the Red Line and Purple Line fares will remain at 20 baht throughout the line until November 30, 2025, to help ease transportation costs for people in Bangkok and its vicinity. Ride-hailing applications and expressway services will not be included in this project.
“The Half-Half Plus project not only helps commuters, but also generates income and opportunities for public transport drivers nationwide. It’s a step forward in line with the government’s policy of promoting a circular economy from the grassroots level, ensuring true mutual benefit for all groups of people,” said Mr. Pipat.