Bangkok: The much-anticipated 'Thai Tourism Plus' program has yet to see its launch, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Supajee Suthamphan, expressing uncertainty about its availability by the year's end. As the Chair of the Sub-Committee on Trade, Tourism, and Community Economic Development under the Joint Public-Private Sector Committee for Economic Problem Solving (JPC), Supajee emphasized the need to assess the project's budget and format before presenting it to the Cabinet.
According to Thai News Agency, Supajee has delayed the submission of the "Thailand Travel Plus" scheme to the Cabinet, originally expected in August, due to the necessity for further evaluation. She is waiting to determine the budget and ensure the program's viability before committing to a timeline for its implementation.
During a discussion at Government House on August 6, 2026, Supajee explained that the project's budget considerations are ongoing, with limited funds necessitating careful planning. She has been in talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha, to explore ways to advance the initiative. Supajee noted that the program would follow a structure similar to the "Travel Half-Price" project, aiming to benefit businesses across the spectrum.
Supajee also highlighted the existing framework of the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" project, which could facilitate the new initiative's implementation. However, she indicated that the proposal's submission to the Cabinet would be postponed, as current discussions involve input from Mr. Surasak Panjaroenvorakul, the Minister of Tourism and Sports.
In her dialogue, Supajee stressed the importance of Mr. Ekniti's involvement in reviewing the budget, while she evaluates the proposal's feasibility. Her goal is to stimulate economic growth and boost tourism industry revenues nationwide.
When queried about the possibility of launching the "Thai Travel Plus" project by year-end, Supajee maintained that the form and funding of the project were still under consideration.