world-economy

Thailand Readies Relief Package as First-Quarter Growth Outpaces Forecasts

Thailand's government is preparing a cost-of-living support package despite stronger-than-expected economic expansion in the opening quarter of 2026. Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas warned of mounting economic pressures ahead, stating the cabinet will review the relief initiative Tuesday. The proposed package, estimated at approximately 200 billion baht, aims to address rising consumer costs and weakening demand. Nitithanprapas emphasized that fiscal intervention is critical as monetary policy tools face constraints in combating the dual challenges.