Thailand’s special Cabinet has approved in principle a seven-step relief package to ease the impact of rising fuel prices, with measures targeting households, businesses and key industries. The decision includes potential tax cuts, financial support for vulnerable groups, and sector-specific assistance. Officials say the plan is designed to deliver immediate relief amid surging global oil costs. Get today's headlines by email The proposal was put forward by the Finance Ministry and endorsed at a special Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Permanent Secretary for Finance Lavaron Sangsnit said the measures are urgent and intended to provide maximum public benefit. The move follows sharp increases in global oil prices, which have placed growing pressure on domestic fuel costs and the wider economy. Among the key steps is a review of excise tax reductions on oil, with details on the scale and duration to be finalised in consultation with the Election Commission of Thailand. Vulnerable groups will receive a temporary boost to state welfare card allowances, rising from THB300 to THB400 per month, funded by a THB1.3 billion central budget. As the government is in a caretaker role, this increase will initially apply for one month, pending further review. Targeted support will also be extended to sectors heavily affected by fuel costs, including transport operators such as truck drivers, bus services and motorcycle taxi riders. Farmers are expected to benefit from measures aimed at reducing fertiliser costs, including support through the Green Flag project and promotion of alternative or organic fertilisers to cut reliance on imports. Fishermen will gain access to subsidised B20 fuel, estimated to be 5 - 6 baht cheaper per litre than standard fuel. Businesses are also included in the relief package, with contractors working on government projects set to receive deadline extensions and possible penalty relief if fuel shortages disrupt operations. The government will also accelerate payments linked to contract price adjustments, known as K-factor compensation. In addition, the Government Savings Bank has prepared THB10 billion in soft loans to support SMEs and improve liquidity across supply chains. The Nation reported that the measures will now move into the implementation phase, with further details to be announced by relevant agencies. Authorities will assess the effectiveness of the support, particularly once a fully empowered government is in place, to determine whether extensions or additional actions are required. Related story Fuel-prices-rise-6-baht-per-litre-as-subsidies-cut Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 27 Mar 2026
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