Thailand’s poverty count climbs despite growth signals

Thailand’s poverty count climbs despite growth signals

Thailand’s poverty rate has risen to 3.4 million people, about 4.9% of the population, even as the economy posted slight growth. Officials described this as a reversal compared with the previous year’s reported level. The National Economic and Social Development Council warned poverty is starting to look more entrenched, especially in specific provinces and job sectors. A progress report on the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023–2027) says early efforts have not meaningfully narrowed regional inequality. The council also flagged 4.3 million “near-poor” people whose spending sits only slightly above the poverty line, leaving them vulnerable to slipping back.