Thai government to give 10,000-baht digital wallet to citizens despite criticism

Despite facing staunch criticism from experts, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed on Friday that the Thai government will proceed with its plan to distribute a 10,000-baht digital wallet to every Thai citizen over the age of 16. This announcement comes in response to comments from Bank of Thailand (BoT) governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, who criticised the economic stimulus policy.

PM Srettha emphasised that his ruling Pheu Thai Party is open to all suggestions regarding the scheme. The government is committed to implementing the digital wallet scheme for an estimated 56 million people, with an expected launch date of February 1. However, the financial source for the proposed 560 billion baht (US$ 15,159,720,800) budget has yet to be disclosed.

Veerathai Santiprabhob, the previous BoT governor, expressed his concerns on Facebook on Friday….