Ekanit Inspects Shops Opening Registration for the “Half-Half Plus” Program on the First Day

Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphas inspected the opening of registration for the “Half-Half Plus” program on the first day at the market behind the Ministry of Finance. Vendors expressed interest in participating in the program, which the government hopes will support the grassroots economy and distribute income more widely.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, inspected the first day of registration for vendors participating in the “Half-Half Plus” program at the market behind the Ministry of Finance. The large number of vendors showed interest in participating, reflecting confidence in the government’s economic stimulus measures.

Mr. Ekniti stated that the government aims for the “Half-Half Plus” program to serve as a key economic recovery mechanism, emphasizing the “short-term stimulus, long-term results, and distribution” approach. This will not only help reduce the cost of living for the public but also promote a comprehensive flow of funds into the grassroots economy. He emphasized that the government will facilitate registration for all eligible merchants.

Ms. Sirikarn Kamsawat, a fruit vendor at the market behind the Ministry of Finance, said she was delighted to see the return of the “Half-Half” program. She noted that sales were excellent in the first round, and that the “Tung Ngern” app was already available. She hopes sales will be similarly strong this time around.

The “Kon La Khrueng Plus” project is open for registration from October 15 to December 19, 2025. It covers a wide range of businesses, including restaurants, beverage shops, general merchandise shops, massage shops, spas, hair salons, and nail salons, public transportation providers, low-cost Blue Flag shops, community enterprises, and village funds, as well as small juristic persons with annual income not exceeding 1.8 million baht.

Entrepreneurs who have previously participated in the “Kon La Khrueng” (Half-Half) program can register immediately via the “Tung Ngern” application. New entrepreneurs can apply at Krungthai Bank branches nationwide. They must have verifiable business operations. In cases where information is not in the government database, they may be subject to verification and confirmation by local officials before submitting their documents.

Given the overwhelming response from both merchants and the public on the “Half-Half Plus” project, the government expects “Half-Half Plus” to continue its success and boost purchasing power in the final quarter of the year.