Bangkok: Prime Minister Yingluck has reiterated that the Digital Wallet Phase 3 has been postponed due to objections from numerous parties and existing problems, but it has not been cancelled. She emphasized the strategic use of 157 billion baht, earmarked for water, tourism, and transportation projects, and asserted that the 2016 budget aligns with the current situation. She also highlighted her government’s record-setting public sector investments and her international engagements.
According to Thai News Agency, on June 1, 2025, Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra addressed the topic ‘Adjusting the Plan, Moving Forward, Creating Thai Opportunities’ on the program ‘Thai Opportunity with Prime Minister Paethongtarn’. She explained the decision to postpone the digital wallet phase 3, initially aimed at economic stimulation and technological integration, due to new challenges such as the US tariff wall and clear objections from the National Economic and Social Development Board and the Bank of Thailand (BOT). She stressed the importance of considering feedback from all stakeholders and finding the best course of action for the nation.
Ms. Paethongtarn detailed the allocation of the 157 billion baht, prioritizing water management to address long-standing flooding and drought issues. She stressed the necessity of an integrated approach to solve these challenges, which affect both urban and rural areas, and highlighted the pressing need for clean drinking water and water for agricultural and industrial use.
Transportation infrastructure was identified as another critical area of focus. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of improving routes and roads to facilitate both domestic and international travel and commerce. She noted the potential for immediate impact if the budget is utilized efficiently by September.
Tourism, a vital revenue stream for Thailand, will also benefit from the reallocated funds. Ms. Paethongtarn shared her observations from a recent visit to Shanghai, emphasizing the importance of modernizing and maintaining tourist sites to enhance Thailand’s appeal. The investment will also enhance security measures, such as installing CCTV cameras, to increase trust among international visitors.
In response to questions about the long-term viability of basic infrastructure projects without the digital wallet funds, Ms. Paethongtarn affirmed the government’s commitment to these initiatives. She outlined a strategic plan using short-term, medium-term, and long-term approaches to ensure economic stimulation and job creation.
The Prime Minister spoke about the adaptability of the 2016 budget to address global and regional challenges, such as US tariffs and climate-related issues. She noted the government’s unprecedented investment levels and urged collaboration with the private sector to navigate the complex global economic landscape.
Ms. Paethongtarn shared insights from her recent diplomatic engagements, including visits to Vietnam and Malaysia, and participation in significant international summits. These visits emphasized regional cooperation on pressing issues like online crime, drug trafficking, and economic development.
The Prime Minister also discussed the potential benefits of hosting international events, such as the Formula 1 race, in Thailand. She highlighted the economic boost and the development of local skills that such events could bring, expressing optimism about Thailand’s chances of being among the host nations.