Bangkok: The Ministry of Finance has revoked the rights of 230,000 individuals who failed to make their initial purchase as part of the “Half-Half Plus” scheme. Registration will not be reopened for delayed participants, but their inclusion will be considered in the second phase of the scheme. The Ministry has stated that the distribution of 4,000 baht has not been finalized due to pending budget allocation.
According to Thai News Agency, progress on the “Half-Half Plus” project, following the deadline on November 11th for initial activation, indicates that 239,731 people did not use their rights in time and subsequently lost them. In contrast, 19,760,269 out of the 20 million eligible participants utilized their rights, resulting in a total expenditure of 31.837 billion baht. This expenditure includes 31.35 billion baht from regular stores, with contributions split between the government and the public. Additionally, 486 million baht was spent through food delivery platforms, with funds also divided between government and public spending.
Mr. Lawaron Sangsanit, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, clarified that the Ministry does not plan to open registration for the remaining participants in the current phase. Instead, funds will be consolidated, and registration will commence for the second phase of the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program, anticipated early next year. Reports of a 4,000 baht distribution per person are unfounded, as actual amounts will depend on budget availability.