Prime Minister Directs Ministers to Clarify 2027 Budget to Parliament and Public

Bangkok: The Prime Minister has instructed cabinet ministers to ensure clear communication of the 2027 budget to both Parliament and the public.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, the Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will accompany His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen on an official visit to France from June 28 to July 2, 2026. This visit, invited by President Emmanuel Macron, marks significant anniversaries in diplomatic relations between Thailand and France.

In preparation for the Prime Minister's absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has been tasked with presenting the draft of the Annual Budget Act for Fiscal Year 2027 in its first reading. The Cabinet is expected to address inquiries from the House of Representatives and elucidate the key objectives and urgency of the budget allocation, aligning with the missions of various government agencies.

The first reading of the draft Budget Act is scheduled for June 29 to July 1, 2026, spanning over three days. The budget, developed amid fiscal constraints and a volatile global economy, aims to balance immediate public welfare needs with long-term investments to boost national competitiveness. The proposed expenditure of 3.78 trillion baht focuses on national security, investment in emerging industries, and enhancement of citizens' quality of life.

For the upcoming cabinet meeting on June 30, the Prime Minister has designated Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, to preside in his place, facilitating responses to parliamentary queries.