Governor Saransak was joined by his wife, Ms Ruedeewan, along with heads of government agencies and local officials. The group toured the market from 5:30pm, speaking with traders and shoppers to promote the benefits of the programme and encourage participation.
The ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ campaign allows the government to subsidise half the cost of eligible purchases, helping consumers manage daily expenses while supporting small businesses, community markets and local shops.
The scheme is designed to boost spending power and stimulate local economic activity, particularly in provinces like Phuket where many livelihoods depend on small-scale trade and tourism-related commerce.
Governor Saransak said the programme represents an important step in helping the province’s economy recover and thrive. “The Khon La Khrueng Plus program is another measure that helps ease the burden of daily expenses while stimulating the local economy,” he said.
“It will directly benefit markets, community shops and small businesses across the island. I encourage everyone to register early and make the most of their rights to help drive Phuket’s economy forward.”
During the visit, officials explained the details of how residents and merchants can register to take part in the scheme. The programme has already received strong interest from both market vendors and the public, reflecting widespread support for measures that directly benefit households and small enterprises.
Under the ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ initiative, the government will pay 50% of the cost of certain goods and services, with participants allowed to spend up to B200 per person per day, explained an official report of the event.
The programme will run from Oct 29 to Dec 31, 2025. Citizens can register through the Paotang mobile application from Oct 20-26, from 6am to 10pm each day, or until the quota of eligible participants is filled. Those who file personal income tax returns will receive a total benefit of B2,400, while individuals who do not file tax returns will receive B2,000. State welfare cardholders are not eligible to join the programme.
To qualify, participants must hold Thai nationality, be at least 16 years of age on the registration date, and must not have had their rights suspended under previous phases of the ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ project.
Merchants wishing to join must register Oct 15-26 via the official website or the ‘Tung Ngern’ app. Applicants must be either VAT-registered businesses or general merchants selling everyday goods, food, beverages or other essential items. Once approved, participating shops will be able to accept payments under the scheme starting Oct 29.
The Khon La Khrueng Plus programme also introduces several new features, the official report highlighted.
The age limit for registration has been lowered from 18 to 16, allowing younger consumers to take part. The daily spending cap has been increased to B200, and taxpayers will receive a higher total allowance than non-taxpayers.
The project has also been expanded to include small and medium-sized enterprises, or Micro SMEs, creating more opportunities for business participation. In addition, the programme aims to encourage the use of digital financial systems, helping more people become familiar with electronic transactions and online payment platforms.
Governor Saransak concluded that the province will continue working closely with relevant agencies to ensure that residents and business owners understand the registration process and can take full advantage of the programme’s benefits.
“The goal is not only to provide short-term relief,” he said, “but also to build a stronger, more resilient local economy driven by community participation.”