Positive Start for “Khon La Khrueng Plus” Program as Small Businesses Report Higher Sales on Day One

On October 29, 2025, the SAP NEWS team surveyed small business owners across Thailand on the first day of the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment program, which officially launched at 6.00 a.m. The overall sentiment among participating vendors was overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting a noticeable increase in sales from early morning hours. Most shop owners expressed optimism that the program would revitalize local economies and boost income after a prolonged period of sluggish spending.

Spring roll vendor “Tor” sees strong morning sales

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Tor, who runs a fried spring roll and tofu shop, stated, “I mainly joined to increase sales. I also participated in previous rounds, and registration this time went smoothly. From 6 a.m., customers were already lining up. It’s definitely more active than usual.” He added that the initiative could stimulate local economic activity after months of slow business.

Isaan food vendor “Amnuay” hopes for income recovery amid weak sales

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Amnuay, an Isaan restaurant owner, said, “Sales have been terrible lately, so I hope this project helps. Registration was easy and problem-free. It’s only the first day, so customers are still few, but I expect business to improve over the next few days. Things have been tough for small vendors.”

Clothing shop“Oum” says this round is quieter but remains hopeful

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Oum, who runs a clothing shop, shared, “I had no trouble registering, but the ID verification at the bank took a bit long. Compared to the previous phase, this one feels quieter. I hope it becomes livelier again since sales have been slow. This project helps encourage people to come out and spend.”

Shrimp Paste Rice owner “Ploy” joins to support the economy and small sellers

Photo: Ratcha Piyathammadhaj via SAP NEWS

Ploy, owner of a shrimp pastes rice shop, said, “I joined because I want to help boost Thailand’s economy and increase my own sales. At first, I thought registration would be complicated, but district staff were very helpful. Customers started coming even before I set up my stall, as soon as I put up the ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ sign, people lined up to scan.” She added, “I hope this project makes Thais happier and improves the economy overall.”

Banana fritter shop owners “Jaeng” and “Emmy” note faster spending decisions

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Emmy, one of the co-owners, said, “This program makes it easier for customers to spend, and that helps our shop sell better. We didn’t face any registration issues because we went early and avoided queues. Customers are using the benefit more and deciding to buy faster. I hope the project continues to give small vendors confidence and encourages people to spend more.”

Fruit vendor “Orn” thanks the government for supporting grassroots businesses

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Orn said, “In the last round, our sales tripled. I expect similar results this time. Registration was smooth, but I waited around two hours at the bank. On the first morning, over 50% of my customers used the co-payment benefit, which is a good sign.” She also expressed gratitude to the government for supporting grassroots sellers and stimulating small-scale trade.

Beverage shop “Rung” suggests expanding access after registration delays

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Rung, a beverage shop, said, “This area has many office workers, so the project helps boost spending. I faced minor system issues during registration, but managed fine. Customers are fewer than in previous rounds, and many people told me they missed out because their ID verification failed. I hope more spots open next time.”

According to SAP NEWS, although the first-day usage rate wasn’t as high as in earlier phases, most businesses remain confident that “Khon La Khrueng Plus” will drive stronger year-end consumer spending, especially in food, drink, and daily-use sectors. The project is viewed as a key step in reviving local economies nationwide.

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Currently, over 560,000 merchants have joined the program (with some reports estimating between 590,000-620,000 stores). Vendors can continue registering until December 19, 2025. The Ministry of Finance has reassured participants that sales data will not be shared with the Revenue Department, ensuring privacy and confidence among small vendors.

Food Delivery Integration

The co-payment option for food delivery platforms will be available from November 7 to December 31, 2025, between 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. daily. The government subsidy will apply only to food and beverage costs, excluding delivery or service fees.

Photo: Annie via SAP NEWS

Eligible purchases include food and beverages, general goods, essential items, massage, spa, hair and nail services, as well as public transportation (BTS, buses, ferries, taxis, vans, and motorcycle taxis).

Ineligible items include lottery tickets, alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, gift cards, cash vouchers, and advance payment services.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul warned citizens not to exchange the benefit for cash, stressing that doing so is illegal and could disrupt future phases of the program. He also confirmed plans for Phase 2 of “Khon La Khrueng Plus”, which aimed to assist vulnerable and unregistered groups.

The Kasikorn Research Center estimates that the project could inject 60-70 billion baht into Thailand’s economy and help revive retail spending momentum during the final quarter of 2025.

Copywriter: Siam Associated Press (SAP) Editorial Department

Pictures: Some illustrations come from the Internet. If there is any infringement, please contact us to delete it.

Source of material: official media /online news