Bangkok (VNA) - Thailand's Commerce Ministry has joined hands with government agencies to launch a nationwide economic recovery project over a period of three months which is expected to reduce the cost of living by up to 7 billion THB (198 million USD).

Following duscussions with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and other related ministries, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said his ministry was assigned by the premier to introduce the three-month economic recovery plan from Aug 20 to Nov 20 in an effort to stimulate the grassroots economy due to the delayed implementation of the digital wallet handout.

The government is committed to moving forward with this project within the next three months in a bid to foster job creation and generate income for local communities prior to the implementation of the digital wallet scheme in the fourth quarter, which focuses on helping small businesses.

According to Phumtham, during three months, Thai farmers will be able to sell their produce at designated sales points without any fees. Meanwhile, consumers can easily access these sales points to purchase agricultural products and food at lower prices. Potential sales points that are easily accessible to the public include town halls, tourist spots, Tong Chom markets, and mobile Thong Fah (Blue Flag) units.

The Thai Ministry of Public Health will send volunteers to collaborate with communities in remote areas, where there are no Blue Flag mobile units, to promote the sale of agricultural products and essential goods through Poom Puang trucks, a mobile grocery service serving the community.

Phumtham stated that through collaboration with both the public and private sectors, the government ensures that the project will not negatively impact small stores and that agricultural products will not be undervalued.

♒ Additionally, the discount will help reduce about 7 billion THB in living costs and stimulate spending, boosting the economy during the critical end-of-year period. The project is expected to benefit all sectors, including consumers, farmers, and businesses, whether large or small./.