Thailand's Prime Minister Unveils Economic Policy Plan

Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented her government’s policy agenda to parliament, focusing on revitalizing the economy with a proposed $13.4 billion in handouts and a digital wallet scheme aimed at 50 million citizens. The policies largely mirror those of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, and include measures for debt restructuring and the legalization of casinos to attract investment. Paetongtarn emphasized the need to address high household debt and rising living costs, while also proposing to reduce energy prices. Critics, including opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, have expressed concerns over the implementation and fiscal responsibility of these plans. Paetongtarn, who is the youngest prime minister in Thailand's history and the daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, faces the challenge of overcoming skepticism about her administration's effectiveness. The government projects modest economic growth of 2.6% this year, contingent on the success of these initiatives.