Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved a 20 billion baht loan to the Fuel Fund Office to enhance its liquidity and authorized a 600 million baht loan to the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DFPO) for purchasing raw milk.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Cabinet's decision allows the Fuel Fund Office to proceed with borrowing after the approval of the public debt management plan.
The spokesperson highlighted that the loan approval aims to bolster the Fuel Fund's liquidity, helping to manage the energy price crisis, maintain stable oil prices, and align with global market conditions amid the energy crisis. As of April 5, 2026, the Fuel Fund faced a deficit of approximately 53 billion baht, primarily due to outstanding debts of around 56 billion baht from fuel subsidies owed to retailers. This deficit has strained liquidity, affecting businesses' fuel procurement capabilities and risking domestic shortages.
In addition to the oil fund loan, the Cabinet approved the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives' proposal for the DFPO to borrow 600 million baht from the Farmers' Welfare Fund. This loan, with a 0% interest rate, is designated for the second phase of the DFPO's raw milk purchase program, with a repayment period from 2025 to 2032.
Following the Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul did not provide interviews but is expected to have an informal meeting with the press the following day at Government House. This meeting marks a shift towards more formal interviews to ensure clarity in communication.