Bangkok: The government has announced that merchants will register for Upskill-Reskill training, “Half-Half Plus” on November 19th.

According to Thai News Agency, the government is making a strategic move as vendors registering for Upskill-Reskill training under the “Half-Half Plus” scheme will receive a 2,000 baht subsidy. Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, expressed confidence that these measures will boost Q4 GDP growth by more than 0.6 percent. Phase 2 of the “Half-Half Plus” scheme is set to commence in January 2026.

Ekniti Nitithanpraphas revealed that the Cabinet has approved the upskilling or reskilling program for participating merchants in the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program. This initiative aims to encourage merchants to enhance their business capabilities through learning skills such as financial literacy, digital marketing, and the application of AI.

The government has earmarked a budget of up to 800 million baht to support a target of 400,000 businesses. Registration is open to 950,000 merchants, from November 19th to December 19th. Priority will be given to those who register and complete the training first, with only 400,000 successful applicants required. After successful completion of the training, commercial banks and the Government Savings Bank will provide capital to small businesses seeking liquidity, reducing reliance on informal loans.

Mr. Ekniti also mentioned that people are currently spending 45 billion baht through the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program. Funds are being distributed regionally, including welfare cards and other initiatives, driving GDP growth in the fourth quarter by more than 0.6 percent. For Phase 2 of the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program, the Prime Minister has expedited a study and project design, incorporating lessons learned for improvements. Spending will start in January 2026, with additional top-ups for welfare cards, separate from the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program.