Khon kaen: The emergency decree authorizing a 400 billion baht loan has Khon Kaen residents hoping it will boost the economy, but they are concerned about soaring national debt. Following the Cabinet's approval of a 400 billion baht loan, residents in Khon Kaen province have expressed diverse opinions, with some supporting the measure and hoping it will help reduce the cost of living, while others are concerned about future debt burdens.

According to Thai News Agency, following Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul's announcement of the necessity of borrowing 400 billion baht after the cabinet meeting, people in Khon Kaen province expressed diverse opinions on the measure.

Mr. Praphas Jaitham, a merchant in Khon Kaen province, views this loan as a positive development if it is used to clearly assist the public, especially during a time of high living costs and fuel prices. He suggests that economic stimulus programs such as the "Half-Price" scheme or measures to reduce expenses would genuinely help increase people's income. At the same time, he highlights the challenges faced by farmers due to high costs, including fertilizer prices and debt burdens.

Ms. Paknatee Ruangsri, a vegetable vendor, commented that while the overall picture was positive, she wanted the government to allocate the budget to concrete development projects rather than short-term cash handouts. She also expressed concern that borrowing could increase the national debt burden and lead to future taxes on citizens. Furthermore, she urged the government to urgently address the problem of high fuel prices, which directly affect transportation costs and product prices.

Meanwhile, Ms. Suphatra Srisetphim, a fish vendor, stated that the economic stimulus measures in the market are a good thing, but she is concerned about entering the tax system and the impact on shops that are not participating in the program. This is because customers tend to choose to buy from eligible shops, leading to price competition and causing the prices of some types of goods to rise.

Ms. Napaporn Dorman, a citizen, believes that past government economic stimulus programs, such as the "Half-Price" scheme or "Thai Helps Thai," have actually helped people spend, especially on household consumer goods. However, she urged the government to urgently address the high price of oil to alleviate the overall financial burden on the public.