Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce is gearing up to launch the "Thai Helps Thai, Boost Thai SME Income" project, aimed at significantly increasing income for Thai SMEs. This initiative merges the strengths of two notable Thai-owned online platforms, ThailandPostMart and Nex Gen Commerce, to drive long-term sales for small-scale community entrepreneurs.
According to Thai News Agency, the project partners are committed to the "Thai Helps Thai" ethos by voluntarily foregoing their core revenue and gross profit, waiving all fees throughout the project. This approach aims to cut costs and boost profits for entrepreneurs. Moreover, the project will equip SMEs with comprehensive knowledge on leveraging technological innovations, enhancing business management, and transitioning towards full-fledged digital commerce, thereby increasing sales and revenue. The project is set to launch on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Ministry of Commerce.
Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, disclosed that the 'Thai Helps Thai' project is a significant government policy designed to alleviate citizens' living cost burdens amid global unrest, energy crises, and economic slowdowns. This policy, championed by the government and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, aims to ensure economic liquidity while supporting Thai entrepreneurs, particularly community SMEs who are crucial to the national economy.
Mr. Poonpong highlighted that the 'Thai Helps Thai, Boost Thai SME Income' project is a collaboration with leading platforms ThailandPostMart and Nex Gen Commerce. The initiative aims to sell entrepreneurs' products online, providing access to new trade channels, increasing income, and ensuring business stability during crises. The platforms have waived all fees, demonstrating the project's success. Additionally, the government is offering 500,000 discount coupons and free shipping, benefiting small businesses and SMEs by reducing costs and increasing profits. Consumers will also benefit from high-quality products at special prices, supporting Thai products and entrepreneurs.
The Ministry of Commerce and provincial commerce offices have selected 2,000 potential SMEs for the project. These SMEs will open stores on the platforms until May 31, 2026. All products must be locally produced consumer goods that meet quality standards, promoting Thai-made products and reducing imports. This effort encourages a 'Thai-centric consumer behavior' to strengthen local entrepreneurs long-term.
Throughout the project, the Department and platform staff will mentor participants, helping them become professional online sellers. This guidance will enable SMEs to use online marketplaces as their primary sales channel, increasing sales and product awareness, and boosting income. The Ministry is also preparing to enhance SMEs' knowledge on technological innovations to manage businesses and increase sales.
The Ministry of Commerce will host an opening ceremony for the project, presided over by Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, with partner agencies and entrepreneurs showcasing their potential. The event will be held on June 4, 2026, at the Ministry of Commerce and broadcast live online via Facebook Live.