Prime Minister Sretta Thavisin yesterday announced that the 10,000-baht Digital Wallet would be ready in the first quarter of 2024.  He also confirmed the use of Blockchain technology.

Clarifying the Digital Wallet policy following recent reports suggesting the use of state enterprise funds, he urged caution in further discussions since the administration had yet to officially begin work.

When asked about ensuring public confidence in the policy's implementation by Q1 2024, he responded affirmatively but requested patience and said that a government statement will need to be presented to parliament.

Regarding the policy's status, Sretta stated it was in the negotiation phase with stakeholders.  He also said that the public will receive further information in a government policy statement, expected to be presented to parliament between September 11th and 12th.

He mentioned discussions with the Bank of Thailand Governor, who provided valuable insights and recommendations on the short- and long-term development of the digital wallet policy and its impact on the country's financial and treasury systems.

Earlier, Prachachat Turakij, citing a government source, reported the need for semi-treasury measures, including borrowing from state-owned enterprises, to support the digital wallet project before the fiscal year 2024 budget is enforced.

The source expected initial funding from state banks, with the government later allocating a budget for reimbursement, aligning with Article 28 of the 2018 Financial Discipline and Treasury Management Act (B.E. 2561), which caps state liabilities at 32% of the annual budget expenditure for project expenses or revenue losses.

The Prime Minister also addressed the Move Forward Party's invitation to the public to scrutinise government policy statements, emphasising the importance of closely monitoring policy announcements. He welcomed the opposition's role in examining government actions, considering it a routine aspect of politics that strengthens the government.