The government is preparing to reduce the excise tax on diesel by one baht per litre, aiming to ease the rising cost burden on consumers, even though the move is expected to cost the state up to 2 billion baht per month.

The government plans to launch the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme to help ease the rising cost of living, with rollout expected after it delivers its policy statement to parliament.

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has formally dropped criminal proceedings against Phra Dhammajayo, the former abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, after the statute of limitations in the high‑profile money‑laundering case expired earlier this month.

Thailand’s move to rein in petrol price subsidies is likely to reshape sector dynamics, with fuel retailers emerging as key beneficiaries, while the transport, retail and tourism sectors face rising cost pressures, analysts say.

The government is advised to adopt a managed float approach to deal with energy prices amid expectations that domestic diesel prices could reach 60 baht per litre.

The government remains committed to bringing the first Disneyland theme park to Southeast Asia as part of the EEC Capital City project, with potential investors from the Middle East already indicating interest in becoming partners.