Bangkok, May 31 - The Thai government's 3.78 trillion baht ($115 billion) budget for the 2026 fiscal year passed its first parliamentary vote on Saturday. Further votes are required before enactment.
After a four-day debate, the draft budget bill, aimed at supporting a sluggish economy facing steep U.S. tariffs, passed with 322 votes in favor and 158 against. The Pheu Thai Party-led government holds a majority in the House of Representatives.
The budget will still need to pass second and third readings in the lower house, expected in August, before being sent for Senate and royal approval. The 2026 fiscal year starts on October 1.