The Thai Senate has given its strong approval to the draft FY2026 Budget Act, voting 151 in favor, with just one vote against and 27 abstentions. This decision clears a key legislative hurdle, with the draft now set to be presented for royal endorsement.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, representing the government, expressed his gratitude to the Senate for its support of the budget bill, describing it as a pivotal instrument for advancing the government’s key policy initiatives. He emphasized that the budget will play a vital role in steering national strategies and various development plans, thereby contributing to long-term economic sustainability. Pichai also acknowledged and appreciated the recommendations and concerns offered during the debate, assuring that they will be carefully considered for further improvement of budget allocations to maximize public benefit.
Analysts at Krungsri Securities have assessed the Senate’s endorsement of the budget bill as positive for the Thai stock market, particularly for the SET Index. The approval is expected to reduce political uncertainties during the transitional phase and alleviate concerns that had previously weighed on the market.
Market sentiment is projected to benefit especially domestic-oriented sectors, including retail giants like CPALL and HMPRO, hire-purchase companies such as MTC, construction material providers like TASCO, leading contractors CK and STECON, as well as ICT players ADVANC and TRUE. The passage of the budget bill offers a psychological boost to these sectors, as it provides greater clarity and stability moving forward.
