THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Goodies await travellers under ‘Eat, Shop, Spend’ scheme

Goodies await travellers under ‘Eat, Shop, Spend’ scheme

More than 100,000 shops and providers of tourism-related services have been invited to serve 10 million tourists under the government’s “Eat, Shop, Spend” scheme, the Finance Ministry’s Comptroller-General’s Department said. 
As of September 17, 55,579 shops and service providers had registered, said Suttirat Rattanachot, director-general of the Comptroller-General’s Department, adding that she hopes more will join before the September 20 deadline. Those interested can register at booths and registration points set up by the government and Krungthai Bank. 
The “Eat, Shop, Spend” scheme is part of the government’s Bt316-billion stimulus package designed to boost economic growth.
New shops and services providers combined with shops that already have the “Thong Fah” stamp and community shops backed by Commerce Ministry could bring the total number of participants to more than 135,000, which should be enough to service an estimated 10 million local tourists, she said. 
Those seeking credit or cash handouts from the government have from September 23 to November 15 to register via www.ชิมช้อปใช้.com. The first 10 million applicants will be given travel subsidies provided they declare where they are headed, and that their destination is not in their hometown. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold Thai nationality, have a national ID, a smartphone and an email address. 
After registering, applicants will receive a confirmation SMS within three days, and they can start using the privileges via the e-wallet application within 14 days after getting the message. There are two account channels in the app: “G-wallet 1” is for purchasing goods and services in specified provinces; while “G-wallet 2” gives users discounts on foods, drinks, accommodation or purchases made at shops that have joined the project. This offer is valid until November 30. 
In “G-wallet 1”, users are given Bt1,000 credit, while users of “G-wallet 2” get 15 per cent cash back on total spending, but no more than Bt4,500 per person. Those travelling under the scheme will also get a 15 per cent cash rebate in December.
Visit www.cgd.go.th, YouTube and Facebook for more information, or call (02) 270 6400 extension 7.

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