Key Takeaways
- 123,960 shops have registered for the Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment scheme
- Consumer registration opens October 20-26 via Paotang app
- Spending period runs from October 29 to December 31
- Authorities warn against rising scam attempts targeting registrants
Over 120,000 retailers across Thailand have enrolled in the government’s Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment initiative, signaling strong participation ahead of public registration starting next week.
Registration Numbers Surge
Deputy government spokeswoman Airin Phanrit confirmed that 123,960 shops registered between October 15-17. This includes 72,000 previously registered stores and 51,000 new participants. An additional 98,000 retailers are currently completing their registration process.
The scheme enables small businesses to share payment costs with the government, stimulating local economic activity through increased consumer spending.
Critical Registration Timeline
Consumer registration opens from October 20-26 exclusively through the Paotang mobile application. Approved participants can begin spending from October 29 until December 31.
Scam Alert: Official Channels Only
Authorities have issued urgent warnings about fraudulent messages and fake registration links circulating from scammers posing as government representatives.
“The government never sends registration links via SMS or social media,” emphasized Airin, directing citizens to use only official applications — Paotang for consumers and Thung Ngern for merchants.
Cyber police advised the public against sharing personal information including ID numbers, bank details, PINs, or OTP codes. Government agencies and banks will never request such sensitive data or ask for money transfers.
Blue Flag Shop Participation
Wittayakorn Maneenet, director-general of the Department of Internal Trade, reported that over 80,000 Blue Flag government-affiliated shops — approximately 60% of the total network — have applied to join the scheme. This number is expected to exceed 100,000 before the program launches.
“The department will inspect participating shops next week to ensure readiness,” said Wittayakorn. “Detailed provincial figures will be available on October 20 after Krungthai Bank completes data compilation.”
