Bt3.78 trillion fiscal budget bill for 2026 passes third and final reading

In its final reading, the House of Representatives voted 257:230 late last night to pass the 3.78 trillion baht budget bill for the 2026 fiscal year, after three days of lacklustre debate.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, on behalf of the government, offered thanked all the MPs who voted to support the budget bill, which he described as an important tool in driving the government’s policies and the national strategic plan.

He promised that the budget will be used efficiently and will take into account the recommendations made and concerns raised during the debate by MPs over budgetary allocations.

The deputy prime minister also offered his assurance that the taxpayers’ money will be spent transparently and with accountability, to deliver the government’s policies and to move the country forward under the current volatile situation.

According to parliamentary procedure, the budget bill will now be forwarded to the Senate for approval within 20 days. The bill is not subject to any changes by the Senate so, after 20 days, it will become law, whether the Senate approves it or not.