Thai Government's 'Net Half Price' Plan: 160 Baht for 40GB Data

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has proposed a new initiative called 'Net Half Price' to provide affordable internet access to over 14 million welfare cardholders. The plan offers 40GB of high-speed data for 160 Baht per month, including tax, for three billing cycles. This project aims to bridge the digital divide and promote equal educational opportunities for low-income groups. The NBTC will present this proposal to the Cabinet on October 28, 2023, seeking approval and funding from the Research and Development Fund for Broadcasting, Television, and Telecommunications for Public Benefit.
The NBTC negotiated with mobile operators to set the rate at 160 Baht, lower than the initial 199 Baht offered by private companies. This plan aims to reduce internet costs for citizens, but a significant challenge remains: many welfare cardholders still use 2G mobile phones, which are incompatible with internet services in terms of speed and basic functionality. The government is addressing this issue by consulting with mobile operators to support the upgrade of devices to 4G or 5G networks.
The NBTC is also working on a new regulation to set and supervise mobile phone service rates, ensuring alignment with market conditions, competition, and changing costs. This regulation aims to protect consumers by providing them with more choices in service usage.