Long-term measures must also be created to support the sector’s sustainability, Thaniwan added.
Representing more than 700,000 restaurant operators nationwide, the TRA pledged to fully cooperate with government policies to ensure the scheme achieves its objectives and maximises benefits for the public and the economy.
“The co-payment scheme would serve as both a gift and a source of hope for consumers while providing a lifeline for restaurant operators to survive and move forward during these challenging economic times,” she added.
In parallel, with support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the association plans to launch the “Thai Curry & Rice Global Challenge” to celebrate and elevate curry-and-rice shops in Bangkok to international recognition.
The project also aims to preserve and promote this quintessential Thai dish as part of the nation’s cultural heritage, highlighting its distinctive flavours and refined cooking techniques. By spotlighting curry-and-rice dishes, the initiative hopes to rekindle global interest in Thai cuisine and attract more culinary tourists.
Curry and rice has been a staple of Thai dining for generations, reflecting the social and historical context of the nation, the association said. It is especially popular in the central and southern regions.
For many visitors to Thailand, trying authentic Thai curry and rice is considered a must-have cultural experience, TRA added.
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