Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva sees no possibility that value-added tax would be raised next year, as the government is still waiting for the study on tax structure overhaul.
He noted that there is no need to raise VAT now, as measures are needed to support the economic recovery.
Saying that the tax structure needs to be reviewed, he said he has discussions with Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij on this issue but the final decisions are not expected soon.
Asked if the tax structure will be overhauled to accommodate the government's social programmes, Abhisit explained that there are many issues involved like fairness. Some taxes must be reviewed to be in line with the new circumstances like the free trade agreements. Meanwhile, "sin tax" is now considered as part of semi-off balance budget.
"From discussions with the finance minister, the process should take at least a year and a half," he said.
"I inisist that we are moving towards society where all Thais are assured of security. However, that would not involve "giving" only. The government's saving fund is an example that we are not only giving."