Bangkok: The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce estimates that the start of the 2026 academic year will see a surge in spending to 66,372.50 million baht.
According to Thai News Agency, the anticipated back-to-school spending in 2026 is expected to reach a record high, with average expenses projected at 29,930 baht per person. Rising fuel prices have contributed to the increased cost of school uniforms and some shoe brands, yet parents remain committed to investing in their children's education.
Mr. Thanawat Pholvichai, President and Chief Advisor of the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, shared insights from a survey examining parental spending behavior and the economic impact on education. The survey indicates that despite the current economic climate and inflationary pressures, parents are steadfast in their willingness to finance their children's educational needs.
The spending in 2026 is projected to represent the highest growth in a decade, increasing by 6% from 2025. The average expenditure for parents is detailed as follows: regular public schools (10,975 baht), public schools with special programs (33,874 baht), private Thai-language schools (31,040 baht), and private bilingual schools (52,660 baht).
Many parents are adjusting their budgets by reducing costs on travel, personal expenses, and food, redirecting these savings towards educational expenses. Extracurricular activities are also seeing cuts as families prioritize high-quality educational institutions, including international, bilingual, and private schools. This trend underscores the importance Thai households place on education, even amid low economic growth.
In terms of purchasing behavior, a significant number of parents (84.4%) are buying all new textbooks, while 61.4% are purchasing new school shoes and socks. Other school-related items, such as supplies, uniforms, and bags, are often bought second-hand or reused to minimize expenditures.
Parents have expressed a need for additional government support, including tax deductions for education expenses, direct subsidies, transportation assistance, and price controls on educational goods.
A visit to school uniform shops in the Huai Khwang area revealed that most prices have remained stable, with only a few items experiencing increases. For instance, Sri Suwan shop reports that uniforms for kindergarten, primary, and secondary schools, as well as scout uniforms, have maintained their prices, with only some shoe brands increasing by 20 baht per pair. Many customers are selectively purchasing items to replace those that no longer fit.
One customer from Yala province shared her experience of buying a school uniform, shoes, and athletic gear for her granddaughter, spending over 2,000 baht. Despite the higher prices, she emphasized the importance of her granddaughter's education and happiness, noting the stark difference in costs compared to her own schooling days.