Today’s news: Champions Cup 7s event this Saturday/Hua Hin native Pone Kingpetch honored/Another media bites the dust/Retail LPG to remain at same price/Elite Card price to be increased by 50%/Cuts to diesel, electricity prices to be proposed/Economic peril for Srettha’s government/Thailand’s per capita income falls/Rules on digital wallet scheme/Boost for condominium sales/Factory output falls 4.43%/New EV policy/EV and renewable energy keyThailand plans visa overhaulNo more beer in glass bottles on Koh Tao/Thousands of Ducks Charge Across Rice Fields/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
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Champions Cup 7s event this Saturday
This Saturday, the first Champions Cup 7s Thailand will be held at True Arena, beginning at 9:30am. Organized by Viking Club Hua Hin, the event expects as many as 200 players from around Thailand.
Thailand’s first boxing world champion, Hua Hin native Pone Kingpetch, honored
The World Boxing Council’s Asian branch (WBC Asia) has formally recognized the legacy of Thailand’s first world boxing champion, Pone Kingpetch.
In a recent meeting at the Asian Boxing Council office an honorary certificate was received from the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF). Pone Kingpetch was inducted into the Hall of Fame in June. Continued …
Another media bites the dust
The Royal Coast Review, started by a former editor of Hua Hin Today several years ago, has gone on what its founder calls a “sabbatical.”
According to the publication, “The personal circumstances of the Royal Coast Review founder and managing editor has lead to a decision to take an extended sabbatical away from Thailand and the suspension of the publication of the Royal Coast Review website.”
RCR was started as competition for Hua Hin Today, but recently changed its focus to only report on the local nightlife scene.
Media history suggests that a publication taking a leave such as this rarely makes a comeback.
Retail LPG to remain at same price
The retail price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is expected to be maintained at 25.87 baht per kilogram, or 432 baht per standard 15-kg cylinder, for another month, according to the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).
Wisak Watanasap, director of the OFFO, said the fund’s board met on Tuesday and passed a resolution to cap the LPG retail price until Sept. 30, extending it from the expiration date of Aug. 31. Continued …
Elite Card price to be increased by 50%
Thailand Elite Card is preparing to raise its minimum membership price by 50% to 900,000 baht, from 600,000 baht, as the company attempts to ramp up annual revenue to 8 billion baht, according to Thailand Privilege Card Co. (TPC), the operator of the card.
The four new types of card will also remove the word “Elite” from their title, which has been used since the scheme’s establishment under the Thaksin Shinawatra government in 2003. Continued …
Cuts to diesel, electricity prices to be proposed
New Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he expects his Cabinet to announce cuts to the price of diesel and electricity right after its first meeting.
Srettha was speaking to reporters on Wednesday morning after meeting with outgoing Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow and ML Chayotid Kridakon, chief of the United Thai Nation Party (UTNP)’s economic team. The meeting was held at the Pheu Thai head office at 11am. Continued …
Economic peril poses a greater threat to Srettha’s government than politics
Even though there are plenty of political challenges facing the Pheu Thai party, not the least being in a weak coalition, the economic challenges are far greater and could spell potential doom for the government if not handled correctly.
Experts say that 2024 will likely be a down year for the global economy and several macroeconomic issues will likely present themselves to the incoming government. Continued …
Thailand’s per capita income falls
Per capita income for this year has taken a hit after the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) revised the gross domestic product (GDP) projection from the initial estimate of 2.7%-3.7% to 2.5%-3%.
This decline is attributed to the second-quarter economic figures for 2023, which fell short of expectations due to a mere 1.8% expansion compared to the 2.6% achieved in the first quarter. The decrease in exports over the course of three consecutive quarters since the fourth quarter of 2022, with a negative growth of 5.7%, is the primary cause. Continued …
Rules on 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme clarified
Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet scheme will be implemented in the form of utility tokens, a news source familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.
The party leading the government coalition promised during its election campaign to stimulate the domestic economy by providing 10,000 baht in digital money to all Thais aged over 16. Continued …
Free visa policy expected to boost condominium sales
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to offer free visas to Chinese and Indian tourists will likely boost sales of condominiums, the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) said today.
The center’s acting director, Wichai Wiratkapan, expects the Thai property sector to recover slightly from the economic slowdown and strict financial institution regulations on borrowing. Continued …
Factory output falls 4.43%
Thailand’s manufacturing production index (MPI) in July dropped 4.43% from a year earlier, the Industry Ministry said on Thursday, as exports declined amid sluggish global demand.
The figure compared with a forecast in a Reuters poll for a fall of 4.0% in July. Output shrank 5.24% in June. – Bangkok Post
New EV policy would maintain and increase level of sales
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) is planning to propose to the new government that it implements measures to promote the purchase and manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) in Thailand under the EV 3.5 policy until 2025.
BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said on Wednesday that the EV 3.5 policy would help maintain the momentum of EVs in the automotive market, which has been growing thanks to the previous EV 3.0 policy. Continued …
EV and renewable energy key to addressing climate change challenges
Electric vehicles (EV) and renewable energy are essential to deal with climate change and herald a low-carbon society, experts said at the “ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week” on Wednesday at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.
Manu Leopairote, chairman of event organizer Informa Markets Thailand, said that climate change was the major problem affecting all regions of the world. Continued …
Thailand plans visa overhaul to boost tourism, lure Chinese and Indians
The Foreign Ministry is set to overhaul the visa system to boost tourism revenue from Thailand’s main markets, especially China and India.
The move comes after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met with the airports authority and airlines on Monday for talks on how to attract more foreign visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is targeting revenue of 3 trillion baht from foreign visitors next year. However, Thai tourism operators have complained that lengthy and sometimes costly visa application processes are deterring travelers from Thailand’s top two overseas markets – China and India. Continued …
No more beer in glass bottles on Koh Tao
From tomorrow, beer in glass containers will be banned from Koh Tao as part of attempts to solve the garbage problem on the island.
Only canned beer will be allowed, said Pollution Control Department Director General Pinsak Suraswadi on Wednesday. Vendors on the island will sell only canned beer, he said. Continued …
Why Thousands of Ducks Charge Across Fields in Thailand Every Year
Step into the enchanting world of rice farming in Thailand through the video below. It captures a breathtaking spectacle. The scene unfolds with an aerial panorama. It reveals a torrential flow of thousands of ducks surging through a gate, akin to molten lava cascading over a precipice.
This feathered force floods into the rice fields like an invading army. Their awe-inspiring sight might seem like the rice field’s doom to the uninitiated eye. However, a twist in the narrative uncovers a harmonious partnership between the ducks and the farmers. It unveils an ingenious agricultural practice. Continued …
The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.
Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day
Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.
Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets
Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October
Today’s news: Hua Hin litterbugs warned/Storms and heavy rain forecast/Challenges for foreign workers/Tips for taxi riders/Facebook linked to 70% of online fraud/Cancer treatments under 30-baht healthcare plan/ Zika outbreak: Warning for pregnant women/Q2 economic recovery slows/Cooking gas price under review/Diesel tax subsidy/VAT increase still under consideration/Chinese ‘Low-Grade, Low-Price’ Goods Flood Thai Market/Major retailer installs solar/Moving Thailand Manufacturing/20 best hotels in Phuket/Thailand’s spiciest salad being made/Quake rattles Bali/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
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Did you know? Hua Hin has 2,000-baht fine for littering – no, really
The Hua Hin municipality has reminded citizens in online warnings about the legal consequences of dumping rubbish in public places. The laws against public littering include tossing litter on the ground, spitting, discarding cigarette butts, and dropping gum. There is a maximum fine of 2,000 baht.
Storms and heavy rain to affect most of Thailand this week
Several provinces will experience thundershowers with isolated heavy to very heavy rains from today until Sunday, the Thai Meteorological Department said in a weather warning issued on Monday.
The department said the conditions were due to the strong monsoon trough lying across the north, central and northeast regions and the strong southwest monsoon prevailing across the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf. Continued …
What are the biggest challenges for foreigners working in Thailand?
Thailand has been among the top countries with the highest number of expat workers. With its flourishing economy and expanding job market, it’s no wonder why overseas professionals are irresistibly drawn to this Southeast Asian country.
But while packing up your life to start anew in a foreign land, especially for work, is undoubtedly exhilarating, you must not overlook the potential hiccups that may come along the way. But remember, every problem has a solution. So to help you prepare for your journey, here are the biggest challenges for foreigners working in Thailand, and how to overcome them. Continued …
Taxi group offers six tips for riders
The Thai Taxi Assn. stirred debate by posting six tips to ensure a satisfactory taxi ride. The recommendations include asking before getting in, not forgetting to tip, and calling for a Grab taxi during peak hours or if the location is difficult for a regular taxi to reach.
The association’s Facebook page recently shared these suggestions, aiming to foster mutual satisfaction between drivers and passengers. The post, titled Thai Taxi Association Recommends Satisfactory Taxi Usage, featured a picture detailing these suggestions. Continued …
Facebook linked to 70% of online fraud in Thailand, says outgoing minister
Facebook is facing legal action from the Digital Economy and Society Ministry and the Royal Thai Police over its sponsored pages service in Thailand, which have been linked to over 70% of online fraud cases according to outgoing minister Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn.
The legal moves against Facebook, including civil and criminal proceedings, according to senior officials, could see the site shut down in Thailand if it fails to address rising security concerns. Continued …
Cancer treatments under 30-baht healthcare plan under consideration
The Thai National Health Security Office (NHSO) is contemplating an expansion of its benefits under the 30-baht healthcare universal package, known as the “gold card” scheme. The addition could include cancer treatment and free screenings for non-cardholders.
In the pursuit of providing affordable medical aid to patients, the NHSO is also investigating potential drugs to incorporate into the national list of essential medicines. The NHSO is negotiating with pharmaceutical firms to provide targeted therapy, which is a crucial need for numerous cancer patients, particularly those battling breast cancer. Continued …
Zika outbreak: Warning for pregnant women as cases spike
A surge in Zika virus cases sparked a warning from the Department of Disease Control (DDC). In the last month, 266 cases were reported. Pregnant women are at risk, as the virus can cause babies to be born with microcephaly, a result of underdeveloped brains.
The monsoon season, with its frequent rain, has created ideal conditions for disease-carrying mosquitoes. Bird baths and other containers that collect water can become breeding grounds. The public is urged to promptly remove any such containers to reduce the risk of Zika and other diseases. Continued …
Thailand’s second quarter of 2023 saw a slowdown in economic recovery, with GDP growth falling from 2.6% year-on-year in the first quarter to 1.8%, as reported by the National Economic and Social Development Council on Aug. 21.
The figures fell significantly short of consensus estimates of 3.1% and growth projections of 2.9%. The economy’s quarter-on-quarter growth was a mere 0.2%, once seasonally adjusted. Continued …
Cooking gas price under review
The Fuel Fund executive committee is preparing to review the subsidy on the retail price of household cooking gas, or LPG, which is due to expire on Aug. 31.
The review will take account of the global LPG market price, the status of the Fuel Fund, and the cost of living for the public and businesses, in order to decide whether the price stabilization for LPG should continue. Continued …
Fuel Fund executive committee seeks to retain diesel tax subsidy
The Fuel Fund executive committee is to recommend that the newly appointed energy minister retains the diesel tax subsidy to keep the price of diesel fuel at no more than 32 baht per liter.
The committee has asked the Office of the Oil Fuel Fund to closely monitor the global energy price situation, especially as winter approaches in the Western nations, which will lead to a high demand for energy for heating purposes and lead to a rise in both oil and LPG prices. Continued …
VAT increase still under consideration
The Thai administration yesterday dismissed the possibility of increasing the value–added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. Despite this official stance, talks have been initiated around this proposal, attributing the potential increment to the requirement for additional funding to cater to the escalating needs of the country’s aging populace.
From the Office of Fiscal Economy, Pornchai Thiravej, the director, shed light on a proposal put forth by the National Economic and Social Development Council. This proposal advocates for an increase in the VAT rate, as it could serve as a steady source of funds to address the financial necessities of the retirement community. Continued …
Local Businesses Struggle as Chinese ‘Low-Grade, Low-Price’ Goods Flood Thai Market
The slowdown in the global economy is affecting China’s exports, and the recovery of China’s domestic market is slower than expected. This has led to an abundance of Chinese products, including in ASEAN markets such as Thailand, where they compete with local producers, worsening Thailand’s trade deficit with China.
The Confederation of Thai Industry stated that Thailand’s trade deficit in the first half of 2023 will be 603.2 billion Thai baht. This is the result of exports amounting to 603.1 billion Thai baht and imports amounting to 1.2 trillion Thai baht. This deficit in the first half of the year is comparable to that of the entire year 2020. Continued …
Major Bangkok retailer installs rooftop solar
Siam Piwat Simon, a joint venture between Siam Piwat Co. and Simon Property Group operating Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, successfully installed solar rooftop at Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok as a part of its sustainability goals.
The environmentally conscious practice is a coordinated project with Gunkul Engineering Public Co., an integrated leader of renewable energy, to install over 50,000 square meters of solar rooftop at Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, with an investment of over Bt100 million. The solar panels can generate solar power, offsetting the reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity, at 3,800,760 kWh per year. Continued …
Moving Thailand Manufacturing Up the Value Chain
Despite accounting for over 6 million jobs and contributing to 34% of the Thai economy earlier in the year, it is no secret that the manufacturing sector is on a downward spiral.
According to the Thai Ministry of Industry (MOI), the nation’s manufacturing production index (MPI) dropped for a ninth consecutive month in June 2023, declining by 5.24% compared to 2022. Continued …
20 best hotels in Phuket
2. Best eco hotel in Phuket: Keemala
Sheer beauty aside, what we love most about this property in the Keemala rainforest is the variety of lodgings from glamping tents to tree houses spanning two-storys with their own private pools.
Even though it’s a 10-minute drive to the nearest beach, you’ll doubtless spend most of your time in your timber sanctuary, complete with deliciously deep tubs. The food is also exquisitely fresh thanks to the hillside farm that supplies almost half of the resort’s daily vegetable and herbs. The Mala spa is one of the best on the island. Continued …
Watch Thailand’s spiciest salad being made
Watch Thailand’s spiciest salad being made … with thousands of chillis mixed with tomatoes. Footage shows 2kg of chopped-up Bird’s eye chillis, which each measure up to 100,000 Scoville units, being poured onto a large wooden mortar in Bangkok.
The Thai variety that is hotter than jalapeno was pounded with other ingredients such as tomatoes, shrimp with shells on, lime juice, and fish sauce. The mixture was used as the strongly flavored dressing to the salad locally called “som tam” and then mixed with grated unripe papaya and served as is or as a side dish to meat. Continued and video …
7.1-magnitude quake, aftershocks rattle Bali residents
A strong, deep 7.1-magnitude earthquake and several aftershocks rattled Bali and other Indonesian islands today, the USGS reported, sending panicked tourists into the streets but causing no major damage. Continued …
The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.
Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day
Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.
Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets
Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October
Mice steal gran’s 50K and stash it in the rafters/
Japanese restaurants see record-breaking growth in Thailand/
Chinese mafia case taken over by police chief/
CP and Toyota join forces to study path toward carbon neutrality in Thailand/
Thai firm to buy used cooking oil to convert to plane fuel/
Industrial estates to install solar systems/
EV producers cheered by bookings at motor show/
House panel reverses cannabis status as narcotic/
Tourism: Thailand is most popular destination in SEA for North Americans and Europeans/Thailand’s Secret Wine Region Is a Lush, Grape-Scented Paradise/ TAT sees Chinese tourists returning soon/-Where will Chinese tourists travel post-Covid?/Thailand renowned for high medical care standards at friendly rates among foreign tourists/Phuket peak tourism season expected over Christmas and New Year/Phuket hotels lack workers/Call of the mountains/Marriott plans to open 8 more hotels in Thailand in 2023/Thai Airways is recruiting 1,000 workers for Suvarnabhumi/
Covid: Mask wearing required in crowds in Bangkok New Year’s celebrations/Covid surge spooks Beijing residents, disrupts government/
International: It’s no joke: Across globe, satire morphs into misinformation/Japan unveils future-food breakthrough: ‘meat’ made from rice bran/
Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Foe more information, email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com
Vintage Car Parade this weekend at Dusit Thani
The 20th Vintage Car Parade to be held this weekend, courtesy of Dusit Thani Hua Hin Resort.
About 50 vintage cars will be involved and will arrive at the resort on Friday afternoon.
A parade is planned for Saturday at 9am, with the group stopping for lunch at Monsoon Valley Vineyard. The parade will also visit the Ban Wang Khoi School in Thap Tai.
A dinner will in the Dusit Thani Grand Ballroom will complete the visit, with vehicles returning to Bangkok on Sunday.
Hua Hin World Cup won by Swiss team
The Switzerland team defeated Thailand in a penalty shootout (following a 1-1 draw in extra time) to win this year’s Hua Hin World Cup.
The tournament raised 20,000 baht for the Jungle Aid Foundation.
A Story of Life-Saving Cooperation and Coordination
A 28-year-old male patient involved in a car accident received a serious brain injury and was recently admitted to Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital. Despite a neurosurgery team making every effort with surgery and intensive care, the patient was declared to be in a state of brain death but the condition of the heart and other organs were still good.
After close consultation with the family of the man, permission was received for organ donations to the Thai Red Cross Society Organ Donation Center to be made available for patients waiting for life-saving organ transplants. The donated organs consisted of a heart, a liver, two kidneys, a pancreas and two eyes.
The hospital then coordinated with the Thai Red Cross Society to prepare a team of doctors, nurses and equipment to collect the organs. The heart transplantation was particularly important, with time limits on a viable transplantation making transport from Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital to Bangkok impractical by road. Continued …
Meteor shower will light up the skies tonight
The annual Geminids meteor shower can be viewed tonight before 11pm, with stargazers in rural areas expected to get the best view, according to the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand.
There could be as many as 150 meteors per hour when the shower is most visible, from about 8 pm until 11 pm, the institute said.
The meteor shower can be viewed with the naked eye from locations that are distant from artificial lighting. Continued …
Amazing MuayThai Festival set in Hua Hin Feb 4-6
The Amazing MuayThai Festival 2023 will be held at Rajabhat Park in the Hua Hin Feb. 4-6, announced the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
TAT is organizing this event with the Royal Thai Army, the Ministry of Culture, Sports Authority of Thailand, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, and private sector partners.
The festival aims to promote cultural tourism and is in line with the Thai government’s policy to promote Thailand’s soft-power foundations, which include food, film, fashion, fight, and festival. Continued …
LPG price cap to remain through January
The Energy Policy Administration Committee (EPAC) has decided to continue capping the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is used as cooking gas, at 408 baht per 15-kilogram cylinder until the end of next month in a bid to slow rising living costs.
The group also agreed to maintain the ex-refinery price of LPG at 19.98 baht per kg. LPG is a petroleum product created from the crude oil refining process. Continued …
Baht hits 6-month high against dollar after US Fed rate hike
The baht opened at 34.53 to the U.S. dollar today, strengthening from Wednesday’s close of 34.57 to a six-month high.
The currency will likely move between 34.50 and 34.70 against the greenback during the day, Krungthai market strategist Poon Panichpibool said.
Poon said that the baht strengthened on dollar weakening and gold sales but cautioned the Thai currency could weaken if foreign investors begin selling Thai stocks due to a risk-off state in the U.S. and Asian currency markets. Continued …
World Bank eyes slower Thai growth
The Thai economy is projected to recover faster than expected this year, but will face slower growth in 2023 because of global headwinds, according to the World Bank.
Thailand’s economic growth is estimated to expand by 3.4% in 2022, exceeding the 2.9% World Bank projection made in June.
Growth was supported by stronger private consumption and services exports thanks to the nascent tourism recovery and strong pent-up demand after the relaxation of lockdown measures and travel restrictions, according to the World Bank report “Thailand Economic Monitor: Fiscal Policy for a Resilient and Equitable Future” released on Wednesday. Continued …
Unemployment declined thanks to increased economic activity and a rebound in tourism. However, household debt increased, albeit at a slower pace, while total loan quality improved.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported on Wednesday unemployment in the third quarter tallied 491,400, representing 1.23% of the total workforce, declining from 546,600, or 1.37%, of the workforce in the second quarter.
The unemployment rates in 2020 and 2021 were 1.69% and 1.96%, respectively. Before the pandemic, the unemployment rate was around 1%. Continued …
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Shrimp industry continues to tread water
The local shrimp industry remains in the doldrums this year because of persistent diseases and unfavorable weather.
Ekapoj Yodpinit, president of the Thai Shrimp Assn., said on Wednesday the country’s overall shrimp production is expected to stay at 280,000 tons, on par with the previous year.
Production from the upper southern region is expected to account for 32% of this year’s output, with the eastern region making up 25%, the lower southern region on the Andaman Coast 21%, the lower southern region on the Gulf of Thailand 10%, and the central region 12%. Continued …
Mice steal gran’s 50K and stash it in the rafters
Media reported on a TikTok video going viral under the name flower_for. It featured a family dismantling a wall and rafters in a house after 50,000 baht of a grandmother’s money went missing over the last year.
They said that mice had stolen the old lady’s money and stashed it in the cavities.
They were pulling down handfuls of her cash. Continued …
Japanese restaurants see record-breaking growth in Thailand
The number of Japanese restaurants in Thailand rose 21.9% in 2022 over the year before, the highest jump since the Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro) began keeping track in 2007, Jetro said on Wednesday.
Jetro recorded a total of 5,325 Japanese restaurants in Thailand this year, up 955 from 4,370 in 2021. It said the expansion of Japanese restaurants has been prominent in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. However, since 2019, it has been possible to find Japanese restaurants in every province, according to Jetro.
“I’m glad that more Japanese restaurants are opening in Thailand … [they] offer a great opportunity for Japanese food lovers to taste Japan’s delicious dishes and expand the market for Japan’s food industry,” said Jun Kuroda, president of Jetro Bangkok. Continued …
Chinese mafia case taken over by police chief
Thai Police Commissioner General Damrongsak Kittiprapat has taken over responsibility for the case involving the alleged Chinese drug mafia network linked with Du Hao or Chaiyanat Kornchayanant. Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn or “Big Joke” will continue to play a crucial coordinating role with the Metropolitan Police Bureau Commissioner Police Lt. Gen. Thiti Saengsawang handling the investigation into drugs being sold at exclusive nightclubs in Bangkok.
Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Chief Gen. Torsak Sukwimol will take charge of suppression activities concerning the extended gang network and the use of “gray capital”, which has been linked with extensive property purchases. Alleged malfeasance within the Immigration Bureau is being reviewed by a high-ranking civil service commission.
Following an announcement on Monday by Damrongsak that he was taking over supervision of the DU Hao case and associated investigations, the operation of a suspected Chinese illicit drug network has also been linked, in the last week, to allegations of malfeasance within the Immigration Bureau. Continued …
CP and Toyota join forces to study path toward carbon neutrality in Thailand
Toyota Motor Thailand has announced its partnership with Thai conglomerate CP Group to support a carbon-neutral pathway.
The project also includes Toyota’s competitors such as Daihatsu, Isuzu, Suzuki, and its affiliated company Hino.
Since its establishment in 1921, CP has been operating with the core value of three benefits: to country, to people, and to organization. Continued …
Thai firm to buy used cooking oil to convert to plane fuel
Thailand’s leading petroleum and energy conglomerate Bangchak Corp. and its joint venture will launch a campaign to recycle used cooking oil for making plane fuel.
Bangchak’s Senior Executive VP Somchai Tejavanija, acting executive vice president of the refinery and logistics business Kanthamat Kritayanukul, and Executive VP of BBGI Plc Kittima Wongsaen, as well as directors of Bangchak and BSGF, encouraged people to sell their used cooking oil at 44 Bangchak petrol stations as they launched the“ Tod-Mai-Ting”(recycling used cooking oil) campaign, which opens on Dec. 21.
Used cooking oil will be converted into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), in response to the bio-circular-green economy (BCG) economic model. It emphasizes the use of biotechnology to create value addition to the economy and aligns with the circular economy and green economy, together with social development to create stability and sustainability, according to Bangchak. Continued …
Industrial estates to install solar systems
Industrial estate developer Pinthong Industrial Park Plc (PIN) plans to allocate 1.6 billion baht to invest in renewable energy projects by installing floating and rooftop solar panels at its industrial estates.
The floating solar panels will be installed on a reservoir spanning 300 rai at its industrial complex, while the investment in rooftop solar panels is for another five industrial estates with total area of 1.3 million square meters, said Surach Patanawongyuneyong, chief operations officer of PIN.
“The company is in the process of developing the two projects. We expect them to be completed so we can start recognizing revenue in the second quarter of next year,” he said. Continued …
EV producers cheered by bookings at motor show
Bookings for 5,800 electric vehicles (EVs) at the Thailand International Motor Expo are providing fuel for the government’s ongoing efforts to develop the domestic EV industry.
The EV total made up 15% of all car bookings, which tallied 36,679 units during the 12-day car event that ended on Dec. 12, according to the organizer.
Chinese EVs were the most popular among prospective buyers, partly because their manufacturers have joined the government’s EV incentive scheme, which includes tax cuts and subsidies, said Industry Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit. Continued …
House panel reverses cannabis status as narcotic
The House committee vetting the controversial cannabis/hemp control bill on Wednesday agreed to remove Section 3 of the draft law, which stipulates that cannabis and hemp were not considered narcotic substances under the Narcotics Act.
This raised questions about the status of the plant, but the Bhumjaithai Party, which sponsored the bill, and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) insisted that axing Section 3 would not affect the rest of the bill.
The committee’s decision came as lawmakers resumed their deliberation of the bill. Continued …
Thailand is most popular destination in SEA for North Americans and Europeans
New research from BBC News shows that people around the world are actively searching for their next getaway abroad and that Thailand is now seen as the most popular destination to visit in Southeast Asia for visitors planning a trip from North America and Europe.
In fact, more than half of the respondents from both Europe and North America named Thailand as their number 1 destination of choice in Southeast Asia; 57.4% of the global respondents who are intending to travel to SEA say they would be more likely to visit Thailand than any other country in the region.
Furthermore, the research showed that travelers to Southeast Asia are often experienced world travelers, looking for new and different experiences, and they will plan to stay for 1-2 weeks, preferring self-planned trips to package deals. Continued …
Thailand’s Secret Wine Region Is a Lush, Grape-Scented Paradise
People often travel to Thailand for endless heaps of noodles, opulent royal palaces and temples, and the serenity of the surrounding tropical beaches. That was certainly the majority of my intended itinerary, until I visited the country’s Monsoon Valley Vineyards and realized the country held an additional, unexpected appeal for me. Namely, Thai wine.
Outside of the bustling coastal city of Hua Hin, serene rolling hills give way to rows and rows of grapevines. The aroma of soy sauce and chillies omnipresent in Hua Hin’s streets is replaced by the dual scents of fresh air and ripe grapes. This lush, fragrant place is Monsoon Valley, the vineyard founded in 2001 by lead winemaker Suppached Sasomsin, now a leading producer of Thai wines.
After studying wine in France, Italy, and Spain, Sasomsin was inspired to develop viticulture in his native country, Thailand, where he recognized the bountiful potential for growing grapes. His first vineyard at Tab Kwang, in the country’s traditional grape-growing region of Khao Yai, was a success. He sought out other areas of Thailand with less of a reputation for wine and eventually found the Baan Khork Chang valley, just over 20 miles from the beaches of Hua Hin. Continued …
TAT sees Chinese tourists returning soon
Outbound tourism from China is expected to restart during the Chinese New Year in late January 2023, as Beijing gradually lifts Covid-19 restrictions, aiding tourism-related stocks and the overall travel sector in Thailand, say industry operators.
Speaking at an event on Wednesday hosted by the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO), Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the agency plans to promote Chinese travel to Thailand during the holiday next month, or within the first quarter at the latest.
“It is possible China will start to allow its citizens to travel outside the country as early as Chinese New Year. Hopefully, Thailand will be on a list of countries the Chinese government allows its people to visit,” he said. Continued …
Where will Chinese tourists travel post-Covid?
The proportion of mainland Chinese travelers who are “eager to travel” as soon as they are allowed has more than doubled in the past year, according to a just-published survey.
It has been a difficult time for the Chinese travel industry. Quarantine, strict lockdown policies and inconvenience have all been listed as reasons for postponing domestic and overseas trips.
As Beijing begins to ease zero-Covid restrictions, huge pent-up demand for international travel signals a strong rebound is in the cards. Continued …
Thailand renowned for high medical care standards at friendly rates among foreign tourists
The Ministry of Public Health has emphasized the potential benefits of its “Health for Wealth” concept in enhancing Thailand’s economy through medical tourism promotion.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said that according to the Medical Tourism Assn., Thailand ranks 5th among the world’s most popular health tourism destinations in 2021. High medical care standards, quality treatments, reasonable rates, and affordable cost of living for long-term patients have made the kingdom one of the most popular medical destinations.
According to the Department of Health Service Support, a ministry survey conducted in collaboration with the Bank of Thailand (BOT) on 30 hospitals last year revealed that tourists who came for medical treatment spent around 11.9 billion baht. This represents a 47% increase over the previous year. The top five treatments generating the most revenue for hospitals were cardiovascular issues, metabolism, cancer, bones and joints, and neurological systems. Continued …
Phuket peak tourism season expected over Christmas and New Year
The peak of the Phuket tourism high season is expected from Christmas to New Year, as Russians lead the pack of visitors.
The president of the Southern Thai Hotels Assn., Sueksit Suwannadissakun, said, “Phuket tourism has improved since the beginning of October. About 57 percent of hotels in Phuket re-opened in October and in November this was 70 percent.
“We are expecting that during Christmas and New Year there will be 80 percent of hotels in Phuket opened.” Continued …
Phuket hotels lack workers
A stronger occupancy rate and the abrupt surge of the Russian market has Phuket hotels facing a labor shortage during the high season, prompting operators to urge the government to help attract more foreign workers to shore up the market. Continued …
Call of the mountains
Thailand’s northwest frontier, between the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai, was once a draw for traders seeking fortune in the abundant teak forest. Today, the region entices visitors with its majestic landscape, ethnic diversity, and culinary delights, making it ideal for a week-long, self-drive adventure.
Technically, you can drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son in around six hours, but this is not the sort of road trip you’ll want to rush. The classic Chiang Mai–Mae Hong Son route along Route 108 is one of Thailand’s most challenging yet scenic routes, with 1,864 twists and turns, so roll down the windows, enjoy the views and soak up local and tribal cultures.
The route takes you along Thailand’s northwest outposts where Shan culture, tranquil valleys, thatched farmhouses and food adventures are waiting to be rediscovered. Continued …
Marriott plans to open 8 more hotels in Thailand in 2023
On the heels of Thailand celebrating its milestone of 10 million tourist arrivals in 2022, Marriott International, Inc., announced on Tuesday plans that it expects to reach 50 hotels in the country by mid-2023, including adding an anticipated eight hotels in 2023.
With these openings, the company also expects to debut two new brands – Autograph Collection Hotels and Moxy Hotels – in the country. Continued …
Thai Airways is recruiting 1,000 workers for Suvarnabhumi
Thai Airways International is recruiting about 1,000 ground workers, mainly to tackle delays in luggage handling at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, its acting CEO Suvadhana Sibunruang said on Wednesday.
Suvadhana admitted that it took more than 30 minutes to handle one flight’s luggage at Suvarnabhumi airport earlier this year and that some flights were delayed due to slow luggage handling.
He said the carrier realizes this is an issue and is recruiting more staff to deal with it. About 1,000 positions are open at the carrier’s Suvarnabhumi operations. These are positions for ground services, including baggage handlers, drivers of vehicles in the airport, and kitchen staff, he said. Continued …
Mask wearing required in crowds in Bangkok New Year’s celebrations
New Year countdown celebrations will be allowed to take place in Bangkok, though patrons will be required to wear face masks in areas where crowds gather.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said on Wednesday the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will ramp up its Covid-19 control measures during the New Year festival, with clear safety protocols that revelers will be expected to follow – especially those who are considered at high risk of catching the disease. Continued …
Covid surge spooks Beijing residents, disrupts government
Covid infections are surging in Beijing, disrupting official government work and keeping people at home after authorities made an about-turn in their strict policy of managing virus cases. Continued …
It’s no joke: Across globe, satire morphs into misinformation
Is a U.S. state considering a tax on breathing? Is celebrating goals forbidden during the Qatar World Cup because that is “too gay?” Did insect repellent manufacturers recruit a Ugandan man for his mosquito-killing farts? Continued …
Japan unveils future-food breakthrough: ‘meat’ made from rice bran
Defatted rice bran is often wasted, as it lacks practical applications, but a Japanese scientist and firm have managed to turn the byproduct into a high-protein food. Yamagata University Prof. Masanori Watanabe and rice-milling machine manufacturer Satake Corp. have announced success in their efforts to produce a meat substitute using protein extracted from defatted rice bran. The breakthrough is expected to bring a new source of income for farmers in the future. Continued …
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