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Hua Hin Airport progess report/Suspect in Chat Chai Market thefts arrested/Chiva-Som, sgtudents plant mangrove trees/Thailand awaits court verdict on PM/Heavy rain warning/Elephant flips parked SUV/50 years for stealing students’ lunch money/Villagers Protest Over Potholes/Thailand leads demand for gold/Thai rice faces sticky situation/Economy: Threat of US recession and geopolitical risks/Tax gain from casinos ‘not worth it’/Record for New Business Registrations/Banks set to connect to digital handout/Handout could trigger fiscal crisis/Restaurateurs await guidance on handout/No chinese takeover of Thai transport businesses/‘Could mean more illegal hotels’/Grappling with foreign illegal businesses/Threat posed by unlicensed Chinese factories/Ministry tackles chemical waste crisis/Government not convinced about Tesla plan/Thailand’s Best Managed Companies/New guidelines for ‘green industry’/Tourism: Tourism Revenue Hit 2.8 Trillion/18.2 million foreign arrivals in second half/Phuket’s Tourism Boom Outstrips Infrastructure/’Single window’ sought/Thailand Experience: Teaching English in Thailand/Living with elephants/Most Affordable Tourist Destination in Thailand/Games We Used to Play/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Hua Hin Airport director reports on progess of upgrades

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Suspect in Chat Chai Market thefts arrested, admits guilt

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Chiva-Som Hua Hin marks International Day for Mangrove Conservation

Chiva-Som Hua Hin marked this year’s International Day for Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem with significant steps toward environmental sustainability. The Chiva-Som team, joined by local youth, planted 500 mangrove trees at the Krailart Niwate Mangrove Project, reinforcing their commitment to preserving Hua Hin’s and the world’s ecosystems.

This annual mangrove reforestation initiative has become a tradition for Chiva-Som Hua Hin, with a focus on enhancing the Krailart Niwate Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation Project. Located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, this urban mangrove forest is the last of its kind in Hua Hin. This year, the initiative gained momentum with the involvement of 20 students from Wat Nong Kae Municipal School, who participated in planting 500 mangrove trees from 10 different species. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand awaits court verdict that may topple PM Srettha

A Thai court will this week decide if the Southeast Asian nation will continue business as usual or be tipped into a renewed period of political uncertainty, when it assesses whether tycoon Srettha Thavisin should continue as prime minister.

The Constitutional Court will rule on whether Srettha violated “ethical standards” by appointing to Cabinet former lawyer Pichit Chuenban, who was jailed for contempt of court following a bribery attempt. The petition against Srettha was brought originally by a group of 40 senators, who claimed the appointment was grounds for his disqualification under the charter. Continued …

Heavy rain warning for three Thai regions

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for heavy rain in three regions, with the northern region expected to face 70% rainfall. Bangkok will experience heavy showers from afternoon to evening.

In the southern region (eastern coast), 30% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mainly in Phetchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C to 34 to 36°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour and waves about 1 meter high, increasing in thunderstorm areas. Continued …

Playful mother elephant flips parked SUV in Khao Yai for fun

A TikTok clip that some found shocking and others amusing shows a wild elephant overturning a parked SUV at Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident took place on Monday at the Thanarat Zone, a popular tourist spot with accommodations and camping grounds.

The footage shows a herd of elephants emerging from the nearby forest and approaching the parking area. Then, one playful elephant decides to target an SUV and uses its trunk to flip the vehicle over twice and then nudging it around as if it were a toy. Continued …

Ex-school principal gets 50 years for stealing students’ lunch money

A former school principal in Nakhon Sawan has been sentenced to 50 years in jail for siphoning some 596,000 baht from his students’ lunch budget in 2021.

The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Area 6 issued a guilty verdict against Suthep Sukthong on May 15, but the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) only announced the ruling on Tuesday. Continued …

Villagers Plant Banana Trees in Road Protest Over Potholes

Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely.

As a result, these resilient residents have taken an unusual but striking step to draw attention to their plight: they’ve planted banana trees right in the middle of the road and set up donation boxes to protest the apparent neglect by government authorities. Continued …

Thailand leads Asia in demand for gold

Demand for gold in Thailand is on the rise, defying global trends of record-high prices, according to the World Gold Council’s latest report, released on Tuesday.

The report noted that Thailand’s gold market showed particular resilience in the second quarter, with bar and coin investment surging 22% year-on-year to 7 tons, as investors sought refuge in gold amid ongoing weakness in the baht. Jewelry demand also rose, increasing 12% year-on-year to two tons, defying the global trend of declining jewelry sales due to high prices. Continued …

Thai rice faces sticky situation as Vietnamese rice steals the show

Rice exporters are sounding the alarm over the possible disappearance of local Thai rice varieties, as farmers increasingly switch to a Vietnamese strain celebrated for its soft texture.

Charoen Laothamatas, president of the Thai Rice Exporters Assn., raised concerns about the dire state of the industry. Production of beloved Thai varieties like Pathum Thani fragrant rice and KB 79 has plummeted, with the Vietnamese Khao Hom Phuang, or jasmine 85, taking their place due to its impressive yield and rapid growth, said Charoen. Continued …

Threat of US recession and geopolitical risks could derail Thai economic recovery

Market expectations were jolted earlier this month when the U.S. job market created only 114,000 openings in July, while the unemployment rate rose to 4.3%, the highest since October 2021.

The disappointing figures led to market sell-offs around the world, with key U.S. stock market indices — the Nasdaq Composite, the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average — dropping sharply by 2.43%, 1.84% and 1.51%, respectively, on Aug. 2. (Editor note: Those losses were short-term and more than recovered since then.) Continued …

Tax gain from casino legalization ‘not worth it’

Several parties have criticized the government’s proposed bill to allow casinos to operate legally within entertainment complexes in the country, saying that tax revenue gained from casinos would not be worth the ensuing social problems.

A source from the Finance Ministry said this week that the draft of the Entertainment Complex Act is in the final stretch and set to undergo a public hearing this month. The draft stipulates that entertainment complex operators must register as a company in Thailand with registered capital of at least 10 billion baht. They must apply for a license, which is valid for 30 years, and will be reviewed every five years. Continued …

Thailand May Set Record for New Business Registrations

Thailand is poised to set a new record for business registrations this year, with over 90,000 new companies expected, driven largely by government measures, including the 10,000-baht handout scheme, the Commerce Ministry announced.

In the first half of this year, the Department of Business Development recorded 46,383 new business registrations, a slight decrease of 1.91% compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Banks set to connect to Thang Rath app for digital handout

Thailand’s banks are ready to connect to the open-loop payment system of the Thang Rath application, which will be used to disburse 10,000-baht digital payments to eligible Thais under the government’s digital wallet scheme, government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said today.

While updating the progress of the scheme, which started registration on Aug. 1, Chai said the Thai Bankers Assn. has reported that all banks are ready to cooperate with the government in linking to the open-loop payment system of the Thang Rath app. Continued …

Warning given that handout could trigger fiscal crisis

The government is being advised to revise the way it hands out money to people to avoid incurring a substantial public debt, which can affect the government’s budget, potentially triggering a fiscal crisis.

Tanit Sorat, vice chairman of the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, said if the government follows through with its plan to spend a large sum of money all at once, he is worried it could spell disaster for Thailand. Continued …

Restaurateurs await guidance on digital handout

Restaurant operators will await further clarity regarding the digital wallet handout scheme after the government postponed the announcement of the eligibility criteria for vendors, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn.

Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said restaurateurs are awaiting further details on the eligibility criteria of the scheme concerning how digital money they receive can be spent and how to convert the digital money into cash. Continued …

No Chinese takeover of Thai transport businesses, says DLT

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) dismissed media reports suggesting Chinese companies are increasingly taking over struggling Thai transport businesses, emphasizing that licenses issued to one business cannot be transferred in the event of a takeover.

“More importantly, only Thai legal entities registered and headquartered in Thailand are eligible to hold the licenses.” The DLT clarified that at least 51% of a business’s shareholders must be Thai for it to operate legally. Continued …

More foreign ownership ‘could mean more illegal hotels’

Hotel operators are concerned about changes to foreign ownership rules for real estate because they believe it could lead to another influx of illegal hotels in Thailand.

The government’s real estate stimulus proposal aims to extend the leasehold period to 99 years for foreigners, while increasing the quota for foreign ownership of condominiums from 49% to 75% of usable space in a building. Continued …

Thailand is grappling with foreign illegal businesses nominee schemes

Thailand is currently facing a significant challenge in the form of illegal businesses operating through nominee schemes. This issue has been brought to light by various local business groups and authorities who are calling for stricter law enforcement to protect legitimate businesses and the economy.

Recently, a large Chinese-language billboard in Huai Khwang district, explicitly offering services to help customers obtain passports and citizenship for several countries, has reopened the controversy surrounding nominee businesses in Thailand. Continued …

Chance discovery reveals the threat posed by unlicensed Chinese factories

A random Highway Patrol police stop on Sunday led to the discovery of two unlicensed Chinese-owned factories. The facilities in Nakhon Pathom and Samut Sakhon were engaged in aluminium smelting and recycling, activities unknown to Thai authorities. In addition, the discovery comes months after large quantities of toxic cadmium waste were found across provinces adjacent to Bangkok and the Eastern region.

The situation highlights government inertia in dealing with broad concerns raised by environmentalists that Thailand, since 2017 and a law change in China, is being used as a dumping ground for toxic industrial activities that were banned that year in the communist country. Continued …

Ministry tackles chemical waste crisis with 14.9-million-baht cleanup

The Ministry of Industry has initiated a collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and other relevant agencies to address areas recently contaminated with chemical waste.

Permanent Secretary of the Industry Ministry Nattapol Rangsitpol acknowledged the issues arising from the illegal dumping of hazardous substances in Rayong, Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phetchabun. The ministry deployed a team to monitor these complaint hotspots while working toward a lasting solution. Continued …

Government not convinced Tesla to scrap investment plan

Tesla’s proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny, as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke confirmed on Tuesday that Thailand is awaiting official word from Tesla regarding the potential scrapping of their investment plans.

“Tesla is reviewing its investment plans worldwide, not just in Thailand,” said Chai. “However, there has been no confirmation (about halting the investment plan in Thailand) from the company. It’s been reported in the news. We’re waiting to hear from them.” Continued …

Deloitte unveils Thailand’s Best Managed Companies

Deloitte Thailand has unveiled the winners of the 2024 Thailand’s Best Managed Companies awards. Now in its fourth year in Thailand, this program honors 19 outstanding local businesses for their organizational achievements and impactful contributions to their industries and the economy.

This year, four companies achieved the gold standard for the first time, having received Thailand’s Best Managed Companies designation over four consecutive years, underscoring their consistent demonstration of excellent management practices. Continued …

New guidelines for so-called ‘green industry’ introduced

As part of the Industry Ministry’s efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the industrial manufacturing sector, new guidelines for “green” industries have been introduced to help achieve carbon neutrality and net zero by 2050 and 2065, respectively.

Nattapol Rangsitpol, the ministry’s permanent secretary and chairman of the Green Industry Promotion and Development Committee, announced that the committee’s Aug. 7 meeting had approved a new draft of green industry (GI) guidelines, which will help accelerate improvements to infrastructure, regulations, workforce skills, and, most importantly, social and environmental responsibility. Continued …

Tourism Revenue Set to Hit 2.8 Trillion Baht

Thailand’s tourism industry is experiencing a robust resurgence. A significant revenue surge is projected for this year, with experts predicting that total tourism earnings will soar to 2.8 trillion baht.

This marks a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year’s figures, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The resurgence is fueled by a combination of increased flight numbers and an array of promotional campaigns aimed at both international and domestic visitors. Continued …

TAT estimates 18.2 million foreign arrivals in second half of 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that 18,245,700 foreign tourists will enter Thailand from July to December this year, about 20% more than the same period in 2023.

They are estimated to generate around 964.18 billion baht of revenue, an increase of 28% year on year, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said. Continued …

Phuket’s Tourism Boom Outstrips Infrastructure, Raises Environmental Concerns

The rapid increase in tourism on the previously unspoiled island of Phuket is causing issues as infrastructure developments struggle to keep up. Road congestion and environmental damage are harming the island’s image as a top-rated holiday destination.

Traffic problems on Phuket’s main highway, Thepkrasattri Road, are causing major frustration for locals and tourists alike. Other issues, such as lack of water during the dry season and severe flooding in the wet season, are contributing to the growing discontent. Continued …

‘Single window’ sought to aid tourism sector

The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) has urged the government to host the development of a “single window” to promote ease of doing business for foreigners that would unite all related data exchange of state agencies as another effort to promote the digital-driven tourism industry.

The single window could be in the form of a platform-as-a-service operated via a centralized data portal that connects with all agencies to significantly drive travel-related products and services in the country. Continued …

Teaching English in Thailand: Is the Pay Worth the Move?

Thailand has long been a favored destination for English teachers, drawn by the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern convenience, making it an appealing place to live and work.

The vibrant expat community and the opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture add to the allure of teaching English in Thailand. Yet, the question remains: does the salary and overall compensation for teaching English in Thailand justify relocating? Continued …

Studying the elephant-sized issues of living with elephants

Almost every night, Tyler Nuckols can hear fireworks and shouting — not celebrating a holiday or marking an occasion, but trying to drive elephants back into the forest. In Ruam Thai, where Nuckols is conducting socio-ecological fieldwork as he pursues a PhD in the University of Colorado Boulder, elephants emerge from the trees of Kui Buri National Park almost every night in search of pineapple.

Over many years, elephants have learned that an easy and accessible meal is in farmers’ fields — to the detriment of those fields and farmers’ livelihoods. As farmers lose their source of income and means of supporting their families, elephants risk injury or worse, as farmers — also risking injury or worse — try to deter them. Continued …

Hat Yai Is the Most Affordable Tourist Destination in Thailand

Travelers looking for some of the best deals in Asia for August and September are best off in Hat Yai. While in Thailand, Hat Yai offers the most competitive room rates during this period.

According to travel site Agoda, Hat Yai is the most affordable tourist destination in Thailand, with an average room rate of THB1,250 based on booking data between June 1, to July 7. Hat Yai takes over from Udon Thani, which came out on top of the cheapest destinations ranking released in April. Continued …

Games We Used to Play

Traditional games have been one of the cornerstones of our rich Southeast Asian culture since ancient times, providing entertainment, fun, and relaxation, while also fostering strong relationships between people.

In Thailand, Thai traditional games have been an integral part of culture and traditions. The Sukhothai period marked the earliest known games in Thailand, with records found in the stone inscriptions of King Ramkhamhaeng. Continued …

Discovery of a Subsurface Reservoir of Liquid Water on Mars

In a landmark discovery that could reshape our understanding of Mars, scientists have identified a substantial reservoir of liquid water deep within the planet’s rocky outer crust. This finding, derived from a meticulous analysis of data collected by NASA’s Mars Insight Lander, represents the first confirmed detection of liquid water on Mars — a revelation that could have profound implications for our understanding of the planet’s history, its geology, and the potential for life. Continued …