Tag Archives: Thaifex-Anuga Asia

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Thursday’s news-May 23

May 23, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

Today’s news: Migrant workers take over house/20 in intensive care/Malaysian student recounts ordeal/Narcotic-level penalties for vaping/Lop Buri monkey blitz/Bail sought for lese majeste prisoners/Economy: Baht fundamentals have deteriorated/PM warns of recession risk/Budget to fund digital wallet/Thailand power supply in question/Regulations, support for influencers/US-China trade war/THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024/Tourism: Southeast Asia six-nation visa/Thailand Experience: Visakha Bucha Day in Thailand/Luxurious ‘Tour in Train’/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/International news/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

In our ongoing effort to help entrepreneurial businesses in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Hua Hin Expat News is pleased to announce the continued sponsorship of Tony’s Book Store, located on Phetchkasem Road in the middle of Hua Hin.

Tony and his wife have re-energized the long-standing book emporium, offering books in numerous languages for the foreign residents and visitors in Hua Hin. Come and browse their selection of more than 10,000 books – and take advantage of the book exchange and sales offerings.

Migrant workers take over house of Thai-Australian couple in Korat

A Thai woman and her Australian husband filed a police complaint after a group of migrant workers took over their house in the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat.

The Thai woman, 66-year-old Somporn Rolland, told officers at Sikhio Police Station that she returned home from Australia in February to find the group of migrants living in her house and making numerous changes to the property. Continued …

20 in intensive care after turbulence scare

Fifty-eight of the passengers injured when Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 encountered severe turbulence en route from London to Singapore yesterday are still being treated in hospital, including 20 who are in intensive care units (ICU), according to a statement from Bangkok’s Samitivej Srinagarind Hospital.

Yesterday, 103 passengers were taken to Samitivej Srinagarind, Samitivej Sukhumvit and Bangkok hospitals and the Samitivej Suvarnabhumi Clinic, 27 of whom have already been discharged. Continued …

Malaysian student recounts ordeal on SIA flight: Unbelted flung to ceiling

With around three hours left on the journey from London to Singapore, Malaysian student Dzafran Azmir got the uneasy feeling the Boeing 777-300R plane was tilting upward and beginning to shake.

The 28-year-old braced himself and checked he had his seat belt on. He did. Many of the other passengers did not, he said on Tuesday. Continued …

Narcotic-level penalties await for vaping in schools

The Education Ministry will amend its regulations to list e-cigarettes in the prohibited category of narcotics, Suthep Kaengsanthia, permanent secretary, said on Wednesday.

Suthep said the ministry wants to crimp the growing popularity of e-cigarette use among students and has ordered schools nationwide to take action against vape use in schools. Continued …

Lop Buri monkey blitz resumes

National parks officials will resume an operation to remove troublesome monkeys from the city of Lop Buri on Friday to reduce the conflict between residents and the primate population there.

Local people for years have complained about problems with the animals stealing their food or destroying their property, especially those who live near the ancient palace of Phra Prang Sam Yod that is well-known as a sanctuary for the monkeys. Continued …

Bail sought for political prisoners under lese majeste law

Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) is working to secure bail for 19 political prisoners, predominantly those charged under Section 112, commonly known as the lese majeste law, to uphold their human rights.

TLHR announced yesterday that the number of political prisoners, especially those detained under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, has surged since last year. Many of these individuals have been denied the right to apply for bail while awaiting trial. Continued …

Baht fundamentals have deteriorated

Uncertainty surrounding the U.S. interest rate trajectory, alongside geopolitical tensions, underpin much of the baht’s weakness so far this year, according to BMI officials. “We think the baht will trade sideways and reach 37.50 to. the U.S. dollar by year-end once these temporary factors subside,” they predict.

“We are, however, less optimistic about the baht’s long-term outlook, especially as the key fundamentals that originally supported the currency have deteriorated.” Continued …

PM warns of recession risk, seeks new ideas

The economy is not safe from the risk of a recession amid slow GDP growth, high household debt and burgeoning bad loans, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday.

Srettha, who is on an official trip to Japan, said he would chair an urgent meeting of ministers in charge of the economy and related agencies on Monday to brainstorm ideas to revitalize the economy. Continued …

Thailand to add $3.4 billion to budget to fund digital wallet

Thailand is planning a supplementary budget of up to $3.4 billion to boost state spending and stimulate the economy. The budget will fund a digital wallet program, providing 10,000 baht to around 50 million Thais in the fourth quarter.

The government aims to counter lower-than-expected economic growth and avoid a technical recession. The plan has faced criticism for potential inflationary effects and fiscal risks, but the government is prioritizing the cash stimulus to prevent delays in public expenditure. Continued …

Thailand power supply in question as tech investment floods in

Thailand’s industrial parks could face an increasing risk of power shortages as early as next year as numerous new factories producing printed circuit boards come online, a leading industry body is warning.

Nearly 30 investments in PCBs – on which chips and components are mounted before being assembled into final products – were announced in Thailand between January 2023 and April this year, according to the Taiwan Printed Circuit Assn. Continued …

Govt urged to consider regulations, support for influencers

With the ever-growing popularity of social media and e-commerce drawing more and more people to become influencers, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has urged the government to regulate and provide the necessary support to those adopting this emerging career with a potentially high economic value.

According to statistics from Niesen, the ASEAN region had some 13.5 million influencers in 2023, while global revenue through advertising and other channels generated by influencers was about $19 billion. It is estimated that influencers’ contributions to the global economy will grow to $140 billion by 2030, a more than seven-fold increase. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Group seeks gain from US-China trade war

The U.S. recently imposed very high tariffs on Chinese products, notably electric vehicles and semiconductors, which will cause China to concentrate on expanding its EV manufacturing within Asia, with Thailand poised to become a key export hub, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

President Joe Biden’s administration cited Beijing’s unfair trade practices for the hike, with EV tariffs to be quadrupled to a 100% rate, solar cells and semiconductors doubled to a 50% rate, and certain steel and aluminum imports from China raised to 25%, more than triple the current level, according to media reports. Continued …

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 starts May 28

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024, organized by the Department International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, and the Thai Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Koelnmesse from Germany, stands as the largest and most comprehensive food and beverage trade show in Asia.

Held under the concept of “Beyond Food Experience”, it aims to connect industry players, facilitate business negotiations with global leaders, explore opportunities, and foster new experiences toward greater success. Continued …

Proposed Southeast Asia six-nation visa to draw more tourists to Vietnam

A Thailand-initiated single visa program for six ASEAN countries is expected to help Vietnam attract more long-haul and high-spending travelers, according to insiders.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has discussed the Schengen-type visa with his counterparts in Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar and Vietnam in recent months, aiming to ensure seamless mobility for travelers in all six countries. Continued …

Sacred and ancient: The evolution of Visakha Bucha Day in Thailand

Known in Thailand as Visakha Bucha, Vesak is an annual public holiday commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha on the same day of different years. The name derives from the sixth lunar month of the year, known as Vaisakha in Pali.

Vesak (Visakha Bucha) is marked on the full moon of this month, when Prince Siddhartha is said to have been born in Lumbini – now a Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. Continued …

Luxurious ‘Tour in Train’ explores heritage sites in Korat

Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University is collaborating with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to offer a special “Tour in Train” to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat).

The luxurious SRT Prestige train will first take passengers to the Dong Phaya Yen Forest in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Khao Yai Forest complex, where they can view breathtaking scenery and wildlife. It will then stop at the historic newly restored two-story Sung Noen train station, where King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit’s train would stop when they were traveling. The quaint wooden building has now been turned into a museum. Continued …

UK national election called for July 4

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday set July 4 as the date for a national election that will determine who governs the UK, as his divided and demoralized Conservative Party faces its biggest challenge to its 14-year rule. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

#climatethailand #digitalwallet #lopburimonkeys #thailandinfluencers,#thaifexanuga #lesemajeste #singaporeairlines #nakhonratchasima

Bus Tickets

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-May 30

May 30, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

“Forgive your enemies; it messes up their heads.”

Passenger bus stop pavilion opens outside Hua Hin Airport/
How air treatment solutions can help tackle Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution problem/
Why reducing plastic usage, not recycling, is the solution to saving the environment/
TikTok sweeps wave of change over Thailand’s election campaigns/
Students Stab Each Other at c Province School, one dead/
Fat and lucky – Shifu proves cats have 9 lives after surviving a 6-story fall/
79 police fired in first five months over disciplinary offenses/
Economy: Thai economy resilient, on path to full recovery/Thai baht under more pressure as political uncertainty persists/Bt450 minimum wage seen as an earthquake moment for Thai factories/Asian Sea, AAI consider relocation if wages rise/Planning unit touts revamp of labor force/EVs expected to supercharge 3.5% growth in Thailand auto manufacturing/Asia’s largest F&B expo smashes expectations with THB120 billion in trade/Eco-efficiency the key to environmentally friendly farming/Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 creates a buzz/Weed network fears law change/
Tourism: TAT expects 30-35 million foreign tourists in 2024/Foreign visitors to Surat Thani surpass 1.5M this year/
Thailand Experience: Why Phetchaburi is a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts/Chaiyaphum: the ‘Land of the Phaya Naga’/
International: Unlocking Bali’s plastic tourist trap/China plans to land astronauts on moon before 2030/Singapore’s private home prices soar to US$1.2 million/Frankfurt police mistakenly arrest stripper with toy gun at stag party/
Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Passenger bus stop pavilion opens outside Hua Hin Airport

A new passenger bus stop pavilion has been officially opened outside Hua Hin Airport, aiming to provide added convenience and improved travel options between the airport and Hua Hin town center.

The opening ceremony took place yesterday with several prominent figures in attendance. Continued …

How air treatment solutions can help tackle Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution problem

The issue of PM2.5 dust pollution has spurred various political parties in Thailand to propose policies aimed at controlling dust intensity and mitigating its impact on public health.

The current air quality standard in the country sets the maximum allowable level of PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter) at 50 micrograms per cubic meter, averaged over a 24-hour period. However, it is evident that PM2.5 concentrations often exceed these standards during certain periods, leading to adverse implications for public health and the economy. Continued …

Why reducing plastic usage, not recycling, is the solution to saving the environment

The world may need to reconsider the mantra of recycling to prevent environmental degradation after recent research revealed that the recycling process itself may lead to the release of a significant amount of microplastics into the environment.

Waste management is one of the major challenges faced in the current era, with a large amount of waste generated from consumption and consumerism every day. Each country has different methods of waste disposal; some bury it while others incinerate it, and each method has its environmental impacts. This led to the emergence of the concept of recycling, which appeared to be an effective solution to reduce waste and reuse materials efficiently. Continued …

TikTok sweeps wave of change over Thailand’s election campaigns

In a notable shift from traditional campaigning strategies, political figures in Thailand have turned to TikTok, using the fast, efficient and cost-effective platform to connect with a wider audience.

With a large percentage of Thai nationals active on social media, TikTok has emerged as a powerful tool for politicians to sway public opinion and secure votes. Continued …

Students Stab Each Other at Sisaket Province School, one dead

A renowned school in Sisaket Province was gripped by a shocking incident yesterday, as two young students in Grade 1 and Grade 2 engaged in a fatal altercation using a knife. The incident, which unfolded during school hours, resulted in one student’s tragic death and two in coma.

According to witnesses and initial reports, the incident began when the two boys had been engaging in what seemed to be a playful boxing game during their lunch break. However, the game soon turned violent, fueling anger in one of the boys. As the lunch break drew to a close and class resumed, tensions remained high between the two students. Continued …

Fat and lucky – Shifu proves cats have 9 lives after surviving a 6-story fall

A fat tomcat proved that cats indeed have nine lives when he survived a six-story fall by landing on a car below and shattering its back windscreen.

The car’s owner, who goes by the handle Apiwat Toyothaka on Facebook, posted a message on Saturday saying the condo’s management informed him that a cat had fallen on his car and smashed the back windscreen. Continued …

79 police fired in first five months over disciplinary offenses

A total of 79 police officers have been removed from service during the first five months of this year for committing severe disciplinary offenses, the Police Commission was updated on Monday.

The commission, the highest governing body of police officers, held a meeting at the Royal Thai Police headquarters in Bangkok to endorse the decisions of the disciplinary committee against police officers found to have committed severe disciplinary offenses. Continued …

Thai economy resilient, on path to full recovery

Thailand’s economy is on a solid path to recovery and showing resiliency, helped by good revenue collection and a normalization of its tourism sector, while inflation should come in below 3% this year, its finance minister said on Monday.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy expanded faster than expected in the first quarter of this year due to a revival in its vital tourism sector. Continued …

Thai baht under more pressure as political uncertainty persists

A new low for the Thai baht looms and not even a rate hike by the central bank is likely to halt its slide. The Asian currency weakened for its third straight week against the U.S. dollar, closing at 34.77 on Friday and heading toward February’s year-to-date low of 35.39.

Hurdles to the Move Forward coalition are growing, increasing political uncertainty over who will form the next government in a development weighing on the baht, as it spurs foreign funds to sell both the nation’s equities and bonds. Continued …

Bt450 minimum wage seen as an earthquake moment for Thai factories

Thailand’s business leaders are increasingly concerned at the Move Forward Party’s determination to implement its Bt450-a-day minimum wage policy within 100 days of coming to power, if the eight-party coalition manages to elect Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister in August.

They warn that the move will cost Thailand jobs in terms of lost inward investment, the closure of factories where profitability is already marginal and a move toward automation, which will impact elderly and lower-skilled workers the most. One business leader describes the move as a potential earthquake for the critical manufacturing sector of the economy. Continued …

Asian Sea, AAI consider relocation if wages rise

Asian Sea Corp., a Thai frozen food producer, and its subsidiary Asian Alliance International (AAI) are ready to move their production base to Vietnam or the Philippines if the new coalition government raises the daily minimum wage to 450 baht.

President and Chief Executive Somsak Amornrattanachaikul said the group is preparing to relocate its production and investment bases to Vietnam or the Philippines to expand production capacity if the daily minimum wage is increased to 450 baht. Continued …

Planning unit touts revamp of labor force

Thailand needs to ramp up in-depth research and data analysis at provincial and regional levels to identify target markets for exports or investment in order to formulate appropriate promotion policies, according to the latest study by the Trade Planning and Strategy Office (TPSO).

The planning unit advised Thailand to accelerate building a skilled workforce ready for targeted and high-tech industries such as chip design and chip manufacturing. This is essential in order to facilitate the entry of foreign workers into Thailand who possess quality and expertise, said Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the TPSO. Continued …

EVs expected to supercharge 3.5% growth in Thailand auto manufacturing

The Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) industry to drive 3.5% growth in auto production this year to 1.95 million units.

About 900,000 units will be sold domestically and 1.05 million will be exported. TAI’s projection comes after 625,423 vehicles rolled off Thai production lines from January-April, up 5% from the same period last year. Continued …

Asia’s largest F&B expo smashes expectations with THB120 billion in trade

Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2023, Asia’s largest food and beverage trade show, surged past its 70-billion-baht target to record a whopping 120 billion baht in deals, according to the Commerce Ministry.

A total of 3,034 exhibitors – 1,109 Thai and 1,925 international – presented their products and services at 5,859 booths at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi from May 23-27. The five-day fair welcomed 131,039 visitors from 140 countries, a 58% jump from last year. Continued …

Eco-efficiency the key to environmentally friendly farming

Eco-efficiency in agriculture is a key to reducing environmental impact while meeting the increasing demand for food, Katharina Staske, managing director of the German Agricultural Society (DLG) Asia Pacific, said. She made the remarks during the opening ceremony of ”AgriConnect Conference & Exhibition” at True Digital Park in Bangkok.

She said climate change causes an impact on many regions around the world, especially in Southeast Asia. She added that unsustainable use of resources caused climate change impact to be more severe. Continued …

Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 creates a buzz

Under the theme “Good Coffee For Everyone”, the much-awaited Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 will be held from July 13-16 at Impact Exhibition Hall 5–8 in Muang Thong Thani.

Featuring more than 300 cafes and roasters, as well as a wide range of related products and innovative services, the four-day event, a partnership between the Specialty Coffee Assn. of Thailand and The Cloud, will take over a 20,000m² space across the exhibition’s four halls. It expects to welcome more than 30,000 visitors daily. Continued …

Weed network fears law change

Citing research by the Ad-Hoc Committee on Systematic Hemp and Cannabis Resolution, Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network has urged three alliance parties not to reinstate the plant as a narcotic drug, as that would be like “getting the first shirt button wrong” and lead to more problems.

Prasitchai Nunual, the network leader, wrote on Monday that before the election this particular ad-hoc committee was set up to discuss removing cannabis from the list in an attempt to study the systemic usage of the plant. Continued …

TAT expects 30-35 million foreign tourists in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates 30-35 million foreign tourists will visit the kingdom in 2024, generating 3 trillion baht in total revenue, marking a 100% return to pre-Covid levels. TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the recovery is expected to be driven by increased spending per trip.

In line with the government’s policy to stimulate economic recovery through tourism, TAT has launched the “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters” campaign to drive the recovery of Thai tourism. Continued …

Foreign visitors to Surat Thani surpass 1.5M this year

International arrivals to Surat Thani Province have exceeded 1.5 million, up 155% so far this year, according to the provincial governor.

Gov. Witchawut Jinto said yesterday 2.05 million visitors have arrived in the province since January. Of them, 1.5 million are foreign visitors, representing a 155% increase from the same period last year. Continued …

Why Phetchaburi is a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts

Renowned for its rich culinary heritage and vibrant gastronomic scene, Phetchaburi stands as a must-visit destination for foodies seeking an unforgettable journey into Thai cuisine.

The city is dedicated to preserving traditional recipes held by local communities and is known for its high-quality ingredients that have been refined by local artisan producers for generations and form the core of Phetchaburi’s gastronomic excellence. Local cuisine has been adapted for more widespread national and global engagement, combining tradition with modern economic development. Continued …

Chaiyaphum: the ‘Land of the Phaya Naga’

Chaiyaphum is a province located in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan. It is situated approximately 340 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. Chaiyaphum Province covers an area of about 12,778 square kilometers and is divided into 16 districts (amphoes) and one subdistrict (king amphoe).

The province is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, which include mountains, forests, and fertile plains. It is surrounded by several mountain ranges, such as the Phetchabun Mountains to the east and the Sankamphaeng Range to the west. Chaiyaphum is often referred to as the “Land of the Phaya Naga” due to the mythical serpents that are believed to reside in the nearby Mun River. Continued …

Unlocking Bali’s plastic tourist trap

At 6:15 am, the first rays of the magical Bali light are breaking over the horizon. At the shoreline, hotel staff are finishing their daily routine of raking piles of plastic bags, cups, wrappers, and other trash that washed up overnight. Continued …

China plans to land astronauts on moon before 2030

China’s burgeoning space program plans to place astronauts on the moon before 2030 and expand the country’s orbiting space station, officials said Monday. Continued …

Singapore’s private home prices soar to US$1.2 million

The median price of a private home in Singapore reached US$1.2 million in 2022, making it the highest among Asia Pacific cities, according to a report by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Asia Pacific Center for Housing. Singapore is also ranked as the most expensive city in the region for renting a private home. Continued …

Frankfurt police mistakenly arrest stripper with toy gun at stag party

In Frankfurt am Main, Germany, a stripper was mistakenly apprehended by local authorities after receiving reports of a man armed with a gun, which was later discovered to be a toy. The event took place on a Friday evening when a “suspicious man” was spotted in the Nordend district of the city, dressed in a U.S. police uniform and helmet, and seemingly carrying an assault rifle. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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 twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Book a flight

90-day online reporting

baht, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-May 25

May 25, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Electricity price to drop sharply from September/
Thailand’s Power Production Stable As Vietnam Kicks Off Nationwide Blackouts/
Heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten 50 provinces/
Netflix’s password sharing restriction has come to Thailand/
UK inquest: Brit stabbed to death with sickle by Thai neighbor/
Deceased police officer potentially 16th victim of Thai cyanide serial killer/
‘Infrastructure’ constraints prevent US sale of F-35 fighter jets/
Thailand develops effective nasal spray against COVID-19/
Thailand’s economy: Overseas buyers to fuel Thailand’s real estate boom until Q4/Worries over baht volatility as coalition talks continue/Government revenues are shooting up/Construction, property, restaurants to be hardest hit by wage hike, study shows/Company Profile: Betagro/CPN to invest Bt10 billion for sustainability/Nissan Thailand and IVL broaden green footprint/Weed farms fret as MFP mulls U-turn on cannabis/
Tourism: Return of Chinese Tourists to Thailand Has Pros, Cons/TAT upbeat on arrivals in low season/Tourist taxes: All of the countries you will have to pay to enter in 2023/Thai food and herbs bid for pride of place at Asia Pacific exhibition/
International: Tina Turner: Music legend dies at 83/Super typhoon Mawar clobbers Guam with fierce winds, rains/World’s biggest warship visits Oslo, angering Russia/UN conference pledges $2.4B to head off Horn of Africa famine/Paralyzed man walks using thoughts with breakthrough brain-spinal cord implants/Indonesia adopts cool roofs to combat heatwaves, reduce energy costs/Syrians abandon babies at mosques, under trees as war grinds on/
Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Electricity price to drop sharply from September

The Energy Ministry expects to cut the fuel tariff (Ft) in September, leading to a significant drop in the price of electricity.

Consumers can expect a reduction of 40-50 satang per unit for the September-December electricity billing cycle, Energy Ministry Permanent Secretary Kulit Sombatsiri said on Wednesday. The Ft rate currently stands at 4.70 baht per unit. The planned reduction was made possible by the easing of global prices of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), he explained. Continued …

Thailand’s Power Production Stable As Vietnam Kicks Off Nationwide Blackouts

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) confirmed yesterday that electricity production and supply is sufficient in Thailand, after Vietnam launched nationwide rolling power cuts.

Vietnam started nationwide blackouts as it struggles to meet surging power demand amid extremely hot weather with even the capital Hanoi affected. Certain areas may experience up to seven hours of power outages and the disruptions could continue through May 31. Continued …

Heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten 50 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department warned of thunderstorms and strong winds in 50 provinces, including Bangkok, as weather conditions change due to low-pressure systems. From May 27-30, rainfall is expected to increase, and it could be heavy in some areas. Boats have been advised to exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms.

The weather forecast for the next 24 hours is influenced by the southwesterly winds covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, along with a low-pressure area covering northern Vietnam and the Tonkin Gulf. These conditions could cause thunderstorms and strong winds in some areas of Thailand, especially in the northern, northeastern, and eastern regions. However, warm weather is expected during the daytime. Continued …

Netflix’s password sharing restriction has come to Thailand

If you’ve been sharing your Netflix password, expect an email in your inbox sometime soon informing you that it will cost you extra now that Thailand is one of the countries implementing restrictions.

The streaming giant has talked about cracking down on password sharing for a while now, a common practice with its subscribers, which is probably why a lot of people have criticized the move. However, Netflix has started to slowly roll out the restriction, beginning in the West while other regions followed afterward. Continued …

UK inquest: Brit stabbed to death with sickle by Thai neighbor

An inquest at a court in the United Kingdom concluded that a British man died from brain stem and spinal cord contusion after being stabbed in the neck with a sickle by his Thai neighbor in a row over loud music last year.

In January 2022, 49-year-old Marcus Evans from Somerset, England, was playing music from a Bluetooth speaker and drinking with another Brit, 55-year-old Shaun Dagnan, outside of his girlfriend’s house in Mueang district of Kanchanaburi province late at night. Continued …

Deceased police officer potentially 16th victim of Thai cyanide serial killer

A shocking revelation has emerged in the case of the notorious Thai cyanide serial killer, as a relative of a police officer who passed away three years ago claims that the deceased might be the killer’s 16th victim.

This suspicion arises from the fact that the officer had a meeting with the alleged murderer, Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, shortly before suffering a fatal heart attack. Continued …

‘Infrastructure’ constraints prevent US sale of F-35 fighter jets

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has provided an explanation as to why the United States is not selling its F-35 fighter jets to Thailand at this time.

There were several time constraints that prevented the U.S. from supplying its fifth-generation fighter jets to the Thai air force following the request for procurement, RTAF spokesman AVM Prapas Sonjaidee said today. Continued …

Thailand develops effective nasal spray against COVID-19

A research team at the Center of Excellence in Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, has identified highly effective antibodies against COVID-19 from the human body. These antibodies have been developed into an innovation called COVITRAP, the world’s first nasal spray that traps and inhibits the COVID-19 virus using antibodies.

This spray has been certified as a medical device, and the team is confident in its efficacy for dealing with COVID-19 alongside other preventive measures. Continued …

Overseas buyers to fuel Thailand’s real estate boom until Q4

Thailand’s real estate will flourish until the fourth quarter, spurred by skyrocketing demand from overseas customers, real estate services and investment firm CBRE (Thailand) has forecast.

The head of residential sales, Artitaya Kasemlawan, said on Wednesday that the company’s sales to foreign buyers in the condominium sector had increased 383% and by 233% in housing estates over the past year. Continued …

Worries over baht volatility as coalition talks continue

Investors are concerned that the formation of a new government and political risk could lead to higher baht volatility over the next month, says Kasikornbank (Kbank).

The bank predicts the baht will move in a range of 33.80-35.40 per U.S. dollar during the next month because of internal and external factors. Continued …

Government revenues are shooting up

Government revenue collection exceeded its target by 8.9% in first seven months of this fiscal year, which began last October, the Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office said on Wednesday.

Its director-general, Pornchai Thiraveja, said 1.377 trillion baht in revenue was collected by the government during the period, and that this represented a 7.4% rise over the same period in fiscal year 2022. Continued …

Construction, property, restaurants to be hardest hit by wage hike, study shows

While the Move Forward-led coalition’s manifesto aims to address income inequality and stimulate economic growth, there are concerns about their plan to increase the minimum daily wage to 450 baht.

Businesses are worried this wage hike could have an adverse impact on their operations and profitability. Here are some details provided by Asia Plus Securities on the potential impact the wage hike will have on key industries: Continued …

Company Profile: Betagro

Betagro is a leading integrated agro-industrial and food company in Thailand. It was founded in 1967 and has since grown to become one of the largest food companies in Southeast Asia.

The company’s business covers the production and sale of animal feed, animal pharmaceuticals and supplements, livestock, swine, and poultry products, eggs, related processed food products and pet food, distribution of farm equipment, and related research and development. Continued …

CPN to invest Bt10 billion for sustainability

Central Pattana Plc (CPN) has set aside an investment budget of more than 10 billion baht for sustainability development under a five-year plan spanning 2023-27.

The company is also pushing its “Net Zero 2050” plan under “the ecosystem for all” theme, joining hands with partners at a green expo titled Better Futures Project at CentralWorld during May 24-29. Continued …

Nissan Thailand and IVL broaden green footprint

The Japanese car company Nissan Motor Thailand and the global chemical manufacturer Indorama Ventures are helping governments shape a cleaner future by producing more zero-emission cars and adopting eco-friendly manufacturing.

Executives of the companies shared their insights on Wednesday at the Bangkok Post ESG Conference 2023. ESG refers to environmental, social and corporate governance standards that can lead to business sustainability. Continued …

Weed farms fret as MFP mulls U-turn on cannabis

Community enterprises that grow cannabis on plantations in Nakhon Ratchasima are urging the next government, to be led by the Move Forward Party (MFP), to list only cannabis buds as narcotic drugs.

The MFP and its seven coalition partners touched on this topic in the memorandum of understanding (MoU) they signed on Monday evening, which will serve as policy guidelines for the government they plan to form together. Continued …

Return of Chinese Tourists to Thailand Has Pros, Cons

Thailand’s tourist industry hoped for a quick revival when Beijing ended its zero-COVID policy late last year, unleashing a crush of Chinese travelers freed from pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports showed that more than 517,000 Chinese travelers visited Thailand during the first three months of 2023, up from 13,700 arrivals during the first quarter of 2022. In the first quarter of 2023, Chinese travelers were in the top five groups of foreign arrivals, along with Malaysian, Russian, South Korea and Indian visitors. Continued …

TAT upbeat on arrivals in low season

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects Thailand to have received 10 million foreign tourists by the end of this month and to continue to have at least two million visitors per month despite the low season.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Wednesday that the country has continued to maintain a consistent record of more than 50,000 arrivals per day, which means the monthly minimum rate could be expected at 2 million per month during the low season. Continued …

Tourist taxes: All of the countries you will have to pay to enter in 2023

Travel has well and truly bounced back since the pandemic, buoying tourist destinations that were crippled by restrictions and closures. But some popular destinations are once again reeling under the strain of overtourism.

As a result, some resorted to implementing a “tourist tax” in 2022 and others have plans to introduce one this year. Continued …

Thai food and herbs bid for pride of place at Asia Pacific exhibition

Thai herbs and food innovations are key highlights at Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2023, Asia Pacific’s largest international food and beverage exhibition currently under way at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi province. The event is expected to help promote Thai food as a soft power.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said at the opening ceremony on Tuesday that the country’s abundant and diverse agricultural products, such as rice, vegetables, fruits, and cassava, contribute to Thailand’s true strength in the industry. Continued …

Tina Turner: Music legend dies at 83

Singer Tina Turner, whose soul classics and pop hits like The Best and What’s Love Got to Do With It made her a superstar, has died at the age of 83. Turner had suffered a number of health issues in recent years, including cancer, a stroke and kidney failure. Continued …

Super typhoon Mawar clobbers Guam with fierce winds, rains

A Category 4 typhoon hit Guam on Wednesday, packing winds of up to 225 km/h and torrential rain, as it inched across the Western Pacific Ocean, but there were no early reports of deaths or injuries. Continued …

World’s biggest warship visits Oslo, angering Russia

The world’s biggest warship, the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier, arrived in Oslo on Wednesday for a stopover criticized by neighboring Russia as an “illogical and harmful” show of force. Continued …

UN conference pledges $2.4B to head off Horn of Africa famine

A United Nations-backed conference raised SS$2.4 billion Wednesday to prevent famine in the Horn of Africa, which is reeling from its worst drought in decades as global temperatures rise. Continued …

Paralyzed man walks using thoughts with breakthrough brain-spinal cord implants

A paralyzed man has successfully regained the ability to walk using only his thoughts, thanks to two innovative implants that have re-established communication between his brain and spinal cord. The breakthrough has given the 40-year-old Dutch patient, Gert-Jan, newfound freedom after being paralyzed in his legs for over a decade due to a spinal cord injury from a cycling accident. Continued …

Indonesia adopts cool roofs to combat heatwaves, reduce energy costs

A low-cost, sustainable solution to the increasing heatwaves in Southeast Asia is being implemented in Indonesia through the use of “cool” roofs. These roofs have a special coating applied to them that reflects sunlight and reduces the amount of heat absorbed by a building, resulting in lower indoor temperatures. Continued …

Syrians abandon babies at mosques, under trees as war grinds on

One cold winter night, Syrian Ibrahim Othman went out to pray and came home cradling a baby girl, abandoned at the doorstep of the village mosque just hours after she was born. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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 twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

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