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Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke unveiled Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s master plan to transform Thai herbs into a formidable soft power product, captivating domestic and international markets. “Prime Minister Thavisin’s vision is crystal clear: to propel Thailand’s herbal industry to unprecedented heights, elevating the status of Thai herbs worldwide.” Harnessing the innate medicinal prowess, rich biodiversity, and indigenous knowledge embedded within Thai herbs, the government aims to capitalise on the burgeoning global demand for natural remedies. With projections soaring to a staggering 2.7 trillion baht by 2030, the herbal market’s potential is nothing short of astronomical. Thailand, already crowned the ASEAN’s top herbal exporter last year, is poised to clinch global dominance. Buoyed by this momentum, the government formed the National Thai Herbs Policy Committee, a collaborative powerhouse of five ministries, meticulously crafting strategies to thrust Thailand into the herbal limelight. Following the committee’s directives, Thailand’s herbal production has witnessed an unprecedented surge. Spearheaded by the ambitious Herbal City Project spanning 14 provinces, this initiative embodies a holistic approach, encompassing cultivation, processing, and tourism, reported Bangkok Post. From the verdant fields of Amnat Charoen to the bustling markets of Chiang Rai, Thailand’s herbal revolution is in full swing, heralding an era of economic prosperity and sustainable community development. In related news, Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM) has evolved over the centuries into a holistic health system that encompasses five diverse approaches: Internal Medicine, External Medicine, Spirit Medicine, Divination, and Buddhism. This natural and comprehensive approach to healthcare mirrors the development of Western medicine. In other news, whilst Bangkokians battle with the silent killer, the potent PM2.5 air pollution, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine unveils a game-changing solution to combat the notorious dust particles threatening the health of residents in the capital city. Amidst rising concerns over the long-term health impacts of PM2.5 exposure, Dr Taweesilp Visanuyothin reveals the secrets of four Thai herbs that promise to shield your lungs and heart from the invisible menace. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Caption: Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Japan’s visitor count hits record high with Thai tourists in the mix Picture of Thai tourists near Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, Japan, on April 13, 2024, courtesy of Bangkok News Japan experienced a surge in foreign visitors in March, surpassing the three million mark for the first time in a single month. Thai tourists to Japan ranked sixth, contributing to the notable increase in visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325389-japan’s-visitor-count-hits-record-high-with-thai-tourists-in-the-mix/

Japan experienced a surge in foreign visitors in March, surpassing the three million mark for the first time in a single month. Thai tourists to Japan ranked sixth, contributing to the notable increase in visitors. South Korea topped the list with 663,100 visitors marking a 13.2% rise from 2019 pre-pandemic levels. Taiwan and China followed with 484,400 and 452,400 visitors respectively. The number of visitors from the United States was 290,100, a 64.3% increase, while Hong Kong followed with 231,400, a 35% rise. Despite a 10.7% drop from 2019, Thai tourists, at 131,700, led the number of holidaymakers from Southeast Asia. The Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) reports that the expenditure by foreign visitors in Japan also hit a record high. A staggering 1.75 trillion yen (418 billion baht) was spent in the first quarter of 2024, marking the highest ever for three months. This significant increase was largely driven by a weak yen. Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, during a meeting of a ministerial council aimed at promoting Japan as a tourism-oriented country, expressed his delight at the increase in tourists. “We can expect record highs for both arrivals and spending in 2024 if the current pace continues.” The pre-pandemic era of 2019 saw an annual record of 31.88 million arrivals and a monthly high of 2,991,189 arrivals in July 2019. In 2023, a record 5.3 trillion yen was spent by visitors. As Japan strives to attract 60 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, it faces challenges stemming from the tourism boom, such as littering and traffic congestion. Kishida has urged ministers to improve measures addressing “over-tourism,” including diverting tourists from overcrowded urban areas to the country’s rural parts. Japanese travelling overseas in March increased by 75.7% from the previous year, hitting 1,219,800. However, this figure was still down 36.8% compared to 2019, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported over 28 million foreign arrivals in Thailand in 2023, with the largest number of travellers, 4.2 million, coming from Malaysia. Japan ranked tenth with 804,205 visitors. By Alex Morgan Caption: Picture of Thai tourists near Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, Japan, on April 13, 2024, courtesy of Bangkok News Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai-Chinese high-speed railway agreements near completion Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) anticipates the closure of the final chapters in the Thai-Chinese high-speed railway’s first phase, reveals Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325387-thai-chinese-high-speed-railway-agreements-near-completion/

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) anticipates the closure of the final chapters in the Thai-Chinese high-speed railway’s first phase, reveals Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. Spanning 251 kilometres and boasting a staggering budget of 179.4 billion baht, the ambitious project links the bustling heart of Bangkok to the vibrant cityscape of Nakhon Ratchasima. Divided into 14 meticulously crafted contracts, only two remain awaiting the stroke of the pen, said Surapong. “Contract No. 4-5, tasked with the 13.3 kilometre Ban Pho–Phra Kaeo section in Ayutthaya, is on the cusp of fruition with a budget of 9.9 billion baht. Pending only the completion of a heritage impact assessment (HIA) report on the proposed Ayutthaya station.” Surapong reveals further that the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy is poised to submit the HIA report to Unesco imminently. “Approval is anticipated, given the scrutiny by the UN agency throughout the HIA process. The railway and station, strategically planned away from Ayutthaya’s World Heritage site, should encounter no hurdles.” Meanwhile, Contract No. 4-1 hangs in the balance, tethered to a 15.2-kilometre segment between Bang Sue and Don Muang in Bangkok. Originally envisioned as part of the high-speed railway network linking three major airports, its fate rests on the Board of Investment’s (BoI) impending decision, reported Bangkok Post. “Without BoI’s green light by May 22, alternative routes beckon. SRT might seize the reins solely for the Bang Sue-Don Muang stretch, a crucial lifeline to salvage the project’s punctuality.” Amidst delays plaguing the venture since its 2015 inception, the finish line now glimmers on the horizon: 2028. In related news, a replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. As the wheels of progress turn, the construction of the China-Thailand Railway, a flagship venture under the Belt and Road cooperation framework, gains pace, promising to redefine Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape with cutting-edge rail technology. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Caption: Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Butterfly Wonderland at Thai National Park NAKHON RATCHASIMA, April 19 (TNA) – During summer, millions of butterflies of various species take flight from the forest to the Lam Chae Dam area, creating a spectacular sight for tourists to take close-up photos of these beautiful creatures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325385-butterfly-wonderland-at-thai-national-park/

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, April 19 (TNA) – During summer, millions of butterflies of various species take flight from the forest to the Lam Chae Dam area, creating a spectacular sight for tourists to take close-up photos of these beautiful creatures. Located in the Thap Lan National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Lam Chae Dam not only serves as a popular water tourism destination with various water play spots to cool off, but also becomes a butterfly wonderland. These butterflies, with their diverse species and stunning colors, showcase the richness of the forest ecosystem in this national park. Full story: Thai News Agency 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

OFFO Mulls Measures to Support Diesel Prices BANGKOK, April 19 (TNA) – The Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO) is preparing to propose fund utilization to keep retail diesel prices not exceeding 30 baht per liter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325384-offo-mulls-measures-to-support-diesel-prices/

BANGKOK, April 19 (TNA) – The Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO) is preparing to propose fund utilization to keep retail diesel prices not exceeding 30 baht per liter. Today marks the first day after the expiration of the diesel tax reduction measure, causing diesel prices to potentially adjust according to market mechanisms. The OFFO reports monitoring the global oil market situation, which remains at high levels with various factors impacting oil prices, notably the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Full story: Thai News Agency 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-deputy PM criticises senators’ planned European study trips as terms end Cr. FB ดร.ปลอดประสพ สุรัสวดี Former deputy prime minister Plodprasop Suraswadi has criticised a large group of senators who are planning overseas study trips before the end of their terms in office and has urged them to cancel their plans for “the sake of their dignity”. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325383-ex-deputy-pm-criticises-senators’-planned-european-study-trips-as-terms-end/

Former deputy prime minister Plodprasop Suraswadi has criticised a large group of senators who are planning overseas study trips before the end of their terms in office and has urged them to cancel their plans for “the sake of their dignity”. In his Facebook post today, Plodprasop said that the European study trips, planned by several Senate committees, whose terms in office are due to end on May 10th, have come under heavy public criticism because the trips will cost an estimated 81 million baht of taxpayers’ money. In justifying the study trips, the Senate committees claim that they have not been abroad for a few years, thanks to the COVID pandemic and, therefore, have saved the budget earmarked for overseas trips for Senate committees. Caption: Cr. FB ดร.ปลอดประสพ สุรัสวดี Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Diesel price to rise by one baht per litre this Saturday The diesel price is expected to increase by one baht, to 31.44 baht/litre, from tomorrow, unless the Fuel Fund Executive Committee decides to absorb the increase, fully or partially. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325382-diesel-price-to-rise-by-one-baht-per-litre-this-saturday/

The diesel price is expected to increase by one baht, to 31.44 baht/litre, from tomorrow, unless the Fuel Fund Executive Committee decides to absorb the increase, fully or partially. At its meeting on Tuesday, the cabinet decided not to extend the one baht/litre excise tax cut for diesel, which is due to expire today. This means that the pump price of diesel will automatically rise by one baht/litre at midnight tonight. Informed cabinet sources say that the Fuel Fund Executive Committee has not yet decided whether to absorb the full or half the price increase, as both options will impact the Oil Fuel Fund, which is already running at 103.6 billion baht in the red. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin’s most complicated mission ever Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra / AFP Thailand’s triangular political equilibrium rests on many things, and one of the most important foundations can be the most unpredictable. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325381-thaksin’s-most-complicated-mission-ever/

Thailand’s triangular political equilibrium rests on many things, and one of the most important foundations can be the most unpredictable. Thaksin Shinawatra, wielding one of the country’s biggest political influences according to an opinion poll, spawns theories. The first is what “appears” to be publicly but is gaining skepticism left and right. In the first theory, he is sincere about stepping away from politics, about giving political advice to the Pheu Thai-led government from time to time, about helping the Shinawatra grownups maintain relevance in Thai politics as long as that does not impact his devotion to the Shinawatra toddlers. The second theory is that he unexpectedly has to be substantially more politically active than he wanted to, because of the threats posed by the Move Forward Party to Pheu Thai’s status quo. In other words, Pheu Thai is no longer the leader in the ideological half it once dominated, and Thaksin has to fix it. This means a lot more than giving occasional advice or helping the government promote the digital wallet. Pheu Thai needs a reboot, and so far Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra do not look like they were built for the job. To win back the party’s popularity, Thaksin cannot act like the man Chuan Leekpai is to the Democrat Party. Simply put, while Chuan is no longer the Democrats’ flagship, Thaksin has to be the real face of Pheu Thai. Yet in this second theory, it’s not that Thaksin is cunning or trickery. It’s because the brand needs him or it will die, quickly or slowly. Caption: Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra / AFP Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Palang Pracharath to host joint meeting of governing coalition parties The Palang Pracharath party will play host for a joint meeting of coalition parties this month, but the event has nothing to do with a cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told the media today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325380-palang-pracharath-to-host-joint-meeting-of-governing-coalition-parties/

The Palang Pracharath party will play host for a joint meeting of coalition parties this month, but the event has nothing to do with a cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told the media today. The first meeting of coalition parties was hosted by the Pheu Thai party, with the second hosted by the Bhumjaithai party. Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, the advisory chief of Palang Pracharath party, is yet to set the date for the next gathering, said the prime minister, as he dismissed media speculation that a cabinet reshuffle would be discussed. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand and Malaysia Boost Security and Tourism Cooperation BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand and Malaysia have discussed enhancing cooperation in security and tourism between the two nations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325378-thailand-and-malaysia-boost-security-and-tourism-cooperation/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand and Malaysia have discussed enhancing cooperation in security and tourism between the two nations. The focus of the discussions between Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Thailand, and his Malaysian counterpart, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Minister of Home Affairs of Malaysia, include combating cross-border crime and expanding tourism collaboration. During the discussions, the Malaysian Minister highlighted the need for joint efforts in cybercrime prevention and proposed visa exemptions to bolster tourism, particularly in areas bordering Malaysia. Minister Anutin reaffirmed Thailand's readiness to collaborate with Malaysia in tackling transnational crime and promoting tourism. He mentioned that the Thai government has similarly implemented visa exemption policies to increase tourist exchanges between the two nations. Additionally, Minister Anutin expressed a commitment to deepening cooperation with Malaysia in various dimensions, including achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the region. The meeting marks a significant step in strengthening the ties between the two countries. By Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand To Boost Craftsmanship and Soft Power with French Collaboration BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is working to elevate the quality of its soft power products to international standards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325377-thailand-to-boost-craftsmanship-and-soft-power-with-french-collaboration/

Constitutional Court Gives MFP 15 More Days to Defend Dissolution Petition BANGKOK (NNT) - The Constitutional Court of Thailand has granted the Move Forward Party (MFP) a 15-day extension to prepare its defense in the party dissolution case. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325375-constitutional-court-gives-mfp-15-more-days-to-defend-dissolution-petition/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is working to elevate the quality of its soft power products to international standards. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hosted Bénédicte Épinay, CEO and General Director of the French organization Comité Colbert, following his invitation. They explored ways to boost cooperation in Thai craftsmanship and soft power, aiming to enhance the global standing of Thai products. Épinay commended Thailand for its renowned craftsmanship. Both parties agreed that strategic branding and marketing could significantly increase the value of Thai products. Comité Colbert is eager to assist Thailand in fostering innovations and advancing design education. Furthermore, Prime Minister Srettha expressed optimism that sharing knowledge and experiences with France would enhance the creation of high-quality products and boost international acclaim, thus strengthening Thailand’s soft power. Épinay highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in education and nurturing new talent. Both sides are ready to work together to develop a sustainable and progressive ecosystem in the industry. By Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Constitutional Court of Thailand has granted the Move Forward Party (MFP) a 15-day extension to prepare its defense in the party dissolution case. The extension was granted upon the party's request for more time to compile necessary documents after the Election Commission (EC) recommended the dissolution under allegations of actions compromising the constitutional monarchy regime. The case, scheduled for hearing on April 3rd, stems from accusations that the MFP sought changes to the lese majesté law, which the court previously ruled could undermine the constitutional monarchy. Originally, the party was to submit its defense by Wednesday, but the court has now set a new deadline of May 3rd. MFP members remain optimistic about their chances of defending the party successfully against dissolution. In the event the party is dissolved, plans are in place to continue its political activities under a new name and identity, ensuring the movement’s survival. This development marks a significant moment in Thai politics, as it highlights ongoing tensions between progressive elements and traditional structures within the country. By Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy Minister’s son gets suspended sentence for drunk driving The son of a deputy minister was given a suspended jail term, had his driver’s license suspended for six months, was ordered to perform 12 hours of community and fined 4,000 baht after he was found guilty of drunk driving. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325374-deputy-minister’s-son-gets-suspended-sentence-for-drunk-driving/

The son of a deputy minister was given a suspended jail term, had his driver’s license suspended for six months, was ordered to perform 12 hours of community and fined 4,000 baht after he was found guilty of drunk driving. The suspect, whose name was not disclosed by the police, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, after he refused to stop at a police checkpoint on Bangkok’s Ratchadapisek Road and rammed his BMW into road barrier early this morning. At about 3.30am today, police manning a checkpoint at the mouth of Ratchadapisek Soi 31 indicated to a BMW to pull over for a check, but the driver refused to stop and rammed his car into the barrier, after which the police made the arrest. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe