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In Thailand's troubled Deep South, House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha raised alarms over the persistent unrest as the deadline for the 2004 Tak Bai massacre case approaches. With the statute of limitations expiring on 25th October, authorities are under intense pressure to arrest suspects or risk them evading justice permanently. Wan Muhamad is adamant that capturing those on the wanted list before the deadline could significantly impact regional peace efforts. Despite ongoing peace talks backed by Malaysia, little progress has been observed, according to the Speaker. Addressing the recent surge in violence targeting security forces, he suggested a link to the impending Tak Bai deadline as locals reportedly call for action on unresolved warrants. He criticised the police's efforts, implying that some fugitives would already be apprehended if more genuine attempts were made. Wan Muhamad advocates for stronger intelligence and community engagement to address the insurgency. He emphasised that merely deploying police and soldiers provides only a temporary fix. He urged empowering local organisations, training volunteers, and involving subdistrict and village leaders as partners for genuine, lasting peace efforts in the region. His statements followed a high-level meeting involving top minds from the Metropolitan Police and the Central Investigation Bureau to tackle the Tak Bai situation, with Interpol issuing Red Notices for 14 suspects. In related developments, tensions over self-determination rose as five activists were charged earlier this month for organising a mock referendum in the Deep South, sparking renewed debates on free speech in this tense, heavily militarised border region. By File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Abbot's Tragic End Sparks Urgent Fraud Investigation in Ayutthaya File photo for reference only In a deeply distressing turn of events, the abbot of a temple in Sena district, Ayutthaya, has been found dead, leaving behind a note outlining his anguish over financial betrayal by a supposed benefactor. The 68-year-old abbot's death has prompted local police to swiftly investigate the alleged fraud, which involved a considerable sum of 650,000 baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341300-abbots-tragic-end-sparks-urgent-fraud-investigation-in-ayutthaya/

In a deeply distressing turn of events, the abbot of a temple in Sena district, Ayutthaya, has been found dead, leaving behind a note outlining his anguish over financial betrayal by a supposed benefactor. The 68-year-old abbot's death has prompted local police to swiftly investigate the alleged fraud, which involved a considerable sum of 650,000 baht. The somber discovery was made by temple devotees on October 20. The note revealed that the abbot had been deceived by a man identified as Lek, who had masqueraded as a benefactor during a Kathin ceremony, a significant Buddhist festival. The note lamented that Lek not only swindled the abbot but also coerced him into borrowing money from nine other temple patrons with a false promise of repayment through lottery ticket profits. Lek's repeated postponements from September onwards had driven the abbot to a state of despair, evidenced in his poignant words: “Lek, a rogue in the guise of a saint, booked the Kathin ceremony and cheated me. I couldn’t bear it any longer and had to do the unthinkable.” Chief of Ayutthaya Provincial Police, Police Major General Chotiwat Lueangwilai, has prioritised the investigation, assembling officers to gather evidence and bring Lek in for questioning. The accused has a history with fraud, linked to three prior cases. As police intensify their efforts, they have issued a summons for the suspect, who is now under scrutiny. Should the suspect fail to appear voluntarily, authorities plan to proceed with an arrest warrant. The community eagerly awaits justice, mourning the loss of a revered religious leader, as they underscore the need to uphold trust and sanctity within the sacred space of faith. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Bangkok-Vientiane Rail Addition: SRT Responds to Demand Surge File photo for reference only Over 13,000 travellers have taken the Bangkok-Vientiane rail route since its launch in July, prompting the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to boost capacity by adding an extra carriage. SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala announced on October 20th that a meeting with Lao National Railway's chief followed a recent freight-focused memorandum. This collaboration aims to enhance cross-border transport, both in passenger journeys and freight services. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341298-bangkok-vientiane-rail-addition-srt-responds-to-demand-surge/

Over 13,000 travellers have taken the Bangkok-Vientiane rail route since its launch in July, prompting the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to boost capacity by adding an extra carriage. SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala announced on October 20th that a meeting with Lao National Railway's chief followed a recent freight-focused memorandum. This collaboration aims to enhance cross-border transport, both in passenger journeys and freight services. The current service is a testament to rising connectivity between Thailand and Laos, signalling the success of the cross-border rail initiative. To keep pace with demand, a new air-conditioned carriage equipped with sleeping beds will soon be added. Furthermore, plans are underway to provide Lao Railway with retired carriages, anticipated to improve freight transport between Nong Khai and Vientiane. Scheduled for regular nightly departures from Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, this service concludes at Vientiane's Khamsavath Station the following morning. Additionally, routes from Udon Thani and Nong Khai extend connectivity, linking Laos further with high-speed networks reaching into China. These developments represent significant steps in strengthening ASEAN rail ties, with aspirations to position Thailand as a central hub in the region's transport infrastructure. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Gamer-Turned-Arsonist Blames Mobile Addiction for Bangkok Frenzy File photo for reference only In a gripping turn of events, Bangkok police have captured Panthap, a 44-year-old man accused of setting ablaze three vehicles, following a chaotic standoff where he wielded a knife at officers. The frenzy unfolded after Panthap, reportedly addicted to the mobile game ROV, took his frustrations out by torching the cars early on 20th October in Phasi Charoen district, prompting an extensive police manhunt. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341297-gamer-turned-arsonist-blames-mobile-addiction-for-bangkok-frenzy/

In a gripping turn of events, Bangkok police have captured Panthap, a 44-year-old man accused of setting ablaze three vehicles, following a chaotic standoff where he wielded a knife at officers. The frenzy unfolded after Panthap, reportedly addicted to the mobile game ROV, took his frustrations out by torching the cars early on 20th October in Phasi Charoen district, prompting an extensive police manhunt. The scuffle began just after daybreak when the blaze engulfed a Mitsubishi Xpander, Toyota Vios, and a Chevrolet Optra at a private parking lot. Although the vehicles, all registered in Bangkok, were destroyed, there were no casualties. Prompted by surveillance and eyewitness accounts, officers identified Panthap as the arson suspect. Equipped with necessary gear, they tracked him down to a nearby residence belonging to his sister. In a tense operation led by Deputy Superintendent Chakraphan Thongsai, Panthap was apprehended following a brief but intense confrontation. Climbing onto the roof to evade capture, he swung a knife at Sergeant Tosaphon Muangkam, causing the officer to fall and get injured slightly. Despite initial resistance, Panthap was subdued using rubber bullets after non-lethal force proved ineffective. During questioning, Panthap, unemployed and under apparent mental duress, confessed to his actions being spurred by his overpowering game addiction and stress. As the investigation continues, Panthap remains in custody at Bang Khun Thian Police Station facing legal ramifications for the arson and aggressive conduct. This bizarre incident sheds light on the potential dangers of gaming addiction, raising questions about mental health awareness in an increasingly digital world. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Govt Issues Retry Payments for Incomplete Disability Card Holders File photo for reference only In a concerted effort to boost economic activity, the Ministry of Finance has begun the distribution of 10,000 baht digital payments as part of the 2024 economic stimulus plan. This relief targets vulnerable populations, including those with state welfare cards and persons with disabilities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341294-govt-issues-retry-payments-for-incomplete-disability-card-holders/

In a concerted effort to boost economic activity, the Ministry of Finance has begun the distribution of 10,000 baht digital payments as part of the 2024 economic stimulus plan. This relief targets vulnerable populations, including those with state welfare cards and persons with disabilities. Between September 25 and 30, a substantial 14 million beneficiaries received payments. Unfortunately, around 381,287 individuals faced disruptions due to issues with incomplete or outdated disability identification cards. To address this gap, the ministry has laid out a timeline for retry payments. The first retry begins today, October 21, followed by payments on November 21 and December 19. Beneficiaries need to update their disability cards and link their bank accounts to their national IDs by specific deadlines to secure payment. Director of the Fiscal Policy Office, Pornchai Teerawet, stressed the need for eligible individuals to visit disability service centres to ensure their records are current. Moreover, recipients must verify their state welfare card connections to prevent possible suspension of future payments. The ministry remains committed to a seamless distribution process and encourages all concerned to act promptly to rectify any discrepancies. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Thailand to Launch Esports Boom with Global Gaming Giants' Aid File photo for reference only Thailand is making a major push to enhance its esports industry by partnering with leading global gaming companies. The initiative, spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, aims to strengthen manpower skills in this burgeoning sector. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341293-thailand-to-launch-esports-boom-with-global-gaming-giants-aid/

Thailand is making a major push to enhance its esports industry by partnering with leading global gaming companies. The initiative, spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, aims to strengthen manpower skills in this burgeoning sector. Prasert, who is also the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, unveiled these plans during his visit to the Thailand Game Show 2024. Accompanied by Assistant Professor Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, Director-General of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), and Warin Ratchananusorn, director of the Digital Startup Institute, Prasert highlighted the high-tech potential of the industry, noting its ability to create new revenue streams. The government is accelerating development in esports, games, and animation—industries seen as ripe with opportunity. Prasert emphasised this with his directive for DEPA to support these sectors to enhance Thailand's competitive edge. "We aim to develop individuals or teams to compete at a pro level or become game creators and exporters," Prasert stated, highlighting plans to make Thailand a digital content hub in the region. The debut of the DEPA Esports project is expected to significantly impact the local esports scene. Prasert and his team are in discussions with industry leaders like Nintendo and Konami, as well as the Korea Game Developers Association (KGDA). The KGDA is keen to establish a game development skills centre in Thailand to further cultivate local talent. Assistant Professor Nuttapon noted plans to foster an investment-friendly climate through the creation of infrastructures such as the Digital Edutainment Complex in Chon Buri. This innovation centre, set within Thailand Digital Valley, will serve as a test bed for digital advancements, driving the esports sector. At the recently concluded Thailand Game Show 2024, more than 50 game developers showcased their work, underscoring the vibrancy of the local industry. The event echoed Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol's observations of Thailand's US$1.3 billion gaming market, which continues to grow rapidly in Southeast Asia. "It's an industry that offers new careers and aligns with the digital economic shift," Sudawan commented. Thailand is embracing digital change and looking to position itself as a leading force in the esports world. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Thailand Book Expo Draws 1.4 Million, Breaking Attendance Records File photo for reference only The 29th Annual Thailand Book Expo in Bangkok wrapped up on a high note yesterday, smashing attendance and sales records with an impressive turnout of 1.4 million visitors. The event, which took place over two weeks at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, generated sales surpassing 438 million baht, highlighting the Thai population's growing enthusiasm for literature. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341292-thailand-book-expo-draws-14-million-breaking-attendance-records/

The 29th Annual Thailand Book Expo in Bangkok wrapped up on a high note yesterday, smashing attendance and sales records with an impressive turnout of 1.4 million visitors. The event, which took place over two weeks at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, generated sales surpassing 438 million baht, highlighting the Thai population's growing enthusiasm for literature. This year's event marked a significant post-Covid resurgence in reading, with nearly a quarter-million attendees on the final day alone. Such vibrant participation is a promising sign for Thailand's 16 billion baht book industry. Suwit Rungwattanpaiboon, head of the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand, expressed his joy, noting the event’s success as proof of the sustained love for books in the nation. The expo attracted a broad demographic, heavily dominated by young readers aged 12 to 35 who formed 69% of visitors. Women represented the majority of attendees at 63.78%, with men and LGBTQ+ individuals making up significant portions as well. Japanese comics led sales, accounting for 40% of purchases, with novels and self-help books following closely. This diversity in sales reflects the varied interests of expo participants. Themed "Reading the Next World," the expo's interactive activities and special promotions—such as discounted book bundles and author meet-ups—successfully engaged and excited the public, with an average spend of 600 baht per visitor. Despite economic challenges, the expo's overwhelming success underscores reading's importance in Thai culture and casts a bright prospect for the nation's publishing industry. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Banking Stocks Poised to Surge Amid Global Rate Cuts File photo for reference only In a flurry of activity gripping world markets, banking stocks are expected to rise as global interest rates fall. The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has taken centre stage, signalling another potential rate cut in December. Recently, the BoT surprised markets with a 25 basis point reduction to 2.25%, the first decrease in over four years. This move echoes similar actions by Indonesia and the Philippines, amplifying the trend across Asia. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341291-banking-stocks-poised-to-surge-amid-global-rate-cuts/

In a flurry of activity gripping world markets, banking stocks are expected to rise as global interest rates fall. The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has taken centre stage, signalling another potential rate cut in December. Recently, the BoT surprised markets with a 25 basis point reduction to 2.25%, the first decrease in over four years. This move echoes similar actions by Indonesia and the Philippines, amplifying the trend across Asia. The rate-cutting wave is sweeping globally, with the European Central Bank trimming its rates three times, totalling a 75 basis point reduction, while the US Federal Reserve has slashed 50 basis points. Developed nations are attempting to breathe life into sluggish economies through these reductions. Predictions by Asia Plus Securities suggest that interest rates might stabilise at 3.5% in the US, 2% in the eurozone, 3.75% in the UK, and 2% in Thailand by the end of 2025. Bualuang Securities sees this environment as ripe for banking stocks to thrive, specifically identifying Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank, and Krungthai Bank as strong contenders due to increased investment activities and high-quality loans. Notably, sectors benefiting from lower financial costs, like petrochemicals and finance, are also set to gain. Krungsri Capital Securities further predicts that these cuts will invigorate the economy, diminish consumer debt, and revamp banks’ loan portfolios, despite ongoing challenges such as Middle Eastern tensions and a tepid Chinese economy. With stock market enthusiasts abuzz, it's clear that global rate cuts present potential investment opportunities across banking, real estate, and high-dividend sectors, promising a revitalised financial landscape for savvy investors. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-21

Netizens take aim at foreign woman’s slingshot antics in Chon Buri zoo - video Photo via TikTok/ @patcharida_36 Thai netizens called for legal action against a foreign woman who was seen using a slingshot inside Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341290-netizens-take-aim-at-foreign-woman’s-slingshot-antics-in-chon-buri-zoo-video/

Thai netizens called for legal action against a foreign woman who was seen using a slingshot inside Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri province. A Thai TikTok user, @patcharida_36, shared a video of the incident on the platform yesterday, October 20. In the video caption, she wrote, “That’s not nice! #KhaoKheow.” The footage shows the foreign woman, dressed in a pastel purple shirt and long black trousers, firing a slingshot into the sky. The foreign woman, believed to be a Chinese national, was with family members and other foreign tourists in a tour group. Other tourists in the group witnessed her actions but did not intervene. There were no animal enclosures nearby, and the woman’s target remains unclear. Some Thai TikTok users commented that there was a tiger enclosure near the scene, while others noted that monkeys were playing in the trees in the area. The official Facebook page of the caretaker of the pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, ขาหมู แอนด์เดอะแก๊ง (Kha Moo and the Gang), responded to the video yesterday. The group’s administrator stated that there were no animals present at the location and that he believed the woman was simply shooting randomly into the sky. However, the administrator promised to report the incident to the zoo director for further investigation. If the foreign woman is found guilty, the zoo will pursue legal action against her. Many netizens agreed that the zoo should take legal action against the foreign tourist, regardless of whether any animals were nearby at the time. They pointed out that using a slingshot within the zoo is inappropriate and could pose a danger to other visitors, especially children. By Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @patcharida_36 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Drug-addict fatally assaults wife in front of daughter Photo via KhaoSod A drug-addict fatally assaulted his wife in front of their 13 year old child at their home in the central province of Ang Thong yesterday, October 20. The murderer cited jealousy as his motive, claiming his wife had an affair with their neighbour. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341289-drug-addict-fatally-assaults-wife-in-front-of-daughter/

A drug-addict fatally assaulted his wife in front of their 13 year old child at their home in the central province of Ang Thong yesterday, October 20. The murderer cited jealousy as his motive, claiming his wife had an affair with their neighbour. Officers from Mueang Ang Thong Police Station investigated a house in Talat Kruad sub-district, Mueang district, Ang Thong province, following a report of the death of a 53 year old Thai woman named Samniang. The deceased was found lying lifeless on the floor near her bed, with severe wounds to the back of her neck and face. Samniang’s 52 year old husband, Ning, admitted to the fatal attack on his wife and was taken to the police station for questioning. The knife used in the murder was confiscated. Neighbours told the police that they heard the couple engaged in a heated argument the night before Samniang’s death was discovered. The argument later escalated into physical violence before everything went silent. Ning’s 76 year old mother, Sanoon, told Channel 7 that the couple often argued due to Ning’s jealousy. Her son came to her early yesterday morning to inform her of his wife’s death, prompting her to call the police. Ning confessed to killing his wife by striking her on the head with the spine of a knife and pushing her to the ground, causing her head to hit a cement pond outside their home. His wife then lost consciousness. Ning said he carried his wife into the house and asked their daughter to stay with his mother at a nearby home. His wife screamed in pain throughout the night and later died in the morning. Ning stated that he acted out of jealousy and anger after catching his wife having an affair with their neighbour, identified only as “A.” His wife allegedly told him that their daughter was not his but was fathered by her lover. Ning also caught her communicating with her lover on the day of the incident, despite her promise to cease contact. Ning admitted to frequent methamphetamine use, claiming he was stressed over family issues and couldn’t find a solution. He added that his wife had previously attempted suicide due to these problems. A refused to give an interview to the media and denied involvement in the love triangle. By Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Autopsy seeks to unravel mysterious death of Chinese man Photo via Channel 8 The lifeless body of a Chinese man remains under autopsy after he died mysteriously at his home in the northern province of Chiang Rai on Saturday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341288-autopsy-seeks-to-unravel-mysterious-death-of-chinese-man/

The lifeless body of a Chinese man remains under autopsy after he died mysteriously at his home in the northern province of Chiang Rai on Saturday. Thai national Jiraphap Saewang discovered the body of his Chinese neighbour, 54 year old Fong, at around 11pm on Saturday, October 19. Fong was found lying on a wooden sofa, hugging a pillow, in his three-storey home near Mae Sai District Bus Terminal. Jiraphap told Channel 8 that although he was not particularly close to Fong, they spoke on several occasions. On the day of the incident, he returned home at around 11pm and noticed that the front door of Fong’s house was left open, even though it was usually closed before 8pm. Jiraphap called out Fong’s name but received no response. He then decided to enter the house, turned on the light, and found Fong’s body on the wooden sofa. Cigarettes and a kettle were found nearby. Jiraphap then contacted Fong’s girlfriend, a Burmese woman, and called Mae Sai Police Station officers to the scene. Channel 8 reported that Fong was a businessman operating in Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand with his partners. He recently returned from a holiday in Pattaya and spoke to Jiraphap about a motorcycle garage, which turned out to be their last conversation. Jiraphap also told the media that Fong’s Burmese girlfriend did not live with him, although she would occasionally visit. According to the police report, there were no signs of robbery or a struggle at the scene. Officers transferred Fong’s body to a hospital for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. His congenital health conditions were not mentioned in the report. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

From grill to gold: Chicken vendor ruffles feathers in heist near Bangkok Photo via ThaiRath Police arrested a Thai grilled chicken vendor for a robbery at a gold shop in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok on Saturday and confiscated two stolen gold necklaces worth approximately 87,000 baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341286-from-grill-to-gold-chicken-vendor-ruffles-feathers-in-heist-near-bangkok/

Police arrested a Thai grilled chicken vendor for a robbery at a gold shop in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok on Saturday and confiscated two stolen gold necklaces worth approximately 87,000 baht. Officers from Bang Yai Police Station investigated the robbery, which occurred at the Golden 99 Gold Shop in The Bang Yai City Market at around 8pm, on October 19. They successfully arrested the thief, 41 year old Tawatchai Aromyim, at his home, located about 5-6 kilometres from the shop. The shop worker, 31 year old Jadesada Homkate, told police that Tawatchai arrived at the shop earlier that evening and asked about the price of gold. Tawatchai also requested to see some necklaces up close and informed Jadesada that he would return to buy the gold later before leaving the store. Near the shop’s closing time, Tawatchai returned and asked to see three gold necklaces worth approximately 44,000 baht each. He was wearing two gold necklaces and pretended to be speaking to his girlfriend on the phone. Jadesada heard Tawatchai say, “Arrived already?” as if his girlfriend was arriving at the shop. Tawatchai then asked Jadesada to unlock the front door of the shop for her. Believing Tawatchai’s words, Jadesada unlocked the door, allowing him to escape with the gold accessories. The thief then mounted his sidecar motorcycle and fled the scene. Police managed to arrest Tawatchai at his home 40 minutes after the robbery. Two stolen necklaces were confiscated, and his sidecar motorcycle, which was used in the theft, was found at his home. Tawatchai revealed that he was a food vendor and also used the vehicle to sell grilled chicken. During questioning, Tawatchai admitted that he committed the theft to sell the stolen gold necklaces and pay off his debts. He checked the shop earlier and found it to be quiet, so he decided to commit the crime. Tawatchai was charged under Section 336 of the Criminal Laws for snatching. The penalty is imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to 100,000 baht. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Labour of love: Thailand scrambles to clean up its fishy business Picture courtesy of the US Embassy The Labour Ministry of Thailand is racing against the clock to scrub fishmeal, fish oil, and animal feed off the notorious US 2024 List of Goods Produced by Child Labour or Forced Labour. The urgency comes straight from the top, with Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn cracking the whip for swift action to safeguard Thailand’s international reputation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341285-labour-of-love-thailand-scrambles-to-clean-up-its-fishy-business/

The Labour Ministry of Thailand is racing against the clock to scrub fishmeal, fish oil, and animal feed off the notorious US 2024 List of Goods Produced by Child Labour or Forced Labour. The urgency comes straight from the top, with Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn cracking the whip for swift action to safeguard Thailand’s international reputation. As Labour Ministry spokesperson Phumiphat Mueanchan reveals, this dreaded blacklist falls under the US Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2005, also known as the TVPRA List. But that’s not all! Thai products are also splashed across the List of Products Produced by Forced or Indentured Child Labour under Executive Order 13126, famously dubbed the EO List. The US Department of Labor’s freshly minted 2024 lists have painted a scarlet letter on Thailand, singling out fishmeal, animal feed, and fish oil. Not content to sit idly by, the Labour Ministry is assembling a powerhouse task force, roping in private sector heavyweights from the Thai Tuna Industry Association and the Thai Pet Food Trade Association. Their mission? To thrash out a killer strategy to cleanse these fishy goods from the shameful lists once and for all. Phumiphat emphasises that the minister is all ears to the private sector’s jitters over the export fallout—after all, Thailand’s fishery and pet food shipments to the US rake in over a whopping US$1 billion (roughly 33 billion baht) every year. The stakes are high, with five Thai products still languishing on the TVPRA List—shrimp, fish, sugarcane, garments, and pornography. Meanwhile, garments linger as the only Thai entry on the EO List. But fear not, the labour minister is launching a full-scale probe and clean-up operation. Thailand has been diligently weeding out child and forced labour from its production lines, scoring a victory by banishing shrimp from both blacklists. Phumiphat also reveals that efforts are underway to pluck sugarcane off the list, thanks to a shift to mechanical harvesting. “We’re relentlessly inspecting workplaces and championing stellar labour practices to clear all Thai products from the US lists.” By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the US Embassy Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21