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Thailand’s influencer marketing sector has surged to a striking 45 billion baht (US$1.3 billion) this year, marking a substantial 25-30% increase from the previous year, according to Tellscore Co Ltd. Pioneering this growth is the intense demand for content spanning news, science, education, and family topics. Suvita Charanwong, Chief Executive and co-founder of Tellscore, emphasised the expanding digital marketing campaigns initiated by both the public and private sectors despite Thailand’s slower economic growth. The beauty, tourism, gastronomy, and finance industries lead the charge in influencer spending. In stark contrast, the real estate sector has seen a decline due to the property market's current sluggish state. Charanwong highlighted the growing opportunities for brands and agencies to leverage this rise, pinpointing the right influencers for effective product and service promotion. A distinct challenge remains for content creators: distinguishing themselves amidst increasing competition and fostering organic viewer engagement. This challenge is echoed in global trends, with some 200 million content creators worldwide, 9 million of whom are in Thailand. Interestingly, the realm of news content creation is also growing, driven in part by Thai news organisations' newfound receptivity to their staff establishing personal online channels. Micro-influencers, those with fewer than 20,000 followers, dominate this diverse landscape. In 2024, their rates range from 4,000 to 5,000 baht (US$112 to US$150) per piece of content. More prominent influencers, boasting over 250,000 followers, can command impressive rates exceeding 100,000 baht (US$2,950) per content piece. This story underscores a dynamic shift in digital engagement, with influencer marketing proving a key player in Thailand’s evolving market scenario. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Poised to Become Southeast Asia's E-Sports Hub File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up to become a leading e-sports hub in Southeast Asia, according to Jon Lor, the manager of Riot Games Thailand. Speaking about the nation's robust gaming community, Lor expressed optimism for Thailand's burgeoning role in the global e-sports arena. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337415-thailand-poised-to-become-southeast-asias-e-sports-hub/

Thailand is gearing up to become a leading e-sports hub in Southeast Asia, according to Jon Lor, the manager of Riot Games Thailand. Speaking about the nation's robust gaming community, Lor expressed optimism for Thailand's burgeoning role in the global e-sports arena. "From my perspective, it’s about building on the strong foundation we already have. We’ve seen incredible enthusiasm from the Thai gaming community, and that’s something we can continue to nurture," he stated. Riot Games plans to solidify Thailand's position by hosting events such as the Valorant Masters 2025 in Bangkok, marking the first time this global tournament will be held in Southeast Asia. According to Lor, this move highlights Thailand's growing significance in the e-sports industry. The Thai e-sports market is experiencing rapid growth, propelled by government initiatives and corporate sponsorships. A survey by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office forecasts that the number of participants in e-sports competitions will almost double from 9.8 million in 2021 to 18.7 million by 2027. Statista predicts that Asia's e-sports sector will generate US$1.5 billion in revenue by 2027, a 36% increase from 2023. Currently, Asia accounts for over half of the world's e-sports revenue. Riot Games, having opened a local office earlier this year, has already made significant strides in developing the Thai Valorant community. Lor noted the company's eagerness to collaborate further with local e-sports organisations and universities, aiming to inspire the next generation of e-sports talent. “Even amid economic slowdowns, e-sports will continue to thrive due to its digital nature," Lor remarked, highlighting its accessibility and the sustained interest from brands in reaching a young, tech-savvy audience. With local tournaments, international events, and cohesive support from various sectors, Thailand appears well on its way to establishing itself as a premier e-sports destination in Southeast Asia. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Integrates Online Sales into VAT System; New Measures Announced File photo for reference only Thailand’s Ministry of Finance will incorporate online sales platforms into the country's tax umbrella, per a recent Cabinet decision. This mandate requires these platforms to register for value-added tax (VAT), effectively capturing digital transactions within the tax net. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337413-thailand-integrates-online-sales-into-vat-system-new-measures-announced/

Thailand’s Ministry of Finance will incorporate online sales platforms into the country's tax umbrella, per a recent Cabinet decision. This mandate requires these platforms to register for value-added tax (VAT), effectively capturing digital transactions within the tax net. The Ministry’s anonymous source confirmed that the Revenue Department would amend the Revenue Code to reflect this decision. Online platforms will now need to register for VAT and could also face personal and corporate income taxes. This new requirement gives the Revenue Department access to transaction data from these platforms. In a related move, the Cabinet extinguished the VAT exemption for imported goods valued below 1,500 baht (US$44), effective from July 5. This change aims to ensure tax fairness between imported and locally produced goods, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises in Thailand. This isn’t Thailand’s first step toward tightening tax regulations on digital services. Previously, in 2021, the Revenue Department began collecting VAT from foreign online platforms offering electronic services (VES) in the country, ensuring that all businesses pay fair VAT. The measures target a spectrum of foreign online services, from e-commerce and streaming platforms to transport and travel services. The 2021 e-service law required foreign providers earning over 1.8 million baht (US$53,000) annually from non-VAT-registered users in Thailand to enroll in the VES system. Finally, the Cabinet has endorsed swift actions against illegal sales of foreign goods, involving customs duty, corporate income tax, VAT, anti-dumping tax, and measures to control import surges. These steps ensure that both foreign and domestic businesses operate on a level playing field. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Aims to Launch ASEAN’s First Spaceport, Eyes Global Space Race File photo for reference only Thailand is setting its sights on the stars, with bold plans to become ASEAN's first spaceport. Thanapant Raicharoen, a commissioner of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), urges the country to seize the opportunity to become a key player in the rapidly growing space industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337412-thailand-aims-to-launch-asean’s-first-spaceport-eyes-global-space-race/

Thailand is setting its sights on the stars, with bold plans to become ASEAN's first spaceport. Thanapant Raicharoen, a commissioner of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), urges the country to seize the opportunity to become a key player in the rapidly growing space industry. Thanapant envisions Thailand playing a vital role not only in satellite development but also in sending astronauts into space and building data centres in orbit. The NBTC commissioner points to Thailand's strategic southern region as an ideal spot for a rocket launch pad, thanks to its proximity to the equator. This geographical advantage would allow rockets to benefit from the Earth's rotation, enabling heavier payloads, such as satellites, to be launched using less fuel. Clear skies, stable temperatures, and minimal risk from natural disasters make it a prime location. Thanapant suggests collaboration with international players, such as China, to drive joint investments and bring in advanced technology. He compares the space venture to Thailand's past success in attracting Japanese investors to boost its automotive industry, which became a thriving sector. Though the NBTC isn't directly responsible for spaceport development, Thanapant is adamant about their role. "We have the duty and authority to grant permission to use satellite orbits." With growing interest from private firms and increasing demand for smaller, low-Earth orbit satellites, the time might be right for Thailand to launch itself into the global space race. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Fraud Scandal Rocks Phuket Condo Project: Aussies Demand Justice File photo for reference only In a scandal shaking Thailand's real estate sector, two Australian men have filed a fraud complaint against Kata Beach Company, the developer behind the ill-fated Peaks Residences project in Phuket. Despite investing over 5 million baht and winning a civil court case, the pair have yet to receive any compensation, prompting calls for greater accountability and justice. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337411-fraud-scandal-rocks-phuket-condo-project-aussies-demand-justice/

In a scandal shaking Thailand's real estate sector, two Australian men have filed a fraud complaint against Kata Beach Company, the developer behind the ill-fated Peaks Residences project in Phuket. Despite investing over 5 million baht and winning a civil court case, the pair have yet to receive any compensation, prompting calls for greater accountability and justice. On September 4, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) announced they've begun investigating the complaint related to the failed development. The Australians had reported their case on September 3 to Kamala Police Station, revealing they had paid significant sums for a dream condo that remained undelivered. While a court ruling favoured them, enforcing the judgment has proven elusive as the company dodges financial restitution. Evidence from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) reveals a broader scheme: Kata Beach Company illegally sold land without proper titles and forged building permits, ultimately halting construction. Under Thai law, condominium projects must be built on legally titled land, a requirement the company flouted. Following permit revocation, the developers offered alternative properties to buyers, yet the promised refunds have not surfaced. The CIB emphasised the importance of complying with consumer protection laws, stressing that developers must be held accountable for their failures. “Consumer protection laws will hold them accountable for failing to deliver properties,” the bureau noted. As investigations continue and more victims come forward, Thai police remain committed to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring justice, irrespective of the buyers' nationalities. File photo -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Kaew Residents Find Hope Amidst Decade-Long Infrastructure Battle File photo for reference only Residents of Koh Kaew, Phuket, have finally received a glimmer of hope after enduring years of unpaved roads and lack of electricity. The longstanding issues centre on Soi Nanachat 2 (Im Mi Phi Man), where approximately 1 kilometre of road remains unfinished and without public electricity, despite ongoing government efforts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337410-koh-kaew-residents-find-hope-amidst-decade-long-infrastructure-battle/

Residents of Koh Kaew, Phuket, have finally received a glimmer of hope after enduring years of unpaved roads and lack of electricity. The longstanding issues centre on Soi Nanachat 2 (Im Mi Phi Man), where approximately 1 kilometre of road remains unfinished and without public electricity, despite ongoing government efforts. The turning point came during a tense meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on Tuesday, led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and organised by the Phuket Provincial Ombudsman’s Office. The meeting gathered frustrated locals alongside representatives from several government agencies, including the Koh Kaew Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor), the Phuket Provincial Land Office, and the Provincial Electricity Authority. At the heart of the problem is a land dispute involving a plot with title deed number 62107. The plot’s landowner, who had previously dedicated the land for public use in 2008, is now attempting to reclaim the property, thus halting further construction. This conflict has left the road incomplete for over a decade, causing significant inconvenience for residents. During the meeting, villagers voiced their concerns passionately, while the landowner staunchly defended their position. Despite the heated exchange, a pathway to resolution emerged. The session concluded with a commitment to clarify the boundaries of the disputed land. The Koh Kaew OrBorTor will collaborate with the Phuket Provincial Land Office to conduct a detailed land survey and gather necessary evidence. This initiative aims to definitively resolve the land ownership issue and restart infrastructure development, bringing much-needed relief to the Koh Kaew community. With a detailed land survey on the horizon, Koh Kaew residents are cautiously optimistic, hoping this marks the beginning of the end of their infrastructural limbo. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

16 year old Thai girl dies of ketamine overdose during sex Photo via Facebook/ สปอร์ตไลท์บางปู A 16 year old girl died of a ketamine overdose while having sex with a 63 year old man in central Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337409-16-year-old-thai-girl-dies-of-ketamine-overdose-during-sex/

A 16 year old girl died of a ketamine overdose while having sex with a 63 year old man in central Thailand. Mueang Samut Prakan Police Station officers were alerted to the death of the teenage girl, Thanyaluck, at around 9pm yesterday, September 4. Police went to the scene, a two-storey house in the Prae Kasa sub-district, Mueang district, Samut Prakan. Upon investigating the scene, Thanyaluck was found lifeless on the bed of the 63 year old homeowner, Suchin. She was wearing a green tank top and black shorts, and her bra was unhooked. The girl had blood running from her nose and bruises all over her body. Officers found no sign of physical assault or struggle in the bedroom. The girl reportedly died about two hours before police arrived at the scene. Suchin informed the police that he had resigned from his previous job to care for his 84 year old mother. Subsequently, he began selling shoes and clothing online to sustain himself. To boost sales, he enlisted the help of two young girls, Thanyaluck and her friend Tarn, for livestreaming sessions. According to Suchin, Thanyaluck and Tarn assisted him from midday until 4pm, at which point Thanyaluck requested to rest and fell asleep. Unhooked bra Tarn observed that Thanyaluck was experiencing difficulty breathing but attended to her until her condition appeared to improve. Suchin asserted that he allowed Thanyaluck to continue resting while Tarn departed from his residence. Thanyaluck slept for an unusually extended period, prompting Suchin to check on her, at which time he discovered she had passed away. Suchin emphatically denied tampering with her bra hooks or assaulting her in any way. Police were not convinced by Suchin’s account and took him to the police station for further questioning. During the interrogation, an autopsy revealed that Thanyaluck died of a drug overdose after taking ketamine. After the autopsy result, Suchin confessed that he hired Thanyaluck not for livestreaming help but for sex. Before the sex, Tarn brought Thanyaluck to him and left. The girl said she wanted to take ketamine before sex and did so. Suchin said he did not know how much she took but he did not participate. Thanyaluck began to have a seizure, vomited and bled from the nose before she died. The confession led Suchin to be charged initially under Section 318 of the Criminal Code: taking a minor under the age of 15 away from her parents or guardians. This carries a penalty of two to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of 4,000 to 20,000 baht. On other charges related to child prostitution, officers summoned Tarn for questioning and would file further charges after that. Police also confirmed to Channel 7 that Thanyaluck had a history of drug use, so she took the drugs herself without being forced by Suchin or anyone else. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สปอร์ตไลท์บางปู Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Conveniently caught: Bangkok cops nab woman in multi-store heist Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok Metropolitan Police, along with Investigation Team 115, apprehended a woman involved in a series of thefts at convenience stores across five branches. She confessed to the crimes, citing unemployment and a history of imprisonment while currently under probation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337408-conveniently-caught-bangkok-cops-nab-woman-in-multi-store-heist/

Bangkok Metropolitan Police, along with Investigation Team 115, apprehended a woman involved in a series of thefts at convenience stores across five branches. She confessed to the crimes, citing unemployment and a history of imprisonment while currently under probation. Police Lieutenant General Thiti Saengsawang and other high-ranking officers yesterday, September 4, reported the arrest of 20 year old Montita. She was apprehended under multiple warrants issued by the Criminal Court on August 27. The charges against her included joint nighttime theft with two or more people. Montita and her accomplices targeted a convenience store in the Tao Poon area during the night. Further investigations revealed similar thefts at four nearby branches, totalling five branches. Following these discoveries, the investigating officers requested and received arrest warrants from the Criminal Court. The investigation team tracked Montita to a second-floor room in a hotel in the Wat Sommanat area, Pom Prap Sattru Phai district, Bangkok. Upon arriving at the hotel, the officers found Montita standing outside and immediately identified themselves before arresting her. During the arrest, Montita confessed to all charges, admitting she was unemployed. She also disclosed her criminal history, including a previous conviction for theft handled by the Taling Chan Police Station and that she was under probation. The arrest was documented, and the female thief was handed over to the responsible investigators at the Tao Poon Police Station for further legal procedures. Police Major General Teeradej Thammasuthee remarked that Montita’s actions posed a significant threat to society, creating distress for law-abiding citizens. He emphasised the urgent need for her arrest and advised shop owners to install comprehensive CCTV systems, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

‘Por the Slapper’ strikes store worker for fabricated assault Photo via Facebook/ อริสรา ฯ The owner of a convenience store in the Isaan province of Udon Thani is taking legal action against a mentally ill customer who slapped her employee in the face without reason. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337407-‘por-the-slapper’-strikes-store-worker-for-fabricated-assault/

The owner of a convenience store in the Isaan province of Udon Thani is taking legal action against a mentally ill customer who slapped her employee in the face without reason. The store owner shared CCTV footage on her Facebook account on Monday, September 2, showing the incident, in which the customer, known locally as “Por the Slapper,” struck the female employee. In the caption, she wrote… “Don’t bring your churlish behaviour here! We’ve known each other for a long time but you still dared to do this. Think carefully before you act. You have children to look after. Don’t ever do this to anyone else. My employees are like family to me. No one can hurt them.” In the video, Por was seen paying for four packs of UHT milk at the cashier’s counter. At some point, she turned around and stared at the employee, who was wearing a beige shirt. After completing the transaction, Por suddenly slapped the employee in the face before immediately leaving the store. The owner and other staff members were left confused. The owner can be heard shouting at Por, “Why did you do this? Why did you hit my worker?” Por responded by shouting, “She hurt my son first!” The victim tried to explain to Por that she did not hurt her son at all but had simply warned him to be careful not to fall off Por’s motorcycle. The store owner later shared additional footage from a security camera outside the store, which corroborated her employee’s version of events. As she said, she had merely warned the boy. The matter has since been reported to the police. The owner also told Channel 7 that Por is well-known in the area as Por the Slapper. She appears to suffer from a mental illness, which may be related to her alleged history of drug use. Por’s parents revealed in an interview on September 4 that their daughter has a mental illness. She has previously slapped her children’s teachers and classmates multiple times. Her two children have not attended school for over a year. The parents said they had tried to get treatment for Por but she refused. Local police and relevant government officials are planning to visit Por’s home to arrange a mental health evaluation. The two children will be placed under the care of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อริสรา ฯ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bank of Thailand to appoint new chairman amid government push Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Bank of Thailand (BoT) board is set to appoint a new chairperson by early October, as announced by the head of the selection committee. This move comes as the government aims to exert more influence over the central bank following a prolonged public dispute over interest rates. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337404-bank-of-thailand-to-appoint-new-chairman-amid-government-push/

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) board is set to appoint a new chairperson by early October, as announced by the head of the selection committee. This move comes as the government aims to exert more influence over the central bank following a prolonged public dispute over interest rates. Although the BoT chairperson does not have the authority to set interest rates, the board they lead is responsible for appointing the monetary policy committee. This committee includes the BoT governor, two deputy governors, and four external experts. The Pheu Thai Party, which came into power last year, has consistently urged the BoT to reduce its key interest rate—a request that has not been fulfilled. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who assumed the role of prime minister last month, has previously expressed that the BoT’s independence is a barrier to economic recovery. Sathit Limpongpan, the head of the selection committee stated that the criteria and qualifications for the position have been set, and the finance ministry and central bank will send in names. According to the existing rules, the Ministry of Finance will nominate one candidate, while the central bank will propose two names to replace Porametee Vimolsiri. These nominations will undergo qualification checks by the BoT, followed by a selection committee meeting in late September or early October to decide on the new board chairperson. The candidate must receive approval from the finance minister, after which their name will be forwarded for Cabinet approval and royal endorsement. Sathit added that his committee would also appoint two new board members. Government cooperation Porametee, whose second term concludes this month, was appointed in 2018 by the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration, which also selected the current BoT Governor, Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput. Sethaput has indicated that the bank can cooperate with the government and is prepared to adjust policy if necessary. Despite government pressure to ease monetary policy, the BoT has maintained its benchmark interest rate at a decade-high of 2.50%, affirming that this level aligns with its growth and inflation outlook. The central bank, scheduled to review rates on October 16, has reiterated its readiness to adjust policy if required. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and Sethaput will convene this month to initiate discussions on an inflation target for 2025. The government is seeking a new target with the intention of a rate cut, given that inflation is below the target range. The existing inflation target range of 1% to 3% has been effective in anchoring inflation expectations and managing price shocks, according to minutes from the BoT’s policy meeting on August 21, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Public health minister rejects 30-baht scheme co-payment review Picture courtesy of Matichon Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin dismissed a proposal from health experts to revisit the co-payment system of the universal healthcare policy, known as the 30-baht gold card scheme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337401-public-health-minister-rejects-30-baht-scheme-co-payment-review/

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin dismissed a proposal from health experts to revisit the co-payment system of the universal healthcare policy, known as the 30-baht gold card scheme. Somsak stated emphatically that he had no intention of reopening discussions about the co-payment plan. “The ministry is doing its best to take care of people’s health. No changes have been made.” The 69 year old minister’s comments come in response to recent concerns from a network of hospitals and medical staff. They have reported that the scheme is causing significant issues for state-owned hospitals, including increased patient visits, staff shortages, and financial deficits. The network has urged the ministry to reform the scheme to ensure its financial sustainability. Initiated by the now-dissolved Thai Rak Thai Party of Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the populist policy aims to provide equal access to medical treatment for all Thais, particularly the poor. Launched in 2002, it originally required a 30-baht co-payment per visit. However, this requirement was removed a few years later, allowing cardholders to access medical treatment free of charge. The public health minister expressed confidence that the government could address the network’s financial concerns, potentially by utilising the central budget, reported Bangkok Post. “The amount of money missing from the co-payment system is just 2%, which is very small, and we can handle it. The scheme is being run well. Some people have criticised it despite the fact they lack the correct information.” To mitigate the financial losses incurred from providing treatments, the National Health Security Office (NHSO) has requested an additional 7.1 billion baht (US$210 million). By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand promotes quality products at Times Square Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce launched a campaign to elevate the image of Thai products at Times Square. The Ignite Thailand Festival: Think Thailand, Next Level took place at 46-47 Broadway Plaza & Duffy Square yesterday, September 4, aiming to showcase the quality and innovation of Thai goods to over 20 million consumers in the United States. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337399-thailand-promotes-quality-products-at-times-square/

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce launched a campaign to elevate the image of Thai products at Times Square. The Ignite Thailand Festival: Think Thailand, Next Level took place at 46-47 Broadway Plaza & Duffy Square yesterday, September 4, aiming to showcase the quality and innovation of Thai goods to over 20 million consumers in the United States. Wuttikrai Leeweeraphan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, highlighted that this initiative follows the policy of Phumtham Wechayachai, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce. The event featured a variety of Thai products, including food, condiments, and fashion items, to boost confidence in and credibility of Thai brands. This effort reinforces Thailand’s image as a producer and exporter of high-quality products that are environmentally and socially responsible, said Wuttikrai. “The visit aligns with Phumtham’s policy to increase the visibility of Thai products, especially Thai brands, among US consumers who may not be fully aware that many products originate from Thailand. This festival aims to introduce a wider variety of Thai innovations, such as food technology and future foods while promoting fashion and jewellery items.” The United States has been identified as the primary market for this promotion, with the United Kingdom scheduled to follow next month. The event included 19 booths displaying various Thai products. Notable food brands such as Mama, Golden Mountain Soy Sauce, Chaokoh Coconut Milk, and Ampol Foods’ frozen fruit ice cream were featured. Two fashion brands, Future Treasure and Nakamol, also had booths, along with nine Thai SELECT-certified restaurants including Mai Kaidee, Na Rath, Zabb Putawn, Pinto Garden, Sky Ice, Charoen Krung, Khaosan, Pata Paplean, and GOOG. Thai culture Additionally, cultural booths showcased Thai arts such as umbrella painting and traditional costume photography. The event also featured a TOPTHAI x Amazon booth and a Team Thailand booth. The cultural aspect was further enhanced by stage performances, including Thai cooking demonstrations, fashion and lifestyle shows, and traditional Thai arts to leverage Thailand’s soft power, said Wuttikrai. “The highlights of the event included cooking demonstrations and tastings by renowned chefs such as Chef Yo from Pinto Garden, Chef Vee, a Thai-American chef from Eleven Madison Park (a Michelin three-star restaurant), and Chef Arnold, a former Top Chef contestant and James Beard Best Chef Southeast nominee for 2024.” The festival also included a cooking competition with ingredients selected by Wuttikrai himself, alongside chefs Arnold, Bao Bao, and Hong. Traditional Thai dance and Muay Thai demonstrations were performed to showcase Thailand’s cultural heritage to the public and tourists at Times Square. The Ignite Thailand Festival effectively utilised the iconic Times Square billboards, with Thai food advertisements displayed from 5pm to 5.30pm, attracting significant attention. Pedi Cabs, decorated with Thai motifs, also operated around Times Square throughout the week, further promoting Thai brands and services, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Aussies now need an ETA to enter Thailand Photo courtesy of Executive Traveller Australians planning a getaway to Thailand will soon have an extra step to complete before boarding their flight. The Thai government is introducing a mandatory electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained ahead of travel. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337300-aussies-now-need-an-eta-to-enter-thailand/

Australians planning a getaway to Thailand will soon have an extra step to complete before boarding their flight. The Thai government is introducing a mandatory electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained ahead of travel. This new system, introduced by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is designed to enhance the screening and tracking of foreigners entering the country. “The ETA will be an important tool for screening and tracking the movement of foreigners entering Thailand.” The Thai ETA is required for travellers from nearly 100 visa-waiver countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and most European nations. It’s a system similar to the USA’s ESTA and the upcoming travel authorisation systems in Europe, the UK, and Japan. Scheduled for a pilot launch by December this year, with a full roll-out by June 2025, ETA applications will be processed online via the official Thai e-Visa website. Unlike other countries’ ETAs, which may allow multiple entries over several years, the Thai ETA must be applied for each time a visitor plans to enter Thailand. However, it’s expected to be free of charge. Once approved, ETA holders will benefit from the convenience of automated passport gates at immigration checkpoints. This comes alongside the recent extension of stay for tourists and business travellers from visa-free countries, who can now enjoy up to 60 days in Thailand, with the possibility to extend for another 30 days upon arrival. In addition, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), tailored for remote workers, digital nomads, and visitors attending approved activities. Priced at 10,000 baht (430 Aussie dollars), this visa allows a stay of up to five years, provided applicants can prove they have at least 500,000 baht for the duration of their stay. The DTV also covers the holder’s spouse and dependent children, offering them a five-year stay with multiple entries, extendable by another 180 days, reported Executive Traveller. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Executive Traveller Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe