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In an unexpected twist of online fate, Democrat Party MP Date-it Khaothong has found himself at the centre of social media mockery after inadvertently praising himself on Facebook. The mishap occurred amid political shifts, with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, being named Thailand's new Prime Minister, though she still awaits royal endorsement before officially assuming duties. Despite the high-stakes political landscape, all eyes turned to Date-it on Saturday, August 31. He had posted about an internal Democrat Party meeting discussing their roles in the forthcoming administration. But it was a comment beneath his post that caused a stir. From his own account, Date-it wrote, "Congratulations to the two of you (Date-it and party leader Chalermchai Sri-on). It’s time for you to work for the people as you have been assigned. Fighting! Rooting for you 100%." Intended to be a supportive fan comment, it instead came from Date-it himself, sparking online laughter and speculation. The comment was quickly deleted, but not before becoming fodder for memes and jokes among Thai netizens. Adding to the party's troubles, the Democrat Party’s official Facebook page has been closed following a flood of complaints from supporters upset about the party's decision to join the government coalition. This marks the first coalition between Pheu Thai and the Democrat Party in over two decades, despite some internal dissent within the Democrat ranks. While Date-it’s ministerial ambitions remain in question, his social media slip has provided an unexpected distraction from Thailand's unfolding political drama. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Popular LK Metro Food Stalls Removed Amid Visibility Concerns Photo: The Pattaya News In a surprising move, several beloved food stalls at the Soi Buakhao end of LK Metro in Pattaya have been removed. These stalls, a staple in the area for many years, were known for attracting a loyal customer base. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337116-popular-lk-metro-food-stalls-removed-amid-visibility-concerns/

In a surprising move, several beloved food stalls at the Soi Buakhao end of LK Metro in Pattaya have been removed. These stalls, a staple in the area for many years, were known for attracting a loyal customer base. The removal is reported to have stemmed from complaints by nearby business owners who argued that the stalls were obstructing the visibility of their venues. Legally, the stalls were situated on the street rather than in standalone structures, which ultimately contributed to their removal. A wave of reactions has flooded Pattaya's social media, with many expressing disappointment over the sudden disappearance of a cherished part of their nightlife experience. Long-time visitors and locals alike are questioning where the vendors will relocate, as this information remains unclear. It is also uncertain whether the city or another organisation ordered the removal, leaving some room for speculation regarding the identity of the complainants. For now, patrons of LK Metro must adjust to the absence of these familiar food stalls that once added flavour to their evenings, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Four routes under consideration for Koh Chang Bridge Image courtesy of EXAT The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has initiated a series of public hearings regarding the proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Koh Chang Island, a popular destination in Trat province. The first hearing, held today, September 2, in Mueang district, garnered widespread support from locals and business owners. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337115-four-routes-under-consideration-for-koh-chang-bridge/

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has initiated a series of public hearings regarding the proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Koh Chang Island, a popular destination in Trat province. The first hearing, held today, September 2, in Mueang district, garnered widespread support from locals and business owners. Participants expressed a strong preference for the bridge to guide travellers through the Mueang district, emphasising the potential economic benefits of this business hub in eastern Thailand. Two of the proposed routes align with this request, which would facilitate increased commerce and tourism in the area. Additionally, attendees advocated for a lower bridge toll compared to current ferry fares, the inclusion of lanes for motorcycles and bicycles, and scenic viewpoints at both ends of the bridge. EXAT representatives acknowledged these suggestions and confirmed that the bridge’s design would consider economic growth for Trat’s marquee island. EXAT Deputy Governor Katpachon Udomthampakdee highlighted that the bridge would enhance accessibility for both visitors and Koh Chang residents, improving travel to essential services such as schools and hospitals on the mainland. Trat Governor Nathapong Sa-nguanchit assured that local stakeholders are fully supportive of the project. The four proposed bridge routes involve several potential starting points on the mainland and the island. The first route is proposed to start at the 0.85-kilometre marker on Highway 3156 in Ban Nong Prue village, Laem Ngop district, this 9.82-kilometre route would connect to the island at the 8.55-kilometre marker on Road 10026 in Ban Dan Mai. The second route, also beginning at the 0.85-kilometre marker on Highway 3156, this 9.95-kilometre route would land at the 6.75-kilometre marker on Road 10026 in Ban Dan Mai. The third route is proposed to start at the 2.84-kilometre marker on Road 4006 in Ban Thammachat Lang, Laem Ngop district, the 5.90-kilometre route would reach the island at the 5.30-kilometre marker on Road 10026 in Ban Dan Mai. The final route is proposed to begin at the 3.50-kilometre marker on Road 4006 in Ban Thammachat Lang, this 5.59-kilometre route would land at the 1.90-kilometre marker on Road 10026 in Ban Khlong Son. All four routes are proposed to be elevated, ensuring sufficient clearance for maritime traffic, and will be constructed to minimise environmental impact on the coral and seagrass around Koh Chang. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2029, with the bridge expected to open in 2033, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of EXAT Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s road to relief: Green light at the end of the traffic tunnel Picture courtesy of Phuket News Phuket’s long-awaited new road linking Kathu and Srisoonthorn is finally getting the green light, thanks to generous land donations from three of the island’s most prominent families. Local bigwigs have confirmed the long-stalled project is now full speed ahead. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337114-phuket’s-road-to-relief-green-light-at-the-end-of-the-traffic-tunnel/

Phuket’s long-awaited new road linking Kathu and Srisoonthorn is finally getting the green light, thanks to generous land donations from three of the island’s most prominent families. Local bigwigs have confirmed the long-stalled project is now full speed ahead. The Ekwanich, Kulwanich, and Saksaktawee families have handed over the land needed for the ambitious 5.6-kilometre road, designed to ease traffic gridlock in the area, according to Phuket’s Public Relations Department. Family representatives Sanguan Kulwanich, Kitti Saksaktawee, and Nginao Ekwanich marked the formal completion of the donation with a special event at Phuket Provincial Hall last month. The road’s route, which has been on the drawing board for nearly two years, will now be surveyed by a team led by Somkid Chokong, an advisor to the Governor. Friday’s inspection team included top dogs from Phuket’s Provincial Public Works, the Town & Country Planning Office, the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), the Highways Office, and the Forestry Office, alongside Kathu and Srisoonthorn municipal chiefs, a PR Phuket report stated, adding that it’s also envisioned as a future tourism route to boost the island’s appeal. “This new road is set to improve traffic flow between Kathu and Srisoonthorn.” But the survey didn’t come without its hurdles – downed trees and degraded road sections threatened to delay progress. Officials have dubbed the planned route as a new “bypass.” Eco-friendly Plans are underway to ensure the road meets modern and eco-friendly standards, with hopes it will become one of Phuket’s most picturesque routes, bringing benefits to both residents and tourists. A working group has been hammering away at the details since November, tasked with sorting surveys, inspections, and boundary maps to get the project rolling. PPAO President Rewat Areerob confirmed the road would be 12 metres wide, stretching from near the Phuket Mining Museum in Kathu, over the hills, and ending on the east side of Bang Neow Dam in Baan Manik, Srisoonthorn. Local government official Nimit said the private sector is eager to expand transport routes to ease Phuket’s notorious traffic woes. “We need this road to keep Phuket moving, especially after last year’s floods and landslides left roads cut off, grinding the local economy to a halt.” With the wheels finally in motion, Phuket’s locals and tourists are hoping this new road will deliver on its promise of smoother commutes and a brighter future for the island, reported Phuket News. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Game on: Thailand to level up with new Game Industry Act Image courtesy of Event Banana Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry is set to draft the Game Industry Act, aiming to address the rapid growth of the video game sector, valued at 40 billion baht annually. The initiative also seeks to position Thailand as a key player in the regional gaming market, according to the ministry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337113-game-on-thailand-to-level-up-with-new-game-industry-act/

Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry is set to draft the Game Industry Act, aiming to address the rapid growth of the video game sector, valued at 40 billion baht annually. The initiative also seeks to position Thailand as a key player in the regional gaming market, according to the ministry. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President and Chief Executive of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) stated that the agency has been tasked with drafting the law, in collaboration with the Culture Ministry. The draft is expected to encompass all facets of the game industry, including various platforms and devices. Public and state agencies have raised concerns over certain gaming content, particularly online games, which may lead to gambling. Nuttapon highlighted the need for clear definitions and supervision of content, alongside regulatory conditions and a registration system. “The law will seek to balance monitoring and promoting the gaming ecosystem.” The draft is slated for completion by September, followed by a public hearing. It will then proceed to the Cabinet and the Office of the Council of State for final approval. The law is anticipated to be enacted next year. The draft law is the culmination of discussions between government and private agencies to ensure it includes practical details and conditions that balance supervision with promotion. It defines game products and services, establishes a registration system, and outlines a supervision scheme covering game ratings and supply chain promotion. Separate law needed Many online platforms, including iOS and Android, currently offer games, making comprehensive regulation essential. Initially, the Culture Ministry considered amending the Film Act to include gaming content but later agreed with DES that a separate law was more appropriate, said Nuttapon. “Games are not merely physical activities or moving pictures, as defined by the old regulatory scheme, which is impractical for supervising the gaming ecosystem.” The proposed Game Industry Act will cover all types of games on all platforms and services. Specific games will require careful monitoring due to potential misuse leading to gambling. The draft mandates the registration of game operators, developers, and platform providers distributing games in Thailand. It also calls for data linkage between relevant agencies, such as the Commerce Ministry and the Revenue Department, to grant tax benefits to registrants. These benefits include tax deductions for companies training digital workers and support for Thai gaming operators to boost employment and digital skills development. Supervision will focus on game ratings and preventive measures to address issues like online gambling and game-related violence. Nuttapon mentioned that agencies like the Cyber Police Bureau are expected to collaborate with digital payment authorities to ensure comprehensive supervision. Furthermore, the draft contains measures to encourage Thai entrepreneurs to compete internationally. It aims to promote the entire supply chain, from content design and character creation to animation production and e-sports competitions. These initiatives are expected to attract foreign developers to invest in Thailand, solidifying its status as a regional gaming hub, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Event Banana Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Transport Minister reiterates commitment to Land Bridge Project Image courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Pheu Thai-led government remains dedicated to advancing the land bridge project, aiming to enhance benefits for the nation and foster sustainable economic growth, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337112-transport-minister-reiterates-commitment-to-land-bridge-project/

The Pheu Thai-led government remains dedicated to advancing the land bridge project, aiming to enhance benefits for the nation and foster sustainable economic growth, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit. In an update on the initiative, which will connect the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea, Suriya explained that the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) is in the process of drafting a bill for the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC). This draft will be reviewed by the Special Economic Zone Policy Committee (SEZPC) and, following Cabinet approval, will be submitted to the House of Representatives. The bill is anticipated to be enacted by September 2025. Upon the SEC bill’s passage, an SEC office will be established to oversee subsequent developments, including railway and expressway designs, as well as environmental and health impact assessments (EIAs and EHIAs). The Natural Resources and Environmental Policy Office (ONEP) is expected to finalise the EIA by 2025 in accordance with the port design and environmental regulations. The Request for Proposal (RFP) for private investors is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2026, with investor selection to be finalised by the second quarter. Land expropriation will follow, and the project will be presented to the Cabinet for final approval. Construction of the land bridge project is poised to begin in the third quarter of 2026, with a completion target by the end of 2030. Regarding collaboration with Dubai Port World (DP World), Suriya confirmed that DP World is reviewing project details and is prepared to invest in Thailand. The Ministry is open to international investors and assures that all processes will be conducted transparently and subject to oversight. DP World has requested comprehensive project information from the OTP, leading to the formation of a joint working group between the two parties, reported The Nation. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Win Process ordered to pay Bt1.7bn for environmental rehabilitation Photo: Thai PBS The Rayong Provincial Court ordered the Win Process Company to pay 1.7 billion baht in compensation today, for the rehabilitation of the environment damaged by industrial waste leaked from the company’s storage facility since 2011. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337111-win-process-ordered-to-pay-bt17bn-for-environmental-rehabilitation/

The Rayong Provincial Court ordered the Win Process Company to pay 1.7 billion baht in compensation today, for the rehabilitation of the environment damaged by industrial waste leaked from the company’s storage facility since 2011. The civil lawsuit was brought against Win Process by the Pollution Control Department (PCD), after it discovered that the company had breached the law by not recycling hazardous waste, but had discharged the waste into the environment instead, damaging farmland and contaminating natural watercourses. According to the PCD, the hazardous waste was just kept at the Win Process facility in Village 4 in Bang But sub-district of Ban Khai district of Rayong. Some of the waste was even buried in and around the company’s compound. Photo: Thai PBS Full story: Thai PBS 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s Paris Paralympics medal haul grows Photo: Thai PBS With the Paris 2024 Paralympics reaching the halfway point, Thailand has already won two gold, three silver and five bronze medals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337110-thailand’s-paris-paralympics-medal-haul-grows/

With the Paris 2024 Paralympics reaching the halfway point, Thailand has already won two gold, three silver and five bronze medals. Thailand’s first gold medal was won by Pongsakorn Paeyo in the men’s 400m wheelchair racing T53 class. Another was for Worawut Saengampa in the men's BC2 boccia class. The silver winners include Athiwat Paeng-nuea in the men’s 400m wheelchair racing class T54, Rungroj Thainiyom and Phisit Wangphonphathanasiri in the men’s doubles table tennis MD14 class and Yuttajak Glinbancheun and Wijittra Jaion in the mixed doubles table tennis in XD7 class. Photo: Thai PBS Full story: Thai PBS 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Taxi Driver Seeks Justice After Passenger Assault over Fare Dispute File photo for reference only In Bangkok's Sathorn district, Pipol Sawangsuk, a local taxi driver, seeks justice after an altercation with a passenger who accused him of overcharging. The clash, captured on video, occurred on Chan Road on Saturday, 31st August. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337101-thai-taxi-driver-seeks-justice-after-passenger-assault-over-fare-dispute/

In Bangkok's Sathorn district, Pipol Sawangsuk, a local taxi driver, seeks justice after an altercation with a passenger who accused him of overcharging. The clash, captured on video, occurred on Chan Road on Saturday, 31st August. Pipol had picked up a man and his daughter from King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, destined for Banphaeo General Hospital. Confusion over the route led to a fare of 160 baht, sparking the passenger's ire as he believed the fare should have been 100-110 baht. Heated words quickly escalated, with the man, wearing a blue shirt, shouting and allegedly striking the driver. Despite the altercation, Pipol maintained his innocence and later shared a video explaining the chain of events. He even offered to resolve the dispute at a police station, which the passenger refused. The daughter covertly paid Pipol the fare amidst her father’s rage. In his video, Pipol expressed forgiveness for the physical assault but stood firm against the false accusation of dishonesty. While he reported the incident to Tung Mahamek Police Station, he opted to drop legal action, not wanting to expend further time. This incident brings to light the broader issues of fare disputes and the mistrust between taxi drivers and passengers in Bangkok. As the city grapples with such conflicts daily, it's hard not to question whether this was a case of justice served or an unfortunate misunderstanding. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Crackdown Nabs Illegal Resident and Gambling Operations File photo for reference only In a significant crackdown in Samut Prakan, Thai immigration officers targeted illegal foreign residents and gambling activities yesterday, September 1. Led by Police Lieutenant General Itthipol Itthisarnronnachai, the operation focused on the Samrong Nua subdistrict within the Mueang Samut Prakan district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337100-thai-crackdown-nabs-illegal-resident-and-gambling-operations/

In a significant crackdown in Samut Prakan, Thai immigration officers targeted illegal foreign residents and gambling activities yesterday, September 1. Led by Police Lieutenant General Itthipol Itthisarnronnachai, the operation focused on the Samrong Nua subdistrict within the Mueang Samut Prakan district. The directive came from Police Major General Natthakorn Praphas, with Police Colonel Sumet Jenwongpitak spearheading the inspection for violations of the Immigration Act of 1979 and related laws. During the operation, officers arrested a 24-year-old Myanmar national, Nan Khan Mai, caught selling illegal lottery tickets. Upon further inspection, authorities discovered that Nan Khan Mai had a substitute document in place of a valid passport and was on a NON-LA visa. She faces charges of residing in Thailand without permission, working without a work permit, and operating an unauthorised lottery gambling operation. Following her arrest, she was handed over to Samrong Nua Police Station for further legal proceedings. In a statement, Police Colonel Sumet urged the community to report any suspicious activities, highlighting the critical role of public cooperation in maintaining legal order. Thailand's Immigration Act of 1979 outlines strict regulations for foreigners' entry, stay, and employment in the country. Violations can lead to severe consequences, including arrest and deportation. The recent crackdown underscores Thailand's ongoing effort to enforce these regulations stringently. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tambon Sa-Ieab Residents Protest Dam Plans Threatening Forests File photo for reference only Yesterday, around 150 residents from Tambon Sa-Ieab in Phrae's Song district staged a protest against the proposed Kaeng Sue Ten dam project. Gathering at Wat Sri Don Chai, the demonstrators, led by Nattapakul Srikhampha, opposed the plan, fearing it would affect thousands of households and destroy over 10,000 rai of prime forest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337099-tambon-sa-ieab-residents-protest-dam-plans-threatening-forests/

Yesterday, around 150 residents from Tambon Sa-Ieab in Phrae's Song district staged a protest against the proposed Kaeng Sue Ten dam project. Gathering at Wat Sri Don Chai, the demonstrators, led by Nattapakul Srikhampha, opposed the plan, fearing it would affect thousands of households and destroy over 10,000 rai of prime forest. The protestors voiced their concerns about caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s initiative to revive the 200-billion-baht water management project aimed at mitigating flooding in the Yom River basin. Additionally, they criticized former Deputy Prime Minister Plodprasop Suraswadi for supporting the dam's construction. “The dam would block 11 tributaries but leave 66 downstream unaffected,” Nattapakul highlighted. A United Nations FAO study indicated the dam would only reduce flooding in the Yom River basin by 8%, offering minimal benefit. Furthermore, the project risks significant environmental damage, potentially devastating 40,000 to 60,000 rai of forest, which could exacerbate droughts and floods. There’s also a dire risk as the proposed site rests on a fault line, posing a catastrophic threat if the dam failed. Residents urged the government to abandon the dam project and consider sustainable water management solutions. Prasitphon Kala-onsri, another protest leader, vowed continuous resistance from the affected villages of Don Chai, Mae Ten, Don Kaew, and Don Chai Sakthong. The protest comes amidst ongoing floods in three northern and one northeastern provinces. Persistent rain has affected 223 villages and 3,979 families, claiming 22 lives since August 16. The government is being called upon to adopt more innovative and eco-friendly methods to manage water resources effectively. By Ryan Turner Caretaker deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Image courtesy of The Nation -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Task Force Nabs Rocket-Launching Cable Smuggler File photo for reference only A joint task force in Thailand has apprehended Jongrak, a 30-year-old Thai national, using an ingenious method to smuggle Internet cables across the Moei River into Myanmar. The suspect employed a water rocket launcher to span the fibre optic and wiring cables, commissioned by Thai individuals in Myanmar. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337098-thai-task-force-nabs-rocket-launching-cable-smuggler/

A joint task force in Thailand has apprehended Jongrak, a 30-year-old Thai national, using an ingenious method to smuggle Internet cables across the Moei River into Myanmar. The suspect employed a water rocket launcher to span the fibre optic and wiring cables, commissioned by Thai individuals in Myanmar. During a routine patrol on September 1 in Ban Mae Kuet Mai, Mae Kasa subdistrict, officers encountered Jongrak near the riverbank, surrounded by assorted equipment, including fibre optic cables, drilling rods, and a water rocket launcher. Jongrak admitted the cables were likely for illegal operations such as call centre scams or online gambling, predominant in regions reaching Myanmar. Officers from the 431st Infantry Company, Mae Sot Police, and other units undertook the patrol based on intelligence regarding new smuggling techniques. This method has emerged due to increased crackdowns making traditional routes risky. The cables, launched across the river using a makeshift rocket, bypass regular crossing points detected by authorities. The Technology Crime Suppression Division, Border Patrol Police, and the Naresuan Task Force are delving deeper into the network behind this illicit operation. They aim to stem the tide of illegal activities flourishing at the border by continuing thorough investigations. Maintaining vigilance along the border appears vital, as smugglers adapt with creative tactics to circumvent enhanced security measures. This incident marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against cross-border crime. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Floods Lead to Rising Veggie Prices Amid Supply Disruption File photo for reference only Weeks of relentless flooding across several provinces in Thailand have led to significant supply chain disruptions, impacting agricultural prices and availability. Flooding in Thailand's northern region, spurred by heavy rains since July, has notably diminished crop yields, with a resultant surge in vegetable prices. The Ministry of Commerce is closely monitoring this trend, recognising its widespread impact. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337096-thai-floods-lead-to-rising-veggie-prices-amid-supply-disruption/

Weeks of relentless flooding across several provinces in Thailand have led to significant supply chain disruptions, impacting agricultural prices and availability. Flooding in Thailand's northern region, spurred by heavy rains since July, has notably diminished crop yields, with a resultant surge in vegetable prices. The Ministry of Commerce is closely monitoring this trend, recognising its widespread impact. Wattanasak Sur-iam, Director-General of the Internal Trade Department, noted a marked increase in the prices of bok choy, cabbage, coriander, and spring onion due to these harsh weather conditions. Despite the supply challenges, major markets in central areas continue to receive vegetable deliveries from regions less affected by the flooding. Agricultural commodity prices have been pushed higher, with Hom mali paddy rice, white paddy rice, and sticky paddy rice now priced at 16,050, 11,300, and 13,900 baht per tonne, respectively. Tapioca is at 2.95 baht per kilogramme, maize at 11.4 baht per kg, and oil palm at 6.5 baht per kg. However, meat and aquatic prices have remained relatively stable, providing some relief amidst the rising cost of vegetables. “This is a golden year for Thai fruit,” Sur-iam commented, highlighting the stable and high prices of durian and mangosteen, which have recently been harvested in the south. Longkong's yield, expected next month, is projected to be significantly lower by 30 to 40% as more farmers pivot to durian cultivation. In response, the Internal Trade Department is actively collaborating with markets and communities to mitigate living costs, selling low-priced agricultural products through 100 mobile units across Bangkok and various sales points in community areas. Additionally, provincial offices are tasked with ensuring a stable supply of vegetables by connecting with production sources, thereby addressing potential shortages and high prices. The government's swift intervention is crucial as the nation navigates the dual challenges of supply disruption and price inflation brought by these severe floods. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe