snoop1130

New business registrations in Thailand continue to outpace factory and business closures, with employment figures remaining stable, according to the Bank of Thailand. Assistant Governor for the Monetary Policy Group and Secretary of the Monetary Policy Committee, Piti Disyatat stated that the central bank is not alarmed by the current rate of factory and business closures, as they are fewer than new business registrations. Piti highlighted that the registered capital of newly established businesses exceeds that of those closing down. Additionally, employment in the newly registered businesses has increased, reflecting a positive business environment. Piti commented on the cause of factory closures. “Factory closures often result from relocations aimed at boosting business efficiency, which is a routine aspect of operations.” The Department of Industrial Works reported that in May, 171 new factories were inaugurated, compared to 143 in the same period last year. Investment in the new factories amounted to 16.8 billion baht, doubling from 8.12 billion. The number of workers employed by these factories rose to 9,836 in May, from 3,936 last year. Data from the Business Development Department revealed that 6,530 new businesses were registered in April 2024, marking an 8.09% increase from 6,041 businesses in April last year. Brighter future The total registered capital for new businesses in April reached 27.3 billion baht, up by 30.5% from 20.9 billion in 2023. Conversely, business closures dropped by 13.5%, from 936 to 810, according to the Business Development Department. In another development, Piti noted the central bank’s recognition of the need to enhance credit access, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The central bank supports targeted measures such as credit guarantee schemes to address this issue. These initiatives aim to improve credit access for SMEs, which is crucial for economic growth. Last week, the Cabinet approved a low-interest loan programme worth 5 billion baht to support the government’s ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision. Additionally, a credit guarantee fund valued at 50 billion baht through a new portfolio guarantee scheme was established to facilitate SME access to credit. Piti mentioned that the private sector’s borrowing costs from commercial banks have remained relatively stable. Business loans have increased overall, while household loans have grown at a slower rate, driven by hire-purchase and credit card loans, as credit quality has worsened. According to data from the central bank, new household loan growth declined in the first quarter of this year, mainly due to financial institutions’ debt deleveraging in response to lower asset quality. However, new SME loans have increased without debt deleveraging issues, although access to funding sources remains a significant challenge for SME loan growth, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image from Scotsbridge Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign man knocks out Thai transwoman on Pattaya Walking Street Photo via Matichon Security camera footage depicting a foreign man punching a Thai transwoman in the face, causing her to lose consciousness on Pattaya Walking Street, went viral yesterday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330061-foreign-man-knocks-out-thai-transwoman-on-pattaya-walking-street/

Security camera footage depicting a foreign man punching a Thai transwoman in the face, causing her to lose consciousness on Pattaya Walking Street, went viral yesterday. The CCTV footage, recorded around 3am on June 17, was widely shared by Thai media outlets. It showed a heated argument between the transwoman in a yellow dress and two foreign men wearing white T-shirts. Initially attempting to walk away, the foreigners were followed by the transwoman who continued shouting at them. Suddenly, one of the men punched the transwoman in the face, causing her to lose consciousness and fell backwards onto the ground. Security guards from a nearby bar rushed to help her, while other transwomen, believed to be her friends, chased the two foreigners. Channel 7 reported a bloodstain at the scene but the victim had not yet filed a police report, according to the Mueang Pattaya Police Station. A Thai witness, 37 year old Ton, told Channel 7 that he did not know the details of the argument but saw the transwoman arguing with the two foreigners before the attack. Ton added that he saw blood coming from her nose and mouth. Mueang Pattaya Police Station officers urged the transwoman to file a complaint to legally punish the attacker. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Threesome trouble: Canadian tourist left penniless after Pattaya fun Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A Canadian tourist’s holiday in Pattaya took a sinister twist after a threesome left him penniless. What seemed like a casual bit of fun with two Ugandan sex workers turned into a costly nightmare. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330059-threesome-trouble-canadian-tourist-left-penniless-after-pattaya-fun/

A Canadian tourist’s holiday in Pattaya took a sinister twist after a threesome left him penniless. What seemed like a casual bit of fun with two Ugandan sex workers turned into a costly nightmare. Chon Buri Immigration Police arrested 38 year old Mariam and 28 year old Sheebah at a hotel in the Khao Pratamnak area of South Pattaya. The arrests followed a warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court on charges of jointly committing theft at night. This action was taken after Khalid, a Canadian tourist, lodged a complaint at Bang Lamung Police Station. On June 10, Khalid invited two African women to drink and spend the night with him in his hotel room on Pattaya-Na Kluea Road, agreeing to pay them 2,000 baht each. Exhausted, he fell asleep but awoke to find that around 90,000 baht in Thai and foreign currency, which he had securely placed in the room’s safe, was missing. Despite the women’s steadfast denials, claiming they were only there to give him a relaxing massage, police investigations revealed otherwise. Evidence, including CCTV footage, undeniably linked the women to the crime. Consequently, Mariam and Sheebah were taken into custody and handed over to the investigating officers for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod English. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American Tourist Involved in Car Crash Injures Man in Pattaya File photo for reference only On the evening of June 16, 2024, a car accident occurred in Pattaya, Thailand where a local man's car collided with an American tourist's vehicle, resulting in minor injuries for the Thai man. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329984-american-tourist-involved-in-car-crash-injures-man-in-pattaya/

On the evening of June 16, 2024, a car accident occurred in Pattaya, Thailand where a local man's car collided with an American tourist's vehicle, resulting in minor injuries for the Thai man. The unfortunate incident took place on Soi Phra Tamnak 6, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, in Chonburi province involving two sedan cars. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Foundation promptly responded, arriving on the scene alongside The Pattaya News team. Emergency services found a black Honda Jazz flipped onto its side, with visible damage and engine oil spilt on the road. This car was driven by Mr. Theerathorn Ha-ngen, a 30-year-old Thai local. The other car, a bronze Honda sedan, was driven by 43-year-old Mr. Mohammed Amir Dhedhi, an American visiting the country. Despite the accident, Mr. Dhedhi remained uninjured and active in cooperating with local authorities. According to Mr. Ha-ngen, the accident was caused when Mr. Dhedhi's car, which was parked by the roadside, unexpectedly pulled out and collided with his car's back end. This resulted in his car flipping and the resulting injuries which included minor scrapes and discomfort in his chest and abdomen. Presently, the Pattaya police are examining CCTV footage to establish the origins of the accident, assign responsibility, and decide if there's a need for legal proceedings. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourist Claims He Was Attacked and Robbed in Pattaya, Reports to Police File photo for reference only An Indian tourist reported being attacked and robbed outside a hotel in Pattaya, early on Monday morning, June 17. Gobin Manimaran, 34, informed the Pattaya police of his ordeal at around 5:36 AM that day. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329978-indian-tourist-claims-he-was-attacked-and-robbed-in-pattaya-reports-to-police/

An Indian tourist reported being attacked and robbed outside a hotel in Pattaya, early on Monday morning, June 17. Gobin Manimaran, 34, informed the Pattaya police of his ordeal at around 5:36 AM that day. The Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Pattaya Police Station, Pol. Lt. Col. Boonsong Yingyong, received Manimaran's complaint. Manimaran said he was attacked and had his belongings stolen by a group of men outside the White Rose Hotel, situated in Banglamung district's Nongprue sub-district, Chonburi region. An unidentified person who witnessed the event said Manimaran approached him for help after purportedly being attacked by three individuals. The assailants allegedly took his wallet, which had about $50 (approximately 1,750 Baht), and his iPhone 10 before running away. The attack reportedly happened late in the evening on June 16, 2024. Before contacting the police, Manimaran initially asked the hotel to inspect the CCTV footage of the incident. The hotel staff suggested he report the incident to the police first, prompting his visit to the station to file the complaint. Manimaran didn't suffer any severe injuries, but he did have minor bruises. The police, under Pol. Lt. Col. Boonsong's supervision, are currently investigating the incident. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man found dead, his sexual partner goes missing File photo for reference only A 63 year old Thai man was found dead under puzzling circumstances in a hotel room in Ubon Ratchathani province, with a woman, believed to be his partner, missing from the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329972-thai-man-found-dead-his-sexual-partner-goes-missing/

A 63 year old Thai man was found dead under puzzling circumstances in a hotel room in Ubon Ratchathani province, with a woman, believed to be his partner, missing from the scene. Local authorities were called to investigate the unusual death of Chaiyasit, a retired official from the Royal Irrigation Department, on June 15. He was discovered wearing only his underwear and motionless on the bed. Police located his shirt, trousers, wallet and identification card at the foot of the bed. They also found dry leaves on the bed, although the plant species they come from has not been determined yet. The police found no evidence of injuries or robbery. Chaiyasit's possessions, including money, mobile phone and the keys to his red Toyota parked outside, were all intact. A 29 year old hotel employee named Wong recounted to the police that Chaiyasit came to the hotel with a woman who seemed to be between 40 and 50 years old. The woman was heard shouting for help around 2:27pm. Wong's girlfriend, also an employee of the hotel, found the woman attempting to resuscitate Chaiyasit. The woman requested the hotel staff to call for medical assistance, but they were unable to save Chaiyasit. However, before the police or a medical team arrived, the woman collected her belongings and left the hotel by taxi. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from both the hotel and neighboring areas. They are attempting to get in contact with the woman for questioning. Online speculations suggest the woman was not involved in Chaiyasit's death but had left because she did not want to get entangled in the investigation and possible confrontation with Chaiyasit’s wife. Some internet users also suppose that Chaiyasit might have consumed an excess amount of Viagra, resulting in his death. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Imposters posing as police and extorting money arrested in Samut Sakhon File photo for reference only Thai law enforcement officers have arrested a gang in Samut Sakhon, who were extorting money from kratom juice sellers and fuel smugglers by pretending to be police. The gang members were caught today during a raid which uncovered their fraudulent activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329969-imposters-posing-as-police-and-extorting-money-arrested-in-samut-sakhon/

Thai law enforcement officers have arrested a gang in Samut Sakhon, who were extorting money from kratom juice sellers and fuel smugglers by pretending to be police. The gang members were caught today during a raid which uncovered their fraudulent activities. According to police, on May 29, this group had visited a kratom juice shop in Mueang Samut Sakhon. Dressed in Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) vests and arriving on motorcycles, they convinced the shopkeeper that they were actual police officers. They demanded 28,000 baht from the vendor to avoid any legal trouble and insisted they pay additional 3,000 baht monthly for the same reason. But these extortionists were not only targeting kratom juice sellers. The gang exploited the same trick of impersonation to extort money from people smuggling fuel in Samut Sakhon. The probe into this case has found that more than 11 individuals, including two active police officers and nine civilians, were part of this illicit operation. During the raid, authorities discovered counterfeit police badges, CIB vests, and other evidence that implicated the suspects in the crimes. These suspects were arrested and are now going through further legal procedures, as reported by Pattaya News. The Thai authorities' action against this gang of extortionists is a part of an ongoing nationwide effort to eliminate corruption and misconduct, which erode the public's trust in law enforcement. A comprehensive investigation is now underway to identify the level of involvement of these police officers and to uncover any possible links within the police force. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Buzzing battle: Bangkok unites businesses to combat dengue fever Picture courtesy of Matteo Fusco from unsplash.com Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Department of Disease Control (DDC) are actively collaborating with businesses to combat the rising incidence of dengue fever, a situation exacerbated by the expanding range of dengue-carrying mosquitoes due to climate change. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329968-buzzing-battle-bangkok-unites-businesses-to-combat-dengue-fever/

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Department of Disease Control (DDC) are actively collaborating with businesses to combat the rising incidence of dengue fever, a situation exacerbated by the expanding range of dengue-carrying mosquitoes due to climate change. To commemorate ASEAN Dengue Day, which occurs on June 15, BMA and DDC, in partnership with Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Takeda (Thailand) Limited, and other corporate entities, organised an event titled Dengue Heroes towards Zero Death. Held at the Airawat Pattana building within the City Hall complex in Din Daeng, the event aimed to bolster the World Health Organization’s (WHO) objective of eliminating dengue-related deaths by 2030. Residents were encouraged to implement measures to protect their communities from the spread of dengue, including maintaining proper sanitation and ensuring effective drainage to prevent Aedes aegypti mosquitoes from breeding. Participants received crucial information, particularly regarding the importance of these measures during the El Nino phenomenon, which typically results in shorter but more intense rain, creating stagnant pools of clean water ideal for mosquito breeding. From January to May this year, almost 30,000 dengue fever cases were reported, with 29 fatalities. The DDC anticipates this number could rise to as many as 280 by the end of the year. DDC Director-General Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn emphasised the critical role of public involvement in disrupting the dengue transmission cycle. “By becoming dengue heroes in their communities, everyone can help.” Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, speaking at the event, highlighted the city’s proactive measures to curb the disease’s spread. These include active surveillance, eradication of breeding sites, and community engagement. The 58 year old remarked that our goal is to ensure everyone in the community is informed and vigilant. The Embassy of Japan in Thailand, the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand, Amata Plc, and CP ALL Plc also lent their support to the event, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Matteo Fusco from unsplash.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Match madness: Football fans ignite flares, burn car at Bangkok uni Image courtesy of Khaosod An intense football match ended in chaos when fans set off flares, causing a vehicle to catch fire at the Thammasat University, Rangsit Centre. The incident left the car’s owner devastated, as the vehicle was uninsured and essential for daily work. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329967-match-madness-football-fans-ignite-flares-burn-car-at-bangkok-uni/

An intense football match ended in chaos when fans set off flares, causing a vehicle to catch fire at the Thammasat University, Rangsit Centre. The incident left the car’s owner devastated, as the vehicle was uninsured and essential for daily work. The fire occurred at 9pm yesterday, June 16, following the conclusion of the Revo Cup final between Muangthong United and BG Pathum United, where BG Pathum emerged victorious with a score of 1-0. Police and firefighters from the Tha Khlong Municipality Fire Department quickly responded to the fire behind the Main Stadium. They found a white Isuzu four-door pickup truck engulfed in flames. The firefighters extinguished the blaze within ten minutes but the vehicle’s interior was extensively damaged from the fire. Witnesses reported that a group of five to six individuals ignited flares near the stadium, one of which landed on the pickup truck, causing the fire. An eyewitness, 41 year old Piyapong recounted the event. “I saw the group set off the first flare, which fell into the football field. Another one landed on the car. They then moved towards the stadium entrance, causing further disturbances with other fans.” Another eyewitness, a BG Pathum fan, Natee Srisuk shares additional details on the unruly hooligans. Group of fans “I saw them setting off flares outside the stadium. Someone recorded it, and when the flare landed and caused the fire, the group chased the person filming. They were all men, around 20 to 30 years old.” The 47 year old car owner, Arun arrived to find his vehicle in flames. He shared that his car is uninsured and essential for his daily work, distraught, he remains unsure of how to seek compensation for the damages. Arun visited the stadium for his sons’s football match with MJ United from Ayutthaya, unrelated to the teams playing yesterday. “If I had known it would be like this, I wouldn’t have come. For a big competition like this, it has to be better. How can it be organised to prevent incidents like this? I saw fans fighting and setting off flares, which should not happen. “I want to urge everyone involved to come and rectify this problem, and I also want to address the Football Association to help manage this issue. I don’t want incidents like this to happen, but now that it has, someone must take responsibility and expedite the resolution because I need this car for my livelihood.” A rescue team member from the on-site Thitikarn Ambulance Service explained that the fire started on a sheet of canvas before spreading to the car. Investigators documented the scene and instructed officers to review CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the culprits responsible for the incident, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi Airport’s runway to riches, a 941-million-baht taxiway twist Picture courtesy of accidental travel writer official website The Department of Airports (DoA) is pushing forward with a 941-million-baht project to build a parallel taxiway at Krabi Airport. Currently, the project is over 76% complete. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329966-krabi-airport’s-runway-to-riches-a-941-million-baht-taxiway-twist/

The Department of Airports (DoA) is pushing forward with a 941-million-baht project to build a parallel taxiway at Krabi Airport. Currently, the project is over 76% complete. DoA Deputy Director-General Wittawas Pakdesontiskul recently inspected the site and attended a meeting to monitor progress. The meeting included representatives from the contractor, Nawarat Patanakarn Public Co. Ltd., along with consultancies We Engineering Consultants Co. Ltd., Intigretade Engineering Consultant Co. Ltd., and Teamwork Consultant Co. Ltd., as well as officials from Krabi Airport. Starting on October 29, 2020, with a budget of 941 million baht, the project had reached 76.7% completion as of yesterday. Upon completion, the airport will be able to handle 24 flights per hour, a significant increase from its current capacity of eight flights per hour, said Wittawas. “I have asked the contractor to speed up the work so it will be finished according to schedule.” The project aims to enhance the airport’s capacity, aligning with government policy to attract more tourists to the country. Additionally, the project seeks to improve fundamental utilities in the transport sector, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the nation. It aims to facilitate seamless connections among various forms of transport, link tourist attractions, and promote development in local areas, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of accidental travel writer official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The Election Commission has "Plan B," says Commissioner Thitichet File photo for reference only The Election Commission (EC) has prepared a contingency plan for a possible ruling that may declare four articles in the senate election law unconstitutional, according to election commissioner Thitichet Nuchanatta. Though he confirmed that senatorial selections at the provincial level will continue as scheduled this Sunday, he did not disclose what the backup plan involves. He added that the EC will await Tuesday's verdict and stated that any assumption that the senatorial election could be nullified due to the court's decision is purely speculative. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329703-the-election-commission-has-plan-b-says-commissioner-thitichet/

The Election Commission (EC) has prepared a contingency plan for a possible ruling that may declare four articles in the senate election law unconstitutional, according to election commissioner Thitichet Nuchanatta. Though he confirmed that senatorial selections at the provincial level will continue as scheduled this Sunday, he did not disclose what the backup plan involves. He added that the EC will await Tuesday's verdict and stated that any assumption that the senatorial election could be nullified due to the court's decision is purely speculative. EC Secretary General Sawaeng Boonmee indicated today that local election chiefs are well-prepared for Tuesday's voting. He stressed that their focus is on assuring a peaceful, orderly, and fair selection process. Acknowledging that several issues arose during last Sunday's initial round of selection, such as a non-audio CCTV system at polling booths and unqualified entrants in the polling area, Boonmee confirmed that these problems are being addressed. Moreover, as several candidates received no votes in the district elections, which might suggest they were stand-ins, Boonmee stated that an investigation into the matter is in progress by local election officials. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Over 5,000 Animals Dead, Prompting Bangkok Governor to Suspend Animal Sales File photo for reference only The Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, has declared a halt in operations at a popular pet market in the city. This follows a fire that resulted in the loss of over 5,000 animals recently. The Srisamorn Market, which is managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration but is on State Railway property, has been selling pets for over two decades. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329608-concerns-over-animal-welfare-emerge-after-fire-breaks-out-at-pet-market/?do=findComment&comment=18988753

Over 5,000 Animals Dead, Prompting Bangkok Governor to Suspend Animal Sales The Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, has declared a halt in operations at a popular pet market in the city. This follows a fire that resulted in the loss of over 5,000 animals recently. The Srisamorn Market, which is managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration but is on State Railway property, has been selling pets for over two decades. The market's activities are paused until further notice, with reopening contingent on approval from both the railway authorities and the market organizers. Chadchart expressed sincere apology for the tragic incident. The devastating fire damaged 118 stores, partially affected another 15, and led to the death of more than 5,000 animals. These animals included 3,500 fish, 37 dogs, 2 monkeys, 1,382 birds, 30 squirrels, 100 turtles, 25 cats, 10 raccoons, and 217 chickens. The Thai Animal Guardians Association, through Roger Lohanun, responded to the announcement by making three urgent demands: a fast investigation of the fire, better safety measures, and tougher enforcement of existing animal welfare laws. In a related development, around 200 betta fish have been rescued from the scene of the fire. Local council members and animal welfare workers attended to the scene of the fire to help save these fish. The owner subsequently gave the rescued fish to any willing takers. Dr. Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, the head of the Department of Livestock Development, reported that certain pets including chickens, reptiles, and exotic animals were saved. The veterinary staff at hand provided immediate medical attention to these animals before transferring them to a veterinary hospital at Kasetsart University. Police Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwpan, from the Forensic Science office, revealed that further examinations are needed to identify the cause of the fire, although the origin point is known. The area will soon be accessible for shop owners to evaluate damage to their properties. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Trial Run Begins, Bringing Beijing-Bangkok Train Trip Closer to Reality File photo for reference only Thailand is planning to trial a rail service between its capital Bangkok and Laos' Vientiane on July 13 and 14, a move that brings train travel between Bangkok and Beijing closer to becoming a reality. This development was announced by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Ekarat Sriarayanphong, an official from SRT, said the new link will enhance transportation between Thailand, Laos, and China. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329696-trial-run-begins-bringing-beijing-bangkok-train-trip-closer-to-reality/

Thailand is planning to trial a rail service between its capital Bangkok and Laos' Vientiane on July 13 and 14, a move that brings train travel between Bangkok and Beijing closer to becoming a reality. This development was announced by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Ekarat Sriarayanphong, an official from SRT, said the new link will enhance transportation between Thailand, Laos, and China. Upon commencement, this connection will make it possible to travel by train from Thailand's Bangkok through Laos' Vientiane to China's Beijing with a semi-high-speed service available in the southern Chinese city of Kunming. The journey is approximately 2,000 miles (3,218 kilometers) long and, due to the mountainous terrain, is expected to take almost a day. By comparison, a non-stop flight takes just under five hours. A high-speed train route is already in operation between China and Laos. This has proven to be beneficial for the transportation of Thai goods, reducing delivery times from two days by road transport to 15 hours by rail, according to a report by Nikkei. Improving connectivity with China, its chief trade ally, is a strategic move for Thailand to stimulate its economy. Thailand's exports to China almost hit the $32 billion mark within the first 11 months of last year, with key exports being fruits and rubber products. During the same period, Thailand's imports from China reached a value of $65.3 billion, primarily in electric equipment and machinery. In addition to trade, both countries are also focused on fostering tourism links. Chinese tourists are allowed a 60-day stay in Thailand, while Thai tourists can stay for 30 days in China. Plans are underway for a high-speed-rail system to connect Thailand to China through Laos by 2028, a development expected to further bolster the tourism sector. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe