snoop1130

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Speaks About Concerns Regarding Rice Auction File photo for reference only The Ministry of Commerce has responded to worries about the rice auction that came from the rice-pledging scheme during the term of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329054-deputy-prime-minister-phumtham-speaks-about-concerns-regarding-rice-auction/

The Ministry of Commerce has responded to worries about the rice auction that came from the rice-pledging scheme during the term of ex-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Phumtham Wechayachai, has assured the public that no issues exist. He has stressed that both Thai and international consumers are equally important. He revealed that the focus is not just on making money, but also on ensuring quality and responsibility. Right now, only 15,000 tons of rice are involved. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham noted that there's interest in buying the rice, but didn't say whether it'll be sold in Thailand or abroad. He mentioned high demand for hard rice in Africa. In a meeting with African ambassadors, no one brought this up, reasserting that the quality of rice sold is always kept high. He showed confidence that Thai rice will continue to be popular, and assured that all steps are followed and buyers won't buy poor quality rice as they must preserve quality for their own people. Phumtham said the rice auction process has finished, and by the end of this month, all of the rice will be sold. This will ease worries about old rice stock from the last 10 to 20 years. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Set to Enforce Stricter Penalties for Drunk Driving File photo for reference only The government has made moves to increase punishments for drunk drivers who cause accidents and injuries. The Don't Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD) suggested stronger punishments for drink-drive offenses, presenting a petition to the committee reviewing changes to the Alcohol Control Act. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329052-thailand-set-to-enforce-stricter-penalties-for-drunk-driving/

The government has made moves to increase punishments for drunk drivers who cause accidents and injuries. The Don't Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD) suggested stronger punishments for drink-drive offenses, presenting a petition to the committee reviewing changes to the Alcohol Control Act. The petition suggests that outlets selling alcohol to minors who are then involved in fatal drink-driving incidents should face civil and criminal charges, have their license taken away, and be required to provide compensation to the victims. They also want these businesses to help set up a fund to support individuals affected by excessive alcohol consumption. The committee plans to present the petition to the House in their next session set for July. To strengthen the law and prevent corruption, the committee has sought advice from Pol Gen Achirawit Suwanpesat, a former assistant police chief. The 42-member committee is dedicated to creating solutions that bring noticeable benefits for everyone. The expected changes to the law should bring benefits to society in general, as the amendment enjoys support from several political groups and parties. Discussions will be held regarding the amendments and the needed private sector support with the Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Milli's positive experience with ID card stirs up discussions on social media File photo for reference only Many people in Thailand are often hesitant to show their national ID cards due to reasons like the photo not representing them accurately or appearing distorted. The issue is that the officials taking these photos typically don't allow the individuals to review or retake the photos if they're dissatisfied. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329051-millis-positive-experience-with-id-card-stirs-up-discussions-on-social-media/

Many people in Thailand are often hesitant to show their national ID cards due to reasons like the photo not representing them accurately or appearing distorted. The issue is that the officials taking these photos typically don't allow the individuals to review or retake the photos if they're dissatisfied. This concern recently gained attention among Thai internet users after Thai rapper and singer, Danupha Khanatheerakul, popularly known as “Milli”, shared her experience of getting an ID card at the Bang Phlat district office on her social media account, @millimdk. She expressed delight over her ID photo, which she felt was nice because it showed her looking attractive with good lighting and hairstyle. Milli's post went viral, leading to many internet users expressing an interest in applying for their ID cards at the Bang Phlat district office. Capitalizing on this interest, the district office shared Milli’s post on its Facebook page. They invited individuals needing new ID cards, asking, “Does your identity card expire? If you want a nice photo, come to the Bang Phlat district office.” They added that their working hours are from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. The post garnered many "likes" and positive comments from internet users. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cabinet Approves VAT on All Imports Exceeding 1 Baht File photo for reference only The Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods worth more than 1 baht. This proposal has been granted preliminary approval by the Cabinet. Aimed at controlling an influx of cheap imported goods, especially from China, this method is expected to create a more balanced market for local producers and importers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329048-cabinet-approves-vat-on-all-imports-exceeding-1-baht/

The Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods worth more than 1 baht. This proposal has been granted preliminary approval by the Cabinet. Aimed at controlling an influx of cheap imported goods, especially from China, this method is expected to create a more balanced market for local producers and importers. Government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke, announced that this new rule will be in effect 15 days from its publication in the Royal Gazette, until December 31. The government will then assess the impact of this policy before deciding on whether it should be extended. Currently, the VAT is only collected on imported goods valued at over 1,500 baht. This has been the case since 2018. Instituting this new rule is a part of the government's larger effort to make the marketplace fair for local businesses. Chai said that local businesses, especially online sellers, have suffered due to the inflow of cheap products. As a result, their earnings have decreased significantly. The government is considering changing the Revenue Code to provide a long-term solution to this issue. Paul Srivorakul, the Chief Executive of e-commerce platform aCommerce, stated that implementing VAT ensures all goods are taxed uniformly, no matter where they are from. This makes the competition fairer for local products and domestic businesses, and could increase government revenue through both import duties and VAT. However, Paul also warned that new duties on low-value goods could complicate customs procedures, slowing down the import process and affecting businesses that rely on imported products. The e-commerce sector, especially those profiting from the sale of low-cost imported goods, could be impacted by this new VAT rule. Even so, Paul believes the benefits to local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the Thai economy outweigh the effects on Chinese e-commerce platforms. Several industries, including the steel sector, are feeling the effects of an overflow of Chinese goods in the market. Instead of importing Chinese steel to sell in Thailand, Chinese entrepreneurs are now setting up their own steel-making factories in Thailand. Aat Pisanwanich, an independent analyst on international trade, warns that unless more measures are put in place to support Thai entrepreneurs, they may disappear altogether within the next five years. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Architecture Receives Second Highest Award in Asia File photo for reference only Thailand's architecture secured second place in a list of Asia's best architectural countries, according to a May 26 publication on American financial site. The website explored various Asian architectural styles and their global value, emphasizing their unique fusion of modern design and traditional methods. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329046-thai-architecture-receives-second-highest-award-in-asia/

Thailand's architecture secured second place in a list of Asia's best architectural countries, according to a May 26 publication on American financial site. The website explored various Asian architectural styles and their global value, emphasizing their unique fusion of modern design and traditional methods. China came out on top, with the Palace Museum of the Forbidden City as its most notable architectural feature. Thailand's ranking was achieved mainly because of two highly-rated spots on Trip Advisor: Jim Thompson House in Bangkok and the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sermsak Pongpanit, was happy about Thailand's strong position. He stated the ministry would conduct surveys at numerous tourist sites to enhance and market them. He also expressed confidence in Thailand's tourism growth, referencing the 14 million tourists received between January 1 and June 2. The top five countries where these tourists came from were China, Malaysia, India, Russia, and South Korea. The full list of countries and the architectural sites that made them stand out are as follows: 1. China – Palace Museum of the Forbidden City 2. Thailand – Jim Thompson House and the Sanctuary of Truth 3. Japan – Toranomon Hills and Kobelco Power Moka 4. Malaysia – Petronas Twin Towers 5. India – Taj Mahal 6. Hong Kong – Tian Tan Buddha 7. Macau – Ruins of St Paul's Cathedral, Macau Tower, and the Grand Lisboa 8. Vietnam – Calm Casamia Community House, Bat Trang Pottery Museum, and Lung Vai School 9. South Korea – N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung museums, and Changdeokgung Palace 10. Taiwan – Taipei 101 File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New tax cuts granted to increase tourism in smaller cities File photo for reference only The government has approved plans to encourage tourism in smaller cities during the off-peak period. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced this new policy applies to both firms conducting seminars and individuals on holiday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329045-new-tax-cuts-granted-to-increase-tourism-in-smaller-cities/

The government has approved plans to encourage tourism in smaller cities during the off-peak period. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced this new policy applies to both firms conducting seminars and individuals on holiday. Under the new plan, firms will be able to subtract expenses such as seminar rooms, accommodation, transport, and more from their corporate tax. This is for domestic employee seminars or tour operator service fees for these seminars, starting from May 1st till November 30th. If seminars are held in secondary touristic provinces or defined tour spots, expenses will get double deductions. In non-secondary areas, the deduction will be 1.5 times. If a seminar covers both kinds of cities, costs have to be split, or else a 1.5 times reduction is applied. During the same period, individuals on vacation can deduct up to 15,000 baht, about $410, from their income tax for their expenses on tour operators or accommodations within secondary touristic provinces. These measures demand a complete tax receipt digitally through an e-receipt system. Paopoom asserts these strategies aim at promoting tourism in smaller cities and facilitating travels in the low season. Yet, he estimates these could cost the government about 1.78 billion baht, roughly $49 million in tax revenues this year. Chayabol Hirankanokkul, President of the Phang Nga Tourism Council, raised concerns about this choosy strategy. He pointed out Phang Nga, not labeled as a secondary city, would miss out on the tax cuts, despite earning just 50 billion baht, approximately $1.4 billion annually from tourism. He argued smaller cities might not have the capacity to host big meeting and seminar crowds. A Thai Hotels Association board advisor, La-iad Bungsrithong, added that promoting smaller cities through tax cuts might not be sufficient to drive the entire tourism market, particularly the convention sector. She suggested the government should push state bodies and big companies to spend on meetings in any local destination within the fiscal year 2024, which wraps up in four months. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jonas Siegenthaler, NHL player, organizes a hockey camp in Chiang Mai File photo for reference only Chiang Mai recently held its first-ever National Hockey League (NHL) player camp, lead by Jonas Siegenthaler, an NHL player of Thai descent. Siegenthaler, fresh from earning a silver medal representing Switzerland at the World Championships in the Czech Republic, conducted a three-day training session for young Thai hockey players under the age of 11 and 15. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329042-jonas-siegenthaler-nhl-player-organizes-a-hockey-camp-in-chiang-mai/

Chiang Mai recently held its first-ever National Hockey League (NHL) player camp, lead by Jonas Siegenthaler, an NHL player of Thai descent. Siegenthaler, fresh from earning a silver medal representing Switzerland at the World Championships in the Czech Republic, conducted a three-day training session for young Thai hockey players under the age of 11 and 15. Excited about hosting in Thailand, Siegenthaler said, "I've always wanted to conduct a camp here and am thrilled to be doing it in Chiang Mai. We spent three days honing various skills. It was a wonderful experience." The camp was conducted at the new ice stadium in Chiang Mai, completed in October of the previous year, and was attended by 50 children. The attendees included budding athletes from Bangkok, who received professional training under Siegenthaler's guidance, showcasing their dedication and love for the sport. Siegenthaler expressed his surprise at the professional level of the camp, stating that the children were curious and enthusiastic. Referring to a particularly determined participant, he said, "One girl even stated her dream of playing in the NHL one day." Siegenthaler stressed the significance of aiming high and dreaming big during his reflection of the event. He said, "I have always wanted hockey to grow in Thailand. It would be fantastic if Thailand could participate in a World Championship someday." After the camp, Siegenthaler is now vacationing in Hua Hin, where his mother lives. His camp has left an encouraging legacy for Thai hockey, with young players in Chiang Mai showing ample talent and enthusiasm. Siegenthaler's initiative has set the stage for the sport’s bright future in Thailand, with 60 young players already in the pipeline for future success. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand to tax residents’ foreign income irrespective of remittance Image courtesy of Thailand Elite Visas The Revenue Department of Thailand will amend a law to tax individuals with foreign income, even if that income is not brought into Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329034-thailand-to-tax-residents’-foreign-income-irrespective-of-remittance/

The Revenue Department of Thailand will amend a law to tax individuals with foreign income, even if that income is not brought into Thailand. Director-General of the Revenue Department, Kulaya Tantitemit stated that the current tax law mandates individuals residing in Thailand for over 180 days per year to pay taxes on foreign income if it is brought into the country. This income is currently subject to personal income tax payments to the department. The department is now working to amend the law based on the principle of worldwide income. This principle taxes individuals based on their residency within the country, irrespective of whether the income is sourced domestically or internationally. Kulaya mentioned plans to expand the tax base by requiring platforms with an income of 1 billion baht or more to report their sources of income. She added that the department will use this information to verify their tax compliance. Previously, the department revised the criteria for tax residency, mandating that individuals residing in Thailand for at least 180 days per year and earning foreign income must pay personal income tax if that income is brought into the country within the same year it was earned. However, this rule will be revised again, effective from 2024, requiring tax payment on foreign income regardless of when it is brought into the country, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Thailand Elite Visas Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Young woman's body discovered under the expressway File photo for reference only The body of a young woman, likely a university student, was discovered semi-naked and with knife wounds to her neck under an expressway in Pathum Thani's Muang district on Wednesday morning. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329032-young-womans-body-discovered-under-the-expressway/

The body of a young woman, likely a university student, was discovered semi-naked and with knife wounds to her neck under an expressway in Pathum Thani's Muang district on Wednesday morning. Thongdaeng Bonsungnern, a 49-year-old garage owner, first spotted a man on a motorcycle presumably abandoning something under the Udon Ratthaya expressway around 5 in the morning. The man attempted to camouflage it with grass and garbage bags from nearby, then rode off. He later returned, and when questioned by Bonsungnern about what he disposed of, he replied, "I threw a loved thing here." Bonsungnern managed to snap a photo of the man, who was under 30 and wore glasses, leaving the scene at about 5.40 am. Bonsungnern's wife later noticed the dumped items and found what seemed like a human foot amid the waste. She promptly alerted the authorities. Police arrived at the scene, accompanied by rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. They discovered the murdered woman's body, semi-naked and wrapped in a bedsheet, hidden amongst the trash. She was wearing a Rajabhat University belt. The gruesome scene was filmed by the head of the rescue team and posted on his Facebook page, Nakon45 Anyawut Pho-amphai. According to police, bloodstains were found around the body. Forensic officers should have samples to analyze soon. Unfortunately, the woman’s identity remains unknown. Pol Maj Atchara Kratueng-ngarn, the investigation chief at Pak Klong Rangsit police station, reported the murder to the police around 8.15 am. The victim was estimated to be between 20 to 25 years old, with her wrists severed and a 3 kg dumbbell under her left armpit. A 2 kg pendulum weight was also found near her legs. Authorities believe she was killed between six to eight hours before her body was discovered. The body has been transported to the hospital for a post-mortem examination, and police are continuing their investigation. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Burglaries in Phatthalung cause losses worth millions Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A string of burglaries in Phatthalung has left local shop owners on edge, with thieves breaking into shops six times in two months and causing losses worth millions of baht. Despite police efforts, the culprits remain at large, prompting growing concern among residents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329030-burglaries-in-phatthalung-cause-losses-worth-millions/

A string of burglaries in Phatthalung has left local shop owners on edge, with thieves breaking into shops six times in two months and causing losses worth millions of baht. Despite police efforts, the culprits remain at large, prompting growing concern among residents. Amporn Khongliam, the 60 year old owner of Pakieng Agriculture Shop in Moo 5, Na Pakho Subdistrict, Bang Kaeo District, Phatthalung, reported that her store had been targeted by thieves six times over the past two months. The first incident occurred on April 19, when the burglars broke into a coin-operated oil vending machine. Amporn explained that the thieves returned twice more, and then, two weeks later, they broke into a neighbouring shop, drilled into a safe in her bedroom, and stole gold necklaces, diamonds, and gold-encased amulets worth millions of baht. Just a few days later, the perpetrators returned to steal computers and dismantle the CCTV server, Amporn said. “Last night, on June 4, the thieves climbed a tree, dismantled the roof of the coin-operated oil vending machine, and stole the money inside. They even tilted the CCTV camera. I’m exhausted, every profit I make goes to these thieves.” Amporn reported each incident at Bang Kaeo Police Station. Forensic officers have collected fingerprints and DNA samples but the culprits remain at large. She expressed frustration, saying that if the thieves strike four more times, she will be forced to close her shop permanently, as they’ve already taken all her valuables. Despite installing 16 CCTV cameras around her shop, both inside and outside, Amporn feels hopeless. She urged the police to expedite their efforts in catching these criminals. The repercussions are not limited to her shop; the entire village lives in fear of these repeated thefts. Shop burglary CCTV footage from Amporn’s shop on June 4 showed a man, estimated to be between 20 and 30 years old, approximately 170 centimetres tall, wearing a balaclava and a cap. He adjusted the camera angle before committing the theft, making it difficult to capture his face. On the same night, the same thief targeted 63 year old Jamlong Thumkao’s shop, about 1 kilometre away from Amporn’s shop. Jamlong reported that the thief cut through the steel mesh next to the road. The noise woke her son, who checked the CCTV footage on his phone and saw the thief cutting the mesh. When he shouted, the thief fled on a motorcycle, reported KhaoSod. Jamlong mentioned that the same thief had broken into her shop 15 days earlier, stealing over 3,000 baht (US$82) in cash. Despite reporting it to the police and having them collect fingerprints and DNA samples, there have been no results. The thief returned a second time, Jamlong said. “I’m extremely worried about these frequent thefts in our area. Nearly every day, there’s a break-in. We can’t sleep soundly because we have to guard our properties. I urge the police to take stricter actions or catch the thief soon. Everyone here is suffering.” By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Draws More Indian Tourists Due to Extension of Visa-Free Policy File photo for reference only Chai Wacharoke, a government spokesperson, recently announced that Thailand is seeing an increase in tourism from India. This is the result of a visa-free initiative that the Thai government endorsed, allowing Indian visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa. This exemption is active from 11 May 2024 to 11 November 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329029-thailand-draws-more-indian-tourists-due-to-extension-of-visa-free-policy/

Chai Wacharoke, a government spokesperson, recently announced that Thailand is seeing an increase in tourism from India. This is the result of a visa-free initiative that the Thai government endorsed, allowing Indian visitors to stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa. This exemption is active from 11 May 2024 to 11 November 2024. Following this, the number of searches for Thailand on Airbnb, an online accommodation platform, has soared by over 200% compared to 2023 stats. The most popular Thai destinations on Airbnb are Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Koh Samui. In a bid to invigorate Thailand's economy and encourage tourism, the Government has approved three new measures to make travel easier into the country. From late June, the following changes are anticipated: 1) Tourists and short-term business visitors from 93 countries will now be allowed to stay for up to 60 days rather than the previous 30-day limit. 2) The number of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) will rise from 19 to 31. 3) A new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) will be introduced for long-term travelers, "digital nomads," and those participating in certain cultural activities. With this, visitors are allowed to stay up to 180 days per visit during a five-year multiple-entry period. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand aims to be global hub for skilled foreign workers Picture courtesy of Etienne Girardet, Unsplash Thailand is aiming to enhance its global competitiveness by becoming a hub for skilled foreign workers, as part of a long-term strategy to drive and sustain economic growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329028-thailand-aims-to-be-global-hub-for-skilled-foreign-workers/

Thailand is aiming to enhance its global competitiveness by becoming a hub for skilled foreign workers, as part of a long-term strategy to drive and sustain economic growth. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is spearheading this initiative by introducing a range of new visa types designed to attract international talent, according to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke. This announcement was made yesterday, June 4, highlighting the government’s commitment to positioning Thailand as a prime destination for skilled professionals. Data from the Board of Investment (BOI) reveals that Thailand has already issued working visas and work permits to over 56,000 foreign experts involved in investment-promoted projects. Additionally, more than 4,000 long-term resident (LTR) visas have been granted. The LTR visa holders include 791 from the US, 479 from Russia, 332 from the UK, 277 from China, 236 from Germany, 207 from Japan, and 198 from France. Furthermore, there are 2,170 smart visa holders, who are skilled professionals and investors in key industries, as well as a startup group predominantly from the US, Russia, the UK, Japan, and Germany. These visas are part of a broader effort to attract high-potential foreigners, including specialists, work-from-Thailand professionals, high-income individuals, and retirees with their spouses or companions. Chai emphasised that the LTR visa is pivotal in this strategy, allowing recipients to reside in Thailand for 10 years with unlimited re-entries and work permits. It also offers a significant reduction of up to 17% in personal income tax rates for specialists and extends the reporting period with the Immigration Bureau from every 90 days to once a year. Destination Thailand Adding to these efforts, the Cabinet is considering the introduction of a Destination Thailand visa (DTV) aimed at foreign nationals with digital skills. The DTV, expected to launch this month, is designed to attract more foreign talent to work and travel within the country. To further facilitate the stay of foreign specialists, talents, and investors, the BOI has collaborated with the Immigration Bureau and the Labour Ministry to establish a One Start One Stop Investment Center (OSOS), Chai stated. “The premier has given importance to attracting investment to boost the country’s competitiveness. “He believes the effort to implement measures for spurring the economy and sustaining growth to align with current circumstances will serve as a tool to put Thailand on the investment map in the long run.” The government’s proactive approach underscores its ambition to create a thriving environment for international professionals, thereby bolstering Thailand’s economic prospects and establishing it as a key player in the global market, reported Bangkok Post. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Etienne Girardet, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Market shooting in Samut Prakan leaves one dead, two injured Image courtesy of Khaosod A heated argument in a Samut Prakan local market quickly turned into a violent shooting, resulting in the tragic death of a woman and serious injuries to two others. The incident stemmed from a confrontation involving inappropriate remarks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329027-market-shooting-in-samut-prakan-leaves-one-dead-two-injured/