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Thailand Poised to Implement Carbon Tax to Curb Emissions File photo Thailand is gearing up for the introduction of a carbon tax this month, marking a substantial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350760-thailand-poised-to-implement-carbon-tax-to-curb-emissions/

File photo Thailand is gearing up for the introduction of a carbon tax this month, marking a substantial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability across the nation. This move comes on the heels of a cooperation agreement signed by Thailand's Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul with PTT Plc and Bangchak Corporation Plc on Monday, aimed at bolstering awareness around carbon taxation and encouraging sustainable energy consumption. The framework for this tax, approved by the Thai cabinet two weeks ago, is currently under review by the Council of State. The envisaged carbon tax will be integrated into the existing oil tax structure, a strategy designed to shield consumers from direct impacts. Notably, this measure has been recognised by international authorities, including the European Union, for its commitment to environmental preservation. Under the new regulation, carbon tax will be calculated at a rate of 200 Baht per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent, factored by the emission output specific to each oil type. Should oil producers achieve emission reductions below stipulated thresholds, their carbon tax liabilities will be correspondingly decreased. Adding further dimensions to this initiative, Mr. Paopoom revealed that the Excise Department is collaborating with Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Economics, PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR), and Bangchak Corporation. Their collective efforts are set to encourage a transition to low-carbon energy consumption and enhance public understanding of the carbon tax's role in this transition. As part of this initiative, OR is positioned to provide operational and resource support, ensuring that consumers receive real-time information about greenhouse gas reductions at PTT Stations during fuel refills. This aligns with OR's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly the "Green" aspect, aimed at encouraging a cleaner, low-carbon society. For Bangchak's Green Miles programme members, their personal contributions to greenhouse gas reduction will be highlighted as the number of trees planted, illustrated via the "Your Tree" campaign. This data will be accessible through the Bangchak mobile app, linking consumer actions to environmental benefits when using eco-friendly fuels. Starting from March 1st, the campaign will inform consumers about the carbon dioxide emissions tied to their fuel purchases, driving a shift in consumer behaviour towards reducing carbon footprints, Mr. Paopoom explained. This forthcoming carbon tax reflects Thailand's broader commitment to combatting climate change and demonstrates an important step towards a more sustainable future by engaging both corporations and consumers alike, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand Unveils Plans to Curb High Airfares File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Amid rising concerns over exorbitant airfares during peak travel times, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced measures to ensure affordable options, particularly during high-demand periods like the Songkran holiday. This initiative, directed by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, aims to regulate fare structures for the benefit of passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350749-civil-aviation-authority-of thailand unveils-plans-to-curb-high-airfares/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Amid rising concerns over exorbitant airfares during peak travel times, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced measures to ensure affordable options, particularly during high-demand periods like the Songkran holiday. This initiative, directed by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, aims to regulate fare structures for the benefit of passengers. Central to the CAAT's strategy is the implementation of a price ceiling tied to flight distances. Specifically, for low-cost carriers, fares are capped at 9.40 Baht per kilometre, while full-service airlines are restricted to 13 Baht per kilometre. These regulations apply expressly to tickets purchased directly from airlines, ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing. This price cap model is grounded in standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. According to the framework, a significant portion of the fare, approximately 25-33%, is allocated for fuel costs, with 20-31% covering flight operations and 8-16% earmarked for maintenance. CAAT’s objective is clear: to deter airlines from inflating prices egregiously, which effectively puts a cap on excessive profit margins. Beyond capping prices, CAAT has put forward a trio of primary strategies to align airfares with consumer expectations and market dynamics: 1. Boosting Supply: CAAT is collaborating with airlines, airport authorities, and air traffic control entities to increase the number of available flights during busy travel periods. The strategy includes expanding flight schedules, enlarging airline operational capacities, and upgrading maintenance facilities. 2. Regulatory Revision: To ensure a fair pricing system, CAAT is collecting comprehensive data to review fare regulations, aiming for a balance that equally satisfies airlines and consumers. 3. Cost Reduction Measures: The Transport Ministry is advancing efforts to reduce airline operational costs by streamlining airspace management and investing in infrastructure improvements to enhance fuel efficiency. CAAT advises travellers to plan ahead for the best fares. Booking flights at least two to three weeks prior during low seasons, and up to six to eight weeks in advance during peak seasons, can yield significant savings, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Pavena Foundation Rescues Thai Women from 'Human-Egg Farm' in Georgia screenshot via 9 MCOT Facebook Three Thai women have been rescued from an egg harvesting operation controlled by Chinese criminals in Georgia, a former Soviet republic. This ordeal came to light thanks to Pavena Hongsakula, the devoted founder of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, and highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350746-pavena-foundation-rescues-thai-women-from-human-egg -farm-in-georgia/

screenshot via 9 MCOT Facebook Three Thai women have been rescued from an egg harvesting operation controlled by Chinese criminals in Georgia, a former Soviet republic. This ordeal came to light thanks to Pavena Hongsakula, the devoted founder of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, and highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking. The story unfolded when a Thai woman, previously ensnared in this scheme, returned to Thailand after managing to secure her freedom by paying the gang approximately 70,000 Baht. She shared her story with Ms. Pavena, explaining that several other women remained trapped in Georgia without the financial means to escape. In response, Ms. Pavena and her foundation swung into action. Collaborating with Thailand's Foreign Affairs police, led by Pol Maj Gen Surapan Thaiprasert, and Interpol, they orchestrated the return of three more women to Thailand. This successful rescue took place on January 30th, with one of the victims bravely recounting her ordeal on the foundation's Facebook page. The rescued woman described how she had been lured by a Facebook job advertisement promising an income of between 400,000 and 600,000 Baht. Believing she would be working as a surrogate mother in Georgia, a practice she was assured was legal, she accepted an offer that included all travel expenses covered. Upon arrival in August, she was accompanied by about 10 other women and taken by a Thai woman linked to the criminal gang. Their destination was a compound of four large houses, where they joined over 100 Thai women. Instead of legitimate surrogate work, the women were subjected to invasive procedures. Administered with hormones, they were anaesthetised monthly for egg retrieval, a process for which many received no payment. These eggs were likely trafficked for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) procedures in other countries. Police are continuing the investigation, with the hope of uncovering more victims. This case adds to the grim statistics maintained by the Pavena Foundation, revealing that 257 Thai citizens were trafficked in 2024, with 204 cases occurring overseas. Although surrogacy services are widely marketed in Georgia, and regarded as legal contracts, the government is considering legislative changes that would outlaw these practices, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

NASA Study: Biomass Burning Fuels North Thailand PM2.5 Issues Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A study conducted under the ASIA-AQ project has found that most of the PM2.5 pollution affecting northern Thailand is primarily due to biomass burning. This revelation was the product of a collaborative effort between NASA, Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and other scientific teams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350739-nasa-study-biomass-burning-fuels-north-thailand-pm25-issues/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A study conducted under the ASIA-AQ project has found that most of the PM2.5 pollution affecting northern Thailand is primarily due to biomass burning. This revelation was the product of a collaborative effort between NASA, Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and other scientific teams. During the ASIA-AQ Science Team Meeting in Malaysia from 20-24 January, scientists analysed air quality data from flights and ground sensors. Findings highlighted that the northern region's air pollution largely stems from biomass burning. This conclusion is supported by measurements of organic aerosols taken from NASA’s aircraft equipment and ground studies conducted in Chiang Mai by Korean researchers. The study also noted that Bangkok's pollution arises from a mix of human activities and biomass burning. Understanding these regional pollution sources is crucial for developing targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Dr Pakorn Apaphanth, Director of GISTDA, stated that for nearly a year, Thai scientists have collaborated closely with NASA to explore pollution sources in Thailand. Their comprehensive report will be publicly released at the end of February, providing deeper insights into the air pollution dynamics in the region. Continued scientific research and monitoring are essential for not only understanding the pollution mechanisms but also for informing the public and ensuring effective responses, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-02-04

Thailand Sets Ambitious 3.5 Trillion Baht Tourism Goal for 2025 Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Thailand's government has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate 3.5 trillion baht from tourism by 2025, a target primarily reliant on international markets. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading this drive with a host of year-round events and robust promotions under the banner of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, aiming to attract 39 million visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350738-thailand-sets-ambitious-35-trillion-baht-tourism-goal-for-2025/

Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Thailand's government has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate 3.5 trillion baht from tourism by 2025, a target primarily reliant on international markets. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading this drive with a host of year-round events and robust promotions under the banner of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, aiming to attract 39 million visitors. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has expressed optimism about achieving pre-pandemic levels of tourism revenue and arrivals by the end of this year. While the recent numbers fall short of Japan's, Sorawong emphasises that Thailand's focus is not on competing with other countries but on surpassing its own 2019 success. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's vision extends beyond the official 3 trillion baht target set for TAT, hoping to reach the 3.5 trillion baht mark. To achieve this monumental goal, the government plans to enhance the flow of tourists by increasing inbound flights, introducing an online TM6 immigration form tied to a 300-Baht fee, and improving transport links between primary and secondary cities. The TAT’s promotional strategy revolves around five key concepts: 1. Grand Festivity: Emphasising art, cultural, and music events. 2. Grand Moment: Featuring must-visit routes across Thailand's five regions. 3. Grand Privilege: Offering exclusive promotions for tourists. 4. Grand Invitation: Showcasing the country with visits from well-known figures. 5. Grand Celebration: Highlighting anniversaries with nations like China and France. Key events planned for the first half of the year include the "Maha Songkran: Saneh Thai Carnival" in April and the "Amazing Thailand Love Wins Festival" in June, celebrating the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Thailand. Despite the ambitious targets, tourism operators like Thanet Supornsahasrungsi of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation have voiced concerns. Challenges such as the delay in the return of Chinese tour groups, affected by safety perceptions and economic tensions, might hinder attaining the target. Meanwhile, the Chinese economy's sluggish growth and trade tensions with the US are contributing factors. In response, the government plans to bolster domestic tourism through campaigns like "We Travel Together," slated to relaunch in June, which could boost local tourism despite weak domestic purchasing power. Initiatives that enable remote work for travellers could further energise the domestic market. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, former Thai Hotels Association president, acknowledged the challenges yet remains optimistic that the increase in new hotels, flights, and events could make the 3.5 trillion baht target feasible, provided the strategic plans are effectively implemented, reported TAT News, Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-04

Thai sex creator retires and warns fans of impersonation scam By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Sajeera Theeranetr A female Thai sex content creator announced her retirement and warned her followers to beware of scammers releasing livestream videos while posing as her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350707-thai-sex-creator-retires-and-warns-fans-of-impersonation-scam/

Foreign motorcyclist flees Thailand after hit-and-run in Phuket - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A foreign motorcyclist remains on the run after fleeing Thailand following a collision with a Thai pedestrian on a road in Phuket, leaving the victim in a serious condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350710-foreign-motorcyclist-flees-thailand-after-hit-and-run-in-phuket-video/

Youth Vaping Surge Urges Nationwide Action Against E-Cigarettes File photo for reference only Civil networks are pushing for e-cigarettes to become a national concern as vaping among young people surged last year. The Senate committee on Social Development discussed this issue in a seminar on January 30, held at Parliament. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350717-youth-vaping-surge-urges-nationwide-action-against-e-cigarettes/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 4 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350715-thailand-live-tuesday-4-february-2025/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Pee-ce treaty: Foreigners demand more loos after Phuket public urination uproar By Petch Petpailin Foreign netizens defended themselves and called for more public bathrooms in Phuket after Thai nationals condemned the foreigners on social media for urinating in public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350709-pee-ce-treaty-foreigners-demand-more-loos-after-phuket-public-urination-uproar/

British man’s Thailand trip goes from heaven to prison hell (video) by Bob Scott Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail A British man ventured to Thailand anticipating nothing more than a peaceful, sun-drenched escape, yet, his dream holiday rapidly descended into a nightmare after a seemingly trivial mishap spiralled into a chain of catastrophic events. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350672-british-man’s-thailand-trip-goes-from-heaven-to-prison-hell-video/

Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail by Bob Scott A British man ventured to Thailand anticipating nothing more than a peaceful, sun-drenched escape, yet, his dream holiday rapidly descended into a nightmare after a seemingly trivial mishap spiralled into a chain of catastrophic events. Arrested, assaulted, and stripped of his belongings, Andrew Hopkins’ tale unfolds as a chilling reminder for would-be travellers drawn to the Land of Smiles. It all began on an unassuming night in Pattaya. The 55 year old man decided to take a leisurely evening stroll from his Airbnb, unaware that this decision would turn his trip upside down. As he meandered through his neighbourhood, fate took an unfortunate terrible twist when he accidentally walked into a neighbour’s entrance sign. “At 21st 8lbs (137 kilos), it was inevitable I’d cause a bit of damage but little did I know the storm it would provoke.” Almost immediately, the sounds of anger pierced the night as two security guards revealed themselves, shouting furiously in Thai. Despite his heartfelt apologies and an offer to compensate for the damage, their rage was unquenchable, said Hopkins. Within minutes, the scene escalated further when local police arrived, and the British man found himself forcibly thrown into the back of a pickup truck. Locked up in a cell for the next 36 hours, Hopkins’ bewilderment turned to fear. “They threw me into jail, with an English guy inside advising me to comply, and eventually, they’d set me free.” It was only after an Italian stranger arrived, instructing him to withdraw 15,000 baht (£360) as a fine, that Hopkins’ release was negotiated, reported the Daily Mail. Once out, the British man’s relief was short-lived. On returning to his Airbnb, he encountered a hostile reception from the host’s wife, who was furiously waving his room key. “They’d cancelled my booking and insisted I leave immediately.” Pictures courtesy of the Daily Mail Desperate to gather his belongings, Hopkins asked for a brief reprieve to collect his things. Hesitantly, they agreed. Inside the apartment, a strange chemical odour greeted him. “It seemed like they’d tried to drug me.” His suitcase was filled haphazardly, and most alarmingly, considerable cash and valuables had vanished. His Cooperative Bank debit card, MBNA credit card, phone chargers, and a hidden stash of £1,230 (51,600 baht) in cash, all missing. Hopkins confronted the woman, only to face accusations about smoking on the balcony. “There was an ashtray there. I even had a video to prove it.” Things escalated further when the police made a swift return. This time, the encounter turned even more brutal. “They attacked me, handcuffed me to a pickup, and dragged me back to jail.” Hopkins left with his arm bound to the cell bars, he endured unspeakable indignities. “I had to urinate over myself. Lying there in my own fluids, I was stripped of any dignity.” Frustrated and helpless, Hopkins resorted to singing songs like “Country Roads,” “God Save the King,” and “Half the World Away” to get someone’s attention. Eventually, the officers released him but his troubles were far from over. His Thai mobile, a Galaxy s21, was missing, along with more cash. Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail Worse, fraudulent charges of £450 cropped up on his debit card but the bank refused to help. “They wouldn’t even check the CCTV from the 7-Eleven.” Adding insult to injury, the £480 cash stash was gone, along with his beloved trainers and flipflops, leaving him barefoot and bewildered. As a small consolation, he was handed £120 in cash and left to fend for himself. Back in the UK, Hopkins struggled with the aftermath, revealing ongoing physical pain, infections, and PTSD. “I ended up booking a business-class flight home with Emirates for £1,800 because I simply couldn’t sit properly.” Now, Hopkins is embroiled in battles with Airbnb insurers and his travel insurance, while the UK Home Office has taken his plight to the Thai authorities. Sharing his experience as a warning, Andrew noted: “Tourists in Thailand have zero rights, and are seen as easy targets.” “They call it the Land of Smiles but that fades once the bills stop being paid. If you ever find yourself in a situation over there, keep your cool, stay quiet, and never, under any circumstances, question their authority.” What should have been a blissful escape became a stark lesson in caution and cultural understanding. Hopkins’ story is a poignant reminder that paradise can quickly turn perilous. Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Foreigner Breaks into Pattaya Cannabis Shop, Steals Goods worth 10,000 Baht Picture courtesy: CH7HDnews A foreigner smashed a window to steal cannabis products valued at over 10,000 baht from a shop in Pattaya, before making an escape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350667-foreigner-breaks-into-pattaya-cannabis-shop-steals-goods-worth-10000-baht/

Picture courtesy: CH7HDnews A foreigner smashed a window to steal cannabis products valued at over 10,000 baht from a shop in Pattaya, before making an escape. On 3rd February, Mr Atipon, aged 35, owner of the cannabis shop located on Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 3, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung in Chonburi province, reported the incident to the Pattaya City Police. He provided CCTV footage to Police Inspector Pol. Lt. Col. Wutthinan Khongdee, showing the break-in and theft. Mr Atipon revealed that the suspect, a frequent customer at his shop, took advantage of the shop being closed and unattended to carry out the theft. The police have started reviewing the CCTV footage as part of their investigation to apprehend the suspect and proceed with legal action, reported CH7HDnews. -- 2025-02-03

Chinese Embassy Condemns Thai Human Rights Commissioner's Remarks Picture courtesy: Facebook Chinese Embassy Bangkok The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has expressed strong disapproval over comments by a member of Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), labelling them as "heinous and shameful" falsehoods regarding China's treatment of its Muslim population. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350663-chinese-embassy-condemns-thai-human-rights-commissioners-remarks/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Chinese Embassy Bangkok The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has expressed strong disapproval over comments by a member of Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), labelling them as "heinous and shameful" falsehoods regarding China's treatment of its Muslim population. This diplomatic spat erupted following an NHRC commissioner's statements to the Thai press on 29th January. The commissioner accused China of mistreating Muslims, further alleging that some, upon being repatriated to China, faced grim fates, including being killed. In a rebuke published on the embassy's webpage, Chinese officials emphasised China's commitment to human rights and the freedom of religious practice, as enshrined in its Constitution and government policies. They categorically denied claims that the Chinese government has banned the Qur'an and the Arabic language, dismissing such accusations as disconnected from reality. Nonetheless, the embassy acknowledged past instances where some Chinese nationals were influenced by anti-government factions to illegally migrate to Thailand with purported intentions of engaging in illicit activities. The Chinese stance suggests that individuals involved would receive legal protection in China and be reintegrated into society. While the embassy did not name these individuals, it is widely understood that they refer to Uyghurs—an ethnic minority group—detained in Bangkok by the Immigration Bureau for roughly a decade, awaiting possible repatriation to China. The Uyghur issue has been a point of contention, particularly with international human rights groups expressing concern over their safety if returned to China. The strained diplomatic dialogue underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding China's policies toward its minority populations, particularly the Uyghurs. In defending its human rights record, the Chinese Embassy aims to mitigate what it perceives as misinformation detrimental to its international reputation. Meanwhile, the comments from the NHRC have set the stage for potential diplomatic tension between Thailand and China, two countries that maintain significant economic and political ties. This development comes at a time when international scrutiny of China's human rights practices remains heightened, with various governments and organisations closely monitoring the treatment of Uyghurs and other minority groups within the country's borders. As both nations navigate this diplomatic unease, the focus remains on upholding open dialogue, respecting each other’s perspectives, and reaffirming commitments to human rights on both local and international platforms, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-02-03

Thai Cabinet allocates 3.14 billion baht for new Phuket hospital by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of PSU Phuket The Thai Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of 3.14 billion baht for the establishment of Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket, a significant healthcare endeavour under Prince of Songkla University (PSU). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350655-thai-cabinet-allocates-314-billion-baht-for-new-phuket-hospital/

Picture courtesy of PSU Phuket by Bright Choomanee The Thai Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of 3.14 billion baht for the establishment of Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket, a significant healthcare endeavour under Prince of Songkla University (PSU). This project, scheduled for execution between 2026 and 2029, is designed to bolster healthcare services across Phuket and the Andaman region. The allocated funds are set to be distributed over four fiscal years: 2026 will receive 749.50 million baht (US$22 million), 2027 will have 1,031.89 million baht (US$30.5 million), 2028 will be allocated 938.92 million baht (US$27.8 million), and 2029 will receive 420 million baht (US$12.4 million). PSU is also required to submit a budget request for 2026 in line with Section 26 of the Budget Procedure Act B.E. 2561 for allocations exceeding 1 billion baht (US$29.5 million) to the Budget Bureau. According to Cabinet minutes, the hospital is deemed essential for tackling public health system challenges in Phuket and the Andaman region. The province currently struggles with a lack of skilled medical personnel equipped to manage complex diseases and has inadequate workforce development in health sciences and public health. These issues are particularly pressing due to Phuket’s significant role in the high-value tourism sector and the escalating demand for medical tourism services. To address these issues, PSU intends to enhance medical education and workforce development in the area. Their plans include training new graduates, improving the skills of existing professionals, and developing specialised skills to support both public and private healthcare sectors. Phuket hospital The initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to establish itself as a global leader in medical tourism. The Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket will feature a 300-bed specialised medical centre offering advanced tertiary care, precision medicine, and telemedicine services. It aims to complement the existing Ministry of Public Health hospitals in the region by providing treatment for complex diseases and reinforcing the overall healthcare system. Additionally, the hospital will play a crucial role in the Phuket Health Sandbox project, which integrates public health advancements with economic development. With an emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainability, PSU envisions the facility as pivotal in strengthening Thailand’s position as a leader in medical tourism. In April 2023, the newly promoted 500-bed Songklanagarind Phuket Hospital was anticipated to generate 1.6 billion baht (US$47.3 million) annually from international visitors. The announcement followed an event where MBK Group donated 36 rai of land valued at 400 million baht (US$11.8 million), situated next to the Red Mountain Golf Course in Kathu, to PSU for the hospital’s construction, reported The Phuket News. In October 2022, the Cabinet approved over 5.1 billion baht (US$150 million) to construct the Andaman International Health Centre on a 141-rai site in Mai Khao, at the northern tip of Phuket. However, this project did not materialise despite years of promotion by government officials. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Thailand Targets Substandard Online Goods in Major Clean-Up File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an assertive move to protect consumers and bolster trust in e-commerce, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is spearheading an initiative to crack down on substandard and non-compliant goods sold online. The campaign, involving a collaboration with 16 governmental agencies and major e-commerce platforms, aims to enhance the integrity and safety of online marketplaces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350654-thailand-targets-substandard-online-goods-in-major-clean-up/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an assertive move to protect consumers and bolster trust in e-commerce, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is spearheading an initiative to crack down on substandard and non-compliant goods sold online. The campaign, involving a collaboration with 16 governmental agencies and major e-commerce platforms, aims to enhance the integrity and safety of online marketplaces. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that any substandard products discovered online will be swiftly removed under a newly adopted "notice and takedown" policy. This concerted effort is designed to shield consumers from low-quality items and promote confidence in digital shopping environments. Central to this strategy is a collective effort by government entities and e-commerce operators to enhance product monitoring, heighten consumer awareness, and safeguard local small and medium-sized enterprises. The objective is not only to prune online shelves of inferior goods but also to build a more robust and transparent e-commerce landscape. A crucial element of the initiative involves the dissemination of educational materials to both consumers and sellers, emphasising the importance of engaging in transactions involving safe and legally compliant products. Mr. Pichai revealed plans to introduce guidelines for identifying and managing substandard products, streamlining processes and ensuring swift action against violations. The coalition fighting subpar goods comprises key agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), and others, alongside influential e-commerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee, TikTok Shop, and eBay. This formidable alliance underscores the seriousness of the crackdown and the resources being mobilised to tackle the issue. Reflecting on past enforcement efforts, Mr. Pichai highlighted that between October and December 2024, the FDA, TISI, OCPB, and the Customs Department collectively identified 16,651 violations relating to product safety and quality, resulting in damages totalling 984 million Thai Baht. As stricter measures were enforced, the presence of foreign goods on e-commerce platforms saw a decline, evidencing the impact of these robust actions. From July to December 2024, the monthly sales average of foreign goods dwindled to 3.65 billion Thai Baht, down from 3.96 billion in the preceding months. Through these combined efforts, the Commerce Ministry aims to foster a safer, more reliable digital market, benefitting consumers and merchants alike. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing Thailand's e-commerce reliability and protecting its vast community of online shoppers from substandard and potentially harmful goods, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-03