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A TikTok user known as xnakhonprathom, commonly referred to as X Nakhon Pathom, shared a clip ranking five of Thailand’s most legendary and rare coins, valued from hundreds of thousands to a million baht. The video categorises the five rare coins into one type of 1 baht coin, three types of 5 baht coins, and one type of 10 baht coin. This detailed ranking has sparked numerous comments and discussions after its release. Here are the specifics of each coin: The 1 baht coin from 1950 is currently valued between 300,000 and 500,000 baht. This coin has garnered significant attention due to its historical significance and limited availability. The 5 baht coin featuring a Garuda in a tilted position from 1981 is also valued between 300,000 and 500,000 baht. This coin is particularly notable for its design and rarity. Another 5 baht coin, this time featuring the Garuda in an upright position from 1982, is priced similarly between 300,000 and 500,000 baht. A distinct feature to look out for on this coin is the character ด (Dor Dek). The third type of 5 baht coin, known as the Royal Barge coin from 1986, also carries a value between 300,000 and 500,000 baht. Its unique design and limited production make it a prized possession for collectors. The 10 baht coin from 1990 stands out with a production number of only 100 coins, making it extremely rare. This coin is valued between 500,000 and 1,000,000 baht. Specific characteristics Each coin has specific characteristics that make them valuable and sought-after by collectors. The rarity, historical value, and unique designs are key factors that contribute to their high market prices. Collectors and enthusiasts often use these distinguishing features to authenticate and appraise the coins. The clip shared by xnakhonprathom has not only highlighted these rare coins but also provided valuable insights into identifying and appraising them. The significant interest and engagement from viewers demonstrate the growing fascination with rare and valuable coins in Thailand. The interest in coin collecting has seen a resurgence, with many people delving into the hobby to uncover hidden treasures and learn more about the country’s rich history through its currency. The video serves as an educational piece for both seasoned collectors and those new to the hobby, providing them with the knowledge needed to identify and value these rare coins. As the popularity of coin collecting continues to rise, so does the value of these legendary coins. Collectors are always on the lookout for rare finds, and the information provided by xnakhonprathom offers a valuable resource for those looking to expand their collections, reported Khaosod. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of youtube Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Thai Tourism Committee to Summon Apple Over Controversial Ad Naark Rojanasuvan The Tourism Committee is set to summon Apple for a hearing next week following the release of a controversial advertisement that has sparked backlash in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334522-apple-withdraws-ad-amid-thai-backlash-extends-apology/?do=findComment&comment=19114988

Thai Tourism Committee to Summon Apple Over Controversial Ad Naark Rojanasuvan The Tourism Committee is set to summon Apple for a hearing next week following the release of a controversial advertisement that has sparked backlash in Thailand. The advertisement, part of Apple's "Underdogs" series, has been widely criticized on social media for its portrayal of Thailand's infrastructure and safety standards, which many feel damages Thailand's reputation, particularly in the tourism sector. Sastra Sripan, MP for Songkhla and spokesperson for the committee, expressed concerns over the ad's negative portrayal of Thailand, depicting it as outdated and unsafe. This portrayal contradicts the government's efforts to promote the country's image through Soft Power initiatives. The committee plans to invite officials from relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Apple Thailand's managing director, to address these concerns. The MP also mentioned that continued dissatisfaction could lead to a call for boycotting Apple products in favor of other brands. The move aims to address public grievances and ensure that Thailand's image is accurately represented to support the tourism industry's growth and development. The committee will seek to understand Apple's perspective and work towards a resolution that aligns with Thailand's promotional efforts and national interests. The hearing will also serve as a platform for discussing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and to reinforce positive portrayals of Thailand in international media. Source: NNT 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Half-Half resurfaces in yet another month when no one can blink It takes something special to make people miss Loong Tu, said a YouTube comment posted by someone who obviously is not Prayut Chan-o-cha’s biggest fan. That “something special” might be something called “Digital Wallet”. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334527-half-half-resurfaces-in-yet-another-month-when-no-one-can-blink/

It takes something special to make people miss Loong Tu, said a YouTube comment posted by someone who obviously is not Prayut Chan-o-cha’s biggest fan. That “something special” might be something called “Digital Wallet”. The comparison between the Half-Half programme and the Digital Wallet agenda has often been made ever since the Pheu Thai Party unveiled the latter. But debates on the pros and cons of both economic rescue plans are intensifying thanks partly to the start of Digital Wallet registration, and partly to the song “We miss Loong Tu”. The song became a hit at a peculiar moment, coinciding with Thailand’s entry into yet another period of high political drama. The Constitutional Court is set to rule on the futures of the main opposition party, Move Forward, and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Pheu Thai’s de facto patriarch, Thaksin Shinawatra, is also approaching the virtual end of restrictions on his political activities. Most analysts think Move Forward’s legal existence is hanging by a thread, meaning they believe a dissolution verdict is highly possible. But they are divided on what happens next. By Tulsathit Taptim Full story: THai PBS 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Constitutional Court Cannot Dissolve Move Forward Party, Says Leader Move Forward Party. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The upcoming Constitutional Court ruling on dissolving the Move Forward Party has stirred political debate in the country. Slated for Wednesday, 7th August, the lawsuit brought forward by the Election Commission claims the party sought to undermine national rule with proposed amendments to the stringent lese majeste law, section 112 of the Criminal Code. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334526-constitutional-court-cannot-dissolve-move-forward-party-says-leader/

The upcoming Constitutional Court ruling on dissolving the Move Forward Party has stirred political debate in the country. Slated for Wednesday, 7th August, the lawsuit brought forward by the Election Commission claims the party sought to undermine national rule with proposed amendments to the stringent lese majeste law, section 112 of the Criminal Code. In preparation, the Move Forward Party held a conference on the evening of 2nd August. Party leader Chaithawat Tulathon and former leader Pita Limjaroenrat argued that the Constitutional Court does not legally have the authority to dissolve political parties. They emphasised that their party's actions were not intended to destabilise the country but to ignite necessary discussions on reforming draconian laws. Addressing followers, they invited supporters to join a nationwide event titled “Own Party, Own Country” on the day of the court's decision. This event will feature multiple gatherings across 16 locations, focusing on educating the public about the Constitutional Court's powers and political party rights. Piyabut Sangkanokkul, secretary-general of the Progressive Movement, will deliver a crucial speech on the topic. The duo expressed confidence that their defence, grounded in facts and international legal standards, would withstand scrutiny. This case marks a critical juncture in the political landscape, potentially setting a precedent for how legal reforms and party activities are interpreted and adjudicated. In related news, Sahakarn Petchnarin, director-general of the Corrections Department, clarified that the one-year sentence of Thaksin Shinawatra, de facto leader of Pheu Thai, will end on 31st August. Despite being sentenced for misconduct during his term nearly two decades ago, Thaksin has not spent time in standard incarceration. Instead, he has been at Police Hospital for six months under the pretext of health issues, before being released on parole last February. This aspect continues to draw significant public scrutiny regarding the application of justice. The unfolding events related to these two political figures underscore the complex interplay between law, politics, and public opinion. The Constitutional Court's decision will undoubtedly have wide-reaching implications for the future of political party operations and judicial reach in the nation. Move Forward Party. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Pledges Not to Run for Prime Minister If Srettha Is Impeached Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath BHUMJAITHAI LEADER Anutin Charnvirakul stated today that he will not seek the premiership if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is impeached. Anutin, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, clarified his position in response to speculation surrounding his potential rise to power. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334525-anutin-pledges-not-to-run-for-prime-minister-if-srettha-is-impeached/

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath BHUMJAITHAI LEADER Anutin Charnvirakul stated today that he will not seek the premiership if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is impeached. Anutin, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, clarified his position in response to speculation surrounding his potential rise to power. This speculation stems from an ongoing impeachment lawsuit against Srettha. The Constitutional Court will deliver a verdict on 14th August regarding accusations that Srettha severely breached the constitution and political ethics by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for Pheu Thai's de facto boss Thaksin Shinawatra and a former convict, as a minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. In light of these developments, Anutin stressed that he has no intention of assuming the premiership. He pointed out that Pheu Thai, as the core of the current coalition government, commands the largest number of coalition MPs. Consequently, it should be within their prerogative to nominate a replacement if Srettha is impeached. Anutin suggested that Phumtham Wechayachai, a key figure within Pheu Thai and an influential player in coalition negotiations, would likely be tasked with finding a suitable candidate. Phumtham played a pivotal role in the formation of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government and the allocation of cabinet posts. Potential candidates for the premiership, should Srettha be removed, include Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter and Pheu Thai leader, Pheu Thai MP Chaikasem Nitisiri, Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan, and Anutin himself. However, Anutin's explicit refusal to contend for the role narrows the field. This political intrigue adds another layer of complexity to Thailand's already dynamic political landscape, with eyes now set on the upcoming court ruling and its potential repercussions. -- 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NHRC calls for investigation into Thaksin's "VVIP" treatment Thaksin Shinawatra. File photos. The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) has called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate an alleged abuse of power by a state-run hospital and prison authority concerning former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334523-nhrc-calls-for-investigation-into-thaksins-vvip-treatment/

Thaksin Shinawatra. File photos. The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) has called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate an alleged abuse of power by a state-run hospital and prison authority concerning former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The NHRC claims Thaksin received preferential treatment during his 181-day hospital stay, a privilege purportedly tied to his economic and social status. According to NHRC Commissioner Wasan Paileeklee, Thaksin's transfer to the Police General Hospital from the Corrections Hospital on 22 August last year was deemed necessary due to his critical medical conditions, including a blood-oxygen level below 95 percent and high blood pressure. This conclusion was reached after consulting explanations from both hospitals and medical experts. However, questions arise regarding Thaksin's extended stay in a VIP room meant for less critical patients. Despite the Police General Hospital's justification that the VIP room was the only available space for closely monitoring Thaksin's condition, the NHRC argued the room usage was disproportionate. The NHRC found discrepancies in the treatment of Thaksin compared to other convicts and noted that the Corrections Department failed to provide information about other prisoners receiving similar treatment, thus highlighting potential violations of ministerial rules on prisoner equality, reported Thai PBS. Thaksin, who was released on parole on 18 February and has since shown no signs of the severe illnesses initially claimed, heightened suspicions about the legitimacy of his extended hospitalisation. Witnesses observed him frequenting various locations and working without apparent health issues. The NHRC contends these actions exploited rule loopholes, compromising equality principles and basic human rights. Consequently, the NHRC has formally requested the NACC to launch an investigation and report their findings within 90 days, aiming to ensure accountability and transparency in the treatment of high-profile prisoners. -- 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Apple Withdraws Ad Amid Thai Backlash, Extends Apology Picture courtesy: Komchadluek Apple has apologised and withdrawn the latest ad in its "Underdogs" series, following significant backlash in Thailand. The tech giant's fifth instalment, meant to highlight Thai culture positively, instead sparked controversy, prompting the company to halt its distribution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334522-apple-withdraws-ad-amid-thai-backlash-extends-apology/

Apple has apologised and withdrawn the latest ad in its "Underdogs" series, following significant backlash in Thailand. The tech giant's fifth instalment, meant to highlight Thai culture positively, instead sparked controversy, prompting the company to halt its distribution. In a statement, Apple expressed regret, acknowledging the ad failed to accurately represent contemporary Thai life. The company had collaborated with a local Thai firm, intending to feature Thailand in a flattering light. Yet, the move backfired, as the portrayal was widely criticised for not aligning with modern Thai society. Initially released on July 18, the ten-minute promotional film, described as a comedy thriller, rapidly garnered attention. By July 28, it had amassed 5.1 million views on YouTube, though the comments section had been disabled due to mounting negative feedback. The ad’s plot revolves around four company employees racing through various locales in Thailand, attempting to meet demanding clients' needs for design and production. One team member in the US utilized Apple Vision Pro to stay connected, while others encountered a series of mini-adventures, highlighting 31 unique features across Apple devices. However, the film’s sepia-toned scenes, likely intended to add a vintage feel, were perceived as an outdated depiction of Thailand, ostensibly portraying the country as it was decades ago. This creative choice led many Thais to question Apple's portrayal, suggesting the ad presented Thailand as an underdeveloped nation. Apple's decision to cease further distribution of the ad and issue an apology aims to address the concerns raised by Thai viewers. The incident underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity and accurate representation in international marketing campaigns. Picture courtesy: Komchadluek -- 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 3 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334521-thailand-live-saturday-3-august-2024/

Korean tourist vanishes with free rent and cash in Pattaya A Pattaya rental room operator was left high and dry by a cunning Korean tourist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334510-korean-tourist-vanishes-with-free-rent-and-cash-in-pattaya/

A marked decline in the number of Thai tourists travelling to South Korea has been observed over the past seven months, with many opting instead for trips to China and Japan. The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) reported that 20,150 Thais visited South Korea in June, a significant drop from the 25,023 recorded during the same period last year. Thai tourists favour China and Japan over South Korea Photo courtesy of www.asahi.com Full sStory: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334489-thai-tourists-favour-china-and-japan-over-south-korea/

UPDATE: Tree Collapse on Zipline Bridge in Chiang Mai Claims One Chinese Tourists Life, Injures Another By Kittisak Phalaharn Chiang Mai — At 2:50 PM on August 1st, 2024, the Erawan Emergency Response Center in Chiang Mai received a report of a fallen tree injuring two Chinese tourists at a zipline site in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334433-chinese-tourist-killed-by-falling-tree-while-ziplining-in-chiang-mai/?do=findComment&comment=19113057

Tree Collapse on Zipline Bridge in Chiang Mai Claims One Chinese Tourists Life, Injures Another By Kittisak Phalaharn Chiang Mai — At 2:50 PM on August 1st, 2024, the Erawan Emergency Response Center in Chiang Mai received a report of a fallen tree injuring two Chinese tourists at a zipline site in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, rescuers quickly transported the victims to Doi Saket Hospital, while alerting relevant agencies for further investigation. According to eyewitnesses, it was reported that a Chinese couple were returning from the final zipline platform to the office area when a tree suddenly collapsed onto the rope bridge they were crossing. The victims were, publicly identified only as Mrs. Jing (44) and Mr. Lui (46), both Chinese nationals. The tree struck the rope bridge, causing the couple to plummet 15 meters to the ground. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya City achieves 99.41 score in anti-corruption assessment by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya City achieved a significant milestone by securing a score of 99.41 in the Integrity and Transparency Assessment (ITA) conducted by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). This assessment evaluates ethical practices and transparency among local administrative organisations across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334450-pattaya-city-achieves-9941-score-in-anti-corruption-assessment/

Pattaya City achieved a significant milestone by securing a score of 99.41 in the Integrity and Transparency Assessment (ITA) conducted by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). This assessment evaluates ethical practices and transparency among local administrative organisations across Thailand. Pattaya Mayor Poramese Ngampichet proudly shared the results for the fiscal year 2024, highlighting the comprehensive evaluation by the NACC. A total of 8,325 government agencies, including municipalities, provincial administrative organisations, subdistrict administrative organisations, state enterprises, ministries, and departments, were scrutinised to assess their adherence to ethical standards and transparency in public service delivery. Pattaya City’s impressive ITA score places it at the AA (excellent) level among local administrative organisations. This achievement reflects the city’s dedication to maintaining transparency and high standards of work. The mayor attributed this success to the collective efforts of executives and officers who have diligently served the public throughout the past fiscal year. Over the years, Pattaya City has shown significant improvement in its ITA scores. In 2018, the city scored 79.64, followed by a dip to 61.58 in 2019 and further down to 55.19 in 2020. However, the city bounced back with a score of 80.52 in 2021, 98.94 last year, and now a record-breaking 99.41. Mayor Poramese stated that transparency remains a priority during his tenure. The NACC’s evaluation criteria include work performance from January to June, feedback from service users, and on-site inspections. In a message to the citizens, Mayor Poramese expressed gratitude to all sectors of Pattaya City and highlighted the importance of morality and transparency. The city continues to address project challenges and build public trust, reported Pattaya News. In related news, the NACC resolved to address the issue of criminal records for individuals found innocent or not prosecuted, proposing legal reforms and submitting recommendations to the Cabinet for consideration. During a recent meeting, the NACC decided to enhance the management of criminal records, aiming to improve efficiency and accuracy. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Belgian Man Arrested for Crimes in Thailand and Malaysia Video screenshot via Facebook/ นักข่าว ทำเฒ่า เรื่องเพื่อน A Belgian man has been apprehended by Songkhla Provincial Immigration Police for stealing hotel key cards from Thai and Malaysian tourists, robbing them of 200,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334446-belgian-man-arrested-for-crimes-in-thailand-and-malaysia/

A Belgian man has been apprehended by Songkhla Provincial Immigration Police for stealing hotel key cards from Thai and Malaysian tourists, robbing them of 200,000 baht. The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Abdelali, was arrested at a hotel in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province, on August 1. Thai and Malaysian victims had previously reported the theft of their belongings to Khor Hong Police Station and Songkhla Provincial Immigration Police, prompting an investigation. Hotel workers had tipped off the authorities, suspecting Abdelali as the culprit. He checked into the hotel presenting only a digital copy of his passport, claiming his physical passport was lost. While workers were occupied with his booking, Abdelali managed to snatch spare key cards to the victims' rooms, making away with their valuables. Upon arrest, Abdelali initially denied all allegations. However, a search of his room revealed incriminating evidence: 52,000 baht in cash, five mobile phones, credit cards, two Malaysian bank debit cards, two luxury watches, and additional valuables, all totalling around 200,000 baht. Authorities used CCTV footage to track Abdelali after he swiftly left the hotel following the theft. He had relocated to another hotel in the same area. Further investigation revealed he had overstayed his visa by over three months. Police noted that Abdelali had a history of similar crimes across various tourist destinations in Thailand. In one case, he rented a motorcycle on Koh Lanta, Krabi province, which he later sold in Hat Yai. Currently, Abdelali faces charges for overstaying his visa. Officials have yet to press theft charges as they continue to investigate his involvement in other thefts. This incident is not isolated; in June, another foreigner was caught using a stolen key to stay in a hotel in Chon Buri. Despite the owner's attempts to remove the intruder, no police arrived, forcing the owner to handle the situation personally. TOP: Video screenshot via Facebook/ นักข่าว ทำเฒ่า เรื่องเพื่อน -- 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Temu's Takeover: Thai E-commerce Expert Issues Price War Warning Stock image courtesy: Thai Rath The Thai e-commerce landscape is about to face a major upheaval, warns Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, CEO of Creden.co and PaySolutions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334438-temus-takeover-thai-e-commerce-expert-issues-price-war-warning/

The Thai e-commerce landscape is about to face a major upheaval, warns Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, CEO of Creden.co and PaySolutions. Speaking on Krungthep Turakij’s Deep Talk programme, Pawoot cautioned that the arrival of the Chinese online retail giant Temu could spell trouble for local retailers already battling fierce competition. Pawoot highlighted that while Thai consumers are already familiar with cheap Chinese goods via platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, Temu’s direct-to-consumer model presents a new level of disruption. “Temu offers Chinese products directly to Thai buyers, bypassing middlemen, with the added lure of Thai language support, local currency transactions, free shipping, and a money-back guarantee.” Temu’s discounts, reaching up to a staggering 90%, are set to intensify the already cut-throat price wars. Local retailers are already feeling the pinch from platform fees and profit shares, which are unregulated and rising. The entry of Temu could push small businesses to the brink, unable to compete with the low prices of Chinese manufacturers. Pawoot foresees a grim future for domestic manufacturing and related industries, predicting factory closures and job losses as demand shifts towards cheaper imports. In response, Pawoot expects market leaders like Shopee and Lazada to ramp up promotions and enhance logistics to hold onto their customer base. These platforms may also pivot towards showcasing unique Thai products to stand out from Temu’s Chinese offerings. Pawoot urged local retailers to innovate, suggesting partnerships to enhance after-sales service, brand building, and leveraging AI to boost sales. He also called on the government to tighten regulations, preventing substandard Chinese goods from flooding the market. In related news, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD recently opened its inaugural Southeast Asian factory in Thailand, garnering considerable attention and praise for the country’s industrial foresight. However, this development also adversely affected long-established Japanese automakers, leading to a ripple effect across numerous Thai factories. Temu's Takeover: Thai E-commerce Expert Issues Price War Warning Stock image courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rising Star in Thai Motorcycle Racing: Mike Wellers Journey from Street Rider to Championship Contender By Adam Judd Chonburi, Thailand – In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when most activities had come to a halt, Mike re-discovered a renewed passion that would change his life. He purchased a 2008 Honda CBR1000RR and began practicing at the Bira Circuit Race Track, located just 30 minutes from Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334436-rising-star-in-thai-motorcycle-racing-mike-wellers-journey-to-championship-contender/