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Senate Steps Up to Tame Foreign Dominance in Thai E-Commerce Picture courtesy of Wiki Finance The Senate committee is draughting the Platform Economy Act, planning to tackle the overwhelming presence of foreign entities in Thailand's bustling e-commerce sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361056-senate-steps-up-to-tame-foreign-dominance-in-thai-e-commerce/

Picture courtesy of Wiki Finance The Senate committee is draughting the Platform Economy Act, planning to tackle the overwhelming presence of foreign entities in Thailand's bustling e-commerce sector. Eakachai Ruangrat, the committee's first vice-chairperson, emphasised the necessity of reclaiming Thailand's digital sovereignty amid the surge of overseas products, particularly from China. Local brands are reportedly struggling against the influx of foreign goods that often evade taxation and standards. Thailand's e-marketplace, valued at a whopping 1.8 trillion baht, is predominantly populated with international merchandise, raising concerns over the impact on domestic trade. The Senate's proposal includes mandatory registration and distinct financial reporting for businesses operating offline and online, extending to foreign companies selling through the internet. This measure is to ensure accountability and fair play, aiming to curb unfair advantages possessed by foreign competitors. Eakachai suggested revisiting tax frameworks to better support local businesses, proposing income tax exemptions for SMEs utilising Thai platforms and different value-added tax rates for products sold offline (7%) versus online (15%). He also recommended setting a minimum quota, where at least 20% of all goods sold on e-commerce platforms should be domestically produced, to boost local production. Pawoot Pongvitayapanu from the Thai E-Commerce Association highlighted the dependency on foreign e-marketplaces, noting that over 100 million Chinese items were available in 2024 on these platforms. He warned against over-reliance on these foreign giants, suggesting policy changes or shutdowns could heavily impact local traders. Pawoot also filed a complaint with the Trade Competition Commission, accusing dominant foreign e-marketplaces of violating competition laws and obstructing local businesses. Advocating for a national e-marketplace, Pawoot envisions a digital infrastructure that serves all parties equally. Meanwhile, Theeratat Nudum from La Glace Cosmetics spotlighted the threats posed by Chinese brands. These brands exploit their vast resources and online expertise, utilising Thai influencers to deepen their infiltration into the Southeast Asian markets, thereby overshadowing local players. The committee's draft and recommendations might herald a significant shift in the Thai e-commerce landscape, offering a lifeline to local sellers overwhelmed by foreign dominance. As the discussion progresses, it remains crucial for the act to align with both consumer needs and business interests in the rapidly evolving digital trade arena. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

Stretched Waistbands: Bangkok Tops Obesity Charts File photo courtesy of Wikipedia A staggering 56% of Bangkok's residents are grappling with abdominal obesity, a figure starkly contrasting with a national average of 39.4%. This jarring statistic was highlighted by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, underscoring a growing health concern in the bustling capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361047-stretched-waistbands-bangkok-tops-obesity-charts/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia A staggering 56% of Bangkok's residents are grappling with abdominal obesity, a figure starkly contrasting with a national average of 39.4%. This jarring statistic was highlighted by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, underscoring a growing health concern in the bustling capital. With Bangkokians boasting higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease compared to their provincial counterparts, this issue poses a major public health challenge. During a major non-communicable disease (NCD) event in Bangkok, the minister elaborated on the alarming rise in health issues related to lifestyle choices in the city. A recent health study unveiled scary figures: 12.5% of the population in Bangkok suffer from diabetes compared to just 9.5% countrywide. Such disparities underscore the urgent need for targeted health interventions in the capital. The issue of NCDs is not one to be ignored, as it not only impacts individual quality of life but also places a burgeoning burden on health care systems. As urbanisation and fast-paced city life prevail, the health repercussions are felt deeply among Bangkokians. Addressing these concerns could have substantial benefits for the nation's overall health and wellbeing. Efforts to control NCDs must focus not only on treating these illnesses but also on encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. Public health campaigns and programmes geared towards promoting physical activity and balanced diets are now paramount. The health ministry is keen on not only raising awareness but also implementing practical measures to curb this worrying trend. This situation, now taking centre stage in Thailand's health conversation, spotlights the need for a cohesive approach to urban health challenges. The nation watches closely as Bangkok takes steps to combat this trend and improve the health prospects of its residents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

Thailand Plans 10-Year Tourist Visa and 99-Year Land Lease to Boost Economy Picture courtesy of ET Travel world Thailand is gearing up to inject a fresh lease of life into its faltering economy with bold policy proposals. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced intentions to introduce a 10-year tourist visa, allowing foreigners extended stays and work opportunities in the Land of Smiles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361007-thailand-plans-10-year-tourist-visa-and-99-year-land-lease-to-boost-economy/

Picture courtesy of ET Travel world Thailand is gearing up to inject a fresh lease of life into its faltering economy with bold policy proposals. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced intentions to introduce a 10-year tourist visa, allowing foreigners extended stays and work opportunities in the Land of Smiles. This plan coincides with proposals to offer 99-year lease rights on government land, poised to attract international interest and spur various economic sectors. In the "Thailand’s Capital Market Forum 2025", Pichai outlined these ambitious measures as part of a broader strategy to counteract global economic issues, especially those triggered by US President Donald Trump's trade tariffs. Scheduled for further discussion at the economic stimulus policy committee, chaired by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, these proposals aim to clarify responsible agencies and financial allocations necessary for implementation. Tourism stands at the forefront of this economic revitalisation push. The proposed 10-year visa scheme intends to facilitate longer stays for foreigners, potentially transforming Thailand into a preferred hub for work and lifestyle. Coupled with 99-year land leases under the "land use rights" framework, Thailand hopes to tap into the burgeoning demand for long-term international residency and business initiatives. This isn't all; the Thai government is also focusing on long-term infrastructure and technological advancements. These include enhancing the digital economy, establishing Thailand as a regional data centre, boosting the electric vehicle industry, and expanding dual-track railway systems. Moving towards a logistic powerhouse, the nation also plans the development of land bridges and essential water channels to drive agricultural productivity. Pichai highlighted the fluctuating Thai stock market, which has dipped from 1,700 to 1,200 points over two years. He urged stability, noting the government's reluctance to introduce further capital market stimulus amidst existing, effective measures. These strategic plans signify Thailand’s approach to tackling external economic pressures while revitalising internal growth, potentially reshaping the country's global economic position. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-19

Blackpink's Lisa to the Rescue: Thai Farmers Eye K-Pop Star for Fruit Boost Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a bid to tackle mounting challenges, Thai fruit farmers have turned to Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with an innovative proposal: recruit K-pop phenomenon Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal to boost Thailand's fruit exports worldwide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361029-blackpinks-lisa-to-the-rescue-thai-farmers-eye-k-pop-star-for-fruit-boost/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a bid to tackle mounting challenges, Thai fruit farmers have turned to Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with an innovative proposal: recruit K-pop phenomenon Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal to boost Thailand's fruit exports worldwide. During her weekend visit to Chanthaburi, Ms Paetongtarn engaged with regional fruit growers and entrepreneurs who detailed their plight, citing escalating production costs, shipment delays, and labour shortages as chief concerns. Farmers believe that Lisa's global appeal could significantly elevate Thai fruit exports, particularly beyond the Chinese market. The ambitious strategy aims to elevate the fruit export target to 500 billion baht annually, a notable jump from the current range of 200–300 billion baht. Among other pressing issues, the farmers placed special emphasis on hastening customs clearances at borders, where delays can last up to 12 days. Concerns over premature durian harvesting, impacting both quality and weight, were also discussed, prompting calls for clearer regulatory frameworks. Labour shortages further aggravate the situation, prompting suggestions to extend migrant work permits and increase mobility between provinces. Furthermore, a proposal for a 100-million-baht compensation fund was brought forward to aid durian farmers and locals affected by wild elephant incursions. Prime Minister Paetongtarn assured the farming community of the government's proactive measures. Collaborative efforts with businesses are underway to mitigate surplus produce and reduce wastage. She also highlighted her commitment to expediting export procedures and directed the Ministry of Labour to address workforce deficits in agriculture. Emphasising the need for research and development, Ms Paetongtarn underscored the imperative to enhance product quality and retain competitiveness alongside neighbouring countries. The cabinet is focused on advancing R&D within key export sectors to bolster long-term growth. Concluding her visit, Ms Paetongtarn participated in multiple initiatives, including overseeing a livestream durian sale by the Young Smart Farmer group and engaging in community activities directed at improving agricultural practices. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

Thai Court to Rule on Yingluck's Rice Scheme Case 22 May Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 18 May 2025, Norawich Laelaeng, lawyer for former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, confirmed that the Supreme Administrative Court will announce its verdict on 22 May at 1:30 p.m. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361023-thai-court-to-rule-on-yinglucks-rice-scheme-case-22-may/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 18 May 2025, Norawich Laelaeng, lawyer for former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, confirmed that the Supreme Administrative Court will announce its verdict on 22 May at 1:30 p.m. The case involves a legal battle where the Finance Ministry ordered Yingluck to pay compensation of around 35 billion baht related to her rice pledging scheme, a decision previously overturned by a lower administrative court. However, Thailand's Finance Ministry appealed, bringing the case to the Supreme Administrative Court. Norawich has declined to speculate on the outcome and advised awaiting the court's decision. When asked about Yingluck's assets currently frozen or seized by the Department of Legal Execution, Norawich stated that a significant portion of her assets had been affected, some even sold. Should Yingluck win in the Supreme Administrative Court, any frozen assets would be released. The legal team has not yet decided on pursuing legal action against the state for the asset seizures, pending the court's ruling, but noted that nearly all her assets had been frozen or were pending sale at auction. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-05-19

Domestic Worker Caught in B430m Tax Fraud at Multiple Companies Picture courtesy of Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) A stunning arrest was made in Sri Racha District where a 54-year-old maid, known only as Somboon, was apprehended over a massive tax evasion case valued at 430 million baht. This high-profile bust was carried out by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) on Sunday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361021-domestic-worker-caught-in-b430m-tax-fraud-at-multiple-companies/

Picture courtesy of Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) A stunning arrest was made in Sri Racha District where a 54-year-old maid, known only as Somboon, was apprehended over a massive tax evasion case valued at 430 million baht. This high-profile bust was carried out by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) on Sunday. The arrest, occurring in the parking area of an apartment complex, centres around Somboon's alleged involvement with tax evasion in three separate firms. The bedrock of the arrest springs from a longstanding tax evasion by a shipping company. The firm's sneaky manoeuvres included avoiding issuance of tax invoices, paying wages in untraceable cash, and declaring drastically low sales numbers. Dubious activities detected by officials suggest an evasion of value-added tax over the past five years, racking up a bill of around 186 million baht in evaded taxes and fines. When confronted by authorities, Somboon, pointing back to 2015, stated she had been employed as a maid at one of the companies. She claims she was asked to sign paperwork by her employer without fully understanding its weight. Disregarding police summons following this, a warrant was issued for her arrest. This case underscores the complex web of tax dodging and the cunning lengths taken by companies to avoid their financial obligations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

From London to Warsaw: European Influx Powers Thailand's Tourism Rebound File photo courtesy of Kasikorn Research Center The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positively beaming as European tourists flock to the country. The TAT governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, reveals that the visitor count from Europe has soared, with a stunning 3.5 million arrivals between January and April. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361017-from-london-to-warsaw-european-influx-powers-thailand's-tourism-rebound/

File photo courtesy of Kasikorn Research Center The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positively beaming as European tourists flock to the country. The TAT governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, reveals that the visitor count from Europe has soared, with a stunning 3.5 million arrivals between January and April. This marks a significant 18.91% increase compared to last year, with tourists from Britain, France, Germany, and Russia leading the charge. Remarkably, Russia boasted 1.74 million visitors last year, with a 17.72% jump, while Germany's tourist numbers surged by 19.78%, bringing in 873,364 visitors. The UK and France also made hefty contributions with 965,862 (up 18.19%) and 281,803 visitors (up 29.81%) respectively. The first four months of this year saw a breathtaking rise: Israel's tourist influx ballooned by 91.07%, Uzbekistan by 62.57%, Poland by 38.94%, and Romania by 32.54%. New and resumed direct flights from major European cities like London, Paris, and Madrid have played a pivotal role in bolstering these figures. Flights from cities such as Brussels and Stockholm have opened new avenues for tourism, significantly contributing to this positive trend. As of now, Britain's visitor count has risen by 20.83%, France by 21.41%, and Germany by 13.03%. Looking ahead, bookings for the July-September period have increased by 21%, and the TAT anticipates a further 17% rise during the high season from October to December. This all spells out a thriving and bustling tourism landscape for Thailand, driven significantly by European enthusiasm. The nation's hospitality, paired with accessible flights, is crafting an inviting narrative that is enticing droves of tourists from across Europe. As the year progresses, Thailand remains a prime holiday destination, outshining past records with no indications of slowing down. With strategic earlier investments in tourism and connectivity paying off, the TAT's optimism appears well-placed. As such, the future holds promising potential for even more visitors seeking the tropical allure of Thailand's shores. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

Bangkok Bust: Teen Trafficking Racket arrested in Undercover Operation Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a late-night sting, police arrested two 18-year-olds in Bangkok's Pom Prap Sattru Phai district, exposing a sordid sex trafficking ring. The duo, nabbed at a prominent hotel, confessed to exploiting vulnerable teens and gathering a 1,000 baht commission per transaction. This operation, orchestrated by alert detectives, lifts the lid on disturbing underage exploitation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361014-bangkok-bust-teen-trafficking-racket-arrested-in-undercover-operation/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a late-night sting, police arrested two 18-year-olds in Bangkok's Pom Prap Sattru Phai district, exposing a sordid sex trafficking ring. The duo, nabbed at a prominent hotel, confessed to exploiting vulnerable teens and gathering a 1,000 baht commission per transaction. This operation, orchestrated by alert detectives, lifts the lid on disturbing underage exploitation. Arrested suspects, known only as A and B, were found in room 107, entrapped in illicit activity. They face serious charges: facilitating prostitution, enticing individuals for indecent purposes, and operating within a prostitution network, with or without participant consent. The sting followed a crucial tip-off, revealing suspect A's orchestration of sexual services, promoted via the Line app. With two undercover officers onboard, the operation meticulously planned the transaction, paying 800 baht (approximately 23 USD) for services, plus a 1,000 baht (about 30 USD) brokerage fee. Every movement, including banknote serial numbers, was scrupulously recorded for solid evidence. However, the backroom antics were about to be disrupted as authorities swooped in, camera-ready. Upon entering the clandestine hotel arena, officers nabbed the suspects in a state of disrobe, primed to deliver on their shameful pact. Evidence manifesting suspect A's hand in arranging these sordid services unfolded with each incriminating photograph captured. In the room search, police uncovered three 1,000 baht notes, revealing the depths of their corrupt commerce. Charged with profiteering from prostitution, suspect A’s culpability incites a broader scourge, while suspect B faces charges for operating within the vice chain. Both await judgement at Nang Loeng Police Station, their fate poised on the legal scales. This shocking exposé highlights the vulnerabilities pinioning young souls to exploitative networks. The operation underscores the vigilance required to dismantle these obscured undercurrents of infantile exploitation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-19

Thailand's Wealth Gap Widens: Most Bank Accounts Below 50,000 Baht Picture courtesy: Royal Vacation Alarm bells ring as new figures from the Bank of Thailand reveal that 89% of bank deposit accounts in the kingdom hold less than 50,000 baht. This stark statistic paints a bleak picture of financial fragility among the Thai populace and how close to the edge many households are living. As highlighted by Thai Rath, these numbers reflect a worrying level of economic instability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361011-thailand's-wealth-gap-widens-most-bank-accounts-below-50000-baht/

Picture courtesy: Royal Vacation Alarm bells ring as new figures from the Bank of Thailand reveal that 89% of bank deposit accounts in the kingdom hold less than 50,000 baht. This stark statistic paints a bleak picture of financial fragility among the Thai populace and how close to the edge many households are living. As highlighted by Thai Rath, these numbers reflect a worrying level of economic instability. For numerous Thais, savings remain a distant dream as daily struggles with the cost of living take precedence. Whether it's daily wage earners, freelancers, or informal workers, many rely on unstable income streams amid swelling expenses such as food, travel, and healthcare. With a scant financial cushion against unexpected disruptions like job loss or medical emergencies, their vulnerability is pronounced. The sobering data paints a broader portrait of financial literacy challenges across the country. Misconceptions like the belief that investing requires significant initial capital contribute to money mismanagement. Heightened risk aversion further hampers attempts at better financial planning, despite low returns on traditional savings. Educational shortcomings and policy gaps in promoting financial literacy exacerbate the issue, sidelining it from everyday life skills. The numbers also starkly expose income inequality, with under 1% of the population holding deposits in the tens of millions. This wealthy minority's combined savings surpass that of the rest by a substantial margin. Addressing these concerns necessitates robust macroeconomic policies targeting structural inequality and empowering people economically. Solving this disparity is critical for ensuring broad-spectrum financial resilience and the feasibility of future security for all, transcending the privilege of the few. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-19

Tragic End for Missing DJ as Body Found with Tied Hands, Gunshots Picture courtesy of Amarin TV The music community and the residents of Kanchanaburi are in shock following the grim discovery of Warapong Khunsrijaturong, also known as DJ Tete. The 33-year-old, who vanished under mysterious circumstances, was found dead with his hands tied and gunshot wounds at his temple. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361005-tragic-end-for-missing-dj-as-body-found-with-tied-hands-gunshots/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV The music community and the residents of Kanchanaburi are in shock following the grim discovery of Warapong Khunsrijaturong, also known as DJ Tete. The 33-year-old, who vanished under mysterious circumstances, was found dead with his hands tied and gunshot wounds at his temple. The unsettling find has ignited a fervent search for answers as investigators rally to piece together the circumstances surrounding his tragic demise. DJ Tete was reportedly abducted in the early hours of May 14, at around 3.53 am, from Pruksa Kan 5 Village, Soi 7, Tha Makham subdistrict, Mueang district. The abduction was captured on CCTV, sparking widespread concern for his safety and subsequent pleas for his release. The perplexing case took a dire turn when his body was discovered in the Wang Dong subdistrict. In their quest for clarity, police have detained two suspects connected to the case. However, both individuals have denied any involvement and refused to cooperate with the investigation. Authorities have seized the suspects' vehicle for a detailed inspection to uncover any potential clues. Meanwhile, investigators scoured a remote area behind a golf course following the last known signal from DJ Tete's phone. There, they uncovered a mix of car parts, including four tyres from a Suzuki Swift, though their connection to the incident remains unclear. The chilling discovery of DJ Tete's body marks a sombre moment in the ongoing investigation. The victim was reportedly dressed in the same attire as on the day of his disappearance. Forensic officers and Provincial Police Region 7's commissioner have converged on the scene to continue their meticulous examination, with further developments anticipated in the coming days. Tensions run high among those involved, with one suspect reportedly damaging a journalist's camera. DJ Tete's father, in a desperate quest for justice, made a gruelling 12-hour journey to lodge a report, still hopeful for his son's return at the time. In separate yet equally distressing news, a 54-year-old woman was found drowned in a pond in Udon Thani on May 12. She had reportedly been distressed over family-related issues. Police are investigating this incident as well, highlighting a tragic period in the region. As authorities delve deeper into DJ Tete's case, the community remains on edge, eager for clarity and justice. The investigation continues, with officials determined to untangle a web of mystery that has left many questions unanswered. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The TH haiger 2025-05-19

Naked Foreign Man Escapes Hospital, Runs Amok in Pattaya Streets Picture courtesy of CH7. Residents were left stunned in the early hours of 18 May, when a naked foreign man, believed to be aged about 40, escaped from a local hospital and went on a destructive rampage through the city’s Naklua area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360977-naked-foreign-man-escapes-hospital-runs-amok-in-pattaya-streets/

Man Caught Smuggling 17.6kg of Heroin Hidden in Pet Food & Coffee Picture courtesy of The Standard. A Thai national has been arrested at the Nong Khai border checkpoint after attempting to smuggle more than 17.6 kilograms of heroin concealed within bags of pet food and coffee. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360955-man-caught-smuggling-176kg-of-heroin-hidden-in-pet-food-coffee/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 19 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1360978-thailand-live-monday-19-may-2025/

Indian Tourist Found Dead on Koh Samet with Head Bound in Plastic Bag Pictured courtesy of Workpoint. The body of a 49-year-old Indian male tourist has been discovered wedged among rocks near Ao Som on the southern side of Koh Samet, with initial investigations revealing his head was bound with a black plastic bag secured by a luggage strap. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360959-indian-tourist-found-dead-on-koh-samet-with-head-bound-in-plastic-bag/

SRT Sets Stage for KiHa Train Testing by End of June KiHA 40. File photo courtesy of Thai Train Guide The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is gearing up to commence testing its newly acquired KiHa 40 and 48 diesel trains before the end of June. Provided as a donation from Japan, these second-hand trains are earmarked for suburban feeder routes by the year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360901-srt-sets-stage-for-kiha-train-testing-by-end-of-june/