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Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. The latest data from the National Economic and Social Development Council shows debt in the nation reached 15.1 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2022, a 3.5% increase year on year, and accounting for 86.9% of GDP. Debt levels remain alarmingly high, as the major factors behind rising household debt are real estate purchases and personal loans. Despite a slow rate of decline, it is anticipated to take a considerable time for household debt to reach the Bank of Thailand’s target level of 80% of GDP. The central bank warned that debt levels surpassing 80% of GDP pose a risk to the country’s financial stability and long-term economic growth. It is predicted that without implementing debt restructuring measures, household debt is expected to tally 84% of GDP by 2027. According to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), Thailand’s household debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to decline to between 85.5 to 86% in 2023, due to GDP expansion and retail loan repayments. This includes repayments on credit cards and mortgages during seasonal periods. However, the ratio remains high at 86.9% as GDP growth aligns with the nation’s economic recovery. Over the long term, K-Research expects retail loans in the Thai banking system to grow at a slowed pace of 3 to 3.5% compared to the previous average of 6.0% over the past five years. by Alex Morgan Photo Courtesy of Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/thai-household-debt-soars-to-86-9-of-gdp-dampening-consumer-spending -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

On Sunday, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai defended his country’s hosting of peace talks, which the foreign minister of Myanmar’s ruling junta is attending, which will be shunned by key ASEAN counterparts and which is attracting criticism of the incumbent Thai government. Speaking to Thai PBS, Don said the forum is part of Thailand’s continuing efforts to find ways to resolve the crisis in neighbouring Myanmar. Myanmar’s Foreign Minister Than Swe is attending the two-day meeting, which started on Sunday, along with representatives from Laos, Cambodia, Brunei, Vietnam, India and China, according to a statement from the Thai Foreign Ministry. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/foreign-minister-insists-informal-myanmar-talks-are-in-thailands-interest/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thai police have seized assets worth over 1,000 million baht (US$28,800,000) from a suspect known as “Boy” in connection to an alleged 140 million baht (US$4,036,000) embezzlement case. Speaking yesterday, police deputy commander Surachet Hakpal detailed that nine out of ten men facing accusations had reported to authorities, including Chonburi’s provincial governor. The investigation continues, with financial examinations expected to conclude this week. Surachet Hakpal stated that there was misconduct in the initial handling of the arrests, as the accused individuals were not taken to a police station in the local area; instead, they were taken straight to their superiors’ offices. Furthermore, some arrest warrants were withdrawn after receiving payments, asserting that the information provided by an informant was incorrect. Surachet also mentioned they are preparing to further expand the investigation and apprehend more individuals involved in this matter. The assets discovered, worth an initial estimate of 200-300 million baht (US$5,765,000-8,648,000), include residential properties, land, boats, and motor vehicles. The authorities, in coordination with the government’s financial secretary, are now focused on completing the asset seizure process worth not less than 1,000 million baht in total. by Nattapong Westwood TOP PHOTO: Unsplash/Andre Blanco Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-police-seize-1000-million-baht-assets-in-embezzlement-case-linked-to-boy -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

The Future Cannabis Network is marching across Thailand in a campaign to gather 50,000 signatures opposing the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, confident that the new government will listen. Reporters stationed at K CANNABIS Stonre, the headquarters of the Khon Kaen Cannabis Association, learned that Prasit Nunuan, Secretary-General of the Future Cannabis Network, has revealed the Network's mission, reported INN. Amid current legislative changes surrounding the public Cannabis Act – which was initially proposed to the progressive party, before being stalled in committee – the group seeks to ensure that cannabis will not revert to its status as a controlled substance. The party rationalized this move, asserting that controlled substance status could better regulate cannabis use. "Cannabis must be systemically controlled, from seeds to cultivation, processing, and protecting minors. It needs specific laws, a standalone Act," Nunuan said. He voiced concerns that reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic could lead to a lack of access to medicinal cannabis, stall cannabis-related research and development, and impede its import/export and processing due to stringent narcotics laws. He further argued that reclassifying cannabis could impact both civil liberties and pharmaceutical stability, especially in rural areas where cannabis has long been used as medicine. He highlighted that political misinformation had misled many Thai people, causing them to view smoking cannabis as the primary use of the plant, even though it has been used medicinally to treat impoverished patients and those with incurable diseases. His travels across multiple provinces revealed that Isaan, in particular, heavily utilizes cannabis for medicinal purposes. He claims that reverting cannabis to a narcotic would infringe on basic rights. Various global studies conclude that cannabis can treat several diseases, and it is used medically in over 70 countries. While awaiting the new government, the Future Cannabis Network will continue to travel across Thailand, spreading knowledge about cannabis uses and products, and encouraging local discussions. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

Pattaya — Around three go-go bar guards allegedly attacked a Russian tourist, who reportedly refused to pay for the drinks he had ordered, on Walking Street at 3:30 AM this morning, June 18th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298297-go-go-bar-guards-on-pattaya-walking-street-allegedly-attack-russian-man-who-refused-to-pay-his-bill/

Pheu Thai nominee for PM, Srettha Thavisin, was speaking on Wednesday at an investors conference in Bangkok at which he insisted on looking at the current political situation in a positive light, saying that its resolution in the form of political certainty and a government led by Move Forward’s Pita Limjaroenrat would be a green light for a return of inward financial investment and new jobs created by foreign firms. Business tycoon turned politician, Srettha Thavisin, briefed investors in Bangkok about the current political situation as capital and investment flow out of the kingdom due to rising political uncertainty as the May 14th General Election result becomes embroiled in controversy due to the extremely onerous nature and complexity of the country’s electoral system. Pheu Thai Party Prime Ministerial nominee, Srettha Thavisin, this week tried to sound positive about the current anxiety sweeping the business sector over the murky political situation and growing doubts about the May 14th General Election result. Mr Srettha said he was confident that if a government led by Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat is installed in August, it would lead to a return of investment and capital to Thailand as money continues to flow out of the kingdom. Key Pheu Thai Party leader Srettha Thavisin, a former property tycoon and business empire builder, on Wednesday, told reporters that he was aware of international business enterprises that would like to move plants and production to Thailand but are put off, for now, by the delay, in the aftermath of the May 14th General Election, in clarity emerging as to the nature and substance of Thailand’s next government which is expected to be elected by parliament in August. by Joseph O' Connor Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2023/06/17/pita-election-as-pm-a-green-light-for-jobs-capital-inflows-pheu-thai-srettha/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Packed with essential nutrients, milk is an integral part of children’s diets and supports their growth. It contains calcium, which is great for the teeth and the bones, and has other health benefits too, among them boosting the immune system, strengthening heart health, and improving the skin, according to experts. Yet despite these advantages, a study shows milk consumption is low among young Thais, raising concerns over their short stature. Thai children tend to be on the short side because they drink too little milk, says Dr Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai, director general of the Department of Health (DoH). The percentage of “short” Thai teenagers has increased from 9.5% to 10.4% over the past years. And that short stature can be attributed to inadequate milk intake. Dr Suwannachai was speaking at a special event hosted at the DoH’s office and chaired by him to mark World Milk Day 2023. The aim was to raise awareness about the importance of drinking milk. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-children-losing-out-on-height-due-to-too-little-milk/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Surabot Leekpai, the celebrity son of a man dubbed the “Mr Clean” of Thai politics, has been accused of swindling crypto investors out of millions. Investors in the Crypto Ronin NFT Project have filed a joint complaint with police against Surabot, claiming damages totaling 15 million baht. Surabot has declined to comment when quizzed about the allegations, saying only that his lawyer is handling the issue. What happened? Widely known as “Pleum”, Surabot launched the “play-to-earn” crypto project last year. His credibility earned through family connections attracted many to invest even before the project was fully developed. When the game failed to launch as scheduled in the second quarter of 2022, investors agreed to wait a bit longer. Suspicions were only aroused after the project owner deleted their account on the Line messaging platform and migrated to Discord. The final straw came in recent months when Bitkub officially removed Crypto Ronin NFT from its list of registered projects and Surabot stopped responding to their queries. By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/celebrity-son-of-thailands-mr-clean-engulfed-in-crypto-scandal/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Live Nation Tero is thrilled to announce Britain’s foremost comedian JOHN CLEESE to Bangkok! He is set to perform in Bangkok on 7 July at KBank Siam Pic Ganesha. Cleese is kicking off his Asia tour, starting in Taipei, followed by Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. John Cleese is both a versatile comedic actor and a leading business motivator. Through the legendary Monty Python Troupe, classic sitcom “Fawlty Towers,” and acclaimed film “A Fish Called Wanda,” Cleese created a unique comedic style that has inspired countless writers and comedians. John Cleese’s influence is also felt in the corporate world as the founder of Video Arts, the world’s largest provider of business training programs. Established in 1972, Video Arts has gained an international reputation as the premier source of business know–how. Cleese attributes his success at making hit training programs to his fascination with psychology and his love for teaching and making people laugh. He believes that “humour in training increases retention and decreases anxiety. When the training point is surrounded by humour, it can be readily digested, remembered, and applied. by Thaiger Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/events/john-cleese-announces-new-show-in-bangkok-this-july-with-new-tickets-price-added -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

ACTIVISTS from various groups joined the human rights watchdog iLaw in holding a rally at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Friday evening (June 16) to press the Election Commission to quickly complete verification of MPs-designate, Matichon newspaper said. Accompanying iLaw’s manager Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont, or Pao, in staging the rally were Mr. Jarupat Boonpattararaksa, or Phai Dao Din, leader of of the Thalufah (Through the Sky) group and Ms. Patsaravalee Tanakitvibulpon, or Mind. From 5 p.m. onwards Thalufah followers gradually started assembling at the rally site in front of the centre where a stage was set up with large sign posted behind saying “33 days have passed but the Election Commission has not yet approved the election results.” Smaller signs saying “Stop obstructing people’s government” were posted around the rally point where tables and chairs were placed for people to give and listen to speeches. by TNR Staff The rally at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre June 16, 2023. Photo: Matichon Full story: https://thainewsroom.com/2023/06/16/activists-hold-rally-to-pile-pressure-on-polling-agency/ -- © Copyright THAI NEWSROOM 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Great economic forecast from the Bank of Thailand, Central Pattana 'Kid's Pride Event at their Central Marina store goes too far, Phuket accounting firm raided as NACC investigates Thai nominees on companies set up to purchase property, Pita in Chiang Mai promising to tackle the crippling PM 2.5 air pollution problem, Election Commission set to start announcing elected MPs from next Monday. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists. With thanks to our sponsor 5 Star Marine in Phuket for premium, private charters. Click on this link for a special offer for TNT viewers... https://5starmarinephuket.com/tim/ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Good report card for the Thai economy from the Bank of Thailand 2:58 - Phuket law firm gets raided over dodgy 'nominee' companies for property sales 5:55 - Latest reports on the 'Broccoli' issue as reported in international media 8:18 - Central Pattana goes too far with promotion of Kid's Pride event in Pattaya 10:52 - Pita visits Chiang Mai to promote response to PM 2.5 air pollution problem 13:29 - Election commission say they will start announcing winning MPs next week 14:44 - Officials investigate cheap and nasty Thai school lunches

Thirty Thai women in the popular dating game show Take Me Out Thailand gave a blackout to an arrogant 22 year old American man after he showed his male chauvinistic side. He insisted at the end of the show that he told the truth, thankfully the Thai contestants would not accept a man who appeared to have stepped out of a 1950s time machine. The episode sparked a heated discussion among Thai netizens. In the Take Me Out Thailand game show, which was aired on June 10, the single American man, who introduced himself as Tangmo in Thai, joined the show hoping to win the hearts of 30 Thai women. Throughout the episode, Tangmo expressed his views on married life, leaving many women on the show and netizens alike in disagreement. So, the girls gave him a blackout. Tangmo said in the show in Thai… “I consider myself a conservative person. For me, a man must be the breadwinner, working for the family. A man is a leader while a woman is a follower and supporter. I do not mean to imply that a man is superior to a woman but each has to do their duties.” Continuing his discourse, the American shared his perspective on the concept of loyalty. He stated… “Some women who claim to desire multiple husbands have likely been influenced by social media. However, their true instincts don’t align with such desires. A good woman will desire only one man. The value of a woman is her purity. It is different for a man. Man’s instinct needs more than one woman. “The meaning of loyalty is different from a woman. A man must take care of his partner and uphold his promises. If a man can take care of more than one woman, it is fine. All men want more than one woman. It depends on whether they will tell the truth to the women or not. For me, I want to have many children. If that woman could not give me, so she will have more friends at home.” by Petch Petpailin Photo via Take Me Out Thailand TV Thunder Official Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/take-me-out-thailand-american-man-gets-blackout-for-his-male-chauvinistic-attitude -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Members of civic groups monitoring the May 14th general election gathered at the Office of the Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday to demand a speedy announcement of the poll results. A letter, addressed to the EC chairman, demands that they announce the poll results as quickly as possible and explain the delay. Yingcheep Atchanont of iLaw, one of the demonstrators, said that it has been a month since the election on May 14th and the recounting of votes at over 40 polling stations was completed on June 11th, therefore, there is no justification for the EC’s continued procrastination. Although the EC has 60 days after the election to announce results, Yingcheep said that it is unnecessary for them to take such a long time, noting that, in the previous general elections, the EC took only 16 days to announce the 2005 election results, 29 days in 2007, 24 days in 2011 and 45 days in 2019. The longer the delay, he claimed, the more the people will become suspicious and lose faith in the EC. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pressure-mounts-on-ec-to-announce-may-14th-election-results/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

China expressed its readiness to enhance military cooperation with Thailand in a bid to maintain stability in the region. The two nations have planned a series of joint military exercises for the upcoming year. During a meeting in Beijing, China’s Defence Minister Li Shangfu assured Narongpan Jitkaewtae, the Royal Thai Army’s commander-in-chief, of China’s commitment to work closely with Thailand. The South China Morning Post reported that Li stated… “China stands ready to work with Thailand to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries … and push for more fruitful cooperation between the two militaries, especially between the two armies.” by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of Istock Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/china-and-thailand-plan-joint-military-drills-to-maintain-regional-stability -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Several foreign banks do not want to accept the Swedish krona - which affects travelers who cannot exchange money during the trip. According to the currency dealer Forex, it has not been possible to exchange the Swedish krona abroad for several days. For Swedish tourists, it becomes problematic, as they cannot exchange money for the local currency. According to Dagens Nyheter, Thailand and some countries in the Middle East refuse to buy in the Swedish krona. When Swedish tourists visited foreign banks and exchange offices, they were told that "Sweden does not want the krona to be used abroad", according to DN. Forex has confirmed the information on its website. "Many customers contacted Forex customer service and wondered what to do after they failed to obtain local currencies abroad," says Tom Friberg, head of communications at Forex, to DN. The change happened suddenly and many were taken aback. “It happened quickly. Overnight starting May 31. But it also seems that foreign banks and exchange offices have started to act like this a few days before," says Tom Friberg. According to Forex, it is about Nordic banks no longer wanting to repatriate (buy back) their local currencies from abroad. Since the turn of the year, Danish banks have acted in this way, and now Norwegian and Swedish banks are also doing the same. This in turn means that foreign banks or exchange offices cannot get rid of the Swedish currency that they buy in from, for example, tourists. There is not much information from the Swedish banks about this. Forex writes on its website that they are currently working on finding answers. Those of you planning to travel abroad should make sure to exchange money before departure. Also do not take Swedish cash abroad with you, Forex writes on its website. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

Thailand – Financial institutions in Thailand have begun mandating facial recognition for customers conducting high-value transactions. The move, aimed at reducing fraudulent activities and scams, is expected to provide extra security for clients. Deputy Government Spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul announced that all commercial and government banks will implement this new security measure. Starting from July, customers transacting 50,000 baht or more via mobile banking, or whose transactions exceed a daily limit of 200,000 baht, will be required to verify their identities via facial recognition systems. Traisuree explained that this measure is part of broader anti-cybercrime initiatives spearheaded by the Bank of Thailand (BOT) and other relevant agencies. By Adam Judd Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/06/04/yes-thai-banks-are-starting-to-require-facial-recognition-for-high-value-transactions/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-06-05 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thai authorities are stepping up campaigns encouraging people to roll up their sleeves and get booster shots as COVID-19 makes a comeback. The campaigns are designed to combat a new surge in cases, attributed to factors such as students returning for the new semester – but most importantly people’s declining immunity. “The prime minister is worried about the elderly and vulnerable groups. They should take a booster shot every year,” said Anucha Burapachaisri, deputy secretary-general to the PM and acting government spokesperson. He added that even young people should get booster shots, which are being offered for free at state hospitals. “Don’t forget that COVID-19 can still be deadly,” he emphasized. Deaths surging again Deaths from the disease have soared more than threefold over the past month, according to official data. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/covid-makes-comeback-in-thailand-as-booster-fatigue-leaves-door-open/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Rangsiman Rome tells reporters that efforts by conservative elements or perhaps misinformation operations should stop as he clarifies the Move Forward foreign policy position. He told reporters that while the reports were ‘fake news’ he was opposed to the prosecution of anyone for sharing information like this but simply wished that people behind such efforts would cease in the interests of national unity. The Move Forward firebrand and key leader of the party, Rangsiman Rome, has firmly denied that the party supports allowing the United States to establish a military base in Thailand. On Wednesday, he pointed to the balanced commitment concerning Thailand’s relationship with key world powers given in its Memorandum of Understanding or programme for government and stated that Move Forward would object to any such move as it is committed to protecting the country’s sovereignty. The controversy comes amid rising tensions between the United States and China with indications that Thailand’s neighbour Cambodia is forging stronger links with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) including, according to US officials, the construction of a Chinese naval base in the Gulf of Thailand. Top Move Forward Party MP-elect Rangsiman Rome has come out to forcefully deny what he suspects are malicious rumours suggesting that the Move Forward Party has an agenda to let the United States establish a military base in Thailand. by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor Image caption: Move Forward Party key figure and MP elect Rangsiman Rome ( centre right) Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2023/05/26/move-forward-rejects-us-military-base-plan/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2023-05-26 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Tanakorn Sangiam BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand remains a popular filming location among international production houses. Filming activities have generated massive revenue for the country and local people, while at the same time revitalizing the country’s own film industry. Thailand has maintained its reputation as a popular filming location and has recently welcomed the production teams of two series from Singapore and the U.S. television network HBO, who chose Hat Yai City in Songkhla as a filming location. Mr. Patt Rakthongthana, a local coordinator who has worked with international production studios, said these activities have generated income for local communities, as all the production crews contributed to the local economies throughout their shooting schedules. Mr. Patt suggested that proper management and the relaxation of certain regulations would make Thailand even more appealing to international production houses. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230518090544416 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-18 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Nigel Farage. Credit: Wikimedia Former UKIP leader blames Tory government for not taking advantage of leaving the EU BY ANDREW MCDONALD LONDON — Nigel Farage, one of the biggest advocates of Britain’s departure from the European Union, reckons Brexit has failed. Speaking on the BBC’s Newsnight program Monday night, the former Brexit Party leader — one of the most famous figureheads of the Brexit cause — admitted the U.K. had not benefited economically from leaving the bloc. “What Brexit has proved, I’m afraid, is that our politicians are about as useless as the commissioners in Brussels. We’ve mismanaged this totally,” Farage said, responding to a raft of data suggesting there had been a negative economic impact of Brexit. “Brexit has failed,” he added. “We’ve not delivered on Brexit and the Tories have let us down very, very badly.” Full story: https://www.politico.eu/article/nigel-farage-uk-eu-brexit-has-failed/ -- © Copyright POLITICO 2023-05-17

If your memory isn’t too hazy, let’s enter a blast from the past to a time when even weed was beautiful and a lot less complicated. The cannabis veterans among us – and perhaps the young connoisseurs too – will remember the classics of the 20th Century. Strains brought out during the 60s – 90s, a golden age of weed devoid of today’s over-engineering or technical babble that pervades modern dispensaries and smoky living rooms alike. The classic cannabis flowers of yester-millennium were something special, and they are back right here at Prikpot. We’ve revived these strains with careful attention to detail, maintaining the characteristics that made them legendary. The PrikPot Classics line up at the time of writing: - Acapulco Gold (22% THC) | A sativa-leaning hybrid from the 60s that was so good Cheech and Chong sang songs about it. - Afghan Kush (21% THC) | Hitting the scene in the 70s after emerging from Afghanistan’s Kush Mountains, this Indica strain was popular with pretty much everyone. - Bubba Kush (20% THC) | If the 90s were your decade, Bubba Kush was there with you. An Indica that felt right at home in your living room after a long day. - Colombian Gold (20% THC) | Not to be outdone by other countries, Colombia produced one of the most legendary Sativas of the era, ideal for an energetic high. - Mazar (20% THC) | Another legendary Afghan Indica, this time from the 80s, that was great to grow AND wonderful to smoke. - Northern Lights (18% THC) | A cross of Afghani and Thai strains, NL came out in the 80s and embraced us all with its relaxing effects and one of the coolest names ever. - White Widow (20% THC) | Famous for its powerful burst of euphoria and energy, this 90s strain from the Netherlands went worldwide in a hurry. The complete PrikPot Classics line up can be found here: https://prikpot.com/product-category/flowers/classic-flowers/?tap_a=114340-911ad0&tap_s=2 932157-79232a To celebrate the good old days, we also launched our PrikPot Classics Pack that will give you 2 grams/strain of 5 select classic and iconic flowers. That’s a whopping 10 grams for just 2,495 baht. This is a 50% discount for a time machine that is into cannabis’ past. Find the PrikPot Classics Pack here: https://prikpot.com/product/prikpot-classics-10gr-bundle-5-flowers/?tap_a=114340-911ad0&t ap_s=2932157-79232a Your satisfaction is guaranteed through Prikpot’s discerning processes and high standards, offering cannabis that is: - 100% organic - Produced by experienced local artisan growers - Stored and handled with professional care - Shipped for free all over Thailand with same-day dispatch if ordered before 1:00pm Mon-Sat - Attentive and personal customer service and support - 1-hour delivery for customers in metropolitan Chiang Mai (Mon-Sat) Transport yourself to those groovy days by clicking here: https://prikpot.com/product/prikpot-classics-10gr-bundle-5-flowers/?tap_a=114340-911ad0&t ap_s=2932157-79232a -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-04-27 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

-- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-04-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

by Tanakorn Sangiam BANGKOK (NNT) - Thai dishes continue to be desired delicacies among food enthusiasts around the world. A global food website TasteAtlas has ranked Phanaeng curry the best stew in the world, ahead of Japanese curry and Sichuan hot pot. TasteAtlas has placed Phanaeng curry at the top of the Best Stews in the World ranking, with a 4.8 score out of 5. The website describes Phanaeng curry as a variety of Thai curry that is characterized by its thick texture and a salty-sweet peanut flavor, consisting of meat that is stewed with dried chilis, kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, cilantro, cumin, garlic, lemongrass, shallots, and peanuts. The dish is traditionally made without any vegetables. Another Thai dish making the top-ten ranking is Massaman curry, coming at number eight with a score of 4.6. The website says Massaman stands out from other Thai curries as it is the mildest and sweetest kind. TasteAtlas describes Massaman curry as a combination of creamy coconut milk, meat, potatoes, and a curry paste made with roasted spices, while highlighting the use of coconut milk in this dish as an authentic Thai element, providing a rich base for the rest of the ingredients. Thicker cuts of meat such as beef, bone-in chicken, lamb, and mutton are typically used for this dish, which is cooked along with spices such as cumin, coriander, cloves, cinnamon, and peppercorns, mixed with fresh garlic, chili, galangal, lemongrass, tamarind paste, and palm sugar. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230321094005148 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-03-21 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thailand’s National Environment Board (NEB) has decided to tighten up measures to curb the worsening PM2.5 problem in 17 northern provinces, which is threatening public health and is being blamed on forest fires and the burning of farm waste. There will be a complete ban on burning in open spaces, strict enforcement of the law against violators who light fires in forests or burn farm waste and cooperation sought from millers to stop buying burnt sugarcane from farmers. At a meeting on Wednesday, the NEB has also instructed the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to mobilise all its resources, including aircraft, to control forest fires. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/tighter-measures-to-curb-dangerous-pm2-5-levels-in-northern-provinces/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-03-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

By Editor At the March meeting of the Royal Coast Riviera Club, Mr. Luca Bernardinetti, CEO of Mahanakorn Partners Group, a company that specialises in visas for Thailand, presented a detailed description of the advantages, requirements and process related to Thailand’s recently introduced long-term resident (LTR) visa. Almost 3,000 wealthy and/or skilled foreigners have applied for the LTR in the first four months, says government spokeswoman Traisulee Taisaranakul. Traisulee said 2,920 foreigners had applied for LTR visas from the Board of Investment (BOI) between November 1 and February 28 this year. The program authorises foreigners to remain in the country for up to ten years and a total of four dependents may be granted a visa as well, including a spouse and children under the age of 20. The ten year LTR visa was introduced on November 1st last year to attract foreign talent and multinational firms to Thailand. At the time it was anticipated that this initiative would attract 1 million new foreign residents over the first five years. Although at the current rate of applications, it seems highly unlikely that forecast will be attained. Of those who have applied, 195 are wealthy people, 1,011 are retirees, 771 are people who want to work in Thailand, 390 are skilled individuals, and 553 are dependants. The top three sources of applications were Europe (940 people), followed by the US (517) and China (325). LTR visa holders enjoy several privileges. Holders are not required to report to Thai immigration authorities every 90 days and enjoy duty-free tax exemption. Additionally, long-term residents benefit from modified laws and regulations regarding working and foreigner-owned land in Thailand. High-potential foreigners are placed into four applicant groups: wealthy global citizens, wealthy retirees, Work-from-Thailand Professionals, and highly skilled workers. ● Wealthy Global Citizen (LTR-W): Wealthy individuals holding at least USD 1 million in assets ● Wealthy Pensioner (LTR-P): Retirees aged 50 years and older who have an annual pension or stable income ● Work-from-Thailand Professional (LTR-T): Remote workers working for well-established overseas companies ● Highly-skilled Professional (LTR-H): Professionals or experts in targeted industries working for business entities or higher education institutes or research centres in Thailand or Thai Government agencies Additionally, the Dependants (LTR-O) visa refers to the spouse and children (under 20 years of age) of LTR visa holders (maximum 4 dependants per LTR visa holder). Successfully applying for an LTR involves numerous steps and meeting multiple requirements. It will take time, typically not less than 18 months, to prove the requirements are met, submit the necessary documentation and the go through a final review before an approval is obtained. The documents required for each type of LTR visa vary and even within the same category, are considered on a case-by-case basis. Across the country multiple seminars continue to be offered by immigration and visa consultants, typically recommending that receiving expert advice and support is the way to go, although self-managed applications have been successful. Official Information Source: Expatriate Services Division, One Stop Service Center of Visa and Work Permit (OSS) 18th Floor, Chamchuri Square Building, Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Official Website: https://ltr.boi.go.th/ Tel: +66 2209 1100 ext.1109-1110, E-mail: [email protected] Source: https://royalcoastreview.com/2023/03/will-thailands-long-term-resident-visa-work-for-you/ -- © Copyright Royal Coast Review 2023-03-13 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.