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DE FACTO PHEU THAI BOSS-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra is virtually seeking a fresh annex to a “secret deal” which he had earlier made with the powers-that-be to the extent that his sister/deposed prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra be literally free to return home from self-exile abroad sooner or later without being subsequently thrown in jail, according to partisan sources. Thaksin who has obviously “recovered from critical illnesses” in a matter of days after he was granted parole last February is yet to refresh the “secret deal” with the ultra-conservative, powerful elite class to pave way for the long-planned homecoming of Yingluck who has already spent seven years of self-exile overseas as had been the case of himself having returned home after 17 years of self-exile abroad last August. Thaksin had allegedly managed to keep himself from being literally put behind bars for a single day to otherwise serve a curtailed, one-year jail sentence and being instead granted contentious, double-standard privileges for a six-month period at Police Hospital in lieu of Bangkok Remand Prison. As part of the “secret deal” under which the billionaire Thaksin had been granted the privileges unprovided for ordinary convicts, the de facto Pheu Thai boss had been practically obliged to return favours to the powers-that-be who would decidedly prefer to leave the helm of government to his party rather than tolerate seeing the Move Forward in government following the progressive party’s electoral victory in which they had won most MP seats last year. The Move Forward led by Pita Limjaroenrat has not only been politically considered an “enemy No.1” in the eye of the ultra-conservative elite but the de facto Pheu Thai boss since both finally buried the hatchet and reconciled with each other, given their shared upset caused by the Move Forward in last year’s election, the partisan sources said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra with her brother de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman crashes pickup into traffic cop in Lop Buri by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ A 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325243-thai-woman-crashes-pickup-into-traffic-cop-in-lop-buri/

A 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. The accident occurred at Ban Deelang Intersection on Highway No. 21, also known as Saraburi-Lomsak Road, in the Pattana Nikhom district of Lop Buri province. A traffic police officer from the Highway Police, 39 year old Piyanan Siseu, sustained severe injuries. Due to heavy traffic congestion during the Songkran festival holiday, a helicopter was sent to the scene to transport Piyanan to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. However, the helicopter had to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff because Piyanan’s condition deteriorated due to the change in air pressure. His pulse dropped significantly, and his blood pressure became unstable during the flight. An emergency vehicle from Pattana Nikhom Hospital transported Piyanan, but the hospital lacked the necessary equipment to treat him. Consequently, Piyanan was transferred to King Narai Hospital, which was 40 kilometres away. Medical workers reported that Piyanan had lost a significant amount of blood and suffered brain swelling. He underwent emergency surgery on the day of the incident, prompting the hospital to issue a call for blood donations to support his treatment. Thai PBS reported today, April 18, that Piyanan’s condition has improved, although he remains unconscious. He was transferred to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok at 10 am today for further treatment. The driver of the pickup truck, a 26 year old Thai woman whose identity was not disclosed, claimed to police and the media that the police had closed traffic lanes upon her arrival at the scene, leading to her collision with Piyanan, who was on duty at the spot. According to Thai PBS, as reported, some of the traffic lanes were closed, with signage notifying motorists 1 kilometre before the closure. The driver was taken to Pattana Nikhom Police Station for further questioning. Police suspect she was driving at high speed and may not have been familiar with the route. She was initially charged with reckless driving, and the legal consequences will depend on the assessment of the severity by the traffic police officer. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s aviation sector set for soaring recovery Photo of Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s skies are set for a dramatic rebound as aviation bodies predict a swift recovery in passenger numbers by next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325242-thailand’s-aviation-sector-set-for-soaring-recovery/

Thailand’s skies are set for a dramatic rebound as aviation bodies predict a swift recovery in passenger numbers by next year. In a statement to the press, Yongyut Lujintanon, the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) area manager for Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, highlighted the intricate web of factors influencing the country’s aviation resurgence. Despite the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s ambitious goal of nearly 40 million arrivals this year, challenges persist. Confirming the surge in demand, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) reported an influx of slot requests. However, Yongyut underscored the persistent threats, ranging from geopolitical tensions to escalating fuel costs, which have skyrocketed by three to five times compared to pre-pandemic levels. Thailand, once a regional aviation powerhouse, trailed behind Southeast Asian counterparts like the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam in traffic recovery in 2023. Only Vietnam managed to surpass 2019’s traffic figures, underlining the uphill battle for Thailand. Although the Asia-Pacific region witnessed a 93% recovery in revenue passenger kilometres by January this year, it still lags behind the global average, which soared to pre-pandemic levels. International passengers are expected to reach 2019 levels by next year, contingent upon market dynamics, particularly China’s reopening pace. Sarun Benjanirat, CAAT’s Deputy Director-General, painted a cautiously optimistic picture, projecting a potential recovery to 165 million passengers by the year’s end. However, the road to full restoration, mirroring IATA’s forecast by 2025, hinges on critical factors like fleet expansion and market resumption, particularly in China. The unveiling of the Air-mazing Thailand project witnessed a flurry of activity, with airlines eyeing provincial airports like Udon Thani and Surat Thani, reported Bangkok Post. These developments signal a potential shift in Thailand’s aviation landscape, with Surat Thani emerging as a formidable alternative to alleviate pressure from congested hubs like Samui Airport. In related news, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced last Monday, April 8 that a feasibility study for the expansion of Samui Airport is currently being conducted. The proposed expansion aims to accommodate larger aircraft and an increasing number of visitors. Photo of Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hong Kong man arrested with drugs at Songkran event in Bangkok by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online Police arrested a man from Hong Kong at the S2O Songkran Music Festival 2024 water fight in the Ratchada area of Bangkok on April 16 for possession of ketamine and happy water. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325241-hong-kong-man-arrested-with-drugs-at-songkran-event-in-bangkok/

Police arrested a man from Hong Kong at the S2O Songkran Music Festival 2024 water fight in the Ratchada area of Bangkok on April 16 for possession of ketamine and happy water. More than 200 officers from Wang Thong Lang Police Station, along with K-9 dogs, screened participants for weapons and drugs at the festival entrance during the three-day event. At about 9.30pm on April 16, a security guard alerted police to a suspicious foreigner, later identified as 48 year old Hong Kong man To Wai Kil. The guard observed To handing red and black packages to other participants and suspected drug sales. Police searched To and found 67.5 grammes of happy water and 1.5 grammes of ketamine in his bag. Happy water is a drug powder mixed with various substances, often consumed with alcohol. The happy water was packed in red and black zip-lock bags while ketamine was packed in small plastic tubes. Related news Officers conducted a raid at To’s condominium in the Ratchada area and discovered more drugs. Police found three packs of happy water and one pack of ketamine in his condo room. In total, the Thai authorities seized 80 grammes of happy water and 3 grammes of ketamine during To’s arrest. To was charged with possessing Category 1 drug. The penalty is imprisonment from two to 20 years and a fine of 200,000 to 2 million baht according to Section 145 of the Narcotics Control Act. Police initiated a nationwide drug crackdown ahead of the Songkran Festival to deter the use and sale of drugs during the water fight events. Two weeks ago, authorities successfully seized a significant quantity of drugs intended for sale during Songkran events at a hotel in Bangkok’s Pathum Wan district. The confiscated drugs included 110 kilogrammes of crystal meth, 60 kilogrammes of ketamine, 7,000 tablets of Yaba (methamphetamine), 1.4 kilogrammes of heroin, and 2,000 tablets of ecstasy. Two drug dealers apprehended at the scene admitted to transporting the drugs from Saraburi province to Bangkok for distribution to other dealers during the Songkran events. by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Sanam Luang Songkran bash smashes records by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) declared the recent Songkran celebrations at Sanam Luang in Bangkok a resounding success, drawing in a staggering 784,000 participants. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool shared the triumphant news at a press conference, unveiling the splashing success of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325121-massive-success-maha-songkran-world-water-festival-2024-draws-784000-participants/?do=findComment&comment=18851427

Sanam Luang Songkran bash smashes records by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) declared the recent Songkran celebrations at Sanam Luang in Bangkok a resounding success, drawing in a staggering 784,000 participants. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool shared the triumphant news at a press conference, unveiling the splashing success of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. The vibrant celebrations, spanning from April 11 to 15 on Rajdamnoen Klang Road and Sanam Luang, welcomed a whopping 784,883 attendees, with over 693,000 Thais joyously partaking, a whopping 72.18% of whom were proud Bangkok residents. And it wasn’t just the locals, an impressive 91,595 revellers from foreign shores, predominantly from European nations, added their splash of international flair to the festivities. The festivities poured an estimated 950 million baht into direct spending, covering everything from tantalising food and drink sales to accommodation costs and souvenir splurges. Thapanee revealed that this spending surge was set to ripple through the economic system, circulating a staggering 1.935 billion baht and culminating in a whopping 2.886 billion baht boost for the economy, lining the government’s pockets with a cool 742 million baht in VAT collections. Not only did the celebrations bring smiles to the faces of revellers, but they also proved to be a lucrative opportunity for around 500 street vendors and their 2,000 workers who cashed in on the revelry. Thapanee hailed the festivities as a triumph, attracting both local and international tourists and earning rave reviews in visitor surveys, reported The Nation. The buzz spilt onto social media, catapulting Sanam Luang into the spotlight as a must-visit destination. Plus, with access to nearby festive hotspots like Khao San Road and Phra Arthit Road, the fun was truly unstoppable! In related news, Thailand’s Songkran Thai New Year celebrations have gathered international attention, with 35 foreign embassies collaborating with the Thai government to promote the festival worldwide. This initiative comes after UNESCO recognised the festival as an intangible cultural heritage in December last year. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s reservoirs promise adequate water supply until rains by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of NBT Phuket Phuket‘s three primary reservoirs are sufficiently water-filled to ensure the island’s inhabitants have enough water until the annual rains due next month, confirmed Krirksak Leenanon, the Chief of Phuket Irrigation Office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325240-phuket’s-reservoirs-promise-adequate-water-supply-until-rains/

Phuket‘s three primary reservoirs are sufficiently water-filled to ensure the island’s inhabitants have enough water until the annual rains due next month, confirmed Krirksak Leenanon, the Chief of Phuket Irrigation Office. Currently, Bang Wad Reservoir, located in Kathu, holds 2.12 million cubic metres of water, indicating it is 20% full. Meanwhile, Bang Neow Dum Reservoir, situated in Srisoonthorn, is 45% full with 3.57 million cubic metres of water. The Klong Kata Reservoir in Chalong is 32% full, having 1.32 million cubic metres of water. Krirksak confirmed these figures were up to date as of yesterday. He noted that the water volume in Bang Wad Reservoir in Kathu this year is slightly lower than in previous years. However, it hasn’t reached a critical level and can continue to provide water to the population, including business owners, till the end of May. Krirksak expressed some optimism, however. “Assuming the rains arrive as anticipated in May, we should not encounter any issues.” Krirksak also mentioned that they have identified several alternative water sources, originating from both the private sector and various water mines, reported The Phuket News. Additionally, he revealed they have a plan to request aid from royal rainmakers if required. He concluded by stating that they would continue to execute their short-, medium-, and long-term strategies. In related news, the Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Phankham Kittitorakul, President of Ao Nang OrBorTor, highlighted the recurring lack of tap water during the dry season. This period coincides with the tourist high season, exacerbating the situation over the past few years. To address this, Ao Nang OrBorTor has received funding to investigate these two possible solutions. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of NBT Phuket Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai AirAsia to resume Bangkok-Hat Yai flights by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Airways Thai AirAsia officially announced that it will restart its route between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Hat Yai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325239-thai-airasia-to-resume-bangkok-hat-yai-flights/

Thai AirAsia officially announced that it will restart its route between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Hat Yai. Departing at 10.45am from the Thai capital and touching down in the southern Thai province at 12.10pm with flight FD4304, and returning from Hat Yai at 1.40pm, landing back in Suvarnabhumi Airport at 2.15pm with flight FD4305. Scheduled to kick off on July 1, Thai AirAsia promises daily flights, complementing the existing eight flights per day from Don Mueang Airport. Riding high on the success of their Don Mueang – Hat Yai route, which boasted a staggering 95% passenger load throughout 2023, Thai AirAsia’s Head of Commercial, Tansita Akraritpirom, expressed gratitude to loyal patrons and locals alike. “We’re immensely thankful to the vibrant communities of Hat Yai and its surroundings, as well as the countless travellers who’ve propelled AirAsia’s route to Hat Yai. “Your unwavering support has paved the way for the revival of the Suvarnabhumi – Hat Yai connection, granting you the freedom to choose between two premier airports for your adventures.” Thai AirAsia is rolling out sensational promotional fares starting from just 1,000 baht per trip, available until May 17, for travel commencing on July 1, reported Travel News Asia. But hurry, these exclusive deals come with limited availability, exclude auxiliary service charges, and may have blackout dates during peak periods. In related news, the Hat Yai district of Songkhla anticipated the arrival of approximately 100,000 Malaysian tourists last weekend during the Songkran Festival. The influx of Malaysian visitors has seen an increase this year due to the festivities aligning with the end of Ramadan, according to Sitthipong Sittipatprapha, the president of the Hat Yai-Songkhla Hotel Association. In other news, Thai AirAsia weighed in on the issue of high airfares which prompted calls for price reductions, arguing that slashing ceiling prices is not a feasible solution due to increased operational costs borne by airlines since the onset of the pandemic. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Airways Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok chef discovers newborn remains in suitcase by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking discovery was made early yesterday morning when a chef found the remains of a newborn in his luggage, leading police to launch an investigation into the tragic incident. The 41 year old chef, Chusak, was unaware that his 30 year old wife, Panadda, was pregnant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325237-bangkok-chef-discovers-newborn-remains-in-suitcase/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking discovery was made early yesterday morning when a chef found the remains of a newborn in his luggage, leading police to launch an investigation into the tragic incident. The 41 year old chef, Chusak, was unaware that his 30 year old wife, Panadda, was pregnant. The couple had recently separated, and the police are now seeking Panadda to uncover the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking situation. At approximately 4am today, Deputy Inspector Thitipong Phutinathawornpong of Wat Phraya Krai Police Station was alerted to the grim discovery at an apartment complex on Charoen Rat 7 Alley in the Bang Kho Laem district of Bangkok. The first responders, including medical examiners from Chulalongkorn Hospital and forensic experts, arrived at the scene to find the body of a foetus aged between six and nine months concealed in a black suitcase with wheels, covered by a red plastic bag and a black trash liner. Some clothing items were also found in the luggage. Chusak, who works as a chef for a household in the Ari area, lived with Panadda for several years, and they have a five year old son together, who currently resides with his grandparents in Phayao province. According to Chusak, Panadda had difficulty maintaining employment and spent most of her time at home as a housewife. The couple had been renting the apartment for nearly a year before Panadda left unexpectedly around March 20. Before the distressing find, Chusak wanted to use the suitcase, which was stored under a vanity table in his room. Upon opening it, he discovered clothing and trash bags, which emitted a foul odour reminiscent of decaying remains. Panicked, he contacted his employer, who advised him to take photographs as evidence before informing security to move the suitcase outside the apartment, where police were called. Chusak expressed his shock, stating he had no idea that Panadda was pregnant, as she did not exhibit any visible signs or symptoms, reported KhaoSod. Deputy Inspector Thitipong speculated that Panadda may have miscarried and, out of fear, hidden the foetus in the suitcase before fleeing. The infant’s body has been sent to Chulalongkorn Hospital for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The police are actively searching for Panadda to question her about the events that unfolded. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

6 Thai men arrested for attacking 2 foreigners during Songkran by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ร้อยเอ็ด ทันข่าว Police arrested six Thai men for beating and stabbing two foreign men during the Songkran festival in the Isaan province of Roi Et on April 15. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325235-6-thai-men-arrested-for-attacking-2-foreigners-during-songkran/

Police arrested six Thai men for beating and stabbing two foreign men during the Songkran festival in the Isaan province of Roi Et on April 15. Officers from Mueang Roi Et Police Station investigated the water fight event on Thewa Phiban Road at about 10.30pm on April 15 after receiving reports of a physical altercation. Two injured foreigners were rushed to the hospital by the rescue team before the police arrived while the attackers had already fled the scene. Police reported that a 33 year old foreign man named Phi was a chef at a hotel in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen while the other foreigner was a 30 year old man named Shi who worked as a university professor. Phi had bruises on his face while Shi had been stabbed in the waist. Their nationalities were not disclosed in the report, and their condition had not yet been updated. After reviewing security camera footage, police identified and arrested six suspects yesterday, April 17, in Roi Et. One of the six suspects, a 19 year old Thai man named Rattaphum confessed to stabbing Shi on the day of the incident. Rattaphum explained that he and his friends were initially enjoying a water fight at home and decided to join the festivities in the city centre. However, they encountered a traffic jam, preventing their car from moving. According to Rattaphum, Phi and Shi were in an SUV behind them and honked a horn at their car. However, they could not move elsewhere because of the traffic. Phi and Shi then got out of their SUV and asked Rattaphum and their friends to move. Rattaphum said he and his friend were angry and the gang attacked the foreign victims. Rattaphum claimed that he felt like one of the victims attempted to stab him. He claimed he found a knife on the road and stabbed Shi with that weapon. Despite the alleged traffic congestion reported by Rattaphum, he and his friends successfully fled the scene following the assault. All six suspects have been charged under Section 295 of the Criminal Law for physically assaulting others, and causing bodily harm. The potential punishment includes imprisonment for a maximum of two years, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. WARNING: The following video may be disturbing for some viewers. Discretion is advised by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ร้อยเอ็ด ทันข่าว Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Thailand forges ‘Strategic Partnership’ with New Zealand by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand and New Zealand have vowed to embark on a historic “Strategic Partnership” journey by 2026, commemorating seven decades of diplomatic camaraderie, revealed government spokesman Chai Wacharonke yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325182-new-zealand-pm-visits-thailand-to-strengthen-ties/?do=findComment&comment=18851301

Thailand forges ‘Strategic Partnership’ with New Zealand by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand and New Zealand have vowed to embark on a historic “Strategic Partnership” journey by 2026, commemorating seven decades of diplomatic camaraderie, revealed government spokesman Chai Wacharonke yesterday. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin rolled out the red carpet for New Zealand’s Premier Christopher Luxon at Government House, overseeing the signing of two game-changing Memorandums of Understanding. The first pact is a pioneering educational alliance between Thailand’s Office of the Basic Education Commission and New Zealand’s esteemed Massey University. The second, is a robust commitment to aerial excellence, linking Thai Aviation Industries Co Ltd with New Zealand’s sky-soaring NZSkydive Limited. Following the ink-on-paper ceremony, the dynamic duo graced a joint press conference, where Srettha hailed Luxon’s first visit to Thai shores in over a decade. Talks pivoted around bolstering cooperation and forging an unbreakable bond between the two nations. Elevating the stakes, Luxon unveiled the “Prime Minister’s Fellowship,” poised to shape the destiny of the bilateral nexus leading up to the monumental 2026 milestone. But the ambitions don’t stop there. Both nations pledged a united front against transnational threats, from trafficking to cyber-terrorism, while charting a course towards scientific supremacy in agri-tech, renewable energy, and beyond. PM Srettha’s elation extended to economic prospects, foreseeing a floodgate of investments, and a tourism boom with streamlined visa processes and direct flights between the two nations, reported Bangkok Post. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to global harmony, with New Zealand pledging to join Thailand in the Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy, propelling them towards comprehensive strategic partnerships in the ASEAN region. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s revenue department ups tax amid economic slowdown by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Revenue Department faces a challenging year in meeting its tax collection targets, owing to a slowdown in economic activities. Despite this, five sectors have been identified as promising. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325232-thailand’s-revenue-department-ups-tax-amid-economic-slowdown/

The Revenue Department faces a challenging year in meeting its tax collection targets, owing to a slowdown in economic activities. Despite this, five sectors have been identified as promising. The department, led by director-general Kulaya Tantitemit, has increased its revenue collection target to 2.27 trillion baht (US$61.7 billion) for the fiscal year 2024, up from 2.02 trillion baht (US$55 billion) in 2023, a rise of approximately 3%. This aligns with Thailand’s projected GDP growth of 2.7%, as estimated by the National Economic and Social Development Council, and the Fiscal Policy Office’s 2.8% growth prediction. Kulaya attributes the challenging tax collection target to various factors, including external problems impacting the export market, increased energy prices, interest rates, and government expenditure being delayed until April. Trade conflicts and barriers could also affect tax collection. Nonetheless, tax collection for the first five months of this fiscal year (October 2023 to February 2024) totalled 766 billion baht (US$20.8 billion), an increase of 1.6% over the same period in fiscal 2023. The department has also set a corporate income tax target for fiscal 2024 of 811 billion baht (US$22 billion), 5.7% higher than the previous year. The department is focusing on sectors that demonstrate growth potential and providing tax advice similar to audit preparations. These sectors include energy-related businesses, medical and beauty businesses, retail and wholesale businesses, tourism-related sectors, and e-commerce platforms. The Revenue Department is also taking measures to prevent tax avoidance by large businesses using transfer pricing. Additionally, the department is working on the Top-up Tax Act (Pillar 2: Global Anti-Base Erosion Rules) to expand the tax base and create revenue stability. This involves implementing a global minimum tax on large multinational corporations, reported Bangkok Post. The department is also expanding the tax base to online businesses through the creation of the E-Business Monitoring Committee to track and propose policies. Tax authorities from over 140 countries are negotiating an agreement to compel large digital companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple to pay tax in countries where these companies operate, including Thailand. This initiative, known as Pillar 1, is expected to conclude within this year. If an agreement is reached, taxes collected from these digital businesses are expected to increase. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Ammonia Leak At Ice Factory Sends Scores To Hospital by TNR Staff The ice factory where the ammonia leaked last night. Photo: Amarin TV OVER a hundred people were hospitalised in Chonburi last night (Apr. 17) after ammonia leaked at an ice factory with people living within a kilometre radius of the plant told to evacuate, Amarin TV said this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325211-overnight-ice-factory-explosion-leads-to-chemical-hazard-at-least-60-people-injured/?do=findComment&comment=18851264

Ammonia Leak At Ice Factory Sends Scores To Hospital by TNR Staff The ice factory where the ammonia leaked last night. Photo: Amarin TV OVER a hundred people were hospitalised in Chonburi last night (Apr. 17) after ammonia leaked at an ice factory with people living within a kilometre radius of the plant told to evacuate, Amarin TV said this morning. At 11.30 p.m. a disaster relief/rescue team took technicians wearing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) kits into Bang Lamung ice factory, in Naklua subdistrict, to close the valve and evacuate those still within. Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiat Jinda Kuansanong, commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, quickly rushed to the scene and oversaw the spraying of water at the factory and nearby areas by disaster relief officials from Nong Prue municipality and Pattaya City to bring the highly irritating ammonia gas closer to the ground so that fewer people were affected. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand faces severe weather with strong winds and 42C heatwave by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Freepik A severe weather warning has been issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) for 39 provinces today, forecasting thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail, especially in the northern and northeastern regions. The country is also experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures soaring to a peak of 42 degrees Celsius. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325230-thailand-faces-severe-weather-with-strong-winds-and-42c-heatwave/

A severe weather warning has been issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) for 39 provinces today, forecasting thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail, especially in the northern and northeastern regions. The country is also experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures soaring to a peak of 42 degrees Celsius. Today’s weather conditions, as predicted by the Meteorological Department at 6am, indicate a low-pressure area caused by intense heat covering upper Thailand. This is expected to result in very hot weather with sporadic thunderstorms during the day. Residents in affected areas are advised to take precautions to maintain their health by avoiding prolonged outdoor activities as the hot conditions persist. The southerly and southeasterly winds are bringing moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea to the lower northeastern, lower central, and eastern regions, while the southwestern and southern winds covering the upper northeastern regions are contributing to today’s forecast of thunderstorms and strong winds, with hail possible in certain areas. The upper regions of Thailand are likely to face thunderstorms with strong winds, along with the possibility of hail in some areas across the northern and upper northeastern parts. The public is urged to be vigilant against the dangers of thunderstorms, gusty winds, and hail during this period. The eastern winds and southeast winds are expected to cover the Gulf of Thailand, the southern region, and the Andaman Sea, leading to occasional thunderstorms in the south as well. In the northern, northeastern, and upper central regions, moderate to high concentrations of dust particles and smog are recorded due to weak wind cover and poor air circulation. The weather forecast from 6am today to 6am tomorrow predicts hot to very hot temperatures generally across the north. In the northern region, isolated thunderstorms cover 10% of the area, accompanied by strong winds and occasional hail, particularly in provinces such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun. Minimum temperatures are expected to range from 23 to 28 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures reaching 39 to 42 degrees Celsius, and southwesterly winds blowing at 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. Temperature rises The northeastern region is also expected to be hot to very hot, with isolated thunderstorms covering 20% of the area and strong winds and potential hail in some places, especially in provinces like Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani. The lowest temperatures could range from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, with highs between 39 and 41 degrees Celsius, and southwesterly winds at 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. Central Thailand is also experiencing hot to very hot conditions, with isolated thunderstorms in 10% of the area and gusty winds in some parts, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi. Minimum temperatures are expected to be 26 to 29 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 38 to 41 degrees Celsius, and southerly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In eastern Thailand, the weather is generally hot, with isolated thunderstorms in 10% of the area and strong winds in some places, especially in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperatures could range from 26 to 29 degrees Celsius, with highs of 34 to 40 degrees Celsius, and southerly winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves of less than 1 metre, and in areas with thunderstorms, waves could be higher than 1 metre. The southern region (east coast) is experiencing hot daytime weather with very hot conditions in some places, and isolated thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures are forecasted to be 23 to 27 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 34 to 40 degrees Celsius, and southeast winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. Sea conditions will have waves lower than 1 metre and higher than 1 metre in areas with thunderstorms. Similarly, in the southern region (west coast), the weather is hot during the day, with isolated thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Trang and Satun. Minimum temperatures are expected to range from 25 to 26 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 35 to 38 degrees Celsius and easterly winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves of less than 1 metre and higher than 1 metre in areas with thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and the surrounding vicinities, the weather is generally hot, with clear skies during the day and very hot conditions in some areas. Minimum temperatures are forecasted to be 28 to 29 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 36 to 40 degrees Celsius, and southerly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe