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Bangkok Joins Beijing in Landmark Air Pollution Solution Pact
webfact posted a topic in Bangkok News
File photo In a major environmental development, Bangkok and Beijing have joined hands to combat air pollution, cementing their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that promises a new era in air quality management for Thailand’s bustling capital. The agreement, which was formalised via a digital handshake between the leaders of the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Environment Department, is a beacon of hope for a city grappling with escalating smog issues. This pivotal collaboration, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China, positions Bangkok to leverage the successful air pollution combat strategies pioneered by Beijing. Known for its own battle with dense, life-threatening smog, Beijing has managed a remarkable turnaround in its air quality standards, which it now seeks to share with Bangkok as part of this landmark initiative. The core of the partnership rests on Beijing’s proven methodologies for reducing PM2.5 levels—these microscopic particles are a significant health hazard, causing respiratory problems and other severe conditions. Over the next three years, Bangkok will benefit from a comprehensive transfer of knowledge, focusing on pollution monitoring enhancement and ambitious reduction strategies that have already transformed Beijing's skyline from grey to clear. Once a city shrouded in haze, Beijing's strict enforcement of emission reductions and its strategic overhaul of industrial operations have led to a commendable improvement in air quality. The Chinese capital achieved a PM2.5 concentration of 30.5 microgrammes per cubic metre last year, consistently meeting national air quality standards for four consecutive years—an outcome of nearly a decade of rigorous efforts, which halved multiple pollutants. This collaboration isn’t just a top-down initiative. It integrates practical exchanges, training, and pilot project implementations in Bangkok, as noted by Chinese media. Importantly, it embraces a holistic approach, extending beyond technology transfer to actual fieldwork, ensuring that the measures adopted are not just theoretical. Against the backdrop of deteriorating air quality, Bangkok officials anticipate that these shared insights will expedite efforts to turn the tide on pollution, achieving tangible results sooner rather than later. Excitingly, Bangkok's governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, is concurrently spearheading a local campaign to curb pollution by addressing farming practices. This initiative aims to minimise the burning of rice fields, a significant contributor to PM2.5, achieving remarkable early success by reducing the burned area massively over the last few years. For the citizens of Bangkok, this collaboration represents more than a diplomatic move—it’s a promise of cleaner air and healthier living conditions, illustrating what cross-border cooperation can truly achieve, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-20 -
Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express A British tourist's holiday in Phuket took an unexpected turn when he was arrested at Phuket International Airport for allegedly smuggling cocaine into the country. On the evening of February 18th, the local immigration authorities apprehended a 42-year-old British national during standard customs inspections in the international arrivals hall. In his possession, they discovered 4.11 grams of a substance identified as cocaine. This seemingly small quantity has catapulted the tourist into a legal quagmire, underlining Thailand’s stringent drug laws, which are among the toughest in the region. Authorities have confirmed that the man was promptly taken to the Sakoo Police Station for further proceedings. The charges he now faces are quite serious: illegal possession of a category 2 narcotic and the importation of illegal substances into Thailand. Thai law categorically forbids the possession and trafficking of such drugs, often resulting in severe penalties, including significant fines and potentially lengthy imprisonment. Monetary fines for drug possession start at around 37,000 Thai Baht and can soar depending on the case specifics. While the immigration department remains tight-lipped about further details concerning the identity of the suspect or the exact circumstances leading to his arrest, it serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance tourists must maintain while in a foreign land. The British national, whose name remains withheld pending a formal investigation, has yet to make any public statements regarding the incident, reported The Phuket Express. -- 2025-02-20
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
British Tourist Arrested at Phuket Airport for Cocaine Possession Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express A British tourist's holiday in Phuket took an unexpected turn when he was arrested at Phuket International Airport for allegedly smuggling cocaine into the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352309-british-tourist-arrested-at-phuket-airport-for-cocaine-possession/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Bangkok Joins Beijing in Landmark Air Pollution Solution Pact File photo In a major environmental development, Bangkok and Beijing have joined hands to combat air pollution, cementing their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that promises a new era in air quality management for Thailand’s bustling capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352308-bangkok-joins-beijing-in-landmark-air-pollution-solution-pact/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
IKEA Arrives in Chiang Mai: New Store Opening February 2025 File photo for reference obly IKEA is making waves in northern Thailand with the announcement of its first store opening in Chiang Mai, slated for February 27, 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352310-ikea-arrives-in-chiang-mai-new-store-opening-february-2025/ -
File photo for reference obly IKEA is making waves in northern Thailand with the announcement of its first store opening in Chiang Mai, slated for February 27, 2025. This marks the fifth IKEA location in the country, a strategic expansion into a vibrant market outside the bustling capital of Bangkok. Situated at 171, Moo 7, Mae Hia Sub-district in the Mueang Chiang Mai District, the store is poised to transform the local retail scene. At the heart of this venture is a unique retail concept dubbed "Life Xpress," born from a collaboration with Decathlon, CP Future City, CP AXTRA, CP All, and TRUE. Integrating seamlessly into Makro Hang Dong, the IKEA Chiang Mai Plan and Order Point will encompass over 700 square metres. It promises an array of offerings, from more than 300 cash-and-carry products to detailed design consultation services. Leonie Hoskin, IKEA Thailand and Vietnam's Retail Manager, highlights the enduring importance of brick-and-mortar outlets amid online retail growth. "Customers value the experience of seeing, touching, and trying products," she asserts, underscoring IKEA's commitment to providing a tangible shopping experience that's lacking in the digital realm. Aside from conventional retail elements, the Chiang Mai store introduces convenience and culinary delight with its “Swedish Bites” corner. Visitors can indulge in treats like ice cream, hot dogs, cakes, and mix-and-match jellies, making it a destination for both shopping and snacking. The local launch represents an investment of 15 million Thai Baht, as IKEA seeks to test and expand this novel store model beyond the Bangkok hub. Success in Chiang Mai could pave the way for further ventures in regions such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Rayong, Surat Thani, and Hat Yai, broadening IKEA’s footprint across Thailand. Operating daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with planning and ordering services available until 7:00 PM, the store caters to busy schedules and flexible customer needs. Design consultations can be conveniently booked online, and assembly services are available for those who prefer expert assistance. For those eager to explore the new IKEA retail experience or require more information, further details are accessible on IKEA Thailand’s website or via their customer hotline at 02-708-7999. With this strategic opening, IKEA not only strengthens its presence in Thailand but also reinvents the shopping journey in Chiang Mai, offering a blend of convenience, style, and Scandinavian charm, reported ScandAsia. -- 2025-02-20
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
llegal Public Act in Bangkok Caught on Dashcam Goes Viral Photo via Facebook/ พชรดนัย ฯ. A Bolt motorcycle rider in Bangkok, Thailand recorded an explicit incident involving two men on a footpath in the city's Bang Khen district. The video was posted on February 18 to a Bolt Drivers Thailand Facebook group by the account พชรดนัย ฯ., and has drawn widespread criticism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352278-illegal-public-act-in-bangkok-caught-on-dashcam-goes-viral/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Russian Tourist's Pattaya Adventure Sours with Luggage Theft Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News A Russian tourist's dream escape to Pattaya unravelled as a thief brazenly sliced open his suitcase, making off with over 100,000 baht in cash and valuables. Vladimir Tulayev, the victim of this daring heist, is left both frustrated and vulnerable after security cameras missed capturing the suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352281-russian-tourists-pattaya-adventure-sours-with-luggage-theft/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Controversy in Thai Senate: Prisoner Healthcare Debate Paused Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A heated debate over equal healthcare rights for prisoners was abruptly halted in Thailand’s Senate yesterday. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit withdrew her motion, which aimed to address disparities in medical treatment between prisoners and prominent figures, such as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin's six-month stay in a VIP hospital ward, instead of prison, has sparked criticism over perceived justice system double standards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352284-controversy-in-thai-senate-prisoner-healthcare-debate-paused/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 20 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352287-thailand-live-thursday-20-february-2025/ -
Ex-Thai Actress Accuses British Husband of Fraud and Infidelity Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Ladda Khantiphok, once a familiar face on Thai television, has accused her British husband, Ian, of swindling her out of her life savings and committing infidelity. Distraught and seeking justice, Ladda is calling on news agencies to help spread her story and connect her with legal assistance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352288-ex-thai-actress-accuses-british-husband-of-fraud-and-infidelity/
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Cambodia-Thai Temple Clash Over Singing Sparks Tensions
webfact replied to snoop1130's topic in Southern Thailand News
please continue here: Thai PM Calms Tensions Over Cambodian Anthem Incident https://aseannow.com/topic/1352210-thai-pm-calms-tensions-over-cambodian-anthem-incident/ //CLOSED// /Admin -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Family Rush to Rescue British Man With Mystery Illness in Thailand Picture courtesy: The Daily Mail In a race against time, the family of British man Raymond Wallace is working tirelessly to bring him back from Thailand, where he has been hospitalised with an enigmatic illness. The situation began with a surprising early-morning call from a Thai hospital, leaving his family alarmed and fearing they had been duped by scammers until the harrowing reality sank in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352244-family-rush-to-rescue-british-man-with-mystery-illness-in-thailand/ -
Picture courtesy: Daily Mail UK In a race against time, the family of British man Raymond Wallace is working tirelessly to bring him back from Thailand, where he has been hospitalised with an enigmatic illness. The situation began with a surprising early-morning call from a Thai hospital, leaving his family alarmed and fearing they had been duped by scammers until the harrowing reality sank in. Wallace, a 72-year-old retired lorry driver from Sidmouth, Devon, embarked on a brief journey to Thailand. The visit took a drastic turn on Valentine’s Day when he experienced severe breathing difficulties and checked himself into a hospital in Hua Hin. His condition rapidly deteriorated, resulting in sedation and a ventilator, as doctors urgently sought to identify his ailment. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, his condition was later revised to acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, conflicting information from the British Embassy suggested potential kidney issues, leaving the family struggling for clarity on Wallace’s true condition. With his travel insurance having lapsed before his hospitalisation, the family now faces escalating hospital costs of around £3,000 (approximately 127,500 THB) per day. This financial burden prompted them to launch a GoFundMe campaign in an effort to offset the mounting expenses. Doctors have warned the family that if Wallace's condition doesn't improve soon, he might need to be transferred to a more specialised hospital in Bangkok. Picture of Bangkok Hua Hin hospital courtesy: Daily Mail UK His daughter Karrie, along with her brother, are now preparing to fly out to Thailand, eager to understand his situation more fully. Karrie's background in healthcare has only added to her anxiety, as she handles the frustration of not having clearer answers about her father's health. Wallace's journey, originally meant to be a period of reflection and healing after losing his partner Jane to a brain tumour, commenced in Goa—a place of fond memories for him and Jane. However, an unexpected opportunity led him to Thailand, a change unbeknownst to his family until he casually mentioned it in a message. Now, as Wallace remains in critical but stable condition, his family's relentless efforts reflect their dedication and love as they navigate this challenging chapter. They've been working together remotely, communicating constantly via WhatsApp to coordinate their efforts. “We're trying everything we can,” Karrie shared, highlighting the family's proactive approach in coordinating resources and tackling challenges head-on. Although initially hesitant, the family decided to make their plea public with the GoFundMe campaign due to the escalating costs. At this juncture, the journey to bring Wallace back remains uncertain, yet their resolve remains undeterred. Driven by familial bonds and a fervent hope for Wallace's recovery, they continue to explore every avenue to return him safely to England, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai Transwomen Expose Bangkok Taxi Overcharging in Viral Video Photo via TikTok/ @aisayawarin In a stunning move to highlight a prevalent issue in Bangkok's transport scene, two Thai transwomen took on the guise of foreign tourists to expose taxi drivers overcharging unsuspecting passengers. Their recorded escapade, which swiftly went viral on TikTok, has reignited discussions on fare integrity and ethical practices among taxi operators in Thailand's bustling capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352239-thai-transwomen-expose-bangkok-taxi-overcharging-in-viral-video/ -
Photo via TikTok/ @aisayawarin In a stunning move to highlight a prevalent issue in Bangkok's transport scene, two Thai transwomen took on the guise of foreign tourists to expose taxi drivers overcharging unsuspecting passengers. Their recorded escapade, which swiftly went viral on TikTok, has reignited discussions on fare integrity and ethical practices among taxi operators in Thailand's bustling capital. Released on TikTok by the account aisayawarin on February 17, the video sees the two women concealing their identities as locals by adopting broken Thai, akin to that spoken by many tourists. The charade begins as they hail a taxi and request a ride to the popular Huay Kwang area. However, the driver, deviating from legal protocol, demanded a flat rate of 100 baht (approximately 135 THB) instead of using the meter, a tactic well-documented among certain taxi drivers in the city. The true nature of the passengers was revealed when, confronting the driver's unethical practice, they switched back to fluent Thai, calling out his behaviour. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thailand's Casino Bill Targets Tourism, Limits Local Entry Picture courtesy: Macao News In Thailand, the new Entertainment Complex Bill has proposed a casino-focused plan aimed primarily at boosting foreign tourism. However, strict measures are devised to limit access for locals to curtail gambling concerns, according to Pakorn Nilprapunt, the secretary-general of the Council of State (CoS). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352237-thailands-casino-bill-targets-tourism-limits-local-entry/ -
Picture courtesy: Macao News In Thailand, the new Entertainment Complex Bill has proposed a casino-focused plan aimed primarily at boosting foreign tourism. However, strict measures are devised to limit access for locals to curtail gambling concerns, according to Pakorn Nilprapunt, the secretary-general of the Council of State (CoS). The bill, currently under the second review stage, has recently opened for public feedback until March 1 via the CoS website. Mr. Pakorn noted that public input would be critical in shaping the final draft before its presentation to the cabinet in about 50 days following the feedback period. Central to the bill is the focus on "super board" oversight. While the powers of this policy board over entertainment complexes remain largely intact, there have been notable amendments to the casino approval and licensing procedures. A contentious aspect of the proposal is the requirement for Thai nationals wishing to enter these entertainment complexes to hold at least 50 million Thai Baht in their bank accounts. This provision aims to restrict gambling to individuals with sufficient financial resources, reducing the risk of problem gambling among locals. "We don't want the public to be consumed by gambling," Mr. Pakorn remarked, underscoring that gambling is not the sole purpose of the complexes, which are seen as man-made tourist attractions. Despite widespread public debate, Mr. Pakorn emphasised that the final decision rests with the government, which continues to drive the bill forward. Should the initiative proceed as planned, casinos would open within designated entertainment complexes—a move that has ignited spirited discussion about the potential social and political implications. To navigate these challenges, a special committee led by former deputy prime minister Wissanu Krea-ngam was established to review and amend the draft. The committee has proposed several changes, including defining the casino zones within these complexes and ensuring public hearings address social and environmental impacts. Moreover, the draft incorporates stringent regulations to tackle potential issues such as prostitution and mandates efforts to promote local employment within the complexes. The government aims to have the final draft ready for cabinet review by next month. As the bill continues to stir controversy and conversation nationwide, its progress symbolises a crucial balancing act between economic growth through tourism and ethical considerations regarding gambling—a debate that is set to resonate deeply within Thai society, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thaksin, Anwar Ibrahim, and Brunei Sultan Discuss Myanmar Crisis Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Key figures from Southeast Asia gathered for a crucial meeting in Brunei, intensifying discussions on pressing regional issues. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah focused their talks on the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and enhancing intra-ASEAN trade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352235-thaksin-anwar-ibrahim-and-brunei-sultan-discuss-myanmar-crisis/ -
Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Key figures from Southeast Asia gathered for a crucial meeting in Brunei, intensifying discussions on pressing regional issues. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah focused their talks on the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and enhancing intra-ASEAN trade. Leading the talks at the Istana Nurul Iman, Anwar Ibrahim, as ASEAN's current chair, asserted the importance of these discussions, highlighting Sultan Bolkiah's vast ASEAN experience. The leaders collectively addressed the continuing Myanmar conflict, reaffirming the need to adhere to the Five-Point Consensus and to engage all relevant stakeholders. There is a pressing concern over the burgeoning illicit economy in Myanmar, dominated by drug trade, human trafficking, and scam operations, necessitating an urgent and strategic response. On the topic of the South China Sea, the trio agreed on the importance of diplomatic progress. The negotiation of the Code of Conduct (CoC) should be expedited to maintain peace and order in this often contentious region managed by several ASEAN countries alongside China. The leaders stressed the urgency of these diplomatic efforts to avert potential conflicts. Economic collaboration within ASEAN also took centre stage, particularly focusing on fostering greater trade and creating a business-friendly environment. They discussed the need for effective regulatory frameworks to stimulate capital inflow and to encourage robust economic growth within the region, promoting shared prosperity among nations. Cryptocurrency emerged as a topic of interest, with discussions centred around establishing proper blockchain infrastructure and enabling digital accessibility, which are seen as vital to the region's digital economy. Additionally, Anwar endorsed the proposed ASEAN-US summit, decided at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Langkawi, urging that it be promptly realised. The summit would aim to strengthen ties with the US, enhancing cooperation on various fronts. This high-level meeting underscores ASEAN's commitment to addressing both economic and political challenges in a collaborative manner, paving the way for a more integrated and stable region. The cooperative efforts of leaders like Thaksin, Anwar, and Sultan Bolkiah highlight the role of ASEAN in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, focusing not only on crisis management but also on future economic growth and regional stability, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
China Pressures Thailand to Uphold Myanmar Utility Bans Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directs the Provincial Electricity Authority in Bangkok to suspend power supply to five places in Myanmar. Courtesy: Tananchai Keawsowattana via Radio Free Asia In a strategic move against fraud, China has urged Thailand to maintain its utility restrictions on Myanmar. Since February, Thailand has limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites. These measures have been instrumental in curbing illegal call centres that plague the region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352234-china-pressures-thailand-to-uphold-myanmar-utility-bans/ -
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directs the Provincial Electricity Authority in Bangkok to suspend power supply to five places in Myanmar. Courtesy: Tananchai Keawsowattana via Radio Free Asia In a strategic move against fraud, China has urged Thailand to maintain its utility restrictions on Myanmar. Since February, Thailand has limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites. These measures have been instrumental in curbing illegal call centres that plague the region. The request was communicated by Liu Zhongyi, China's Assistant Minister for Public Security, who put forward a four-point plan during discussions with Thai officials. The plan prioritises continuing the utility restrictions that have yielded positive outcomes against these illicit operations. In the backdrop of these developments, the Burmese government and the Karen Border Guard Force have initiated the transfer of 1,219 individuals, primarily Chinese nationals, to Thailand. This process, initiated on the Myanmar-Thai border, integrates stricter border management to hinder scam operators from fleeing Myanmar. Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsaeng, spokesperson for Thailand's Defence Ministry, confirmed that approximately 300 Chinese citizens are prepped for repatriation. With the transfer primarily involving Chinese citizens, chartered flights are set to facilitate their return. To support this complex operation, Chinese officials will collaborate with Thai counterparts to coordinate the identification and repatriation processes. An additional proposal from Liu promotes deeper trilateral cooperation between China, Thailand, and Myanmar. The focus will be on reinforcing partnerships while adhering to the respective sovereignties and legal frameworks of the nations involved. Recognising the significance of these alliances, future meetings are on the cards, potentially expanding to include other willing nations. China's strategic engagement points to a larger regional effort to dismantle sophisticated fraud networks exploiting international borders. Liu Zhongyi is scheduled to meet Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's Defence Minister, to delve deeper into cooperation strategies against such illegal enterprises. Reportedly, 260 individuals transferred to Thailand's Mae Sot last week are already en route back to their countries following thorough vetting through the National Referral Mechanism. Moreover, Myanmar's authorities, in coordination with the Ratchamanu Task Force, have intimated the imminent transfer of over 1,200 people to the Thai border, with exact timelines yet to be determined. This evolving situation highlights the concerted efforts between nations to address cross-border crime and reflects a robust stand against complex transnational fraud activities. For Thailand, balancing diplomatic relations and internal security will be key in navigating this cooperative endeavour, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Bank of Thailand Eyes Rate Cut Amidst Sluggish Growth Forecasts Bank of Thailand. File photo In a climate of economic uncertainty, Thailand's GDP growth for 2024 has underwhelmed expectations, leading experts to predict a possible rate cut by the Bank of Thailand in the first half of the year. Despite a boost from thriving exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures, the overall growth rate was hampered due to reduced consumer spending on big-ticket items like automobiles and real estate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352227-bank-of-thailand-eyes-rate-cut-amidst-sluggish-growth-forecasts/ -
Bank of Thailand. File photo In a climate of economic uncertainty, Thailand's GDP growth for 2024 has underwhelmed expectations, leading experts to predict a possible rate cut by the Bank of Thailand in the first half of the year. Despite a boost from thriving exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures, the overall growth rate was hampered due to reduced consumer spending on big-ticket items like automobiles and real estate. Thailand recorded a GDP growth of just 2.5% for 2024, falling below the 2.7% anticipated by market analysts. This modest performance has caught the attention of economists at Kuala Lumpur-based Maybank, who expect monetary policy adjustments to support the nation's economic trajectory. The country's National Economic and Social Development Council has set a growth forecast between 2.3% and 3.3% for 2025, with a central estimate of 2.8%. Maybank maintains a cautious yet optimistic stance on 2025's growth potential, projecting a 2.8% increase. Nonetheless, the firm remains vigilant of potential headwinds both domestically and internationally, as they detailed in a recent research note. Similarly, BMI, a research unit of Fitch Solutions in London, acknowledged stronger GDP growth in the final quarter of 2024 but noted the full year's figures were lower than the central bank's target. BMI has projected a 3% GDP growth for 2025, bolstered by planned fiscal stimulus. Yet, slowdowns in the American and Chinese economies could pose challenges, potentially undermining Thailand's export momentum. As the Bank of Thailand grapples with these economic dynamics, a 25-basis-point rate cut seems increasingly probable, as suggested by BMI. Maybank highlights additional threats to the economic outlook, particularly the impact of potential US reciprocal tariffs. These tariffs could disrupt trade, postponing investment decisions and curbing consumer spending, notably in the private housing sector. Currently, Thailand imposes higher tariffs on US goods (avg. 6.2%) compared with what the US taxes Thai imports (approx. 0.85%). Donald Trump's proposed tariffs could hit Thai exports in meat, vegetables, electronics, and machinery sectors, potentially affecting more than half the goods Thailand sends to the US. In response to these looming challenges, experts suggest that both fiscal and monetary measures are necessary to steer the Thai economy back on track. The Bank of Thailand is expected to maintain the policy rate at 2.25% during their upcoming meeting on 26th February, while setting the stage for a potential rate cut of 25 basis points later in the year. This proactive approach aims to bolster investment and sustain economic momentum despite global uncertainties, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Ice Cream Vendor Scammed with Fake 1,000 Baht Note Picture courtesy: Daily News An ice cream vendor in Ang Thong, Thailand was left devastated when a scammer altered a 100 baht note to resemble 1,000 baht, absconding with the change after a quick purchase. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352224-ice-cream-vendor-scammed-with-fake-1000-baht-note/