webfact

Police successfully conducted a crime crackdown during the Loy Krathong festival, seizing firearms and ammunition. On the day of the operation, officers arrested a 45 year old Thai man, at his residence in Huai Chan subdistrict, Khun Han district, Sisaket province. The operation was spearheaded by Chayaphon Namsuwan, a senior investigator at Khun Han Police Station, and supported by Wanchai Saichan, deputy investigator, alongside local administrative officers and military personnel from Task Force 3 of Suranaree Military Camp. The raid led to the confiscation of three Thai-made rifles, twenty .22 calibre bullets, one 12-gauge shotgun shell, two 5.56 calibre bullets, twenty-five 5.56 calibre bullets, and a black chainsaw. The discovery was part of an ongoing effort to ensure public safety during the festive period, a time when local communities gather to float decorative baskets, or lanterns, on water bodies as part of the traditional celebration. The suspect, Wichai, is charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition without a local registrar’s permit, possession of unauthorised ammunition, and possession of a chainsaw without the required registration. In addition to these charges, Wichai is also facing legal action for the illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic, methamphetamine. Residents in Khun Han district have expressed relief over the police’s proactive measures in tackling crime, particularly during cultural festivities that attract large crowds. The police’s efforts aim to prevent any disturbances or potential threats to public safety, maintaining a secure environment for both locals and visitors. In light of this incident, law enforcement agencies continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities and remind citizens of the importance of adhering to legal regulations regarding firearms and other controlled items. The police have reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards illegal possession of weapons and drug use, emphasising that such actions will be met with full legal repercussions. The ongoing investigation into Wichai’s activities aims to uncover any additional violations and ensure that justice is served, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Top Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Thai police ‘tweet’ out arrests in illegal bird trade bust by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police have swooped on a major illegal bird trade operation in southern Thailand, arresting two people involved in selling protected Bulbul birds via Facebook. The suspects admitted to selling thousands of birds over the past year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343696-thai-police-‘tweet’-out-arrests-in-illegal-bird-trade-bust/

Thai police have swooped on a major illegal bird trade operation in southern Thailand, arresting two people involved in selling protected Bulbul birds via Facebook. The suspects admitted to selling thousands of birds over the past year. Police officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division conducted raids on the homes of two individuals, known by their Facebook aliases as Mee Tha Kham and Ice Nok Ble. These raids took place yesterday in Surat Thani province, leading to the arrest of 48 year old Chinoros, who had been operating a significant illegal bird trade in the region. Chinoros had been using his Facebook account to advertise the sale of the protected Bulbul birds, which were sent to buyers across southern Thailand. Police, upon discovering Chinoros’s activities, sought and obtained a search warrant from the court. During the raid, police discovered and confiscated ten Bulbul birds from his property. Chinoros confessed to purchasing the birds and keeping them at his residence before selling them to customers throughout the region. He acknowledged using Facebook to reach his large following, which had amassed several thousand followers over the past year. He admitted to having sold over a thousand birds during this period. Chinoros explained that the gun seen in photographs on his Facebook profile belonged to a friend named Nueng. Law enforcement plans to track down this individual for further investigation. In a related operation, police also raided the home of another suspect, 29 year old Kaysit, known on Facebook as Ice Nok Boen. Surrounding his residence, officers found numerous bird cages, some of which contained Bulbul birds. A total of 17 Bulbul birds were found, none of which had the required possession permits. Kaysit admitted to purchasing these birds to resell them to customers throughout southern Thailand. He stated that he had sold thousands of birds, with prices ranging from 500 to 3,000 baht (US$15 to 85) each. Most of the birds he acquired were bought from third parties, and police are continuing their efforts to trace the origins of these transactions, reported KhaoSod. The police have charged both Chinoros and Kaysit with possession of protected wildlife without a permit, an offence under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act of 2019. The suspects are now in police custody at Mueang Surat Thani Police Station, where they await further legal proceedings. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Prawit Wongsuwan Joins Loy Krathong, Wishes Thais Happiness Picture courtesy: Siam Rath General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, participated in Loy Krathong celebrations at the Pa Roy Tor Conservation Foundation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343693-prawit-wongsuwan-joins-loy-krathong-wishes-thais-happiness/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, participated in Loy Krathong celebrations at the Pa Roy Tor Conservation Foundation. He was joined by key party members, including Santi Promphat, General Krit Yothin Sasipattanawong, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya Tawichai, Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, and Pol. Gen. Chakthip Chaijinda. The event included traditional activities such as floating krathongs and releasing fish, aiming to preserve Thai cultural heritage and promote environmental awareness. General Prawit highlighted the significance of Loy Krathong as an annual Thai tradition celebrated nationwide to honour Phra Mae Khongkha (the Goddess of Water). The festival embodies the beauty and essence of Thailand's culture, offering a moment for reflection and gratitude. Extending his wishes, he said, “May everyone find joy and fulfilment during this festival. May your wishes come true, and may you be blessed with good health. Let all negativity drift away, making room for happiness and success.” He also urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and cherish this opportunity to connect with Thailand’s rich traditions, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-16

UPDATE: British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/?do=findComment&comment=19382998

Frenchman faces legal action for unlawful macaque possession in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department's Facebook A French national has found himself facing legal action for allegedly keeping four young macaques unlawfully after showcasing them on social media. This incident unfolded when officials from the Natural Resources, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343665-frenchman-faces-legal-action-for-unlawful-macaque-possession-in-bangkok/

Pattaya Beach turns into unregulated booze and kratom market Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya Beach, a once serene paradise for tourists and locals, is now teetering on the edge of chaos as unlicenced vendors run rampant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343673-pattaya-beach-turns-into-unregulated-booze-and-kratom-market/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 16 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343675-thailand-live-saturday-16-november-2024/

The Suvarnabhumi Airport, internationally renowned and Thailand's busiest, is in for a significant overhaul with plans to be the top transit hub in Southeast Asia. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) have released an ambitious master plan aimed at boosting the percentages of transit flights from a mere 4% to a lofty 20%. The ultimate aim is to join the ranks of the world's top 20 airports by the year 2030. Thailand Looks to Bolster Suvarnabhumi Airport as Southeast Asia's Top Transit Hub Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343669-thailand-looks-to-bolster-suvarnabhumi-airport-as-southeast-asias-top-transit-hub/

please continue: //CLOSED// /Admin

Thaksin to Join Pheu Thai Workshop as 'Expert Guest' Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's ex-Prime Minister, will participate as an "invited expert" at a Pheu Thai Party seminar in Hua Hin next month, confirmed Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343674-thaksin-to-attend-pheu-thai-workshop-as-expert-guest/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's ex-Prime Minister, will participate as an "invited expert" at a Pheu Thai Party seminar in Hua Hin next month, confirmed Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong. Despite a court ban preventing him from holding office, Thaksin's business and governance expertise remains influential within his faction. Reflecting his continuing sway, Thaksin recently supported Pheu Thai candidate campaigns, including in Udon Thani, fuelling ongoing allegations of his undue influence in Thai politics. His daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leads Pheu Thai, a party critics allege Thaksin manipulates from the sidelines. Legal actions have targeted Thaksin for allegedly interfering in internal Pheu Thai affairs, with lawsuits filed by activists aiming to enforce penalties. His clandestine political manoeuvring is notable, particularly following the ousting of former PM Srettha Thavisin last August, reportedly organising secret coalition meetings at his residence. Amidst controversy, during his prior hospital stay, Thaksin purportedly impacted strategic party decisions, influencing the formation of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, cabinet assignments, and power plays against opposition parties. His alleged behind-the-scenes role was facilitated by Phumtham Wechayachai, now serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister. Thaksin's role as an "invited expert" at the upcoming Pheu Thai workshop underscores his enduring prominence and raises questions about his influence. Despite legal restrictions, his engagement reflects a complex legacy of control within Pheu Thai and broader Thai politics. The seminar's participants and observers alike will focus on Thaksin's contributions, which could further ignite debate over his persistent political presence and sway, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-15

UPDATE: British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/?do=findComment&comment=19382998

British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, currently being dissected in the House of Lords, is pegged to hit the legal books in early 2025. This new legislation will compel British banks and building societies to unveil the financial dealings of Brits, whether they’re at home or living it up overseas, wherever wrongdoing is suspected. The spotlight is on the crafty few amongst British retirees who’ve been dodging the rules by hiding their residence in countries where the state pension doesn’t get those lovely inflation hikes. The rules, it seems, are as clear as mud: while pension rises grace some nations (think the EU and the Philippines), others get left in the cold (alas, Thailand and Australia). A staggering half a million British pensioners are out there in the world with frozen state pensions, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reckons they’re overpaying to the tune of £100 million (4.5 billion baht). Sneaky suspects often maintain a UK address for their DWP correspondence, even though they’re globe-trotting. One cheeky chap in Thailand got caught out last year when his DWP letter sent to his London pad pinged back with a neighbour’s scribbled note: “Lucky sod lives in Pattaya.” Bangkok or Baghdad Another tale of deceit unravelled when a bloke’s missus discovered he was having a ball in Bangkok, rather than toiling away in Baghdad as he’d fibbed. The upcoming legislation will likely help digital systems flag those pensioners getting yearly bumps but appearing suspiciously to be parked in foreign locales. Yet, the Thailand-based campaign group advocating to thaw frozen UK pensions insists the real issue isn’t so much roguish retirees but rather DWP bungles and the ridiculous dance of which country gets what. The current Labour administration, much like its Conservative predecessor, hasn’t shown a hint of interest in righting this pension injustice. Adding to the expats’ woes is the unreliable international mail system. Every few years, UK officials demand proof of life to keep the pension payments coming. But these vital letters get tossed in the wind, sent as ordinary mail via a Dutch firm, and many go AWOL, halting payments when unanswered. “It’s just bonkers!” exclaimed 68 year old Frank Weston, a resident in Pattaya. He argues it’s high time to ditch the paperwork for a digital solution. For those Brits abroad, it seems the pension plot thickens! Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Thailand consumer confidence rises for first time in eight months by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MGR Online Consumer confidence in Thailand saw its first improvement in eight months this October, driven by reduced concerns over recent floods and improved economic conditions influenced by government policies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343644-thailand-consumer-confidence-rises-for-first-time-in-eight-months/

Consumer confidence in Thailand saw its first improvement in eight months this October, driven by reduced concerns over recent floods and improved economic conditions influenced by government policies. The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported a rise in the consumer confidence index to 56, up from 55.3 in September. The consumer confidence index, which measures consumers’ outlook on the economy, remains below the 100-point threshold, indicating persistent weak confidence. This is attributed to the sluggish pace of economic recovery, rising living costs, elevated interest rates, and global geopolitical tensions impacting consumer spending power and willingness to spend. Flooding across the country has subsided, and the government’s distribution of cash handouts has given consumers more capacity to spend, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president. Nonetheless, concerns about the slow pace of economic recovery and high living costs continue to linger among consumers. “The decreasing index reflects consumers’ declining confidence in the recovery of the Thai economy despite the government’s stimulus policies.” Thanavath further indicated that sentiment could improve further if the government enacts additional stimulus measures by the end of the year. Photo courtesy of CEIC In a related development, a separate UTCC survey involving chamber members nationwide showed a slight dip in confidence, with the index falling to 48.9 in October from 49.4 in September. This decline highlights ongoing consumer trepidation regarding overall economic conditions, including consumption, trade, investment, and tourism sectors. Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, honorary advisor to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association, commented on the short-lived stimulus effect of the 10,000-baht cash handouts to vulnerable groups. Despite its potential to boost the retail sector, local shops have yet to witness a marked increase in sales, as some recipients may be opting to spend on non-essential items. The UTCC has called on the government to bolster consumer confidence through additional economic initiatives. Recommendations include enhancing tourism at year’s end, developing workforce skills, providing financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enforcing stricter control over the influx of inexpensive and substandard goods from China. Maintaining the stability of the baht is also emphasised as a critical factor in fostering economic recovery. As the year progresses, the interplay between government actions and consumer sentiment will be pivotal in steering Thailand’s economic trajectory. The UTCC remains attentive to these dynamics, advocating for policies that address both immediate consumer needs and long-term economic resilience, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MGR Online Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Pattaya City councillor ‘paves’ the way for safer roads by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In a proactive move to address complaints over potentially dangerous road conditions, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai inspected an ongoing road project on Sukhumvit Road near the South Pattaya intersection yesterday, November 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343639-pattaya-city-councillor-‘paves’-the-way-for-safer-roads/

In a proactive move to address complaints over potentially dangerous road conditions, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai inspected an ongoing road project on Sukhumvit Road near the South Pattaya intersection yesterday, November 14. Accompanied by top officials from the Drainage System Maintenance Division, Sanitary Engineering Division, and the Pattaya City Administration’s Complaint Reception Department, Wutthithorn responded to residents’ concerns about unfinished and potentially hazardous roadwork. Local complaints centred on the Provincial Waterworks Authority’s (PWA) road excavation work to install new water pipes. Residents claimed the project left old wire mesh scattered on the road, raising concerns over road safety. On inspection, Wutthithorn discovered that, while the old mesh was part of efforts to reinforce the road, some had been improperly disposed of, creating an unsightly and potentially dangerous obstacle. “The wire mesh on the road was indeed part of the PWA’s efforts to strengthen the area.” Wutthithorn instructed the contractor to promptly restore the road surface to prevent future subsidence issues and avoid any damage to the nearby drainage systems. This inspection is part of Pattaya City’s dedication to maintaining infrastructure quality and responding to public complaints swiftly. Pattaya City officials assured the public that they are committed to maintaining local infrastructure to the highest standards and that steps will be taken to ensure the road is safe for drivers and pedestrians, reported Pattaya Mail. Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In related news, fed-up locals and tourists have finally had enough. Complaints have been pouring in over the ongoing roadworks near Wat Mai Samraan and Tawaen Beach Pier, prompting city officials to spring into action. With mounting frustration, city bosses have now cracked the whip on the sluggish construction project, demanding faster progress. In other news, more than 100 illegal foreign workers have been uncovered by immigration police during a significant operation at a luxury hotel construction site on Pattaya Second Road, Chon Buri province. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Chon Buri police arrest three for trafficking 10 year old Burmese girl by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Police in Chon Buri apprehended two Thai individuals and a Myanmar citizen, accusing them of trafficking a young girl from Myanmar to work under exploitative conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343636-chon-buri-police-arrest-three-for-trafficking-10-year-old-burmese-girl/ Full story:

Police in Chon Buri apprehended two Thai individuals and a Myanmar citizen, accusing them of trafficking a young girl from Myanmar to work under exploitative conditions. The arrests, executed by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) and the local office of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), followed court-issued warrants. The Thai nationals involved were identified as 65 year old Porntip and 50 year old Saman, along with Myanmar national Naw Tha Tha Yee. According to the Thai police, these individuals face severe charges, including human trafficking and the exploitation of minors under 15 years old. This operation marked the climax of an investigation initiated in February after a 10 year old girl was discovered sleeping in a cemetery in Chon Buri. The child, bearing signs of physical abuse with bruises on her arms and legs, was promptly taken under the care of the MSDHS. Investigations revealed the girl’s illegal entry into Thailand from Myanmar, prompting police intervention. Officers discovered that Yee had allegedly bought the child from her parents in Myanmar, subsequently registering her as an adopted daughter in 2022. Arrangements were made for the girl’s clandestine entry into Thailand through Tak province. Initially, the child was taken to Saman’s residence in Samut Prakan before being moved to Porntip’s home in Chon Buri, where she was coerced into working as a domestic helper. The girl recounted to officials her harrowing experiences, stating that she was frequently locked up, subjected to physical abuse, and deprived of food whenever she erred, which ultimately led to her escape. Upon apprehending the suspects, police discovered another young girl and uncovered evidence hinting at the possible trafficking of a third girl into the country. This disturbing discovery underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and action against human trafficking activities, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

TMD sounds the ‘rain’ alarm as monsoon hits 28 provinces by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash The latest weather conditions have prompted the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to issue a warning for severe monsoon rains affecting 28 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343630-tmd-sounds-the-‘rain’-alarm-as-monsoon-hits-28-provinces/

The latest weather conditions have prompted the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to issue a warning for severe monsoon rains affecting 28 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. The capital is expected to experience intense rainfall covering 40% of the area, requiring residents to exercise caution. Throughout the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, cooler temperatures and morning fog are anticipated. Residents are advised to take care of their health due to the fluctuating weather conditions and exercise caution when travelling in foggy areas. Farmers should also prepare to protect their crops from potential rain-induced damage during this period. The eastern and southeastern winds are bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, affecting the lower northeastern, eastern, and central regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, as well as the upper southern region. Meanwhile, a high-pressure system or cool air mass covering the north and upper northeast is weakening. The northeastern monsoon, also weak, is sweeping over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, resulting in isolated thunderstorms in the south. In the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, waves are generally low, not exceeding 1 metre, but may rise above 2 metres in stormy areas. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today until 6am tomorrow indicates that the northern region will experience cool weather with morning fog. A slight increase in temperature is expected, with isolated light rain mainly in the upper parts. The lowest temperatures range from 20 to 23 degrees Celsius, while the highest are between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius. On mountain peaks, conditions will be cool to cold, with temperatures dropping to between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind is expected to blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Monsoon rains In the northeastern region, the upper part will be cool with morning fog, and a slight temperature rise is expected. Rain or thunderstorms are predicted in 10% of the area, mostly in Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, and Sisaket provinces. Temperatures will range from 19 to 26 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 34 to 35 degrees Celsius at their highest. On mountain peaks, cool to cold weather is expected, with temperatures between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will see some morning fog, with rain or thunderstorms expected in 30% of the area, primarily in Kanchanaburi, Suphan Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, morning fog is expected, with rain or thunderstorms in 40% of the area, particularly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 32 to 35 degrees Celsius at their highest. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (eastern coast) is expected to see thunderstorms in 30% of the area, predominantly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 31 and 35 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas. On the southern region’s western coast, thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, mainly in Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius, with highs between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. The east wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will experience some morning fog, with rain or thunderstorms expected in 40% of the area. Temperatures will range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 31 to 34 degrees Celsius at their highest. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Bangkok Motor Expo shifts into high gear to rev up bookings by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Buckle up, folks! The 41st Bangkok International Motor Expo is zooming into town tomorrow, and car distributors are hoping for a much-needed boost in bookings, despite the market feeling like it’s stuck in first gear. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343629-bangkok-motor-expo-shifts-into-high-gear-to-rev-up-bookings/

Buckle up, folks! The 41st Bangkok International Motor Expo is zooming into town tomorrow, and car distributors are hoping for a much-needed boost in bookings, despite the market feeling like it’s stuck in first gear. Last year saw a whopping 53,248 bookings, and this time around, organisers are revved up to beat that record this year. Kwanchai Paphatphong, the man behind the wheel of the Motor Expo Organising Committee, is confident that the new line-up of electric vehicle (EV) brands will electrify booking numbers. He’s banking on the snazzy marketing campaigns by car companies to lure in customers and spark sales in the final lap of the year. This motor extravaganza runs for 12 action-packed days, crossing the finish line on December 10. It showcases 42 car brands from nine countries, 22 motorbike brands from seven countries, and a handful of used car dealers. Among the shining stars are eight new EV contenders from China, ready to make their mark, said Siamnat Panassorn, vice-chairman of the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand. “The spotlight is definitely on the fresh EV faces. We reckon they’ll pull out all the stops with irresistible deals and finance options for those itching to go green.” Bangkok Post reports that organisers are gearing up for a tyre-screeching 1.5 million visitors, with the potential to generate a cool 72 billion baht for the automotive sector. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand is betting that these EVs will turbocharge domestic sales through the year’s tail end. While EVs have grabbed a 32.9% slice of the pie in the first nine months, traditional petrol-guzzlers are still hogging the road, according to the Federation of Thai Industries. Hybrids have been cruising ahead of both battery-powered and plug-in hybrid EVs. But hold your horses: Siamnat warns that this year, EV sales might not hit last year’s high of 74,000 units. Why? Tighter bank purse strings, courtesy of high household debt, are putting the brakes on some buyers. So, as the Bangkok Motor Expo hits the throttle, all eyes are on the EVs to see if they’ll drive the market into the fast lane. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15