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The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued another severe weather warning for 43 provinces, forecasting thunderstorms across 30% of the area, including the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. The alert comes as temperatures soar to nearly 40 degrees Celsius due to a low-pressure area caused by intense heat covering the upper part of Thailand. Residents in the upper part of Thailand are experiencing exceptionally hot weather, with temperatures reaching almost 40 degrees Celsius today, March 26. The extreme heat is accompanied by scattered thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon hours. The TMD’s forecast for the next 24 hours indicates that the upper region of the country will continue to be under the influence of this low-pressure system, resulting in hot to very hot conditions. Simultaneously, a high-pressure system or a cold air mass from China is extending over the northeast and the South China Sea. This system is bringing in southerly and southeasterly winds that carry moisture over the upper part of Thailand. Such conditions can lead to thunderstorms and strong gusty winds in some areas. The public in these regions is advised to take care of their health due to the heat and to be cautious of the potential dangers posed by thunderstorms and strong winds. In the Gulf of Thailand, the south, and the Andaman Sea, easterly and southeasterly winds are prevalent. This is causing thunderstorms in some parts of the south, with waves in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea reaching about 1 metre in height. Areas experiencing thunderstorms may see waves higher than 1 metre. Fishermen in these areas are warned to avoid going out to sea during thunderstorms. Dust particles are currently at moderate to high levels in the north, northeast, and upper central regions due to weakening winds and poor air circulation. Very hot The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today to 6am tomorrow predicts hot to very hot weather in the north with thunderstorms in 10% of the area and strong winds in some parts, particularly in Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 17-23 degrees Celsius, with the highest temperatures between 36-40 degrees Celsius, and southwesterly winds at speeds of 5-15 km/h. Similarly, the northeast will experience hot weather with afternoon thunderstorms in 40% of the area and strong winds in some parts. This particularly affects Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. The lowest temperatures will range from 18-26 degrees Celsius with the highest temperatures between 33-37 degrees Celsius, accompanied by southeasterly winds at speeds of 10-15 km/h. The central region is also forecasted to be hot with thunderstorms in 30% of the area, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Lopburi, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, and Nakhon Pathom. The temperature is expected to range from a low of 24-27 degrees Celsius to a high of 36-39 degrees Celsius, with southerly winds at speeds of 10-15 km/h. In the east, there will be thunderstorms in 40% of the area, mostly affecting Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, and Chachoengsao. The temperatures will range from a low of 26-28 degrees Celsius to a high of 31-35 degrees Celsius, with southeasterly winds at speeds of 10-30 km/h. The sea will have waves less than 1 metre high, but areas with thunderstorms may experience waves higher than 1 metre. The southern region (east coast) will have hot daytime weather with thunderstorms in 10% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The temperatures will range from a low of 24-25 degrees Celsius to a high of 32-37 degrees Celsius, with southeasterly winds at speeds of 15-30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, but areas with thunderstorms may experience waves higher than 1 metre. The southern region (west coast) will also have hot daytime weather with thunderstorms in 10% of the area, mostly in Krabi, Trang, and Satun. The temperatures will range from a low of 25-26 degrees Celsius to a high of 36-38 degrees Celsius, with easterly winds at speeds of 15-30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, but areas with thunderstorms may experience waves higher than 1 metre. In Bangkok and the vicinity, the weather is hot with scattered thundershowers in 30% of the area, and strong winds in some parts. The lowest temperatures will be 27-28 degrees Celsius, and the highest will be 34-37 degrees Celsius, with southerly winds at speeds of 10-20 km/h. Today’s weather conditions have prompted the TMD to alert the public in 43 provinces to brace for thunderstorms. by Nattapong Westwood TOP Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai govt’s digital wallet handout scheme faces legal queries by Mitch Connor Picture of Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavasin courtesy of kaohooninternational.com The Thai government plans to launch its main digital wallet handout scheme in the year’s final quarter. This plan’s timeline will be more concrete post-April 10 when the digital wallet policy committee convenes, says Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323305-thai-govt’s-digital-wallet-handout-scheme-faces-legal-queries/

The Thai government plans to launch its main digital wallet handout scheme in the year’s final quarter. This plan’s timeline will be more concrete post-April 10 when the digital wallet policy committee convenes, says Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. A sum of 500 billion baht has been set aside for the scheme, tentatively slated for a May launch. However, expectations of a delay are mounting as questions surface regarding the scheme’s legality. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) cautioned the government about potential issues tied to the scheme, including graft and legal risks. According to Julapun, the government’s digital wallet policy committee will meet tomorrow to discuss feedback collected from over one hundred organisations spanning the public and private sectors. The committee will then address the NACC’s concerns and request the Finance Ministry to devise a solution for implementation. Julapun stated that all relevant agencies will begin preparations ahead of the policy’s implementation and will brief the digital wallet committee on April 10. Cabinet approval Following this, the committee will scrutinise the project’s details and submit them to the Cabinet for approval. Upon receiving Cabinet approval, the scheme’s legal aspects, funding sources, and technical details will be established, said Julapun. “Registration for the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme is expected to commence in this year’s third quarter, and the funds should be transferred to eligible recipients’ accounts in the last quarter. “Undoubtedly, the scheme will proceed. The offer remains the same – a 10,000-baht handout for 50 million people via the Pao Tang application.” The digital cash handout is the flagship policy of the Pheu Thai-led government, designed to stimulate the economy. Under the scheme, Thais who are 16 and older, earn less than 70,000 baht a month and have less than 500,000 baht in their bank accounts, will receive a 10,000-baht handout. According to these criteria, approximately 50 million people will qualify for the handout – a decrease from the original 56 million. Julapun stated that there is a consensus that the country requires incentives to stimulate economic growth. However, during a recent general debate initiated by the Senate, Senator Chalermchai Fuengkhon criticised the policy, branding it a vote-buying attempt. He called on the NACC to investigate both the cabinet and the Election Commission (EC) over the policy. Fuengkhon mentioned that the government has frequently altered the scheme’s conditions but has failed to elaborate on how the scheme will be financed. This suggests that the Pheu Thai did not thoroughly research the scheme beforehand. Despite this, the policy passed the poll agency’s inspection and has been included as one of the government’s core policies. This is despite the failure to provide further details on financing the scheme within 15 days of delivering the government’s policy statement in September last year. Fuengkhon stated that the scheme could potentially violate Section 162 of the constitution, and urged the NACC to launch an investigation to ensure transparency in the EC and the cabinet. Fuengkhon also referred to concerns raised by various stakeholders, including the Bank of Thailand, to justify his call for the NACC to intervene and urged the government to abandon the scheme. “The project is not cost-effective to implement, because the government did not intend it to tackle the nation’s economic problems. It only sought to give money away to people as promised during the election campaign. This could constitute a promise to give [a vote-buying practice].” Senator Somchai Sawangkarn also urged the government to discard the digital wallet policy, claiming that the handout would violate the State Fiscal and Financial Disciplines Act and the charter, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor TOP: Picture of Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavasin courtesy of kaohooninternational.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Homeowner wins 1 million baht settlement in property dispute by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook A gang involved in a property dispute has agreed to pay 1 million baht in damages to an elderly homeowner, with the payment to be made in three instalments. The Min Buri Civil Court will deliver the final judgment in the trespassing case on May 7. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323304-homeowner-wins-1-million-baht-settlement-in-property-dispute/

A gang involved in a property dispute has agreed to pay 1 million baht in damages to an elderly homeowner, with the payment to be made in three instalments. The Min Buri Civil Court will deliver the final judgment in the trespassing case on May 7. At the Min Buri Civil Court today, lawyer Amnuayporn Maneevan, representing the homeowner in the property dispute, arrived with Sunsan, the grandson of the homeowner, and his wife to negotiate damage compensation in the civil case. Amnuayporn stated that there were two matters at hand: a protection order in the criminal case and mediation in the civil case. Previously, the four defendants had denied the allegations, but today they changed their testimony to a confession. They agreed to compensate the homeowner with 1 million baht, paying 100,000 baht today, another 400,000 baht by the end of the month, and the final 500,000 baht on May 7, the day of the final judgment. The lawyer also mentioned that the court is investigating the defendants’ backgrounds and assessing whether full compensation has been made to the homeowner. The court will deliver a criminal judgment on May 7 which will be influenced by the extent of compensation provided to the victim’s and the defendants’ past behaviour. During today’s discussions, even though the parties initially could not agree on the damage compensation, the opposing party eventually apologised to the homeowner and settled on the 1 million baht compensation, under the condition that they would not interfere with the property or file any more adverse possession claims. In a related development, the rightful owner of the house, known as Agu, has begun reclaiming his property by cutting locks and replacing a sign selling chickens with another sign, reported Sanook. Lawyer Decha, along with Agu’s grandson, revealed messages from the opposing party sent to Agu before the end of his life. In related news, in a high-stakes legal battle, the much-anticipated verdict in the 30 million baht lottery case was delivered on February 7 at the Kanchanaburi Provincial Court. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: 3 Mongolian men arrested for pickpocketing tourists in Thailand by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อธิปบูรพา Thai police arrested three Mongolian men on March 23 for pickpocketing foreign tourists at popular attractions in Pattaya, Chon Buri, and Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323265-five-mongolian-nationals-arrested-for-pickpocketing-tourists-in-bangkok-and-pattaya/?do=findComment&comment=18794192

3 Mongolian men arrested for pickpocketing tourists in Thailand by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อธิปบูรพา Thai police arrested three Mongolian men on March 23 for pickpocketing foreign tourists at popular attractions in Pattaya, Chon Buri, and Bangkok. Officers from the Tourist and Immigration Police in Chon Buri and Pattaya detained five Mongolian men at a hotel in the On Nut neighbourhood of Bangkok on March 23. Among them, three were suspects wanted for multiple pickpocketing incidents in Pattaya, Chon Buri, and Bangkok. Details of the other two suspects were not disclosed. The three Mongolian thieves were identified as 32 year old Naidan Nansalmaa, 25 year old Gangzorig Avirmed, and 24 year old Amabold Dorikhorol. Their arrest followed a complaint by a 71 year old Chinese victim, Sue Yue Ying. Sue filed a complaint with the police on March 8 that her black handbag containing her purse was stolen at Pattaya Floating Market at about 1.30pm. She lost a total of 22,800 baht in cash, including 4,200 yuan (about 21,000 baht) and 1,800 baht in cash. Following an investigation, officers successfully identified the Mongolian thieves by reviewing security camera footage obtained from the floating market. Subsequently, the police tracked them to a hotel in Bangkok and apprehended them on March 23. The three Mongolian men admitted to the pickpocketing crimes. They confessed to targeting foreign tourists at tourist attractions, operating as a group, and handing over all stolen money to their gang leader. The gang leader distributed the stolen money and belongings among the gang members later. The identity of the gang leader was not disclosed by the police. Additionally, the trio made unsuccessful attempts at pickpocketing in train stations and shopping malls across Bangkok. They have been charged under Section 334 of the Criminal Law for stealing property belonging to others. This offence carries a penalty of imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of up to 60,000 baht. Furthermore, their visas were revoked, and they were blacklisted to prevent future entry into Thailand and the commission of additional crimes within the country. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya: Ditched cables spark public uproar by Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A wave of public outcry has surged on the official Facebook page of Mayor Direct Line, as citizens express alarm over the abandoned cables strewn across various locations in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323301-pattaya-ditched-cables-spark-public-uproar/

A wave of public outcry has surged on the official Facebook page of Mayor Direct Line, as citizens express alarm over the abandoned cables strewn across various locations in Pattaya. The outcry follows the commencement of demolition and restructuring of communication lines along South Pattaya Road by the Public Utility Division of the Pattaya Municipal Electrical Engineering Office, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Pattaya Office, and a private company. On March 23, one concerned commenter highlighted the sight of communication lines dangling across the beach, questioning the decision to abandon them above ground when the expectation was for them to be buried underground. Another resident raised doubts about the handling and disposal of the removed lines, recalling a previous incident where sparking power lines caused a fire in the middle of the night, disaster was narrowly avoided thanks to prompt action, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), under the leadership of Khajon Srichawanothai, reported a triumph in the endeavour to relocate power cables underground along Sarasin Road. Amidst the verdant expanse of Lumpini Park, Pathumwan District, Bangkok, a historic announcement ceremony unfolded on March 8. Joined by Chadchart Sittipunt, Bangkok Governor, Vilas Chalaysat, MEA Governor, and a cadre of network executives, the MEA showcased the fruition of their labour: the successful relocation of power cables underground along Sarasin Road. In other news, an investigation conducted on February 12 at the Government Housing Project in Pattaya revealed an electricity meter tampering scandal. Led by the project manager, in collaboration with Na Jomtien police investigators and representatives from the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Jomtien branch, the inspection was prompted by irregularities in electricity consumption patterns within Building 12. Despite residents receiving inflated electricity bills, a detailed examination revealed significant disparities between recorded consumption and actual usage in individual units. Officials uncovered compelling evidence of tampering near the meters’ side panels, indicating deliberate manipulation of measurements. by Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Good guys in, bad guys out 2.0, digital nomad visa? - Tim Newton Today - March 26 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323299-good-guys-in-bad-guys-out-20-digital-nomad-visa-tim-newton-today-march-26/

Thailand news - A new 'digital nomad' visa? Not when we look at the details. The 'Good Guys In, Bad Guys Out' purge continues, the Senate is dragging the Thai PM through the political hoops with a withering attack in parliament yesterday, and the PM responded. A call for cheaper electricity bills again, the long, hot summer continues, and Chiang Mai, again, in the list of the Top 10 worst cities in the world for air pollution.

UPDATE: Nigerian man arrested for smuggling 1.4 kg of cocaine by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department The Thai Customs Department arrested a Nigerian man at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Saturday for smuggling 1.4 kilogrammes of cocaine into Thailand. The Nigerian swallowed 69 capsules of the drug. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323274-suvarnabhumi-airport-customs-arrest-drug-trafficker-from-nigeria/?do=findComment&comment=18794099

Nigerian man arrested for smuggling 1.4 kg of cocaine by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department The Thai Customs Department arrested a Nigerian man at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Saturday for smuggling 1.4 kilogrammes of cocaine into Thailand. The Nigerian swallowed 69 capsules of the drug. Thai Customs yesterday, March 25, reported a significant development. Working alongside the Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF) at Suvarnabhumi Airport, they identified a Nigerian man whose name appeared on both the arrival list and the roster of passengers deemed at risk of criminal activity. Although the identity of the individual remains undisclosed, officials disclosed that he had arrived from Doha, the capital city of Qatar. Authorities closely monitored the man due to his suspicious behaviour, ultimately segregating him from other passengers for a thorough investigation. They discovered about 1.4 kilogrammes of cocaine in the Nigerian man’s system. The drugs were packaged in 69 capsules, which the man swallowed. The drugs were worth over 4.1 million baht. The foreign was transferred to the Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station for further legal proceedings. Thai Customs reported that the Nigerian man violated the Customs Act and Narcotics Act including: Section 242, 244, and 252 of the Customs Act: importing or exporting prohibited goods, and these goods have not been passed through customs processes or without permission. Section 52 and 142 of the Narcotics Act: producing, importing, or exporting drug under the Category 2. The department also added that they had arrested 74 drug smugglers between October 1 of last year and March 25 of this year and seized drugs worth over 412 million baht. Several raids on drug dealers and smugglers were reported this month. On March 4, Thai police arrested a British backpacker for selling ecstasy and LSD to foreign tourists on Koh Tao, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Officers at Suvanrabhumi Airport previously reported the arrest of three foreign drug smugglers on March 11, and 5,360 grammes of cocaine was seized during the operation. A British man was arrested in the northern province of Chiang Mai on March 13 for selling cocaine, ketamine, magic mushrooms, LSD, and MDMA to foreigners in the area. Another British drug dealer was apprehended in Phuket on March 3 for selling cocaine. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai stock market hits snooze button despite extended hours by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand Despite the extension of the Stock Exchange of Thailand‘s (SET) trading hours and looming interest rate cuts by the Bank of Thailand, the Thai market failed to rally yesterday. Concerns over a premature rate cut and the aftermath of a recent terrorist attack near Moscow fuelled investor anxiety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323297-thai-stock-market-hits-snooze-button-despite-extended-hours/

Despite the extension of the Stock Exchange of Thailand‘s (SET) trading hours and looming interest rate cuts by the Bank of Thailand, the Thai market failed to rally yesterday. Concerns over a premature rate cut and the aftermath of a recent terrorist attack near Moscow fuelled investor anxiety. The SET yesterday, March 25, increased its trading period from 270 to 300 minutes per day. This was achieved by initiating the afternoon session on both the main bourse and the Market for Alternative Investment 30 minutes earlier, now at 1.30pm. This extension brings Thailand’s stock trading duration closer to other regional markets, which typically operate for six to seven hours daily, as noted by Asia Plus Securities (ASPS). Despite these changes, the SET index experienced a midday dip of 0.36%, a decline that persisted into the afternoon session, ending Monday’s trading with a 0.62% drop. ASPS commented on the extended trading hours. “Although trading hours have been extended by 11.1%, there are no fundamental drivers.” The research also suggested that the SET index is unlikely to rally unless the trading value surpasses 50 billion baht per day, turnover exceeds 70%, or interest rates are cut. ASPS noted that a typical 0.25% interest rate cut could potentially stimulate trading value by 3-4 billion baht. Therdsak Thaveeteeratham, ASPS Executive Vice-President, commented on the geopolitical factors affecting Monday’s trading. He pinpointed reports of Russia’s plans to deploy 100,000 soldiers for a potential Ukraine attack, which has heightened global investment anxieties. Echoing Therdsak’s sentiments, Kitpon Praipaisarnkit, Vice-President of UOB Kay Hian Securities Thailand PC, noted a lack of investor confidence stemming from risks in monetary policy. He also highlighted the widening gap between US and Thai interest rates, which has weakened the baht and may stimulate further foreign outflows. Kitpon further explained that Thailand’s economic growth lags behind its neighbouring countries, pushing foreign funds to other regional stock markets, reported Bangkok Post. Kasem Prunratanamala, head of equity research at CGS International Securities (Thailand), however, offered a different perspective. He suggested that investors are now predicting a stronger likelihood of the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee initiating rate cuts in its April 10 meeting. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

TCC proposes temporary power tariff reduction for Thai households by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Consumers Council (TCC) has proposed a temporary reduction in power tariffs to alleviate the financial strain on Thai households during the summer’s peak demand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323296-tcc-proposes-temporary-power-tariff-reduction-for-thai-households/

The Consumers Council (TCC) has proposed a temporary reduction in power tariffs to alleviate the financial strain on Thai households during the summer’s peak demand. This request follows the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) suggested alterations to the current power rate, which critics argue would not result in cheaper electricity bills. Critics contend that the ERC’s adjustments primarily aim to lessen or eliminate the debts owed to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). This debt arises from the EGAT’s efforts to regulate electricity prices through various subsidies. The TCC argues that the public should benefit from these adjustments, particularly during the summer when electricity usage typically rises due to the increased use of cooling appliances. The council has suggested that, rather than capping the fuel tariff (Ft), which accounts for changes in fuel prices needed for electricity generation, the government should decrease the power tariff. This would lead to a more effective reduction in electricity bills, according to the TCC. The TCC has recommended that the power tariff be reduced from 4.18 baht per kilowatt-hour to 3.99 baht per kilowatt-hour between May and August this year. TCC Chairwoman Boonyuen Siritham has stated that the Ft could be reduced if the Ministry of Energy allows the Department of Minerals to increase the production of natural gas in the Gulf of Thailand. This would enable more natural gas to be used for electricity generation. The TCC has also appealed to the ERC to allow the EGAT to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) for energy production, instead of solely relying on the LNG supplied by PTT Plc, Thailand’s energy conglomerate. Rosana Tositrakul, a member of TCC’s sub-committee on public services, energy, and the environment, has also called on the government to negotiate a new agreement allowing Thailand to borrow Malaysia’s quota for natural gas production in the joint development area (JDA) for two to three years. She noted that Malaysia has previously borrowed Thailand’s gas quota to meet its domestic needs, reported Bangkok Post. In addition to these measures, the TCC has requested that authorities introduce improved incentives to encourage more people to install solar panels at home. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai fruit frenzy: Chanthaburi aims to peel away competition by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Chanthaburi is set to be promoted as the leading fruit exporter to China by the Commerce Ministry, to drive sales of durian and mangosteen to exceed 3 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323294-thai-fruit-frenzy-chanthaburi-aims-to-peel-away-competition/

Chanthaburi is set to be promoted as the leading fruit exporter to China by the Commerce Ministry, to drive sales of durian and mangosteen to exceed 3 billion baht. This move has been catalysed by a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Thai-Chinese Agricultural Import-Export Association and the China Fruit Marketing Association. Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasised that the MoU would ensure market stability, enhance farmers’ earnings and boost the global reputation of Thai fruit. Chanthaburi, a significant source of Thailand’s tropical fruit, is known for its abundant production of seven key fruit crops, namely durian, rambutan, mangosteen, zalacca, longkong, golden banana, and longan. Through advance contract promotions, the ministry has managed to secure sales of up to 20,000 tonnes of durian and mangosteen, valued at 3 billion baht, with Chinese buyers such as Kaf Import and Export Co. These transactions will occur between April and June 2024 and will be overseen by China Certification and Inspection Centre (CCIC) to guarantee the quality of Thai fruit in the Chinese market. Chanthaburi’s capacity to produce an impressive 500,000 tonnes of durian annually is noteworthy. The Monthong durian, in particular, fetches a high market price of 260 baht per kilogramme at the start of the season. To prevent the sale of unripe fruit, growers are required to obtain permission from the provincial agricultural office before harvesting durian. The ministry has pledged ongoing support for durian exports at various Chinese customs checkpoints, including Mohan and the Youyiguan border gate, which Minister Phumtham plans to visit next month. In 2023, Thailand’s exports of fresh, chilled, frozen, and dried fruit products were valued at 238 billion baht. Durian and mangosteen exports alone accounted for 141 billion baht and 17 billion baht respectively. China remains the main export market for these primary fruits of Chanthaburi. Mainland China The ministry operates seven trade promotion offices in mainland China and two outside mainland China, in Hong Kong and Taiwan. According to projections by the ministry’s internal trade department, the 2024 harvest season is expected to see a 4.92% increase in overall fruit production, reaching 716,421 tonnes. This growth is anticipated to be led by durian and mangosteen. Chanthaburi houses nearly 80% of the country’s fruit crates, with as many as 827 crates meeting good manufacturing practice standards. In preparation for this year’s harvest, the Department of Internal Trade is set to implement 22 measures to manage fruit supply and control export quality. These initiatives, according to department director-general Wattanasak Sur-iam, will focus on production plans, domestic and foreign marketing, and legal aspects. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Extortion by Ministry of Agriculture task force exposed by senator by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Extortion practices by a special task force from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives were put in the spotlight as Senator Poldej Pinprateep levelled serious accusations against the group during a Senate debate yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323292-extortion-by-ministry-of-agriculture-task-force-exposed-by-senator/

Extortion practices by a special task force from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives were put in the spotlight as Senator Poldej Pinprateep levelled serious accusations against the group during a Senate debate yesterday. The Phaya Nakkharat task force, tasked with overseeing rubber production and trade, allegedly seized approximately 600 tonnes of rubber from a villager in the Sangkhla Buri district of Kanchanaburi province, according to the senator. He stated that the rubber, valued at 15 million baht, was held for a month, leading to its degradation. The task force’s actions were justified on the basis that the origin of 29 tonnes out of the 600 tonnes was under question. Despite the villager’s clear explanation of the source of the disputed 29 tonnes of rubber, the task force reportedly refused to return the product. Senator Pinprateep also shared an instance of a rubber grower from the southern province of Krabi’s Ao Luk district, who was allegedly falsely accused by an influential group of smuggling rubber from neighbouring countries. The grower claimed that instead of receiving assistance from the task force, he was pressured into giving some of his rubber to avoid a total seizure. The senator went on to claim that the task force deployed around 30 cars daily to set up checkpoints and extort money from trucks transporting rubber between Thailand and neighbouring countries. He noted that the extortion rate had risen from 1,000 baht before January to 5,000 baht in subsequent months. Responding to the accusations, Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thammanat Prompow defended the task force, asserting their ethical operations in combating rubber smuggling. He mentioned that stringent inspections of rubber transportation between Thailand and neighbouring Myanmar through Kanchanaburi’s Sangkhla Buri were in response to local complaints about the unpleasant odour of piled-up rubber awaiting transport. The minister also indicated that the ministry had received reports of rubber traders smuggling rubber from a neighbouring country with lower labour costs into Thailand before exporting the illicit product to Malaysia. However, he did not refute the senator’s specific allegations of extortion and abuse of authority by the task force. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai couple accused of physically and sexually abusing girl byf Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ North Now A Thai mother accused two of her friends of physically and sexually abusing her four year old daughter after the girl sustained multiple injuries to her body, brain, and genitals. The babysitting couple deny the charges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323291-thai-couple-accused-of-physically-and-sexually-abusing-girl/

A Thai mother accused two of her friends of physically and sexually abusing her four year old daughter after the girl sustained multiple injuries to her body, brain, and genitals. The babysitting couple deny the charges. The 26 year old woman, A, filed a complaint against the couple, a 33 year old woman named Rattanaporn Banyen and a 29 year old man named Subsin Duangkunlasa, at Bangmulnak Police Station in the Isaan province of Phichit. A said she suspected Rattanaporn and Subsin of brutally assaulting her four year old daughter Bee, leaving the girl in a critical condition. According to A, Bee had wounds and bruises all over her body, her brain was damaged, and her vagina had been severely harmed. A explained that she hired Rattanaporn and Subsin to take care of her daughter in November of last year because she had to work on a construction site in Bangkok. She trusted the couple because they were her friends. Unexpectedly, A was notified on March 17 that her daughter fell off a bicycle, had a seizure, and lost consciousness. The couple informed A that they took the girl to the Taphan Hin Crown Prince Hospital in Phichit province before the girl was transferred to Sawanpracharak Hospital in Nakhon Sawan province. A immediately travelled to Nakhon Sawan to check on her daughter. From a medical examination, she strongly believed that Rattanaporn and Subsin had physically and sexually assaulted the girl. She vowed to pursue legal action against them to the fullest extent. Deny accusations A Taphan Hin Crown Prince Hospital doctor, Wisit Apisitwittaya, told Channel 3 that Bee was admitted to the hospital without consciousness. Her eyes were wide but unresponsive. Her head was swollen, her body bore several bruises and wounds, and a trace of sexual assault was evidenced on her genitals. An officer from the Bangmulnak Police Station, Wichian Lorphichit, disclosed that officers already questioned four people from both parties and already received a medical report from the two hospitals. With clear medical evidence, Rattanaporn and Subsin were charged under Section 297 of the Criminal Law for assaulting another person resulting in serious injury. The penalty is imprisonment between six months to 10 years and a fine between 10,000 and 200,000 baht. Police also charged Subsin for sexually assaulting the girl. The penalty is imprisonment from seven to 20 years, a fine from 140,000 baht to 400,000 baht, or both according to Section 277 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting children aged under 13 years old. Despite the evidence, the couple denied all allegations, prompting police to continue the investigation. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ North Now Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Crashing His Motorbike Into a Wall in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Thalang-A young Russian man died after he crashed a motorbike into a house’s wall in the Thep Krasattri sub-district on Sunday night (March 24th) Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323290-crashing-his-motorbike-into-a-wall-in-phuket/

Thalang-A young Russian man died after he crashed a motorbike into a house’s wall in the Thep Krasattri sub-district on Sunday night (March 24th) The Thalang Police were notified of the incident at 10:00 P.M. in front of a house in Baan Don. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the damaged motorbike stuck between a power pole and the wall. Nearby was found the body of the rider, MR. EVGENII VIKTOROVICH, 25, a Russian national, in front of the house. A helmet was found at the scene but it was unclear if the Russian rider was wearing the helmet before the accident. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-26 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe