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Thailand’s aviation hub plans receive airline approval despite concerns by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai government’s initiative to transform the country into an aviation and logistics hub has been met with approval from airlines. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321351-thailand’s-aviation-hub-plans-receive-airline-approval-despite-concerns/

The Thai government’s initiative to transform the country into an aviation and logistics hub has been met with approval from airlines. However, concerns regarding congestion at major airports and the significant investment required to accommodate increasing demand persist. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently unveiled plans to capitalise on Thailand’s strategic location in Southeast Asia to attract more international airlines to expand in the country. According to Tassapon Bijleveld, executive chairman of Asia Aviation Plc (AAV), the primary shareholder of Thai AirAsia (TAA), the country needs substantial investment to establish itself as a regional aviation hub. He noted that Bangkok’s main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, are nearing their maximum capacity. Suvarnabhumi Airport, which handles the majority of inbound flights to Bangkok, is particularly congested. Furthermore, Phuket airport, the second-largest hub for international air traffic, cannot expand due to geographical constraints, explained Tassapon, reported Bangkok Post. He emphasised the need for comprehensive long-term plans to transform Thailand into an aviation hub, citing the existing infrastructure’s inadequacy to handle increasing airline fleets and passenger numbers. He also highlighted the challenge posed by Suvarnabhumi Airport’s single-passenger terminal. Despite the recent opening of a satellite terminal, it remains insufficient to manage the large volume of international flights. “Becoming an aviation hub might take time and a large investment, but the government should make the plan clear and start it as soon as possible, whether it involves expanding Suvarnabhumi airport or adding an airport in Phangnga to absorb congestion in Phuket,” stated Tassapon. Tassapon also commented on the government’s policy to elevate provincial airports to international status, like Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Buri Ram. He asserted that airlines agree with this initiative. Still, the government should pledge to support long-term development and avoid project delays, as is currently happening with some airports. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai defence ministry to resolve submarine procurement issue soon by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of matichonweekly The Thai defence ministry is anticipating a solution to its submarine procurement dilemma in the forthcoming two weeks, with the likely adoption of the Chinese engine, according to an official from the Navy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321350-thai-defence-ministry-to-resolve-submarine-procurement-issue-soon/

The Thai defence ministry is anticipating a solution to its submarine procurement dilemma in the forthcoming two weeks, with the likely adoption of the Chinese engine, according to an official from the Navy. The current predicament is under examination by a panel focusing on the Navy’s procurement of a Chinese submarine. The panel’s task is to determine whether to extend the existing contract for an additional 1,217 days, following the receipt of a letter from the Office of the Attorney-General. Sutin Klungsang, the Defence Minister, has revealed that the panel is meticulously evaluating the details to reach a final decision. The procurement plan is under review, with three key considerations: the requirement of a submarine by the navy, the benefits to the nation, and the impact on bilateral relations. The procurement plan originated during the previous administration of General Prayut Chan-o-cha, who served simultaneously as prime minister and defence minister from 2014. The initial contract demanded that the partially constructed Chinese Yuan-class S26T submarine be powered by a German-built MTU 396 engine. However, Germany declined to sell the engines to China, as they are classified as military/defence items, reported Bangkok Post. This denial was a consequence of the European Union’s 1989 directive to enforce an arms embargo on China. Following this, the China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) proposed the Chinese-built CHD620 engine as an alternative. Nonetheless, the Chinese Navy is required to certify the CHD620 engine’s compatibility with the Thai Navy and guarantee its safety. Additionally, it must compensate for any subsequent delays, the navy source added. In related news, the Thai Cabinet is set to make a final verdict regarding the purchase of a Chinese-built submarine, stated Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang. The decision comes after the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) approved the use of a Chinese engine for the submarine and recommended extending the contract. Sutin is expected to discuss the matter further with Royal Thai Navy (RTN) Chief Adm Adung Phan-iam upon his return from abroad. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of matichonweekly Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Northern Thailand girds for major summer storms; residents warned by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Svitlana Koshelieva, Unsplash Thailand’s northern regions brace for severe summer storms, with the Thai Meteorological Department issuing a warning for heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and potential lightning strikes. Citizens are advised to take precautions and avoid open spaces, with the alert spanning from March 2 to March 3. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321349-northern-thailand-girds-for-major-summer-storms-residents-warned/

Thailand’s northern regions brace for severe summer storms, with the Thai Meteorological Department issuing a warning for heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and potential lightning strikes. Citizens are advised to take precautions and avoid open spaces, with the alert spanning from March 2 to March 3. The Thai Meteorological Department’s fourth warning has put the upper parts of Thailand on high alert as a summer storm system intensifies. As of today, a high-pressure system from China blankets the northeastern region and the South China Sea. This, coupled with moist winds from the south and southeast drawing moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea, is causing a volatile mix of hot weather and thunderstorms across the upper regions of the country. The conditions are ripe for summer storms characterised by thunderstorms, strong gusts, and occasional hail, especially in the lower northern, central, and eastern regions, as well as Bangkok and its vicinity. The forecast suggests that these storms could be particularly severe, urging residents to exercise caution. People are specifically warned to avoid open areas, and stay clear of large trees, weak buildings, and billboards that could collapse, reported KhaoSod. The agricultural community is on high alert, as the storms pose a serious threat to crops and livestock. Farmers are being urged to prepare and protect their livelihoods against potential damage. The impact of the storm is expected to be felt across several provinces. Today, March 2, the lower northern provinces of Lampang, Phrae, Sukhothai, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet are likely to be hit. The eastern provinces of Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, and Chon Buri, as well as the central provinces of Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Saraburi, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon, including Bangkok and its suburbs, are also in the storm’s path. By tomorrow, March 3, the storms are expected to persist in the eastern provinces of Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, and Chachoengsao, and the central provinces of Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed by following updates from the Meteorological Department, available on their website and through 24-hour hotlines. This announcement was made in the early hours of today, March 2, and the department has scheduled a follow-up announcement for later in the day at 5pm. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Svitlana Koshelieva, Unsplash Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s tourism ministry plans workshop to become global hub by 2030 by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Ministry of Tourism and Sports in Thailand is gearing up to host a workshop aimed at transforming the country into a global tourism hub by 2030. Both public and private sectors are invited to participate in the workshop, scheduled for mid-March, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expected to present comprehensive strategic plans. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321345-thailand’s-tourism-ministry-plans-workshop-to-become-global-hub-by-2030/

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports in Thailand is gearing up to host a workshop aimed at transforming the country into a global tourism hub by 2030. Both public and private sectors are invited to participate in the workshop, scheduled for mid-March, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expected to present comprehensive strategic plans. Thailand’s vision to ignite its global standing across eight sectors, including tourism, was recently announced by the prime minister. Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol has now instructed all associated agencies of the Ministry to conduct a practical workshop on realising this vision. “The objective is to gather insights on what needs to be done to achieve this goal, formulate strategic plans and have the prime minister declare them in March. The aim is in line with Srettha’s plan to also establish Thailand as an aviation hub,” stated Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Organisations across the tourism spectrum have been invited to participate, including the Tourism Department, Thailand Privilege Card Co, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. Aviation-related alliances such as the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, the Airports Department, Airports of Thailand Plc and U-Tapao Airport’s management committee are also expected to attend, reported Bangkok Post. The workshop will address a range of topics, including developing main and secondary cities into tourist destinations, leveraging soft power to expand tourism across all provinces, positioning Thailand as an international host for global festivals, and creating new tourist destinations. It will also discuss an ASEAN One Visa Free policy, similar to the EU, and the elimination of regulatory obstacles to tourism. “To realise this vision, it requires more than just TAT. It necessitates the cooperation of all sectors. Everyone has a role to play, from provincial governors, local administrative organisations, provincial administrative organisations, tambon administrative organisations, companies to locals. We must work together to prepare each city to become a tourist destination. Following that, TAT will then promote these areas to tourists,” Thapanee elaborated. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai government’s debt settlement programme attracts over 150,000 registrations by Mitch Connor Close-up of economist using calculator while going through bills and taxes in the office. Courtesy of Drazen Zigic, freepik The Thai government’s debt settlement programme has attracted over 150,000 registrations, totalling informal debts of nearly 12 billion baht (US$ 337 million), the Interior Ministry reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321342-thai-government’s-debt-settlement-programme-attracts-over-150000-registrations/

The Thai government’s debt settlement programme has attracted over 150,000 registrations, totalling informal debts of nearly 12 billion baht (US$ 337 million), the Interior Ministry reported. So far, the initiative has facilitated the settlement of over 771 million baht (US$ 22 million) in debt for 18,509 individuals. The registration window spanned from December 1 to February 29. Suttipong Juljarern, the permanent secretary of the ministry, disclosed that the 151,175 registered debtors owed an impressive 11.732 billion baht (US$ 330 million) to an extensive network of 125,302 creditors. In the breakdown of regional data, Bangkok recorded the highest number of registrations, with 10,091 debtors owing 1.065 billion baht (US$ 30 million) to 9,047 creditors. Conversely, Mae Hong Son had the least, with 406 debtors owing 18.819 million baht (US$ 530,00) to 316 creditors, reported Bangkok Post. The data also revealed that 28,725 debtors have commenced discussions with their creditors. Of this number, 18,509 have successfully renegotiated terms, reducing their collective debts from 2.626 billion baht (US$ 73.6 million) to 1.855 billion baht (US$ 52 million). Nakhon Sawan emerged as the province with the highest success rate in negotiations, with 518 people managing to reduce their debts from a total of 287.587 million baht (US$ 8 million) to 234.076 million baht (US$ 6.5 million). Now that the registration phase has concluded, the government is keen to continue assisting registered debtors in settling their debts. It aims to encourage all debtors nationwide to enter into discussions with their creditors. However, the programme’s results have not entirely met the expectations of Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin. On Thursday, he discussed strategies to increase registration numbers and handle influential creditors with Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Additionally, they explored methods to facilitate debtor-creditor negotiations. In related news, the Ministry of Finance proposed a plan to the Cabinet to assist informal debtors, allocating a budget of 15 billion baht through the Government Savings Bank (GSB) and the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). by Mitch Connor TOP: Close-up of economist using calculator while going through bills and taxes in the office. Courtesy of Drazen Zigic, freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Land title deeds for farmers: Can Thailand escape the poverty trap? A government initiative to convert agricultural land reform certificates into title deeds has sparked both hope and concern for millions of Thailand’s poorest people. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321340-land-title-deeds-for-farmers-can-thailand-escape-the-poverty-trap/

A government initiative to convert agricultural land reform certificates into title deeds has sparked both hope and concern for millions of Thailand’s poorest people. For farmers, the initiative offers the opportunity to use their land plots for more than just agricultural activities. With title deeds, they can also use their land as collateral to obtain loans when necessary, protecting them from loan sharks whose high-interest rates can trap them and their families in debt and poverty for generations. However, there are concerns that this initiative, if not carefully implemented, could result in land reserved for agricultural land reform being handed to investors. Such a scenario would only exacerbate the crisis of landless farmers in Thailand. Will investors be the true beneficiaries? Prayong Doklamyai, an advisor to the People’s Movement for a Just Society (P-Move), highlights the risk of investors acquiring these land plots through nominees. Under the law, only farmers can claim plots allocated by the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO). Over the past few decades, farmers have received Sor Por Kor 4-01 certificates to prove their rights to agricultural land reform plots. Before January 15, these certificates were not transferable, meaning the land could not be sold. “However, the new rule allows for the certificates to be sold. This could lead to investors attempting to make profits on these land plots,” Prayong said. He warned that without strict rules and scrutiny, investors could exploit loopholes to scoop up land plots reserved for poor farmers. “Investors acquiring such land will result in more landless farmers, who will be in turn be forced to encroach on state land to earn a living.” Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Manufacturing production index dips in Thailand amid economic challenges by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) has reported a 2.94% year-on-year dip in the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI), falling to 99.2 points in January. This downturn is largely attributed to a range of economic challenges, most notably the highest level of car seizures in half a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321337-manufacturing-production-index-dips-in-thailand-amid-economic-challenges/

The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) has reported a 2.94% year-on-year dip in the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI), falling to 99.2 points in January. This downturn is largely attributed to a range of economic challenges, most notably the highest level of car seizures in half a decade. The domestic automotive industry’s stagnation was a significant contributor to January’s MPI decline, as OIE director-general Warawan Chitaroon explained. “Car manufacturing decreased by 9.63% year-on-year as the number of seized cars rose to 250,000 last year, or around 20,000 units a month.” This trend has led to banks exercising greater caution in granting car loans, adversely affecting domestic car sales. Further impacting car sales was a decline in consumer buying power. January also saw a drop in car exports due to a scarcity of roll-on/roll-off ships, added Chitaroon. Other factors undermining the MPI include elevated levels of household debt, curtailing consumer spending, and steep interest rates, which increase financial costs for entrepreneurs. Economic downturns among trading partners have also had a knock-on effect on certain domestic industries, noted Chitaroon. The petroleum production sector saw a 6.4% year-on-year drop in January, with several oil refineries undergoing maintenance. The manufacture of electronic parts and circuit boards fell by 17.7% year-on-year, a result of the global electronics market’s sluggish recovery, reported Bangkok Post. For the month, Thailand’s capacity utilisation stood at 59.4%. Despite these challenges, Chitaroon remains optimistic about the 2024 MPI, projecting a 2-3% increase driven by anticipated export growth. Foreign tourism arrivals are also expected to boost the index, with a projected figure of 35 million visitors. In related news, the Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI) is set to boost Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, constructing a test track to provide manufacturers with a range of testing services, subsequently becoming a new revenue stream for the country. This track, under construction in Chachoengsao, is designed to facilitate a broad spectrum of tests including braking and parking brake performance, speed, distance and battery efficiency, as well as a skid pad. Kriengsak Wongpromrat, the president of TAI, an agency operating under the Industry Ministry, anticipates this facility will generate 1 billion baht annually. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AirAsia launches Takeover Thailand campaign with celeb partner by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom AirAsia is doubling down on its commitment to boost regional tourism, unveiling the Takeover Thailand campaign, aimed at thrusting Thailand into the spotlight as the go-to destination for travellers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321335-airasia-launches-takeover-thailand-campaign-with-celeb-partner/

AirAsia is doubling down on its commitment to boost regional tourism, unveiling the Takeover Thailand campaign, aimed at thrusting Thailand into the spotlight as the go-to destination for travellers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Strategically aligning forces with Tay Tawan, a distinguished Thai personality appointed as AirAsia’s Route Presenter for Malaysia, the airline is geared up to elevate the travel experience and ignite wanderlust among travellers from key markets, urging them to uncover the marvels of Thailand. This campaign couldn’t have arrived at a better time, underscoring affordability and seamless access for travellers across the region. To kickstart the festivities, AirAsia is rolling out free seats (terms and conditions apply) from Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Mai for a 72-hour window kicking off today until Sunday, with travel dates valid until November 30. As if that wasn’t enticing enough, travellers can jet off to other captivating destinations like Krabi, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Bangkok from Kuala Lumpur for as low as 99 Malaysian Ringgit (approximately 750 baht) all-in (terms and conditions apply) one-way. Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group stated that AirAsia is thrilled to launch this campaign, standing as a pillar of support for the revival of the regional tourism industry and reigniting the wanderlust for Thailand’s splendours among travellers from neighbouring countries. As an airline with a laser focus on ASEAN, this campaign underscores AirAsia’s unwavering dedication to fostering connections within the region, reported Travel and Tour World. Tay Tawan, AirAsia’s Route Presenter expressed that it is a privilege to represent Thailand and inspire travellers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia to explore his homeland, said Bo. “Thailand boasts a treasure trove of wonders, from breathtaking landscapes to its warm-hearted people, and I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on these attractions alongside AirAsia. By bridging Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand, we’re not just boosting tourism but also fortifying the bonds between our nations. Join me and AirAsia in taking over Thailand!” The launch of the Takeover Thailand with Tay Tawan campaign took centre stage at Dadi Cinema in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, drawing over 1,000 fans from across the region. The campaign lasts until September 22. by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of AirAsia Newsroom Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

File photo : PM Srettha Thavisin greets Chinese tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport last year. Thai tourists are excited at the permanent visa-free agreement signed by Thailand and China, which would make travel for citizens of both countries easy, with large-scale implications for tourism. Chairat Trairattanacharatporn, a former chairman of the Tourism Council of Thailand, sees the arrangement as offering enormous convenience to Thai passport holders when the permanent visa-free agreement comes into force on March 1. The Thai government had started the ball rolling soon after it came to power last year by granting visa exemption to Chinese travelers until February 29. But once China too came on board, the two governments decided to do away with visas for travel by their nationals from March 1. “At least we can save about 2,000 to 3,000 baht in the cost of visa application,” said Chairat, who plans to visit China on March 2. Not needing a visa is also a huge time saver, he says, adding that he often makes trips to China for business and travel. He runs a resort in Baan Pe in Rayong province on Thailand’s Eastern coast. Visa-waiver a giant step The visa-free agreement is seen as helping win back the confidence of Chinese tourists after they had previously carried a negative view of personal safety in Thailand. Chairat says his resort business is benefiting greatly from the rising number of Chinese and European tourists. He observed that Chinese tourists who were free independent travelers (FIT) still maintained a high level of spending power though old people spent less. Sarapee, the owner of View Point Travel Agency Service in Koh Tao, in Thailand’s southern Surat Thani province, said a rising number of Thai travelers were booking air tickets with her for visiting China following the new visa waiver policy. As more people book flights to China, the air ticket price is also rising, she said. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Music Festival 2024 Starts Next Weekend By Adam Judd Pattaya, Thailand – Get ready for a month of musical excitement! The Pattaya Music Festival 2024 is all set to kick off from the second weekend of March, bringing joy and rhythm to the shores of Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321333-pattaya-music-festival-2024-starts-next-weekend/

Pattaya, Thailand – Get ready for a month of musical excitement! The Pattaya Music Festival 2024 is all set to kick off from the second weekend of March, bringing joy and rhythm to the shores of Pattaya. Event Details – Dates: Fridays and Saturdays throughout March 2024 (8th-9th, 15th-16th, 22nd-23rd, 29th-30th) – Venues: Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach, and Koh Larn. The first weekend will feature three stages on Pattaya Beach. – Featured Artists: Over 53 renowned musicians and singers from various genres. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: No Big Jump Of Chinese Tourist Arrivals At Chiang Mai Airport ALTHOUGH the number of passengers arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport increased throughout 2023 after World Health Organization ended the global emergency status for Covid-19 the free-visa scheme has not boosted the number of Chinese tourist arrivals, TV Channel 7 said last night (March 1). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321331-no-big-jump-of-chinese-tourist-arrivals-at-chiang-mai-airport/

No Big Jump Of Chinese Tourist Arrivals At Chiang Mai Airport by TNR Staff Chinese tourists having fun in Chiang Mai. Photo Thai Rath ALTHOUGH the number of passengers arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport increased throughout 2023 after World Health Organization ended the global emergency status for Covid-19 the free-visa scheme has not boosted the number of Chinese tourist arrivals, TV Channel 7 said last night (March 1). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321331-no-big-jump-of-chinese-tourist-arrivals-at-chiang-mai-airport/

ALTHOUGH the number of passengers arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport increased throughout 2023 after World Health Organization ended the global emergency status for Covid-19 the free-visa scheme has not boosted the number of Chinese tourist arrivals, TV Channel 7 said last night (March 1). Wing Commander Ronakorn Chalermsanyakorn, director of this northern airport, said the overall total number of passengers reached 7.8 million in 2023, up 75% from the previous year. Even so, the free-visa access for tourists from China temporarily granted from Sept. 25, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024 and extended yesterday has not boosted the number of Chinese passengers because Chinese airlines flying to this northern city have not increased their flights, he said. by TNR Staff TOP: Chinese tourists having fun in Chiang Mai. Photo Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai taxi driver slams cops for toll indulgence by Petch Petpailin Photo by เบื่อจัง เหงาจัง via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 A female Thai taxi driver condemned police officers for indulging two foreign tourists who refused to pay toll fees by covering the costs themselves. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321329-thai-taxi-driver-slams-cops-for-toll-indulgence/

A female Thai taxi driver condemned police officers for indulging two foreign tourists who refused to pay toll fees by covering the costs themselves. The female taxi driver shared a video of when she engaged in an argument with police officers and two foreign women passengers on Facebook. In the video, she refused to accept money from the police and asked two foreign women to pay the toll fee. The taxi driver later gave an interview with Channel 3 yesterday, February 29, explaining that two foreign women booked a ride from Soi Song Prapa 1 to Ratchanatdaram Temple via an application. She claimed that she offered two options to the passengers – one route with a toll fee and one without. The passengers chose the toll route. The driver said she then informed passengers that the transport fee from the application was 326 baht, and they had to pay an additional toll fee. The passengers reportedly agreed, and the trip began. However, upon reaching the destination, the foreigners refused to pay the toll fee. According to the driver, the two foreign women ran away from her car to avoid payment. She chased after them and asked people in the area to call the police. The driver said officers arrived and tried to pay the toll fee but she would not accept it, saying it was wrong. She argued that police assistance would spoil foreign tourists and encourage them to repeat such behaviour. She wanted the foreign women to understand the Thai transport system. Police story The Superintendent of the Samranrat Police Station, Thossapon Ampaipipatkul, came forward to share his opinion on the matter. He believed that the two foreign women did not intend to refuse payment, but they misunderstood due to the language barrier. Thossapon agreed with the taxi driver that the police should not cover toll fees for foreigners and scolded the officers involved. However, he also understood his subordinate desired to swiftly resolve the issue to protect Thailand’s tourism image. Thossapon encouraged Thai taxi drivers and app-based drivers to enhance their language skills to provide better service to foreign visitors. The taxi driver did not clarify whether she eventually took the money from the police. Police did not reveal whether they clarified the toll and taxi systems to the foreigners. by Petch Petpailin Photo by เบื่อจัง เหงาจัง via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Raging forest fires force closure of Thai-Cambodian Border park by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Forest fires ablaze along the Thai-Cambodian border have ignited chaos, choking Khao Phra Wihan National Park in Sisaket province with clouds of thick smoke and dust particles, forcing a three-day shutdown. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321328-raging-forest-fires-force-closure-of-thai-cambodian-border-park/