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Is Thailand’s love-hate relationship with legal cannabis coming to an end? File photo Cannabis has soared in popularity among Thais since being removed from the narcotics list two years ago and launched into an almost unregulated market. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320003-is-thailand’s-love-hate-relationship-with-legal-cannabis-coming-to-an-end/

Cannabis has soared in popularity among Thais since being removed from the narcotics list two years ago and launched into an almost unregulated market. Estimates suggest the number of cannabis users in Thailand has rocketed 10 times to about 10 million – around one in seven people – since it became the first country in Asia to decriminalize the herb. However, the “ganja good times” could soon be over, with the Pheu Thai-led government pushing for a ban on recreational use. The dramatic U-turn comes amid complaints from non-users who want nothing to do with cannabis but say they are still being affected by its soaring popularity. “I was sitting high up in a stadium at a concert but the cannabis smoke still reached me,” one music fan lamented recently. “When I took a toilet break, I also found smokers there.” He wants authorities to do more to control marijuana use, pointing out that despite its well-publicized benefits, it is also associated with harmful effects. That’s why the plant was banned by law and placed on the narcotics list for decades before the Bhumjaithai Party fulfilled its key election policy to decriminalize the herb in 2022. The initial law change, back in 2019, allowed cannabis to be used for medical purposes only. However, a lack of regulation has paved the way for marijuana to be sold widely as a recreational drug and also used as an ingredient in food, beverages, cosmetics, and more. Cannabis was removed from the narcotics list in June 2022, but extracts containing more than 0.2% of its psychoactive component, THC, are still categorized as a Category 5 narcotic. However, the regulations do not cover ganja in its raw form, so stalls and shops selling “weed” and its paraphernalia have mushroomed across the country and online. Top: File photo Full story: THai PBS 2024-02-15 - 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 allocates 50 million baht for foreign tourist insurance by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai Tourism and Sports Ministry has allocated a budget of 50 million baht (US$1.38) for the fiscal year of 2024 to financially aid foreign tourists in the event of accidents or death. The ministry stated that this amount is likely to cover its expected influx of 35 million foreign visitors this year, in accordance with the average annual claims made over the past five years. Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol emphasised the government’s regard for the tourism industry as a key source of revenue. The ministry aims to ensure the safety of foreign tourists. As of February 11, there have been 4.3 million foreign arrivals, putting the country on track to meet its target of 35 million by year-end, said Sudawan. The allocated 50 million baht budget, received from a central fund, is earmarked to compensate foreign tourists for any mishaps that may occur during their travels in Thailand between January 1 and August 31 this year. The coverage includes up to 1 million baht per person in case of death, and 300,000 baht (US$8,296) per person for permanent organ loss, loss of sight, or a permanent disability. Furthermore, a maximum of 500,000 baht (US$13,825) is set aside for medical expenses, reported Bangkok Post. Tourists qualify for coverage if the incidents are not due to their negligence, intention for illegal activity, or risky behaviour. They must be visiting Thailand with a tourist visa or for tourism purposes. The insurance programme fills in the gap left by the expiration of the Foreign Tourists Assistance Fund. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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

New Govt Tourist Insurance to Cover Deaths and Accidents File photo for reference only Thailand's New Insurance Plan for Tourists Thailand wants to make sure foreign tourists feel safe when they visit. The government has set aside money to help tourists who are hurt or who die in accidents while visiting the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319998-new-govt-tourist-insurance-to-cover-deaths-and-accidents/

File photo for reference only Thailand's New Insurance Plan for Tourists Thailand wants to make sure foreign tourists feel safe when they visit. The government has set aside money to help tourists who are hurt or who die in accidents while visiting the country. Why is this important? Thailand gets a lot of money from tourists. The government wants to protect them so they keep coming back. In the past, there was a special fund to help tourists, but it ended. How much help can tourists get? If a tourist dies in an accident, their family can get up to 1 million baht (around $30,000 USD). For serious injuries, they can get up to 300,000 baht ($9,000 USD). The insurance also covers medical bills up to 500,000 baht ($15,000 USD). Important rules to remember: This insurance won't help if the accident was the tourist's fault (like if they were breaking the law). You have to be in Thailand with a tourist visa to use this plan. More about the plan: The government was thinking about charging tourists a special fee to help pay for this insurance, but they've decided to wait a while. For now, they will use government money to help tourists in need. The government studied how much money they've paid to help tourists in the past. They feel confident that they have enough for now. Remember, most tourists buy extra insurance Many tourists already buy their own travel insurance before they come to Thailand. But this plan from the Thai government is an extra layer of protection. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-15 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Exploited Thai workers: Debt, deception, and the dark side of berry picking in Europe by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation In the past 18 years, over 110,000 Thai workers embarked on a gruelling journey to Europe, enticed by the promise of lucrative pay in berry fields, yet behind the allure lies a sinister reality of exploitation, debt bondage, and shattered dreams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319996-exploited-thai-workers-debt-deception-and-the-dark-side-of-berry-picking-in-europe/

In the past 18 years, over 110,000 Thai workers embarked on a gruelling journey to Europe, enticed by the promise of lucrative pay in berry fields, yet behind the allure lies a sinister reality of exploitation, debt bondage, and shattered dreams. From the rural heartlands of Thailand’s northeast, hopeful farmers borrowed staggering sums from banks and illegal lenders to finance their passage to the Nordic countries. What awaited them was not the prosperity they envisioned but a relentless cycle of debt and hardship. Labour activist Junya Yimprasert revealed a shocking truth: over a decade and a half, a staggering 10 billion baht has been drawn from impoverished Thai workers to enrich the forest berry industries of Sweden and Finland, a loss swept under the rug of international commerce. The berry companies, adept at preying on vulnerable populations, shifted their focus to workers from China and Vietnam in 2019, only to face uproar and swift repatriation due to abysmal working conditions. Threats of blacklisting and visa manipulation kept Thai workers silent, trapping them in a vicious cycle of debt and exploitation. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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

Government tourist insurance, slow reaction to pot shock - Tim Newton Today - Feb 15 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319987-government-tourist-insurance-slow-reaction-to-pot-shock-tim-newton-today-feb-15/

Thailand news - Two Scottish men are being sought following the murder of a Burmese man in Bangkok, Government approves a scheme to reimburse injured or dead tourists, Australian Governor General and Thai PM meet to discuss reciprocal tourism visas and other regional stuff, Officials in Bangkok are asking the public and private sector to allow workers to work from home until this weekend due to the excessive air pollution levels. Analysis of the looming Cannabis & Hemp Act, and the Heat Is On around Thailand for the next two months, even hotter than last year. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Bangkok retail hotspots top land value at 3.75 million baht per sq wah by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Bangkok’s prime retail locations, including Siam Square, Chidlom, and Ploenchit, retain their position as the city’s most expensive land areas, with prices reflecting the lucrative nature of the retail business compared to other commercial ventures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319985-bangkok-retail-hotspots-top-land-value-at-375-million-baht-per-sq-wah/

Bangkok’s prime retail locations, including Siam Square, Chidlom, and Ploenchit, retain their position as the city’s most expensive land areas, with prices reflecting the lucrative nature of the retail business compared to other commercial ventures. Sopon Pornchokchai, the president of the Agency for Real Estate Affairs (AREA), revealed that a survey of land prices across Bangkok and its vicinity, ongoing since 1994, has shown that these central business areas command the highest prices. This trend is largely driven by the retail sector, which is more profitable than residential, office, or hotel developments, often yielding lower rental incomes, reported KhaoSod. Top 10 most expensive locations in Bangkok and surrounding areas Siam-Chidlom-Ploenchit at 3,750,000 baht (US$103,796) per square wah Wireless Road at 3,100,000 baht (US$85,804) per square wah Sukhumvit-Times Square at 2,940,000 baht (US$81,376) per square wah Sukhumvit 21 Asoke at 2,730,000 baht (US$75,561) per square wah Silom at 2,700,000 baht (US$74,715) per square wah Sathorn at 2,400,000 baht (US$66,413) per square wah Sukhumvit Ekkamai at 1,950,000 baht (US$53,961) per square wah Yaowarat at 1,900,000 baht (US$52,577) per square wah Phaya Thai at 1,850,000 baht (US$51,194) per square wah Early Phaholyothin at 1,800,000 baht (US$49,810) per square wah. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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 on COVID-19 in Thailand: 7 February 2024 We have now entered our 5th year since the first recognition of COVID-19. Overall, to date, 774 million cases and 7 million deaths due to this infection have been reported worldwide. Although we are past the worst phase of the pandemic, COVID-19 has not gone away. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319976-update-on-covid-19-in-thailand-7-february-2024/

We have now entered our 5th year since the first recognition of COVID-19. Overall, to date, 774 million cases and 7 million deaths due to this infection have been reported worldwide. Although we are past the worst phase of the pandemic, COVID-19 has not gone away. Thailand is currently experiencing a significant surge in COVID-related hospital admissions, serious pneumonia cases, individuals needing support from a mechanical ventilator and deaths. There is no evidence that current COVID-19 strains cause higher levels of illness; instead, the upsurge in Thailand is due to higher transmissibility of the virus and lower adherence of people to personal protective measures. In addition, a significant minority of people in Thailand are either unvaccinated or are incompletely vaccinated. Full story: World Health Organization 2024-02-15 - 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 PM drives tourism growth, targets 35 million visitors by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently underscored the significance of tourism collaboration to elevate Thailand’s travel industry. The announcement comes on the heels of Maya Bay in Krabi province being named the third-best beach in the world by Lonely Planet, a testament to the country’s natural beauty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319974-thailand-pm-drives-tourism-growth-targets-35-million-visitors/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently underscored the significance of tourism collaboration to elevate Thailand’s travel industry. The announcement comes on the heels of Maya Bay in Krabi province being named the third-best beach in the world by Lonely Planet, a testament to the country’s natural beauty. Prime Minister Office Spokesperson Chai Wacharongkakul revealed that the prime minister, who also serves as the minister of finance, is prioritising the stimulation of Thailand’s tourism market in tandem with the development and preservation of the nation’s natural tourist attractions. The aim is to maintain their natural state as much as possible. The recognition of Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island as one of the top beaches globally celebrates its exquisite, secluded location amidst limestone cliffs, its azure, gradient waters, and fine white sands. For Thailand, such accolades reaffirm the picturesque allure of its natural tourist spots. Chai highlighted four policies set to boost Thailand’s tourism throughout 2023, based on the concept of 365 days of Thai travel – 55 secondary cities – communication development – stimulating spending by Thais and foreigners. These strategies are designed to distribute income to various regions across the country and aid in economic recovery, reported KhaoSod. The first policy aims to enable year-round travel within Thailand, with a marketing approach that leans on events and festivals in every area to position the country as a global hub of celebrations. The second policy promotes tourism in 55 secondary cities, highlighting their unique local characteristics as cultural selling points. It involves designing tourism activities alongside community product development and improving transportation to facilitate easier access to tourist destinations nationwide. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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 and Cambodia discuss joint petroleum exploration in Gulf by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand and Cambodian counterpart Hun Manet have instigated discussions about the potential for joint petroleum exploration and production in the Gulf of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319973-thailand-and-cambodia-discuss-joint-petroleum-exploration-in-gulf/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand and Cambodian counterpart Hun Manet have instigated discussions about the potential for joint petroleum exploration and production in the Gulf of Thailand. The overlapping claims area (OCA), an area of 26,000 square kilometres that is believed to be rich in fossil fuels, is the focal point of these negotiations. The OCA is considered a high-potential petrol source due to its proximity to the Erawan and Bongkot gas blocks. As Thailand strives to fulfil its commitment to promoting renewable energy, the country is also considering the exploration of more fossil fuels to reduce dependence on costly imported liquefied national gas. Currently, gas accounts for roughly 60% of the fuel used for power generation in Thailand. The OCA discussions are crucial to Thailand’s energy future. With the global trend leaning towards clean energy, Thailand faces a potential obstacle in developing new petroleum projects. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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

ONCB considers dropping methamphetamine pill limit to three by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) is contemplating a reduction in the permissible limit of methamphetamine pills from five to three. This proposal is in response to the substantial criticism received for the five-pill cap, enforced by the Ministry of Public Health since February 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319972-oncb-considers-dropping-methamphetamine-pill-limit-to-three/

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) is contemplating a reduction in the permissible limit of methamphetamine pills from five to three. This proposal is in response to the substantial criticism received for the five-pill cap, enforced by the Ministry of Public Health since February 9. The current rule exempts individuals from criminal charges if they are found with five or fewer methamphetamine pills or 300 milligrams of heroin. Instead of legal proceedings, these individuals are categorised as drug users in need of rehabilitation. In contrast, previously, possession of even small quantities of drugs would lead to prosecution and a permanent criminal record, impacting future opportunities. The ONCB, in the voice of Secretary-General Police Lieutenant General Phanurat Lukboon, announced that any decision to reduce the limit to three pills will be considered in approximately three months. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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

Military and vets save giant python in Thailand after dog attack by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A giant python named Boonrod was saved from a near-fatal dog bite by military personnel in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, and required urgent veterinary care, including sterilisation, before being returned to the wild. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319971-military-and-vets-save-giant-python-in-thailand-after-dog-attack/

A giant python named Boonrod was saved from a near-fatal dog bite by military personnel in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, and required urgent veterinary care, including sterilisation, before being returned to the wild. The incident occurred yesterday, February 14, when soldiers from the Special Warfare Training Camp in Sichon, along with their instructors, carried the nearly 5-meter-long, 10-kilogram male python to Sichon Animal Hospital after it was discovered with severe wounds near its cloaca. The python, found on a mangosteen tree after the attack, was in critical condition with its internal organs protruding from a grave injury. Vet Piyaporn Wattanapun took immediate action, performing surgery to remove parts of the damaged tissue, including parts of the reproductive organs, which made sterilisation necessary. If left untreated and unsterilized, the infection from the rotting wound could have been fatal within days, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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

Baht falls to three-month low as US inflation delays expected rate cut by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Kaohoon The baht, Thailand’s currency, hit a three-month low against the US dollar yesterday, February 14, slipping below 36 to the dollar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319969-baht-falls-to-three-month-low-as-us-inflation-delays-expected-rate-cut/

The baht, Thailand’s currency, hit a three-month low against the US dollar yesterday, February 14, slipping below 36 to the dollar. This was attributed to higher than anticipated US inflation, which led the market to predict a delay in the Federal Reserve’s first interest rate cut, initially expected in May. Quoting Kasikorn Research Centre, the baht was valued at a low of 36.13 against the dollar before rising slightly to 36.07 to 36.09 baht. This is compared to Tuesday’s closing rate of 35.7 baht. Kanjana Chockpisansin, head of research at the think tank, stated, “The baht is moving in line with other Asian currencies, as the world gold price also fell below US$2000 per ounce.” The US dollar and bond yield experienced a sharp increase following the rise of the US consumer price index (CPI) by 3.1% year-on-year in January, beating the 2.9% market prediction. The core CPI also exceeded expectations, at 3.9% against a forecast of 3.7%. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Kaohoon Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15 - 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 “Those readings might prompt the Fed to maintain rates for longer. The market now sees a lower probability of the Federal Open Market Committee’s first rate cut in May, only tallying 35%,” said Kanjana. Kanjana also suggested that the baht could weaken further with the slow decline of US inflation and strong economic data, indicating that the Fed might not cut rates as early as previously forecasted, reported Bangkok Post.

SCB and KogoPAY introduce cross-border QR code payments for British and European tourists By Techsauce Team Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and mobile payment startup and digital wallet provider KogoPAY recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer QR code payment and ATM withdrawal services for the convenience of British and European tourists visiting Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319968-scb-and-kogopay-introduce-cross-border-qr-code-payments-for-british-and-european-tourists/

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and mobile payment startup and digital wallet provider KogoPAY recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer QR code payment and ATM withdrawal services for the convenience of British and European tourists visiting Thailand. The partnership will serve as a payment option that is convenient, quick, and secure, allowing these visitors to seamlessly use the KogoPAY mobile wallet to make QR code payments at merchants accepting Thai QR code payments nationwide. Mr. Thanawatn Kittisuwan, First Executive Vice President and Head of Digital Juristic & Payment at Siam Commercial Bank said, "In response to the tourism sector’s constant rebound since 2023, SCB is focusing on increasing our ability to respond to the spending behavior of tourists who prefer making digital payments. This trend is in line with our statistics from 2023, which show growth in the number of QR payment transactions leaping over 60% compared to 2022. As these figures continue to rise, we aim to simultaneously promote a cashless society and make life more convenient for foreign tourists. By Techsauce Team Full story: TECHSAUCE 2024-02-15 - 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