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Thailand's parliament has granted unanimous endorsement to the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The agreement, set to take effect in 30 days, aims to enhance bilateral relations and foster cooperation across multiple key policy areas. In a joint session comprising the House of Representatives and the Senate, the framework agreement received 612 votes in favour. This significant endorsement marks a pivotal step in deepening ties between Thailand and the European Union (EU). On 14th December 2022, the PCA was signed in Brussels. The then-foreign minister, Don Pramudwinai, represented Thailand, while Petr Fiala, the Czech Prime Minister, acted as the EU Council President, and Joseph Borrell, Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, signed on behalf of the EU. The agreement sets the stage for extensive cooperation in areas such as the environment, energy, climate change, transport, science and technology, trade, employment, human rights, education, agriculture, counter-terrorism, anti-corruption, migration, and cultural exchange. The PCA aims to promote political dialogue on pressing global issues and create a broad framework for mutually advantageous collaboration. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa highlighted that the PCA will serve as a foundational platform for further discussions and enhanced cooperation. The agreement also lays out a manual for both parties to ensure smooth implementation and adherence to the outlined objectives, reported Bangkok Post. Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pointed out the critical economic implications of the PCA. The EU stands as Thailand's fourth-largest trade partner and sixth-largest investor. This agreement is poised to unlock new trade and investment opportunities, particularly accelerating negotiations for a Thailand-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The PCA is expected to make Thai enterprises more competitive on the global stage, improve access to research funding, and elevate Thailand's international standing. Moreover, ongoing discussions aim to secure Schengen visa exemptions for Thai passport holders, further facilitating business and tourism between Thailand and EU member states. The approval of the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement is a landmark development, signifying Thailand's commitment to strengthening its international alliances. The multifaceted cooperation envisaged under this agreement is anticipated to bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, political dialogue, and cultural exchange between Thailand and the European Union. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Raid on 30 Locations Dismantles Document Forger Network Picture courtesy: Thai Rath THAILAND - The Crime Suppression Division conducted raids on 30 locations nationwide, dismantling a network specializing in forging government documents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336927-raid-on-30-locations-dismantles-document-forger-network/

THAILAND - The Crime Suppression Division conducted raids on 30 locations nationwide, dismantling a network specializing in forging government documents. Two siblings, both computer engineering students from a well-known university in Chiang Rai, were arrested. Authorities are expanding the investigation to identify the masterminds behind the operation, which catered to clients from various professions. At 11:00 a.m. on August 30, 2024, Pol. Col. Anek Taosupap, Deputy Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, announced the results of Operation “Document Forgery Network Dismantlement” following the nationwide raids. Authorities arrested Amornrat Nonvisith, 27, and Kanokwan Nonvisith, 25, under arrest warrants from the Criminal Court for "jointly forging government documents." Seized items included computers, a printer, forged documents, fake ID cards, fake educational certificates, and other materials used in document forgery. Both suspects were arrested in Phitsanulok Province. The investigation was prompted by reports of prominent individuals using fake educational certificates. Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, ordered an extensive probe into the forgery network, reported Thai Rath. Authorities discovered that the network advertised services on social media platforms, offering to forge various documents, including educational certificates, ID cards, driver’s licenses, and land title deeds, with prices ranging from 15,000 to 90,000 baht, depending on the document's complexity. The investigation revealed that Kanokwan, one of the suspects, is a fourth-year computer engineering student with expertise in creating high-quality forged documents. Both suspects have been handed over to investigators, and authorities are now working to arrest the suspected masterminds behind the network. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bail Granted to Somyot and Others in "Boss" Yoovidhya Case FILE - Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, whose grandfather co-founded energy drink company Red Bull, walks to get in a car as he leaves a house in London Wednesday, April 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) Pol. Gen. Somyot Poompanmoung, a former National Police Chief, along with seven other individuals, has been granted bail by the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. This decision follows charges related to the notorious 2012 hit-and-run case involving Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, which resulted in the death of Sgt. Maj. Wichian Klanprasert. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336925-bail-granted-to-somyot-and-others-in-boss-yoovidhya-case/

FILE - Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, whose grandfather co-founded energy drink company Red Bull, walks to get in a car as he leaves a house in London Wednesday, April 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) Pol. Gen. Somyot Poompanmoung, a former National Police Chief, along with seven other individuals, has been granted bail by the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. This decision follows charges related to the notorious 2012 hit-and-run case involving Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, which resulted in the death of Sgt. Maj. Wichian Klanprasert. Background and Charges The group, including Pol. Gen. Somyot, was summoned by prosecutors based on the findings of the Thailand National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The charges pertain to the alleged alteration of investigative documents and reduction of charges against Vorayuth Yoovidhya, an heir to the Red Bull fortune, who was implicated in the fatal accident. Court Appearance and Bail Conditions At approximately 12:10 p.m. today, Pol. Gen. Somyot and the others appeared in court. Shortly afterward, Pol. Gen. Somyot disclosed that bail had been granted, with each individual required to post a cash bond of 200,000 baht. As part of the bail conditions, the court has imposed a travel ban, restricting them from leaving the country. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Statement by Pol. Gen. Somyot Speaking briefly to the media outside the courtroom, Pol. Gen. Somyot emphasised that his legal team would handle the ongoing case. He refrained from commenting further on the case specifics, underscoring his respect for the judicial process and the presiding judges. When questioned about his stance on the accusations, Pol. Gen. Somyot indicated that his lawyers would address the matter, avoiding any direct assertion of innocence or guilt. Implications of the Case This high-profile case has drawn significant public interest and scrutiny due to the involvement of prominent figures and the controversial handling of the original investigation. The granting of bail and the imposed travel restrictions signify that while the accused are temporarily free, they remain under close judicial monitoring as the case proceeds. The next steps will be closely watched as both the legal proceedings and the involved parties navigate the complex judicial landscape. -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Post Ventures into Virtual Banking Picture courtesy: Thailand Post Thailand Post, the state-owned logistics giant, has announced plans to enter the burgeoning field of virtual banking. This strategic step aims to leverage the company’s extensive network and infrastructure, consisting of 1,600 branches nationwide and a delivery team of 25,000 postmen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336923-thailand-post-ventures-into-virtual-banking/

Picture courtesy: Thailand Post Thailand Post, the state-owned logistics giant, has announced plans to enter the burgeoning field of virtual banking. This strategic step aims to leverage the company’s extensive network and infrastructure, consisting of 1,600 branches nationwide and a delivery team of 25,000 postmen. Two Paths to Entry According to Dhanant Subhadrabandhu, President of Thailand Post, the agency is exploring two primary approaches to participate in the virtual banking sector. The first involves acquiring shares in a consortium applying for the Bank of Thailand’s virtual bank licences, which will be issued soon. The second option is positioning itself as a neutral virtual banking agent, offering support to all virtual banks. Discussions Underway Thailand Post is already in talks with several potential consortiums, though specific names have not been disclosed. Mr Dhanant believes joining a consortium could significantly expand Thailand Post’s business ecosystem and provide vital support to lenders. Target Customers and Services The company is keen to target migrant workers and Thai citizens who lack traditional employment documentation, who often find themselves underserved by conventional banking services. Acting as a neutral banking agent, Thailand Post could offer a myriad of services such as enabling cash deposits for unbanked customers through its extensive network. Operational Support Despite the digital nature of virtual banks, Thailand Post’s physical presence through branches and postmen can play a pivotal role. The agency’s staff could facilitate cash deposits into the virtual banking system, especially useful for hard-to-reach customer segments. Thailand Post already serves as a banking agent for various traditional banks, allowing customers to deposit or withdraw money at its branches. This existing infrastructure could easily be adapted to support virtual banking services. Industry Interest A source within the fintech industry reveals that five consortiums are keen on applying for virtual banking licences. Notable contenders include SeaMoney Thailand, VGI in partnership with Bangkok Bank, SCB X with KakaoBank and WeBank, CP Group under TrueMoney, and a collaboration between Gulf Energy Development, Krungthai Bank, Advanced Info Service, and PTT Oil and Retail Business. Conclusion The Bank of Thailand plans to issue three virtual bank licences initially, with applications closing on 19th September. Thailand Post’s move into the virtual banking sector could revolutionize financial services for underserved populations, leveraging its vast network to provide essential services and fostering greater financial inclusion. This initiative stands to not only diversify Thailand Post’s operations but also contribute significantly to the country’s digital financial infrastructure. -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Accelerates Tax Reforms to Boost Investor Appeal Phaohum Rojanasakul. Picture courtesy: Facebook Pao Phum Rojanasakun via PPTV The Ministry of Finance is stepping up efforts to lower various tax rates to make Thailand more appealing to investors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336921-thailand-accelerates-tax-reforms-to-boost-investor-appeal/

Phaohum Rojanasakul. Picture courtesy: Facebook Pao Phum Rojanasakun via PPTV The Ministry of Finance is stepping up efforts to lower various tax rates to make Thailand more appealing to investors. Speaking at the Thailand Focus 2024 event organized by the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Wednesday, Deputy Finance Minister Phaophum Rojanasakul highlighted that Thailand's economic growth in recent years has been below its potential due to a range of complex pressures. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that the Thai economy still holds promise for recovery and growth. "The government is prepared to offer a wide range of incentives, both fiscal and non-fiscal, and to create an environment conducive to attracting new investments in eight key industries: tourism, medical and health, food, aviation, transportation, future automotive, digital, and finance," he said. This is reinforced by a report from the Board of Investment (BOI), which shows a 64% increase in investment promotion applications in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year, particularly in target industries such as electronics, automotive, and data centers. Regarding the vision of establishing Thailand as a financial hub, Rojanasakul stated that the ministry is focusing on two main strategies to attract foreign investment, including offering a variety of incentives such as tax benefits on income and corporate taxes. The aim is to position Thailand as a competitive financial hub on par with other countries. These incentives will also include non-tax benefits, such as streamlined entry processes, diverse visa options, advantages for incoming labor, and benefits for operating in different regions. Both strategies require coordination, with particular emphasis on developing the country’s financial ecosystem to attract foreign investments. "Tax incentives need to be appealing and appropriately adjusted. Lowering various tax rates to draw investors is an effective strategy to ensure that businesses and foreign workers benefit from tax advantages. However, adjusting tax rates is not the only consideration; other aspects of the ecosystem also need development. Therefore, the Ministry of Finance is pursuing two approaches: revising tax rates and enhancing the ecosystem. The government is open to considering input from all stakeholders," he stated. The ministry has set up a large working committee for the Financial Hub project, with the next step being to accelerate the drafting of new financial legislation, which is expected to be completed in about two months. -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

2 Japanese AV stars to meet Bangkok fans this September by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiTicketMajor Lovers of Japanese pornography are in for a treat next month with two of Asia’s best-known adult video (AV) stars making a guest appearance in Bangkok at the For 16 Years Asia Tour Fan Meeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336914-2-japanese-av-stars-to-meet-bangkok-fans-this-september/

Lovers of Japanese pornography are in for a treat next month with two of Asia’s best-known adult video (AV) stars making a guest appearance in Bangkok at the For 16 Years Asia Tour Fan Meeting. AV stars Hatano Yui and Otsuki Hibiki have been close friends since they were members of the now-disbanded idol group T♡Project. The girls, both 36 years old, have collaborated on many projects since their pop music debut and now ply their trade in the AV industry. Facebook page JapanSalaryman shared that the pair is very popular in Taiwan, especially Hatano, who has a similar appearance to a famous Taiwanese actress. Hatano appeared in over 3,000 AVs throughout her career. She is considered one of the most popular AV actresses and one of the longest-serving in the industry. Otsuki, who debuted at the same time as her friend, performed in more than 2,100 AV films. Following the positive feedback of the fan meets event in Taiwan, the hot girls are looking forward to greeting their fans in Thailand. The two will meet their fans at the entertainment venue in the Lat Phrao area of Bangkok, Mr. Fox Live House, on September 21. Tickets for the event will be available on ThaiTicketMajor from tomorrow, August 31, from 10am, and are priced at 20,000 baht (VVIP), 9,500 baht (VIP), 3,500 baht, and 1,000 baht. VVIP ticket holders should be prepared for special activities with the two stars, including dinner, a personalised voice message, and a signed Polaroid. VIP ticket holders will not have access to these activities. So, the major fans should prepare for the 20,000 baht ticket. Limited merchandise will be available at the event, including limited edition cushions, T-shirts, towels, and official postcards. Please note that only VVIP participants will have access to purchase the limited-edition cushions. In the same month, Thailand will welcome more than 15 porn stars for the AV Expo, which will take place from November 22 to 24 at IMPACT Forum Hall 4 at the IMPACT Arena Exhibition and Convention Centre. Otsuki is also on the name list for this event. Tickets for this event will also be available from tomorrow on ThaiTicketMajor, priced at 1,000 / 1,500 / 3,000 / 4,800 / 5,000 / 8,000 / 9,600 baht. by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiTicketMajor Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Boat Crew Member Faces Serious Charges for Defecating in Pattaya Bay By Aim Tanakorn UPDATE: A Pattaya boat crew member is facing serious charges after a video of him defecating into the sea went viral, sparking outrage and prompting swift action from authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336913-pattaya-boat-crew-member-faces-serious-charges-for-defecating-in-pattaya-bay/

UPDATE: A Pattaya boat crew member is facing serious charges after a video of him defecating into the sea went viral, sparking outrage and prompting swift action from authorities. Today, August 30th, 2024, Mr. Poramase Ngampichet, the Mayor of Pattaya, together with Mr. Ekkarat Kantharo, Director of the Pattaya Regional Harbor Office, and Pol Lt Col Apichat Charurak from the Tourist Police Station 4 held a press conference to address a viral incident in which a male boat crew member was caught defecating into Pattaya Sea near Koh Larn. According to Mr. Poramase, the incident has severely damaged Pattaya’s tourism image. He stated that such vulgar behavior should not be repeated, noting that the man’s friend might have not not thought it through before posting such a video on Facebook for everyone to see. Furthermore, the mayor stated that the man’s actions violate the Public Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992, which prohibits defecation or urination in public areas, including the sea. As a result, the city will impose the maximum fine of 2,000 baht on the offender as a punishment. Meanwhile, Mr. Ekkarat, Director of the Pattaya Regional Harbor Office, said that the crew member also violates Section 119 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act of 1913, which prohibits dumping any waste into public waters. Violators can face up to six months in jail or a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both, and must also cover the cleanup costs. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese Man Allegedly Brandishes Knife at Driver in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn A Chinese man in Pattaya allegedly brandished a knife at another driver in a shocking road rage incident earlier this week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336912-chinese-man-allegedly-brandishes-knife-at-driver-in-pattaya/

A Chinese man in Pattaya allegedly brandished a knife at another driver in a shocking road rage incident earlier this week. A TikTok video is currently going viral in Thailand, showing a foreigner, believed to be Chinese, allegedly threatening another driver with a knife in the middle of a road in Pattaya. The 22-second clip depicts the man, who was driving a white Ford Everest, opening his car door, lowering the driver’s side window, and reportedly pulling out a knife to intimidate the driver of a nearby sedan. In the caption, it was understood that the incident occurred near Khao Phra Tamnak in South Pattaya. Many netizens are calling for police to take action against the foreigner. On August 30th, 2024, The Pattaya News reporters visited the incident scene on Khao Phra Tamnak Road, under the Bali Hai Pier overpass. However, nearby residents were unaware of the event but mentioned that traffic in the area is notoriously congested in the evenings, which they believe may have caused the road rage incident captured in the video. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man’s Highway Photo-Shoot Sparks Legal Controversy in Thailand Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Criticism erupted on social media after a Thai man was seen taking photos with his car on a deserted expressway. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336901-man’s-highway-photo-shoot-sparks-legal-controversy-in-thailand/

Tragic End to Dream Holiday: Brit Found Dead in Thai Waters Photo courtesy of Essex Live A dream holiday in Thailand turned into a heart-wrenching nightmare for an Essex couple when 27-year-old Theo Morgan, a British national from Romford, was tragically found dead in a body of water after a night out. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336900-tragic-end-to-dream-holiday-brit-found-dead-in-thai-waters/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 31 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336911-thailand-live-saturday-31-august-2024/

Five Star Cinema in Korat screens final show after 29 years Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The final chapter has closed on Korat’s beloved Five Star Cinema, a cherished venue for local students and residents. Yesterday, August 29, marked the last screening at the iconic theatre, succumbing to the competition from central investors and streaming services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336887-five-star-cinema-in-korat-screens-final-show-after-29-years/

Despite a whirlwind of global economic challenges and shrinking wallets worldwide, Thailand’s tourism sector is making a remarkable comeback. The nation is on the brink of welcoming nearly as many visitors as it did in the golden year of 2019, when almost 40 million foreign tourists poured in, generating a staggering 2 trillion baht in international revenue. Tourism triumph: Can Thailand hit the 2.3 trillion baht jackpot? Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336879-tourism-triumph-can-thailand-hit-the-23-trillion-baht-jackpot/

Commerce Ministry cracks down on hidden foreign ownership by Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Commerce Ministry intensifies its scrutiny of businesses allegedly using Thai nominees to hide foreign ownership, focusing on sectors like tourism, real estate, and logistics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336845-commerce-ministry-cracks-down-on-hidden-foreign-ownership/

The Thailand Commerce Ministry intensifies its scrutiny of businesses allegedly using Thai nominees to hide foreign ownership, focusing on sectors like tourism, real estate, and logistics. Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development, stated that under the Foreign Business Act of 1999, foreign firms must secure permission as outlined in specific lists before starting operations. A Thai limited company typically restricts foreign business ownership to a maximum of 49%. Operating a business without permission or hiding foreign ownership by using a nominee to hold over 51% of shares is illegal. The department reviewed 26,019 nominee cases across four business sectors: tourism and related enterprises, real estate trading, hotels and resorts, and logistics. These investigations spanned six major tourist provinces: Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, Surat Thani, Phuket, Bangkok, and Prachuap Khiri Khan. “After an in-depth investigation, including financial statements in 498 cases, 165 cases warranted examination of additional evidence.” Following a meeting chaired by Caretaker Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai with executives from 28 agencies to address the flood of cheap, poor-quality imported products, the department inspected four more business sectors: wholesale and retail, warehouses, construction and engineering, and metal trading. “Entrepreneurs who identify companies at risk and affected by any business using nominees are encouraged to inform the department for investigation and further action by related agencies such as the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).” Regarding Chinese online retailer Temu’s entry into the Thai market, the Commerce Ministry seeks cooperation with the Chinese Embassy for the portal to establish an office in Thailand to ensure legal compliance and taxation. The Commerce Ministry assigned the Digital Economy and Society Ministry (MDES) to follow up on this matter. Auramon noted that new business registrations for the first seven months of 2024 rose by 0.16% to 54,220, with a combined registered capital of 169 billion baht, down 62.1% year-on-year. The department anticipates new business registrations this year to total between 90,000 and 98,000, marking a 5 to 15% increase. Auramon attributed the uptick to government initiatives, such as the disbursement of the fiscal 2024 budget, the approval of the digital wallet handout, measures to attract foreign investment like the long-term resident visa scheme, and corporate income tax exemption for foreign companies doing business in Thailand, as well as the harvest season for crops. However, consumers remain concerned about the slow economic recovery, high levels of household debt, political stability, and ongoing geopolitical conflicts, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source:: The Thaiger 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Chuan opposes Democrat joining coalition government with ruling Pheu Thai Party By Pattaya Mail Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail Chuan Leekpai, former leader of the Democrat Party and a current Party-List Democrat MP, has expressed firm opposition to the idea of his party joining a coalition government with the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336841-chuan-opposes-democrat-joining-coalition-government-with-ruling-pheu-thai-party/

Chuan Leekpai, former leader of the Democrat Party and a current Party-List Democrat MP, has expressed firm opposition to the idea of his party joining a coalition government with the ruling Pheu Thai Party. He emphasized that his stance is based on principles, not personal animosity, citing his campaign efforts against the Pheu Thai Party. Chuan stated that Pheu Thai’s selective development policy, particularly its neglect of the Southern provinces, is a major reason for his opposition. He pointed out that his campaign contributed to Pheu Thai’s failure to secure MPs in the South, despite their success elsewhere. Supporting Pheu Thai now would betray the voters’ trust, he argued. Chuan also dismissed rumors of possible expulsion from the party, stating that no actions have been taken against him, and the issue of expulsion has not been raised. By Pattaya Mail Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Krungsri’s card charge: Loan surge despite economic strain by Bob Scott The unsecured loan arm of Bank of Ayudhya, Krungsri Consumer, is predicting a spike in credit card loans in the second half of the year, despite the economy limping along and new rules raising the minimum payments. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336839-krungsri’s-card-charge-loan-surge-despite-economic-strain/