Thai-US Sting Operation Nets Dark Web German Operator

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11 March 2025, 15:08

BANGKOK — Thai police and US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) have jointly apprehended a German national who operated multiple dark web sites distributing child sexual abuse material, officials announced at a press conference today at CIB.

The suspect, identified only as Steffen, was arrested on March 5 in Chonburi province after a months-long international investigation. Authorities seized computer servers, laptops, mobile phones, storage devices, bank accounts, and other evidence totaling 36 items. Digital forensic examination uncovered more than 140,000 files containing illicit material.

According to Police Lieutenant Jirayu Wongwiwat, deputy inspector at TCSD, the investigation began in December 2024 when HSI contacted Thai authorities about suspicious dark web activities linked to Thailand.

german cyber crime3 — Aaron Macelus (third from right), HSI Attaché, attends the press conference alongside Police Major General Athip Pongsiwapai of Thailand’s Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) at the Central Investigation Bureau on March 11.

The subsequent investigation identified Steffen, a retired programmer who had moved to Thailand and established two dark web sites with over 5,000 videos, primarily featuring minors.

The sites operated on a subscription model requiring cryptocurrency payments, with a minimum entry fee of $10 in Bitcoin or Monero. Investigators found that the suspect had approximately 10,000 members on his platforms. After receiving cryptocurrency payments, Steffen would transfer funds through multiple digital wallets before converting them to Thai baht for personal use. Authorities estimate his earnings from these operations at around $100,000.

german cyber crime2 — Screenshot showing the interface of one of the dark web platforms operated by the suspect, with sensitive content redacted. The site was one of two containing over 5,000 illegal videos.

During questioning, Steffen admitted to using his programming expertise to create and manage the websites using Tor control panel and WampServer software. Investigators also discovered he was selling spyware through the dark web for $16.95 per month (approximately 572 baht), which could capture phone conversations, keystrokes, notifications, location data, and access files on compromised devices.

The suspect faces multiple charges including possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, importing and exporting illicit content, operating a commercial enterprise involving exploitation material, and inputting illegal computer data accessible to the public.

Officials explained that Steffen, who had also overstayed his visa, will be prosecuted in Thailand since the crimes were committed in Thailand. After the court’s judgment, he must serve his sentence in Thailand before being deported and subsequently blacklisted.

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Romanian Ambassador Leads Inspiring Embassy Talk at IC-KMUTNB

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MC Marketing

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11 March 2025, 15:06

The International College of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB) hosted a special session “Embassy Talk: Insight into Romania’s Trade Landscape and Cultural Heritage“. The keynote address was delivered by H.E. Mrs. Daniela-Brînduşa Băzăvan, the Ambassador of Romania to Thailand, alongside her esteemed team. This engaging lecture brought Romania closer to the hearts of attendees by fostering a deeper understanding of its vibrant cultural and economic significance.

The Romanian delegation was warmly welcomed by Prof. Dr. Teravuti Boonyasopon, Chairman of KMUTNB Council, along with key members of the university’s executive team, including Prof. Dr. Saowanit Sukparungsee, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pichet Sriyanyong, Vice President for International Affairs; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pianpool Kamoljitprada, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences; and Asst. Prof. Dr. Achareeya Robkit, Dean of the International College. Their participation highlighted the importance of building academic and cultural partnerships.

During the talk, the Ambassador captivated the audience with her insights into Romania’s trade environment, showcasing the country’s strategic importance as a gateway to Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Black Sea. Additionally, the discussion illuminated Romania’s unique blend of tradition and innovation, creating opportunities for collaboration.

Representing Romanian’s business community in Thailand is Mr. Alexandru Comanescu from AIO, a start-up employing artificial intelligence to revolutionize fashion design, production and sales. Mr. Comanescu provided an inspiring presentation on how AI-powered solutions can enhance creativity and efficiency in the fashion industry. He showcased the innovative approach of reimagining traditional Romanian “ie” garments—iconic embroidered blouses—into modern fashion pieces, skillfully bridging heritage and contemporary design.

The highlight of the event was the celebration of Romania’s culture, particularly through the Mărțișor Spring Festival, which honors the arrival of spring and the role of women in society. As part of their efforts to bring Romania closer to the audience, the delegation shared traditional Romanian snacks, including saratele, a savory Romanian cheese stick, and cornulețe, a delightful crescent-shaped pastry filled with prune jam. These treats offered attendees a memorable taste of Romania’s rich culinary heritage.

The Embassy Talk was attended by executives, faculty, and students, particularly from the International Trade and Business Logistics (ITBL) program. The session inspired participants to appreciate the value of international cooperation and cultural exchange, connecting academic learning with real-world applications.

The Embassy Talk initiative at KMUTNB continues to be a cornerstone of the International College of KMUTNB’s efforts to promote global awareness and nurture future leaders in international business. By sharing Romania’s cultural richness and economic potential, the event not only strengthened ties between Thailand and Romania but also left a lasting impression on the hearts of all attendees.

Marriott and Man United Offer Fans Gary Neville-Inspired Captain’s Suite Stay

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Contributor

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11 March 2025, 13:56

One lucky fan will meet the iconic player, sleep over in the revamped Marriott Hotels’ Suite of Dreams at Old Trafford, and take in the matchday experience of the Manchester Derby

Through their exclusive partnership with Manchester United, Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, and Marriott Hotels announce the beloved Suite of Dreams will be reimagined for its fifth year as “The Captain’s Suite” and pay tribute to one of the club’s most decorated legends, Gary Neville. Set within the storied Old Trafford stadium, The Captain’s Suite will celebrate Neville’s illustrious career making over 600 appearances with Manchester United, serving as club captain for five years, and winning eight Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, three FA Cups and two League Cups, as well as the International Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Starting today, Manchester United fans can enter to win a one-night-stay in this iconic Marriott Hotels’ suite before cheering on Manchester United against Manchester City this April. The winner and a guest will sit down with Gary himself to hear stories from his years with the Club and what inspired the unique items in the decked-out suite. From iconic jerseys, medals, trophies and more, every piece within the suite has a story making this an unforgettable experience. Some unique items within include:

Entertainment Center: Packed with DVDs and books of classic Manchester United stories, matches and content, and a record player with Gary’s favorite vinyls.
Memorabilia Wall: Explore cases of cherished memories and iconic moments from Gary’s tenure as a caption.
Gary’s Snack Bar: An array of Gary’s go-to sweet treats, both from his current cravings and when he was touring with the team.

“I’ve been working with Marriott in Manchester now for many years and wanted to thank Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott Hotels for creating such an extraordinary tribute, and for allowing United fans the chance to experience it,” said Neville. “The Captain’s Suite is a celebration of all the special moments I have had both at Old Trafford and beyond. I can’t wait to meet the lucky fans who stay here and exchange stories about my time on the pitch and their devotion to the Club.”

The full experience for the winner and a guest will include a one-night stay in The Captain’s Suite, a Museum and Stadium tour of Old Trafford, and two tickets to the Manchester Derby. Fans must be a Marriott Bonvoy member to win and can sign up at marriottbonvoy.com. To enter, visit manutd.com/CaptainsSuite.

“The Captain’s Suite offers passionate fans a chance to step into the rich history of Manchester United through the eyes of renowned player Gary Neville,” said Peggy Roe, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer. “This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience our guests will remember whether checking in at one of our Marriott Bonvoy properties across 10,000 destinations or cheering on Manchester United as they take to the pitch at Old Trafford.”

The Captain’s Suite is just one of many experiences Marriott Bonvoy offers to bring fans closer to their passion for football and Manchester United. Through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, Marriott Bonvoy members can bid their points earned from travel and everyday activities for upcoming experiences on the platform. Currently, members can bid for a chance to play in a football match at Old Trafford Stadium coached by Manchester United Legends. The experience will include accommodation and tickets to a match. See more Marriott Bonvoy and Manchester United Moments here.

KMUTNB Hosts iEECON 2025: Advancing Global Carbon Neutrality

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MC Marketing

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11 March 2025, 13:55

During 5 – 7 March 2025, at Sheraton Hua Hin Resort, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, organized the 13th International Electrical Engineering Congress 2025 (iEECON 2025) in collaboration with the Electrical Engineering Academic Association, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE Thailand Section, IEEE Power and Energy Society and IEE Photonics Society).

The opening ceremony was presided over by Prof. Dr. Somrerk Chandra-ambhorn, Vice President for Research, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cattareeya Suwanasri, Head of Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and chairman of the organizing committee. Over 200 papers from 40 universities in 15 Countries were presented at the iEECON 2025 conference, while the keynote lecture was given by Prof. Dr. Sheng-feng Qin from Northumbria University, England. Besides, the experts from Schneider Electric, Hitachi Energy and National Energy Technology Center were invited to be keynote speakers for the panel discussion on “Innovative Leadership in Carbon Neutrality: Technology, Strategy, and Collaboration.”

Not only serving as a platform for the exchange of knowledge and recent advances in Electrical Engineering, this conference underscores KMUTNB’s unwavering commitment to contribute to the sustainable development and the climate change mitigation through the integration of Electrical Engineering and other disciplines. Also, the iEECON 2025 conference aimed at fostering the KMUTNB global research network and sustaining the university’s research quality in Engineering which achieved the highest score in Thailand according to Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025.

Fuji Pharma Subsidiary OLIC Enters Women’s Health Market

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Khaosod English

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11 March 2025, 12:46

BANGKOK — OLIC (Thailand) Limited, Southeast Asia’s largest pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), is strategically expanding its business focus into the women’s healthcare market with the introduction of several high-quality pharmaceutical products, including an innovative natural estrogen in combined oral contraceptive.

The company, a subsidiary of Japan’s Fuji Pharma Co., Ltd., is leveraging its four decades of manufacturing expertise to transition from being primarily a contract manufacturer to becoming a key player in women’s healthcare across Thailand and ASEAN markets.

“Today, OLIC is ready to become a leader in women’s healthcare by providing high-quality pharmaceutical products,” said Yoshihiro Takada, Managing Director of OLIC Thailand on March 7, 2025. The company’s product portfolio now includes natural estrogen in combined oral contraceptive, endometriosis medication, post-operative pain management treatments, and hormone replacement therapy.

Industry analysts note that this market entry is well-timed. The global women’s healthcare market is projected to reach USD 66 billion by 2033, with gynecological disorders representing the largest segment. In Southeast Asia, the contraceptive market alone is valued at 6 billion baht (approximately USD 170 million), with Thailand accounting for 50% of this market.

Pannavich Chitmetheepong, Pharma Business Unit Director at OLIC, announced that the company’s innovative natural estrogen oral contraceptive is now available at healthcare facilities and leading pharmacies throughout Thailand. He highlighted that the product “exhibits selective actions and improved safety profile, providing a new option for women in Thailand.”

To support its market expansion, OLIC has launched the ‘Be with HER – Empowering Her Health Decisions’ campaign, which includes educational content and engagement activities in collaboration with healthcare partners. This initiative aims to promote women’s health awareness and access to accurate medical information.

OLIC maintains dual operations with manufacturing facilities in Bang Pa-in Industrial Estate, Ayutthaya Province, and corporate offices in Bangkok’s Mitrtown Office Tower.

The company’s strategic pivot comes amid increasing healthcare expenditures across Southeast Asia and growing consumer demand for specialized women’s health products and services.

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Former Philippine President Duterte Arrested on an ICC Warrant over Drug Killings

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Associated Press

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11 March 2025, 12:24

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila’s international airport Tuesday on order of the International Criminal Court in connection with a case of crime against humanity filed against him, the Philippine government said.

Duterte was arrested after arriving from Hong Kong and police took him into custody on orders of the ICC, which has been investigating the mass killings that happened under the former president’s deadly crackdown against illegal drugs, President Ferdinand Marcos’ office said in a statement.

“Upon his arrival, the prosecutor general served the ICC notification for an arrest warrant to the former president for the crime of crime against humanity,” the government said. “He’s now in the custody of authorities.”

The surprise arrest sparked a commotion at the airport, where lawyers and aides of Duterte loudly protested that they, along with a doctor and lawyers, were prevented from coming close to him after he was taken into police custody. “This is a violation of his constitutional right,” Sen. Bong Go, a close Duterte ally. told reporters.

AP25070127924900 — Security officers patrol the airport after former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested, in Manila, Philippines, Tuesday, March 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Duterte’s arrest and downfall stunned and drove families of the victims of his bloody crackdowns against illegal drugs to tears.

“This is a big, long-awaited day for justice,” Randy delos Santos, the uncle of a teenager killed by police during an anti-drug operation in August 2017 in the Manila metropolis, told The Associated Press.

“Now we feel that justice is rolling. We hope that top police officials and the hundreds of police officers who were involved in the illegal killings should also be placed in custody and punished,” delos Santos said.

Three of the police officers who killed his nephew, Kian delos Santos, were convicted in 2018 for the high-profile murder, which prompted to Duterte at the time to temporarily suspend his brutal anti-drugs crackdown.

The conviction was one of at least three, so far, against law enforcers involved in the anti-drugs campaign, reflecting the concerns of families of victims of suspected extrajudicial killings that they would not get justice in the Philippines, hence, their decision to seek the help of the ICC.

It was not immediately clear where Duterte was taken by the police. The government said the 79-year-old former leader was in good health.

AP25070119232039 — FILE – Former President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte speaks inside the Southorn Stadium during a thanksgiving gathering organized by Hong Kong-based Filipino workers for the former populist president in Hong Kong on March 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Vernon Yuen, File)

The ICC began investigating drug killings under Duterte from Nov. 1, 2011, when he was still mayor of the southern city of Davao, to March 16, 2019, as possible crimes against humanity. Duterte withdrew the Philippines in 2019 from the Rome Statute in a move human rights activists say was aimed at escaping accountability.

The Duterte administration moved to suspend the global court’s investigation in late 2021 by arguing that Philippine authorities were already looking into the same allegations, arguing the ICC — a court of last resort — didn’t have jurisdiction.

Appeals judges at the ICC ruled in 2023 the investigation could resume and rejected the Duterte administration’s objections. Based in The Hague, the Netherlands, the ICC can step in when countries are unwilling or unable to prosecute suspects in the most heinous international crimes, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who succeeded Duterte in 2022 and became entangled in a bitter political dispute with the former president, has decided not to rejoin the global court. But the Marcos administration has said it would cooperate if the ICC asks international police to take Duterte into custody through a so-called Red Notice, a request for law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and temporarily arrest a crime suspect.

Chinese Chef and South Asian Overstayers Detained in Phuket

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Khaosod English

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10 March 2025, 19:55

PHUKET — Immigration Police have arrested a Chinese national for working illegally as a chef and detained two South Asian men for overstaying their visas during a recent operation targeting foreigners suspected of violating immigration laws in Phuket.

On March 10, immigration officers conducted an inspection at a Chinese restaurant in Soi Naka, Wichit Sub-district, Mueang Phuket District, where they discovered a 33-year-old Chinese man, identified only as Mr. Li, preparing food in the kitchen. When officers requested to see his documentation, they found he had entered Thailand on a tourist visa.

Mr. Li admitted to working illegally as a chef at the restaurant for approximately two months without a proper work permit. He was charged with being a foreigner working without a work permit and was transferred to Wichit Police Station for legal proceedings.

The restaurant owner who employed Mr. Li is also facing charges for “hiring a foreigner without a work permit or allowing a foreigner to work beyond permitted rights.”

indian paki phuket — Phuket immigration officers arrest two men; one Indian and one Pakistani, for overstaying their visas on March 10, 2025.

During the same operation, immigration officers arrested two additional foreign nationals for overstaying their visas: Mr. Jay, an Indian national who had overstayed his visa by 668 days and Mr. Shah, a Pakistani national who had overstayed his visa by 92 days.

Both men were charged with “being foreigners entering and staying in the Kingdom after their permission had expired.”

Phuket Immigration Police emphasized the importance of proper accommodation registration, noting that with the high volume of tourists visiting Phuket, this practice helps authorities monitor foreign nationals in the area, investigate potential violations, and ensure the safety of both tourists and residents.

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Thai Govt Approves 10,000 Baht Digital Cash for 2.7M Youths

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Khaosod English

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10 March 2025, 18:42

BANGKOK — At the first meeting of the Economic Stimulus Policy Committee 2025, the government approved the distribution of 10,000 baht in digital cash to 2.7 million young people between the ages of 16 and 20.

The program is scheduled to start in Q2 2025 and will allow recipients to buy anything, but not tuition fees, utility bills, and phone bills, which are considered services.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the decision after the meeting chaired by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The approved initiative, called Phase 1 of the Digital Wallet Scheme, is expected to be disbursed to registered recipients aged 16-20 between the end of the second quarter and the beginning of the third quarter of 2025.

The government believes this will provide financial support to parents, while the inclusion of the 20–60 age group is still under consideration.

finance miniters — Deputy PM and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira (center) with two deputy ministers, Chulaphan Amornvivat, and Phaophum Rojanasakul, announce the approval of 10,000 baht scheme in digital cash to 2.7 million young people between the ages of 16 and 20, at the Government House, on March 10, 2025.

“The digital wallet project offers numerous advantages in its first phase. Although the system is complex to develop, it offers better control over spending compared to other subsidies. The digital wallet enables targeted spending and ensures that funds flow into the economy as intended. It also provides valuable insights into citizens’ living conditions and helps shape future economic plans. This initiative lays the foundation for Thailand’s digital economy,” explained Pichai.

Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornvivat announced that the digital cash of 10,000 baht for the 16–20 age group comes with relaxed conditions. The previous negative list, which restricted certain purchases, has been completely removed.

This means that the money can be used for tuition fees, electricity bills and electronics, among other things. In addition, all types of businesses can withdraw the funds as cash, not just tax-registered merchants. However, the specific time frame for the use of the funds will still be determined per district.

The next step is to submit the plan to the Cabinet (CRC) for final approval in the coming weeks. If the program is approved, it should start as early as the 2nd or 3rd quarter of 2025.

Deputy Finance Minister Phaophum Rojanasakul emphasized that the 2.7 million young beneficiaries were selected because of their high digital adoption, strong technology awareness and greater ability to adapt to digital transactions compared to other groups.
For the next phase, the government has allocated 150 billion baht for further economic stimulus at an appropriate time, especially in the third quarter of 2025.

“We need to use these funds within Q3 because of budget constraints. The government must ensure that every baht is spent efficiently and at the right time,” Phaophum explained.

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ITALTHAI SDLG Hosts “Master the Performance” Loader and Excavator Challenge

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Contributor

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10 March 2025, 15:54

Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand – February 27, 2025 – ITALTHAI | SDLG is setting a new benchmark in heavy machinery excellence with the launch of ‘Master the Performance,’ a high-stakes competition designed to showcase the precision, power, and reliability of SDLG excavators and wheel loaders in real-world operations.

Hosted at Wangsila Na Nakorn Concrete Limited Partnership, a key ITALTHAI Partner in Nakhon Si Thammarat, the event brings together top-tier heavy machinery operators and business owners from across the region. Participants take on structured challenges, testing their skills in machine control, accuracy, and operational efficiency under real-world, time-sensitive conditions.

‘Master the Performance’ is more than a showcase of ITALTHAI | SDLG machinery—it’s a platform for the skilled operators driving industry success. This competition highlights their expertise, precision, and control in high-stakes challenges, navigating SDLG excavators and wheel loaders through demanding, time-sensitive tasks that mirror real-world conditions. Beyond testing skill, it celebrates the professionals who power progress, proving that true performance comes from both the machine and the people behind it.

Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ITALTHAI | SDLG, emphasized the significance of the event, stating “This competition is not just about testing the performance of our machines—it’s about elevating operator skills and setting new industry standards. At ITALTHAI | SDLG, we believe true performance comes from both the machinery and the skilled professionals behind it. We are honored to collaborate with Mr. Piya Na Nakorn from Wangsila Na Nakorn Concrete Limited Partnership in hosting this event, while also strengthening the ITALTHAI Partner program to support the growth of Thailand’s construction and heavy-machinery industries.”

This competition not only provides a platform for heavy machinery operators to showcase their skills but also reinforces the strong partnerships within the ITALTHAI Partner program. As a strategic collaboration network, ITALTHAI Partner enables businesses to access high-quality SDLG heavy machinery, professional after-sales services, and localized support from partners across key regions nationwide.

Mr. Piya Na Nakorn, Managing Director of Wangsila Na Nakorn Concrete Limited Partnership, a business partner under the ITALTHAI Partner program, shared his confidence in ITALTHAI | SDLG machinery, stating “‘Master the Performance’ is more than just a competition—it reinforces expertise, reliability, and the standard of excellence that industry professionals trust in heavy machinery. I choose ITALTHAI | SDLG because of its high quality, durability, and ease of control. Our operators consistently provide positive feedback on its precision and efficiency. I highly encourage others to try it and experience the difference firsthand.”

More than just a competition, ‘Master the Performance’ underscores ITALTHAI | SDLG’s dedication to building trust and driving sustainable growth in the heavy machinery industry. Through innovation, advanced technology, and skilled professionals, ITALTHAI | SDLG equips both businesses and operators with the tools and expertise needed to stay competitive in an industry that is rapidly evolving.

CP AXTRA Launches Royal Project Products Supporting Highland Farmers Nationwide

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Contributor

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10 March 2025, 15:51

CP AXTRA Public Company Limited, an operator of Asia’s leading wholesaler and retailer Makro and Lotus’s, has partnered with the Royal Project to launch the ‘Royal Project Quality Products for CP AXTRA.’ This collaboration continues to bring high-quality, fresh, and reliable produce from hill tribe farmers directly from the mountaintops to Makro and Lotus’s stores nationwide. The project reinforces CP AXTRA’s role as a destination for high-quality fresh food and products, ensuring consumers have access to quality products while improving the livelihoods of hill tribe farmers through sustainable income generation.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Narongchai Pipatthanawong, Executive Director of the Royal Project Foundation. This marks another significant milestone in the collaboration between the private sector and civil society, reaffirming a shared commitment to supporting highland farmers by promoting sustainable agricultural careers and encouraging the cultivation of cash crops as an alternative to opium farming. The project aligns with the “Royal Project Model,” which prioritizes economic, social, and environmental development, fostering long-term sustainability.

The “Royal Project Quality Products for CP AXTRA” strengthens local economies by bringing produce from highland farmers to Makro and Lotus’s stores nationwide. It showcases a carefully curated selection of locally sourced produce, ensuring freshness, cleanliness, and safety from farm to consumers. Consumers can explore a diverse selection of products, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, health and processed goods. Beyond supporting highland farmers, this collaboration also promotes ‘Health and Well-Being’ by making nutritious, high-quality food more accessible at affordable prices.

CP AXTRA is dedicated to conducting business in alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. By consistently sourcing produce from local farmers, CP AXTRA not only ensures their financial stability but also enhances their quality of life, elevates agricultural standards, empowers communities, and drives local economic growth—paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Discover Royal Project products at Makro and Lotus’s stores nationwide and enjoy exclusive promotions. Buy 1 Get 1 Free deals on selected items and exclusive perks for My Lotus’s members who spend 599 baht or more on Royal Project products will receive a complimentary red or green tea (one privilege per receipt). Additionally, explore special prices starting at just 29 baht at Makro and Makro Pro, all available now until April 3, 2025.

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