Thonburi Phanich’s 2024 Red Cross Lottery Offers Mercedes C350e AMG and Prizes Worth THB 3.7M

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3 December 2024, 17:09

Bangkok, December 2, 2024 – Thonburi Phanich Co., Ltd., Thailand’s first official Mercedes-Benz Retail Partner, is pleased to announce the collaboration of the launch of the Red Cross 2024 Lottery. Proceeds from ticket sales, after deducting expenses, will be donated to the Thai Red Cross Society to support its humanitarian initiatives.

This year’s lottery provides participants with the chance to support a meaningful cause with a chance to win outstanding prizes. Tickets are available for just THB 100 each, with the grand prize being a Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Dynamic, worth THB 3,200,000. Over 100 additional prizes are up for grabs, bringing the total prize pool to more than THB 3,792,140.

Lottery tickets can be purchased conveniently through two channels: online at https://shorturl.at/IP7d7 or by scanning the QR code provided in promotional materials. The draw will take place on December 22, 2024, during the Red Cross Fair at Lumpini Park. Winners will also be announced on the official website (https://www.iredcross.org/) and the Benz Thonburi Group Facebook Page.

The Red Cross Lottery offers an exciting array of prizes, with the Grand Prize being a Mercedes-Benz C350e AMG Dynamic, valued at THB 3,200,000. The Second Prize features a New Honda Monkey 2024 motorcycle, worth THB 99,700. Two Third Prizes of gold bars (1 baht weight) are available, each valued at THB 41,000, along with two Fourth Prizes of iPad Air 11″ 256GB, each worth THB 27,900. Additionally, over 100 other prizes include items such as Samsung 65” QLED TVs, Dyson hair dryers, Samsung refrigerators, PUMA AMG T-shirts, and Mercedes-Benz tumblers, offering something special for every winner.

The Red Cross Fair 2024 will take place from December 11–22, 2024, at Lumpini Park, Bangkok. For prize collection, winners are encouraged to contact Thonburi Phanich at 02 405 8818 to make the necessary arrangements.

Be a part of making a meaningful impact while seizing the opportunity to win extraordinary prizes. Join hands with us to support the Thai Red Cross Society today.

Terms and Conditions:

All prizes must be claimed by March 22, 2025. Unclaimed prizes will be donated to the Thai Red Cross Society.
Tickets are issued in 1,000 sets, totaling 100,000 tickets, numbered 800000–899999. Only holders of winning tickets are eligible to claim prizes.
Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. All terms and conditions are subject to the company’s discretion. Decisions made by the organizing committee will be considered final.

Woman Driving Drunk Who Killed Bride Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison

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Associated Press

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3 December 2024, 15:38

bride — Tears fall down the cheeks of Jamie Lee Komoroski as family members of Samantha Miller speak about Miller during the plea hearing for Komoroski at Charleston County Court, Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Charleston, S.C. (Henry Taylor/The Post And Courier via AP)

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — A woman who admitted to drinking and who was driving well over twice the speed limit when she smashed into a golf cart, killing a bride who had just got married at a South Carolina beach, was sentenced Monday to 25 years in prison.

Jamie Lee Komoroski pleaded guilty at the Charleston County courthouse to reckless homicide, felony DUI causing death and two counts of felony DUI causing great bodily injury before her sentencing.

Also hurt in the 2023 crash was the groom, Aric Hutchinson, who cried in court as he recalled the last moments he spent with Samantha Miller — some of their only moments as husband and wife.

“On the golf cart, she told me she didn’t want the night to end and I kissed her on the forehead and then the next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital,” Hutchinson said.

Komoroski, 27, was sentenced to the maximum of 25 years in prison for felony DUI causing death by Judge Deadra Jefferson. She also was sentenced to 15 years in prison for each count of felony DUI causing great bodily injury and 10 years for reckless homicide. The sentences will all run at the same time.

AP24338029169770 — 9th Circuit Court Judge Deadra Jefferson listens to Jamie Lee Komoroski plea guilty to multiple charges after a 2023 crash that killed Samantha Miller, Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Charleston, S.C. (Henry Taylor/The Post And Courier via AP)

Police said Komoroski drank at several bars on April 28, 2023, and was driving 65 mph (105 kph) on a narrow Folly Beach road with a speed limit of 25 mph (40 kph) when she slammed into the golf cart leaving a wedding. Her blood-alcohol level was 0.26%, which is more than three times the legal limit to drive.

The 34-year-old bride died still wearing her wedding dress. The groom suffered a brain injury and numerous broken bones. The cart was thrown 100 yards (91 meters) by the crash.

After pleading guilty, Komoroski said she realized now she was addicted to alcohol and selfishly didn’t care how her actions affected others. She promised to spend the rest of her life helping addicts and warning of the dangers of drinking and driving. She said she was “devastated, deeply ashamed and sorry” for what she did.

“I wish I could go back and undo this terrible tragedy. But I cannot. I will live the rest of my life with intense regret for what happened that night,” she said.

She said all her work will be dedicated to Miller’s memory.

“I pray God stands by the side of my victims and their families and loved ones for the rest of their lives,” Komoroski said.

AP24337788499697 — FILE – Lisa Miller, left, and her daughter, Mandi Jenkins, wipe tears from their eyes after testifying during a bond hearing for Jamie Lee Komoroski, Aug 1, 2023, at the Charleston County Courthouse in Charleston, S.C. (Gavin McIntyre/The Post And Courier via AP, File)

A number of friends and family of both Miller and Komoroski spoke at the hearing, which lasted nearly three hours. Komoroski’s supporters asked the judge to be lenient because she is young, remorseful and can still do good.

Many of Miller’s family asked for a harsh sentence, saying they can never get her back and that the decisions Komoroski made that night were selfish and permanently scarred many lives. Komoroski looked at most of Miller’s family, including Hutchinson, as they spoke, occasionally wiping away tears.

Hutchinson said he sees more doctors and therapists than he can count because of his physical injuries and the mental anguish of the crash, and that he thinks about it every single day.

AP24338029161085 — Aric Hutchinson speaks about Samantha Miller to 9th Circuit Court Judge Deadra Jefferson during the plea hearing for Jamie Lee Komoroski, Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Charleston, S.C. (Henry Taylor/The Post And Courier via AP)

“I wish I had died that night. I wish I had seen it coming. I’d have jumped off the golf cart so you would only have run me over,” Hutchinson said.

Hutchinson won $863,000 in legal settlements from three bars that served Komoroski as well as her insurance firm and the company she rented her car from.

Before the sentencing, Miller’s father told Komoroski he was disgusted that she appeared to never take responsibility. He told her she could apologize, but he wouldn’t listen to a word.

“The rest of my life I’m going to hate you and when I arrive in hell and you come there, I will open the door for you,” Brad Warner said. “You have ruined so many people’s lives.”

Bangkok Police Use Undercover Tactics to Apprehend Sexual Assault Suspect

By

Khaosod English

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3 December 2024, 14:29

BANGKOK — Thai police caught the perpetrator in an undercover ‘swinging’ operation. A Chinese man was arrested in Bangkok on Monday for allegedly sexually harassing and blackmailing a female student

An undercover officer disguised as a wrestler served as a decoy while six undercover officers hid in a hotel room – in closets, under beds and on the balcony – waiting to arrest the suspect, 33-year-old Chinese national Su Xing Rui, on December 2. Su was wanted for rape and violence against others.

The suspect was arrested at a prestigious hotel on Petchburi Road in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district. The evidence seized included a smartphone with videos of rape, sadistic sexual acts and numerous upskirt videos, as well as a rope allegedly used during sexual intercourse.

The investigation began when an 18-year-old first-year Thai student reported that she was raped at the Phaya Thai police station on November 19, 2024. She reported that she met Su on the sixth floor of the MBK Center where he approached her and pretended to be a tourist. Since she was learning Chinese, she agreed to talk to him. However, Su lured her to a hotel on Phetchaburi Road where he raped her and recorded the assault.

Su later threatened her by text message and asked her to meet up with him again to engage in unconventional sexual activities, including with other men. Out of fear, the victim confided in her family, who then accompanied her to the police to file a complaint.

The police then obtained an arrest warrant, but had difficulty tracking Su down due to his volatile lifestyle. With the help of psychological profiling, the authorities developed a covert operation. They used a female decoy, whom Su asked to organize another man in fantasy clothing for a “swinging” scenario. Sub-Lieutenant Polawat Nakthamya was assigned to play the role, complete with tattoos to mimic a foreigner.

tactic arrest chinese3 — The Chinese suspect denies all allegations, claiming he was “shocked” and had taken stimulants before his arrest.

When Su entered the room at 7:30 p.m., Sub-Lieutenant Polawat confirmed his identity and signaled the team to come out and arrest him.

The suspect denied all allegations, claiming he was “shocked” and had taken stimulants before his arrest. He stated that the rope around his neck was a sexual accessory and refused to provide further statements, insisting he was a tourist and not involved in any scam activities.

Following his arrest, investigators found extensive data on his phone, including videos of sadistic assaults on victims, recordings of sexual encounters with multiple women, and numerous upskirt videos taken in public places. Additional evidence indicated the suspect exhibited a sexual preference for voyeuristic and exploitative behaviors.

Pol. Col. Theeradej Thamsutee noted that the suspect, a foreigner with no fixed residence, was difficult to track down. Behavioral analysis and investigative theories were crucial to trap him. He emphasized that the swift operation probably prevented further victims. Although he had only recently arrived in Thailand, the suspect had already committed several crimes, including filming women’s skirts in public.

The investigation team has provided important evidence to the Phaya Thai Police Station for further legal action.

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Suntory’s Mizuiku Project Earns AmCham CSR Excellence Award

By

MC Marketing

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3 December 2024, 13:36

Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a leader of health enrichment products under BRAND’S trademark in Thailand and Asia, reaffirms its commitment to conducting business with corporate social and environmental responsibility, in line with the corporate values of “Growing for Good” and “Giving Back to Society”. This is demonstrated by the success of the water conservation project, which received a certificate for the “Corporate Social Impact Awards 2024” from the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM), recognizing member businesses with outstanding corporate social impact. This award is a testament to Suntory’s dedication to educating youth about sustainable water and environmental conservation. On November, 13, 2024, Mrs. Mathuvalee Stithyudhakarn, Regulatory Affairs and Corporate Affairs Director, Thailand and Indochina, represented the company in receiving the certificate from U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec and Mr. Simon Denye, AMCHAM Corporate Social Impact Board Governor Liaison.

“The AMCHAM Corporate Social Impact Award reflects the company’s commitment to creating value for society and the environment,” stated Mrs. Mathuvalee Stithyudhakarn. “Under the ‘One Suntory Mizuiku Program 2024’, we are dedicated to raising awareness of water conservation among Thai youth through the Nature Classroom activity, which offers hands-on learning experiences to enhance their ability to apply this knowledge within their community’s context. Additionally, we support the implementation of water conservation projects in schools that address four areas: policy, stakeholder participation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. Through raising awareness of social responsibility and empowering young people to become ‘change agents’, we hope to promote positive behavioral changes and sustainable water resource conservation in local communities.”

“We have implemented the water conservation project since 2021 with the goal of educating Thai youth about the value of water resources from upstream to downstream, and empowering them to spearhead innovative water conservation initiatives in their local communities. To spread awareness about water conservation across the country, we have organized experiential learning activities through the Nature Classroom. Over 37,000 students have participated in educational activities and the implementation of water conservation projects in schools, while more than 180 teachers have received training to sustainably transfer knowledge of water and environmental conservation. We aim for these student leaders and teachers to be representatives in expanding this environmental education model at the national level.”

In the past, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has been dedicated to continuously improving its initiatives to enhance impact on society. The water conservation project began in 2021 with the theme “Save the Water, Save the World,” in partnership with the Environmental Education Center (EEC). It provided nature classroom educational activities along the Andaman Sea’s beachfront, teaching young people about protecting marine water sources and promoting sustainable tourism in Phuket Province. Later in 2022, the company launched the “Give Balance to Water and the World” concept, educating young people from Rayong Province through the nature classroom activities in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health, the Rayong Inclusive Learning Academy (RILA), and the Environmental Education Center. The goal was to promote sustainable tourism and the preservation of Rayong Province’s numerous water sources.

In 2023, by collaborating with the Department of Environmental Quality Promotion and participating schools under the Eco-School project, we expanded the project nationwide. Our goal was to encourage young people to take the lead in protecting their local water resources, such as the upstream in Chiang Rai Province, the midstream in Ubon Ratchathani Province, the downstream in Chachoengsao Province, and the sea in Krabi Province, all under the motto “Protect Water, Care for the Environment for a Sustainable Thailand”.

The year is a significant milestone for the project. In collaboration with government and social sector partners such as the Department of Water Resources, the Department of Pollution Control, the Department of Climate Change and Environment, and the Environmental Education Center, the company has partnered with Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to implement the “One Suntory Mizuiku Program 2024”. Student leaders and teachers from 30 schools in Rayong and Chonburi provinces attended the “Mizuiku Water Hero Camp” and the “Mizuiku Water Model School” activities. A unique opportunity to participate in a field trip to learn about the origin of the Mizuiku program in Japan was also given to the two schools who won the “Mizuiku Water Model School” contest.

Follow Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) on Facebook and LinkedIn: Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand), or visit www.suntorybeverageandfood.co.th for more information on the company’s sustainability initiatives.

AIS launches PLAY ULTIMATE: Thailand’s first all-in-one streaming bundle at 999 Baht monthly

By

MC Marketing

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3 December 2024, 13:28

AIS reinforces its leadership as The Largest ENTERTAINMENT HUB by continuing to collaborate with global streaming partners, offer top platforms such as Netflix, Max, Disney+ Hotstar, iQIYI, VIU, and WeTV, along with 22 premium TV channels available through AIS PLAY. This provides customers and Thai viewers with access to a complete and diverse entertainment experience on the best network through the PLAY ULTIMATE package, exclusively for AIS customers at an incredibly affordable price of just 999 baht per month.

Lertchai Kodsup Acting Head of Marketing, AIS, said, “As the strongest telecommunications provider in the industry, AIS today offers a wide range of digital experiences through our AIS 5G network, which covers over 95% of the population. We have also received confirmation from world-renowned organizations analyzing mobile consumer usage data, including Ookla® and OpenSignal in 2024, which guarantee that AIS 5G is the fastest and best 5G network in Thailand across all dimensions. In particular, the best experience of VDO on the AIS network is excellent; from the time opening, VDO viewing has the least time out. It is a network where people press play VDO and use the shortest start time, playing immediately with no lag. Today, we are fully prepared to seamlessly connect with the streaming industry, ensuring we meet the ever-growing demand for customer viewership.

Rungtip Jarusiripipat, Head of AIS PLAY, added, “Through continuous collaboration with global streaming partners, AIS has been able to deliver the best content experiences from around the world to Thai consumers, elevating us to become The Largest Entertainment Hub, the central destination for all customer needs. Furthermore, we have a deep understanding of the diverse content consumption behaviors of our customers, reflecting the varied demands and comprehensive viewing preferences that span both Eastern and Western content.

With years of experience working with global streaming partners, AIS has created a diverse entertainment phenomenon and opened the global content market to both mobile and broadband customers through the Ecosystem Economy concept, which offers an end-to-end solution. This has built the trust needed to collaborate with partners on the highly anticipated PLAY ULTIMATE package—the first of its kind in Thailand, bringing together the best streaming platforms including Netflix, Max, Disney+ Hotstar, iQIYI, VIU, and WeTV, along with numerous premium channels in one package.

The PLAY ULTIMATE package combines the best of entertainment in a single offer, exclusively for AIS postpaid customers. Simply dial *678*99# to subscribe for just 999 baht (Exclude VAT) per month and enjoy the ultimate entertainment experience with 6 leading streaming platforms:

Netflix Premium: Watch on up to 4 devices with 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos.
Max Ultimate Plan: Watch on up to 4 devices with 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos (as available).
Disney+ Hotstar Premium: Watch on up to 4 devices with 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos (as available).
iQIYI VIP: Watch on up to 2 devices with Full HD and Dolby Atmos.
VIU Premium: Watch on up to 5 devices with Full HD.
WeTV VIP: Watch on up to 2 devices with Full HD.

Additionally, the package includes 22 premium TV channels, such as HBO, CARTOON NETWORK, CNN, and Discovery, all accessible via AIS PLAY only.

The launch of the PLAY ULTIMATE package marks a game-changing moment in the market, providing customers with a new experience to enjoy a wide range of content, including movies, series, variety shows, documentaries, animations, and more. We also introduce the new 5G Max PLAY ULTIMATE monthly package for new customers, which includes entertainment, calls, and high-speed internet, starting from only 1,299 baht per month.

Furthermore, AIS is offering the 5G Max PLAY ULTIMATE monthly package for new subscribers, customers switching to postpaid, or those switching from prepaid to postpaid, with all the entertainment from the PLAY ULTIMATE package and full-speed 5G calls and data, starting from only 1,299 baht per month. This offer will be available at all AIS Shops starting from December 13, 2024.

Tact Driving Sustainable Transformation for Businesses

By

MC Marketing

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3 December 2024, 12:18

As global dynamics shift, sustainability has transitioned from an “Optional Initiative” to a “Necessary Business Initiative”. Private sectors must adapt to manage and report sustainability data to stakeholders and investors while leveraging business growth opportunities through sustainability strategies. Responding to these needs, Tact Social Consulting (Tact) has officially launched its Sustainability Consulting Services, aiming to guide Thai businesses and organizations toward sustainable transformation tailored to the local context.

Dolporn Pitaksit, Co-Founder and CFO of Tact, emphasized that Tact is specialized in sustainability consulting. “We assist organizations in designing strategies and implementing projects to effectively address social and environmental challenges while considering their capacity limitations. Our services target companies facing sustainability reporting requirements, carbon-intensive exporters, and businesses seeking growth opportunities through sustainability-driven strategies,” she stated.

Tact’s Key Services:

Academy

Provides training and workshops on sustainability and climate change for executives and employees. Topics include sustainability goal-setting, ESG education, carbon footprint assessments, and integrating sustainability into organizational workflows.

Advisory

Sustainability Strategy: Offers consulting on developing sustainability strategies and action plans, including materiality assessments to address key social and environmental impacts.

Net Zero Strategy: Assists in setting net-zero emissions targets aligned with the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi) and designing greenhouse gas reduction plans.

Assessment & Disclosure

Sustainability Reporting and Certification: Prepares annual sustainability reports, ESG disclosures, and certifications such as SDG Impact Standard and GRI Standards.
Carbon Footprint Accounting: Provides end-to-end carbon footprint measurement for organizations and products, from data collection to certification readiness, in compliance with local and international standards.

AI for Sustainability

Implements Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability (MCfS) to enable real-time sustainability data management. By integrating data from diverse sources, organizations can generate ESG reports, uncover insights, and make informed strategic decisions

Tact’s Competitive Edge

Dolporn Pitaksit further highlighted the company’s distinct approach, which includes:

Localization: Adapting global sustainability frameworks to fit the Thai context for practical and effective implementation.
Flexibility: Customizing services to align with client industry, budget, and goals.
Academic Expertise: Collaborating with experienced professionals in sustainability and reporting, Tact partners with the Sustainable Business Development Institute (SBDi).
AI-Powered Solutions: As a prioritized Microsoft partner, Tact leverages AI technologies to enhance ESG data management and analysis.

If your organization is seeking for a partner specializing in sustainability, Tact is ready to guide you through strategy formulation and project implementation to align with your goals. Our dedicated team works hand-in-hand with clients, delivering end-to-end services, from conducting thorough assessments and creating actionable strategies to developing measurable frameworks. We also ensure compliance with international standards through professional sustainability reporting, building stakeholder trust. Furthermore, Tact incorporates AI Sustainability Solutions, streamlining your transition to a sustainable future with ease and efficiency.

For more information, visit www.tact.in.th.

Monk Gets Makeshift Eyebrows to Pass Face Scan at Khon Kaen Store

By

Khaosod English

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3 December 2024, 00:10

KHON KAEN — A convenience store owner in Khon Kaen found an unusual solution when a Buddhist monk’s welfare card payment failed due to facial recognition issues – applying black electrical tape as temporary eyebrows.

The incident occurred at Thien Thong grocery store in Ban Non Thong, Khon Kaen province. Store owner Thitipa Pusee, 46, explained that the monk, known as Phra Lot, 45, was a regular customer before ordaining. After becoming a monk and shaving his head and eyebrows, his face no longer matched his welfare card registration.

eyebrows2 — After the male customer help apply tape eyebrows, the monk successfully passes the facial recognition scan to make purchases at the store in Khon Kaen on December 1, 2024.

“After multiple failed scan attempts, I considered asking him to return to the temple and try again later. Instead, we tried applying black electrical tape as makeshift eyebrows, similar to Shin-chan’s style,” Pusee said.

Another customer helped shape the tape into more realistic eyebrows, which successfully allowed the facial recognition system to work.

The security camera footage went viral after Pusee shared it on Facebook. While initially concerned about potential controversy, she noted that the monk only purchases items essential for religious purposes through his welfare card.

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Thailand Seals Major Deal: Thai-EFTA FTA, Progress Toward EU Agreement

By

Khaosod English

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2 December 2024, 21:36

thai fta efta — Thai Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan celebrates with EFTA representatives after finalizing the free trade agreement. (Department of Commerce)

BANGKOK — The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) has been finalized and represents a historic milestone as it is the first FTA Thailand has signed with a European bloc.

EFTA currently comprises four member countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The agreement, which has been under negotiation since June 20, 2022, was a strategic goal for Thailand and EFTA, which aimed to conclude negotiations within two years. Both parties have alternated rounds of negotiations to finalize the terms.

The Trade Negotiations Department under the Ministry of Commerce played a central role and finalized agreements on 15 major issues: (1) trade in goods, (2) rules of origin, (3) trade facilitation, (4) remedies, (5) sanitary and phytosanitary measures, (6) technical barriers to trade, (7) trade in services, (8) investment, (9) intellectual property, (10) competition, (11) public procurement, (12) trade and sustainable development (including environmental and labor issues), (13) technical cooperation and capacity building, (14) legal issues and dispute settlement and (15) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

When the negotiations are completed, the Ministry of Commerce will submit the results to the Cabinet for approval, paving the way for Thailand to sign the free trade agreement with EFTA member countries in January 2025. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan will attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, as part of the preparations for the signing.

Once signed, the Thai government will submit the agreement to parliament for ratification so that it can enter into force and bring tangible economic benefits to Thailand.

thai fta efta2 — “Thai and EFTA representatives gather for a group photo at the Trade Negotiations Department, Ministry of Commerce, Bangkok.

A New Chapter in Thailand’s Trade

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the EFTA Secretariat has officially recognized the successful conclusion of the negotiations. This success is in line with the government’s policy to expand trade and investment opportunities, including free trade agreements with key partners. The Thai government has prioritized such agreements to increase export potential, improve the competitiveness of Thai businesses and attract foreign investment.

Minister Pichai pointed out that negotiations for the Thailand-EFTA FTA, which commenced in 2022, were successfully concluded within two years, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting trade and investment.

This FTA represents a new chapter in Thailand’s trade history by introducing a high standard agreement that is in line with modern trade regulations and sustainable development goals. It also lays the foundation for further FTA negotiations with key partners such as the European Union.

thaitrade1 — Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, Thailand

Since taking office in September 2024, Pichit has instructed the Trade Negotiations Department to accelerate the ongoing free trade talks. He credited the success of this agreement to cooperation within the Ministry of Commerce, particularly with Permanent Secretary Wuttikrai Leewiraphan and Director General Chotima Iamsawatthikul of the Trade Negotiations Department. The agreement is seen as a New Year’s gift for Thailand’s economy.

In 2024 (January-October), trade between Thailand and EFTA amounted to 10.29 billion US dollars, representing 2.03 percent of Thailand’s global trade and a year-on-year increase of 23.22 percent. Thailand exported 3.79 billion US dollars to EFTA and imported 6.51 billion US dollars.

Major exports included gems and jewelry, watches, canned fish and processed seafood, travel goods, machinery, electrical panels, air conditioners, cosmetics, plastics and rice. The most important imports included precious metals, watches, meat products, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, machinery and scientific instruments.

As for the free trade agreement between the EU and Thailand, negotiations are underway with the 27-member bloc, which also includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria and others, with the aim of concluding talks by 2025. The EU is Thailand’s fifth largest trading partner. In 2023, trade between Thailand and the EU amounted to 41.71 billion US dollars, an increase of 1.75 percent. However, Thai exports to the EU decreased by 3.68 percent, while imports increased by 8.55 percent.

In 2024 (January-October), trade between Thailand and the EU reached 36.43 billion US dollars, an increase of 3.42 percent. Thai exports increased by 9.28 percent to 20.12 billion US dollars, while imports decreased by 2.99 percent to 16.31 billion US dollars.

Elderly American Recovers $50K After Microsoft Support Scam Arrest in Thailand

By

Khaosod English

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2 December 2024, 20:45

American — Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiwphan, Acting Commander of Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, together with U.S. Secret Service, FBI, HSI, and Krungthai Bank representatives return 1,643,349.40 baht (approximately $48K) to the victim's representative after successfully freezing the suspect's bank account, December 2, 2024.

BANGKOK — Thai Cyber Police, in coordination with the FBI, have arrested an Indian suspect who posed as a Microsoft employee to defraud an elderly American woman of nearly $50,000. The suspect was found to be part of a scammer gang operating with Thai accomplices in Ayutthaya province who were running an illegal lending operation.

On December 2, Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiwphan, Acting Commander of Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, along with U.S. officials including Mr. Benjamin Chervenak, U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent In Charge; Mrs. Caroline A. Marshall, Acting Legal Attaché from the FBI at the U.S. Embassy in Thailand, jointly returned 1,643,349.40 baht (approximately $48K) to the victim’s representative after successfully coordinating with Krungthai Bank to freeze the suspect’s bank account in time.

The case began on January 10, 2024, when an elderly American woman had trouble logging into her Microsoft account. After searching Google for Microsoft support, she called a number she found online. The person who answered, speaking English with an Indian accent, claimed to be from Microsoft support. The scammer convinced the victim to install remote access software on her computer, supposedly to fix the problem.

indian scam1 — Thai police arrested Aswani Kumar Singh, an Indian national, at a house in Sena District, Ayutthaya Province.

After claiming to have fixed her email account, the scammer told the victim Microsoft would refund her $49.99. The scammer then falsely claimed they had accidentally transferred $49,999 into her account instead and begged her to return the money, saying they would lose their job otherwise.

Out of sympathy, the victim transferred $49,840 to a corporate bank account in Thailand. After receiving the money, the scammer even sent messages mocking the victim about falling for the scam.

Police investigation revealed that the scammers had used remote access software to transfer money between the victim’s own bank accounts to create the illusion of receiving funds from Microsoft.

The gang was found to be operating a sophisticated scheme involving Thai nationals who were recruited through a loan shark operation. These Thai accomplices would provide their personal documents, which were then used to register companies and open corporate bank accounts to receive fraudulent transfers.

indian scam3 — Thai police search the Indian suspect’s house in Sena District, Ayutthaya Province, seizing 19 pieces of evidence including electronic devices and ATM cards linked to the criminal operation, June 20, 2024.

On June 20, Thai police searched a house in Sena District, Ayutthaya Province, seizing 19 pieces of evidence, including electronic devices and ATM cards linked to the criminal operation, before arresting the house’s occupant, Aswani Kumar Singh, an Indian national.

Police have also charged three Thai nationals: Mr. Chan Puttithai, age 69; Ms. Pranom Sroypimpit, age 59, a director of Tint Realty Limited Partnership; and Ms. Sroi Maison, age 45, also a director of Tint Realty Limited Partnership, for allowing others to use their bank accounts to be used in the scheme.

Police have issued arrest warrants for two more Indian suspects on charges of transnational organized crime, fraud by impersonation, and money laundering. Interpol has been contacted to issue Red Notices for the remaining suspects who are currently at large.

The investigation discovered that the gang had been converting their illegal proceeds into gold bars, which were collected by Indian nationals from a gold shop in Bangkok’s Pahurat area, indicating a well-organized criminal operation with clearly defined roles for different members.

Bangkok Reclaims Rama IV Sidewalks as Lao Market Closes

By

Khaosod English

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2 December 2024, 17:03

talad new — Aerial view of the site where officials demolished the Lao Market in Khlong Toei district, which had previously encroached on the pedestrian walkway (inset image). December 3, 2024.

BANGKOK — In a pre-dawn operation Monday, city workers commenced the removal of the Lao Market from its location on Rama IV Road in Khlong Toei. They removed metal fences, roofing, ventilation fans, and demolished concrete pillars to restore the original sidewalk.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt arrived at 5:30 a.m. to inspect the demolition, alongside Khlong Toei District Director Ketjarin Samiphak and Police Colonel Pansa Amarapitak from Thong Lo Police Station, who oversaw security and traffic management. The Metropolitan Electricity Authority cut power supply, while the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority disconnected water services. Communication cables had been removed earlier.

“I couldn’t believe this day would come. We weren’t sure if we could accomplish this before our term ended. I must thank all the vendors for their cooperation – they’ve set a great example in helping make our city cleaner,” said Governor Chadchart.

The governor expressed sympathy for the vendors but emphasized that the space was needed for pedestrian access. The renovation will improve about 300 meters of sidewalk, including relocating bus stops to the area.

Deputy Governor Chakkaphan Phewngam noted that the remaining 51 vendors removed their belongings by 9 p.m. Sunday night (December 1). The demolition work, carried out by Khlong Toei District Office staff along with Public Works and City Law Enforcement departments, is expected to take three days.

talad lao1 — Bangkok city workers clean up the area of former Lao Market on Rama IV Road in Khlong Toei district on Dec. 2, 2024.

“Some vendors have returned to their hometowns, while others have relocated to their original stalls in Khlong Toei Market or moved to the newly renovated Khlong Toei Market 2. The district director personally negotiated with market owners to reduce initial rental fees to ease the vendors’ transition,” Chakkaphan explained.

The market, known as “Lao Market” for its Northeastern Thai ingredients like fresh chicken, fish, vegetables, and other local products, operated under a temporary permit since May 31, 2005. Originally housing 96 vendors, it recently accommodated 91 vendors with stalls on both sides, leaving a 2-meter walkway between them.

talad lao2 — Bangkok city workers dismantle the Lao Market on Rama IV Road, marking the end of the longtime street market in Khlong Toei district on Dec. 2, 2024.

The temporary permit was officially revoked on August 30, 2018, but vendors received extensions due to economic hardships, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. After Governor Chadchart’s election, plans to reclaim the space were initiated.

Khlong Toei district officials held meetings with vendors to explain the implementation plan and discuss assistance measures, including finding alternative market locations. The renovation notice was posted on November 7, announcing the permanent closure effective December 2, 2024.

The newly renovated Khlong Toei Market 2 features 400 stalls, with 79 allocated to existing vendors selling fresh food, seafood, seasonal fruits, and vegetables, and 320 for new vendors. The BMA collects rent at market rates with annual lease agreements.

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