Thailand Discusses Measures Against Foreign Online Goods Influx

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19 August 2024, 23:37

e-cigarette — E-cigarettes widely sold online, imported from abroad, were seized by police at a house in Pa Phai Subdistrict, San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province on August 19, 2024.

BANGKOK — The Ministry of Commerce has reported progress in combating the flooding of the Thai market with cheap foreign products through various online platforms and investments in local warehousing systems, which have significantly affected local businesses.

The Department of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Commerce will convene a meeting on August 23 with service and logistics companies and 12 relevant government and private sector agencies to discuss the current situation, challenges and proposed short, medium and long-term solutions.

Among the urgent measures being discussed is the proposal that the Ministry of Digital Economy (DE) and Society should use its statutory power to establish guidelines for foreign business platforms. This would involve working with the authorities responsible for product quality and safety and setting price regulations before moving on to the details of import duties and non-tariff measures.

“The problem of cheap goods and dumping of foreign products in Thailand is likely to worsen in the future. This may not be limited to China; other Asian countries also see opportunities to penetrate the Thai market. We will begin to enforce existing laws across government agencies,” said an official.

He stated that online platforms fall under the purview of the DE Ministry, tax issues are handled by the Ministry of Finance, product standards are overseen by the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Health, and non-tariff measures are administered by the Ministry of Commerce.

In the short term, we need to consider the extent to which safeguard measures can be taken against increased imports. Anti-dumping and countervailing measures will take more time to consider, study and implement, which could take a year or more.

The 12 agencies involved in the meeting include the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Department of Business Development (DBD), representatives from the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Thai Industries, Transport and Logistics Association of Thailand, Shippers’ Council of Thailand, Wholesale and Retail Trade Association, Tourism Association and other relevant industries including education, engineering and architecture.

Previously, the Ministry of Commerce had held talks with government agencies and trade associations and invited representatives from Thai business associations to discuss the situation, focusing on sectors such as ceramics, clothing, footwear, building materials and personal care products.

Wanchai Phanomchai, secretary-general of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), explained that the TISI inspects substandard products that could pose a risk to consumers on the instructions of the Minister of Industry and is actively working on these tasks. The “Quick Win” initiative has focused on removing substandard products from the market, including online sales.

From September 2023 to July 2024, TISI confiscated non-compliant products worth 322.4 million baht. Of these, 92.7 million baht worth of non-compliant goods were imported from neighboring countries, accounting for 29 percent of the total.

The TISI has also increased the number of product standards this year by over 1,400, in addition to the existing 2,722 standards, and is in the process of declaring 52 more products as controlled goods, in addition to the existing 144 standards.

These standards cover products that are important for public safety, such as stainless steel containers and tableware, pans/spatulas/pots/spoons/forks/cans/trays, plastic bags for food packaging, microwave-safe food bags, household stoves that run on LPG, rubber and plastic hoses for use with LPG, car window films, plastic containers for drinking water, electric seat covers for flush toilets, child seats and solar panels.

In addition, TISI has developed other strategies to prevent access to non-compliant products via online platforms, including:

Accelerating the understanding and clarification of laws for companies providing shipping and customs clearance services to prevent the importation of non-compliant products.
Raising public awareness of the choice of products with standard seals on online platforms.
Integrate work with Customs to ensure that imported products on online platforms comply with standards.
Coordinate with the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) to monitor online platforms.
Working with the Consumer Council to protect consumers.

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Taiwanese Visitors to Thailand 2024: Over 1M Expected, Spending $1,150 Each

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Khaosod English

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19 August 2024, 20:36

jerry bangkok — Jerry Yan, a beloved Taiwanese star among Thai fans, visits Bangkok and poses for a photo with a boat in Saen Saep Canal in May 2024.

BANGKOK — The Taiwanese tourism market for Thailand is a quality segment with continuous growth potential. A TAT executive said it is expected that the number of Taiwanese visitors to Thailand this year could be between 1.1 and 1.2 million.

Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor for marketing communications at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said that from January to 8 August, 2024, 655,392 Taiwanese tourists have already traveled to Thailand, an increase of 64 percent compared to the same period in 2023. This figure is approaching the target set by the TAT of 720,000 visitors. In 2023, the total number of Taiwanese tourists visiting Thailand was 780,000, generating revenue of 470 billion baht ($13.6 billion).

Last week, the TAT organized a promotional event in Taipei, the Amazing Thailand Travel Fair 2024, which was a collaboration between the TAT, Taipei Trade and Economic Bureau, Team Thailand, Taiwanese tourism companies and airlines. The event offered special travel packages and discounted airfares to aggressively target the Taiwanese market and attracted 10,000 visitors during the event.

Amazing Thailand Travel Fair 2024 in Taipei — The Amazing Thailand Travel Fair 2024 takes place in Taipei on August 10-12, 2024.

Sarima Jindamat, director of the Taiwan office at TAT, explained that Taiwanese tourists are quality travelers who appreciate convenience, enjoy traditional Thai massages, spas and Thai cuisine for its diversity. The majority of Taiwanese tourists are millennials, families and office workers.

When breaking down the travel segments, it was found that 70 percent of Taiwanese tourists are independent travelers (FIT), while 30 percent travel in tour groups. The average spend of Taiwanese tourists is around 40,000 baht ($1,150) per person per trip (5-6 days).

According to the International Tourist Behavior Survey 2024, the most popular destinations for Taiwanese tourists are Bangkok, Chonburi (Pattaya), Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima (Khao Yai) and Krabi. The main travel season for Taiwanese tourists is July-August, which coincides with the school vacations and is dominated by family travelers. In September, the focus shifts to office workers.

The main purposes for visiting Thailand are leisure/vacation (86.67 percent), business combined with leisure (5.33 percent), ecotourism (1.33 percent), culinary tourism (0.67 percent) and sports competitions (0.67 percent).

huahin airport4 — Hua Hin attracts a lot of foreign tourists.

Key audiences to keep an eye on include golf enthusiasts (high-spending quality tourists) traveling to Hua Hin, Bangkok, Pattaya and Prachinburi, as well as the younger generation interested in BL (Boys’ Love) and GL (Girls’ Love) content, who are likely to be repeat visitors.

The top five favorite activities of Taiwanese tourists are enjoying Thai cuisine, visiting historical sites, spa treatments, beach activities and experiencing the local lifestyle.

Sarima added that the TAT office in Taipei wants to promote various regions of Thailand, including major cities and lesser-known destinations such as Bangkok, Khao Yai, Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, Chanthaburi, Hua Hin, Prachinburi, Chiang Mai and others.

As the main flight routes are still Bangkok and Chiang Mai, there are plans to expand the flight routes to Southern Thailand in cooperation with airlines and travel agencies. Currently, some flights are operated as charter flights.

TAT also plans to increase direct flights to Thailand’s southern tourist cities and U-Tapao Airport. This plan is being developed in cooperation with airlines, travel companies and the government to bring Taiwanese tourists to Thailand’s eastern region.

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Swiss Man Bitten: Unresolved Problem of Foreigner’s Dogs Plagues Thai Beach

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2024, 19:38

prachuap dogs new — Ban Suan Luang Beach: Once a famous tourist destination, now an area where people feel unsafe.

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN — A 76-year-old Swiss tourist was bitten by a dog on Bang Saphan Beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thailand, highlighting a year-long unresolved issue of aggressive dogs owned by a foreign resident.

On August 19, Mr. Rolf, a 76-year-old Swiss national residing in Moo 1, Phong Prasat Subdistrict, Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, along with local residents, filed a complaint through the media. They reported being chased and bitten by dogs owned by a foreigner while exercising on Ban Suan Luang Beach. They want relevant authorities to seriously address this issue.

The Swiss man, who works abroad and regularly visits Ban Suan Luang Beach for three months each year, encountered the incident while walking on the beach around 5 p.m. on August 15. When he came across about six dogs with their foreign owner, one dog immediately bit his right leg, causing injury.

dog bite prachuap2 — Local residents, both Thais and foreigners, in Moo 1, Phong Prasat Subdistrict, Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province gather to file a complaint through the media about being troubled by a pack of dogs owned by a foreigner chasing and biting them, on August 19, 2024.

When he tried to record a video clip of the dogs, the owner said, “Don’t report this to the police; it’ll become a big issue. I’ll pay for your medical treatment.”

Rolf stated that he’s not concerned about medical expenses but doesn’t want this to happen to other tourists. He urges relevant authorities to seriously manage and solve the problem to reassure tourists, as Ban Suan Luang Beach was once a famous tourist destination but now feels unsafe.

Investigation revealed that the Phong Prasat Subdistrict Administrative Organization had sent a letter to Mr. Mathias, the dog owner, on December 6, 2023, instructing him to address the issue and control his pets to avoid disturbing the public. However, Mr. Mathias didn’t comply with the local officials’ recommendations, so the Subdistrict Administrative Organization will proceed with further action.

dog bite prachuap1 — A 76-year-old Swiss national shows the wound where he was bitten by one of six dogs owned by a foreigner at Ban Suan Luang Beach, Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, on August 19, 2024.

An Australian named Roe, who has been visiting Bang Saphan since 1997, reported that dogs at Suan Luang Beach never caused problems before. However, in recent years, he’s noticed collared dogs barking at and chasing people, discouraging many from walking there. He also observed the owner behaving aggressively towards his own dogs, which made the dogs more aggressive towards people and other dogs.

On January 3, 2024, Miss Songyeon Lee, 48, a Bangkok resident, filed a police report at Bang Saphan Police Station. She was barked at by six dogs while walking on the beach og Ban Thung Nun Lang around 6 p.m. on January 2. When she used a stick to defend herself, Mr. Mathias approached and berated her, frightening her.

Sam, 74, who owns a house and restaurant near the beach, regularly encounters Mr. Mathias’s six dogs and has experienced significant trouble. The dogs have bitten children playing nearby and cats in the area. He fears that if tourists stop coming due to safety concerns, local businesses will lose income. He appeals to the police, especially the superintendent of Bang Saphan Police Station and the district chief, for help.

Ms. Sunan, 51, a local resident, said that 2-3 years ago, people often organized beach cleanup activities. However, since last year, she hasn’t dared to participate due to a foreigner’s dogs that frequently chase and bite locals on the beach.

“I’ve contacted the police, Phong Prasat Subdistrict Administrative Organization, and the District Damrongtham Center, but so far, no action has been taken. This owner still lets his dogs roam the beach, affecting others,” she said.

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BRAND’S to Shake Up Bird’s Nest Beverage Market in H2

By

MC Marketing

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19 August 2024, 17:41

BRAND’S® Bird’s Nest by Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd, the leader of health enrichment products under BRAND’S trademark in Thailand and Asia, emphasizes its leadership in bird’s nest beverage by introducing the latest formula “Vitamin C+ Zinc”. “BRAND’s Bird’s Nest Vitamin C+ Zinc” will penetrate working-age groups and health enthusiasts while highlighting how it helps to reduce fatigue with a refreshing orange scent. Unveiling that the health trend is still in demand, resulting in the bird’s nest beverage category growing by 24%, BRAND’s is confident that the “Vitamin C+ Zinc” formula will respond to the needs of the working age and health-conscious groups.

Mr.Napis Sasivimolkul Marketing Director BRAND’S Bird’s Nest, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand)., revealed that the combined health trend of healthy eating and preventive care is still rising. It is also a popular trend for Chinese travelers to purchase bird’s nest as souvenir. According to NielsenIQ, this has resulted in the overall market for bird’s nest beverage in the past 12 months growing by 24% compared to last year, which grew by 13%. To emphasize its brand as the leader in bird nest’s beverages, the Company has driven forward to constantly research and develop new formulas to meet changing consumers’ needs. The in-depth insight of consumers regarding taste favors and demand for improving health led to the development of its latest formula, “Vitamin C+ Zinc”, highlighting its high-quality genuine bird’s nest with a light scent of orange, which will help freshen up your day and enhance the immune system.

“BRAND’S® Bird’s Nest latest formula, “Vitamin C + Zinc” focuses on working-age groups who are looking for beverages to help with taking care of their health, specifically when they work hard and have fewer rest times. These groups of people encounter pollution and a change of weather, leading to fatigue. This new formula has a light and refreshing orange scent. Vitamin C and Zinc can also contribute to normal function of immune system along with NANA (N-Acetylneuraminic acid) or Sialic Acid, a unique substance found in genuine birds’ nest, along with 16 types of amino acids. This is known as an Eastern science, as birds’ nests have Yin properties which gives cooling properties. It has been used to maintain healthy and youthful skin for decades. There are two sizes: 42 ml. 99 baht and 70 ml. 159 baht. 42ml will be available nationwide, including online channels and 70ml is exclusive at all 7-Eleven branches. For the second half of this year, the company will drive forward and penetrate new consumer groups by launching new formulas that meet the needs of lifestyles and respond to the needs of each group.”

For more information, please visit Facebook: Brand’s World Thailand or click www.facebook.com/BRANDSWorldThailand or Line Official Account @brandsworld.

AIS Unveils Thailand Cyber Wellness Index 2024

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Contributor

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19 August 2024, 16:00

AIS Unveils Thailand Cyber Wellness Index 2024 Highlights More Than Half of Thais Lack Cyber Security and safety skill Introduces the First Thailand, Digital Health Check

AIS, as Thailand’s leading digital service provider committed to promoting safe, secure, and appropriate digital usage for its customers and Thai citizens, under the sustainable development flagship project “AIS Aunjai CYBER,” has unveiled the “Thailand Cyber Wellness Index 2024” for the second consecutive year. This initiative reinforces AIS’s dedication to its mission by passing the study’s findings to relevant agencies through collaboration with various sectors. These findings can be used to develop targeted digital literacy programs that address the specific issues faced by Thais.

In addition, AIS has developed the country’s first-ever personalized cyber immunity assessment tool, the Digital Health Check. This tool allows individuals to assess their ability to cope with cyber threats and gain knowledge through the Aunjai Cyber syllabus to enhance their digital skills. Additionally, AIS has introduced cybersecurity tools through the AIS Secure Net service, which now offers more comprehensive protection and enhanced efficiency in filtering harmful websites, both domestically and internationally. This ensures that AIS customers can use the internet with peace of mind, feeling secure and worry-free. Importantly, AIS customers can use the AIS Secure Net service for free for a period of 12 months.

Saichon Submakudom, Head of Public Relations and Business Relations AIS stated, “In an era where digital technology plays a crucial role in the daily lives of Thai people, cyber security has become an issue that cannot be overlooked. As a leading provider of digital services, AIS is intensifying its efforts to promote safe and appropriate online usage. This includes building the wisdom necessary to cultivate digital citizens who are aware of cyber threats, as well as leveraging our technological capabilities to deliver tools that protect against cyber threats and online scams.”

Last year, AIS, in collaboration with King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi and academic experts, introduced Thailand’s first “Thailand Cyber Wellness Index”, which revealed the level of digital literacy and understanding among Thais. The study highlighted the need for continued development in digital skills to better equip Thais to deal with various cyber threats. This led government and private agencies to use our findings to enhance digital literacy programs tailored to specific age groups, professions, and even geographic regions, aligning with the target audiences of each agency.

This year’s study results indicate that although Thais have improved their understanding of digital usage, bringing the overall digital literacy to a basic level, there are still concerning gaps. More than half of Thais still lack knowledge and understanding of cyber security and safety, especially in areas that pose risks to themselves and their organizations. For example, many are unaware of the dangers of ransomware attacks, using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, setting easily guessable passwords like their date of birth, or even recognizing that a secure website should have an HTTPS URL.

Mrs. Saichon further explained, “We are working simultaneously on both promoting digital literacy and developing protective tools. Today, we have developed the ‘Digital Health Check’ tool, enabling Thais to analyze and assess their digital skills. The tool also provides personalized learning recommendations to help individuals strengthen their skills and knowledge in cyber security.”

Starting today, customers can subscribe to AIS Secure Net free of charge by dialing *689*6# Additionally, we are offering customers more options with the Secure Net+ Protected by MSIG, which provides robust protection against cyber threats such as viruses, malware, and phishing websites. It also comes with Personal Cyber Insurance from MSIG, offering coverage for risks such as identity theft, financial fraud, or online scams, with a maximum coverage of 50,000 THB. This service allows customers to navigate the cyber world with confidence, all at an affordable rate of just 39 THB per month. Customers can easily subscribe by dialing *689*10#

“AIS remains committed to enhancing the digital skills of Thais and continues to develop tools that enable safe cyber usage. We also support the government in addressing cyber threats from criminals exploiting online platforms. Our efforts include identity verification measures, controlling signals in border areas, and supporting law enforcement through our engineering team. All these initiatives align with AIS’s mission to eliminate cyber threats from Thailand sustainably,” Mrs. Saichon concluded.

Those interested in checking their digital wellness can visit https://digitalhealthcheck.ais.th. Additional details on the Thailand Cyber Wellness Index 2024 study can be found at https://sustainability.ais.co.th/en/sustainability-projects/thailands-cyber-wellness-index

EDC THAILAND Announces ‘Electric Daisy Carnival’ for Southeast Asian Fans

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Contributor

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19 August 2024, 15:58

The world’s most sensational music festival is slated to wow Southeast Asian fans in Phuket between 17-19 January 2025

Billions EDC & Insomniac are set to bring Electric Daisy Carnival, the world’s largest EDM festival. Panitha Sami, President – Billions EDC Company Limited (Middle) EDC Thailand and Insomniac Company America, founder of EDC, the world’s largest EDM Music festival, together with Diageo Moët Hennessy, Aperol Spritz, Nok Air, Spaceplus Bangkok and Illuzion Phuket held a press “Electric Daisy Carnival” direct to Phuket for the first time in Southeast Asia. For EDC, this EDM music festival will be held for three days. Between 17-19 January 2025. At the event, we were honored by executives, from left, Phat Jungkankul, Executive Director – Billions EDC Company Limited, Natthasita Eksiriwarakit, Executive Director – Billions EDC Company. Co., Ltd., Chen On, Co-Founder of Billions EDC Co., Ltd., Rusameekae Fagerlund, Mongkol Phoksap, and Mr. Arno Schonfelder, General Manager – Alchemy Thailand. There were many celebrities and artists attending the event at Space Plus Bangkok.

ABOUT EDC

First held in 1997, Electric Daisy Carnival, known globally among EMD ravers as EDC, is the world’s largest EDM festival. Over 27 years, it has attracted more than 600,000 attendees each year during its three-day event at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Currently, EDC is held in Las Vegas and Orlando in USA, Mexico City in Mexico, and Suzhou in China. In January 2025, Thailand will be the first country in Southeast Asia to host this iconic event.

ABOUT Billions EDC (EDC THAILAND)

Billions EDC, a company of young innovators from Thailand, is collaborating with Insomniac Events, the longest-running and most prestigious music festival organizers in the world, to turn transform Phuket into “IBIZA of Asia” in the three-day event with estimated budget of over one billion baht and partnership with tops local and international brands including Diageo Moët Hennessy, Aperol Spritz, Nok Air, Spaceplus Bangkok and Illuzion Phuket. Referencing the impressive lineups from EDC Las Vegas, EDC Mexico, and EDC China, with artists like The Chainsmokers, Tiesto, Illenium, John Summit, Skrillex, and Fisher, Thailand’s lineup will surely not disappoint with state-of-the-art light and sound system, worldclass stage setup and world- renowned DJs where the official lineup will be announced later this year.

Don’t miss the chance to experience a worldclass EDM event in Thailand. EDC Thailand 2025 tickets will go on sale officially from now at https://www.eventpop.me.

Follow the latest updates on Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Thailand at:

Facebook: ElectricDaisyCarnivalThailand

Instagram: edc_thailand

X: edc_thailand

Website: Electric Daisy Carnival Thailand

Time Out is Expanding Its Coverage Across Thailand From September 2024

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Contributor

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19 August 2024, 15:14

With MediaMagination Co. Ltd as a franchise partner, Time Out Thailand will curate the best cultural and culinary experiences for both locals and tourists to inspire and enable them to experience the best of Bangkok and beyond

19 August 2024: Time Out – the global brand that inspires and enables people to experience the best of the city – today announces that it will be expanding its coverage across Thailand with new local franchise partner MediaMagination Co Ltd, from 1 September 2024.

Time Out is a global brand with a local voice, known for its content about the best things to do, see, eat and drink as well as travel recommendations – curated by a team of local expert journalists and distributed across multiple channels spanning web, mobile, email, video, social and live events.

Bangkok-based MediaMagination – led by Thailand-based media veteran Nigel Oakins – is well-known for its sustainable luxury and food and drink media brands Koktail and Thailand’s Favourite Restaurants, and its expertise in producing exceptional live events and awards in the F&B space in Thailand.

Inspirational content so people can go out better

Going live on 1 September, the mission is to grow Time Out across Thailand beyond Bangkok, establishing it as the go-to destination for the best cultural, culinary and travel experiences for both locals and tourists alike with content about Phuket, Chiang Mai and other key destinations, in English and Thai languages.

Inspirational and entertaining content will include neighbourhood guides (Secrets of Your City) taking visitors to many hidden gems around Bangkok; art and culture events around the city; and of course, the best places to eat, drink and stay in Thailand.

New, bespoke opportunities for a wide range of advertisers

The combination of trusted, authentic content and multiple platforms – plus an experience-hungry, active audience – form a differentiated proposition for advertisers for which Time Out’s team is developing bespoke 360-degree campaigns – these can be local, national or global. The campaigns span across digital platforms, often complemented by experiential elements and always rooted in engaging, immersive story-telling capabilities for clients across a variety of sectors from beverage, travel and transport to entertainment, retail, food and more.

Time Out’s global presence

Time Out first launched in London in 1968 and today is a global digital brand with a network of local expert journalists around the world creating and curating content about 333 cities in 59 countries to inspire and enable people to experience the best of the city and beyond. Every month, Time Out reaches a global brand audience of 142 million across its multiple channels. In addition, this expert curation is also brought to life in Time Out Markets around the world – food and cultural markets which bring the best of the city together under one roof in one unique space: the best chefs, drinks and cultural experiences – all based on Time Out’s editorial curation. There are currently nine open Time Out Markets from Lisbon and New York to Dubai and Cape Town with more to come in the future.

Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, known for her work on media brands like BK Magazine, Vice, Lonely Planet, is the newly appointed Managing Editor for Time Out Thailand, said: “Thailand is one of the most searched countries, and one of the most popular destinations in the world – and it is also my home country. I’m very excited to be leading the Time Out Thailand editorial team and to have the opportunity to showcase the Thailand that I know and treasure. We will curate and showcase the best places to eat and drink and things to do and see, whilst introducing a new side to Thailand for locals and visitors, bringing us together as a community and showing that inspiration can be found all over. We are kicking off with Bangkok while also planning to expand Time Out to Chiang Mai and Phuket, two other major cities in Thailand, offering a unique way to explore and experience Thailand as a whole.”

Nigel Oakins, founder of MediaMagination added: “When we founded MediaMagination we had the vision to present the best of Thailand from all walks of life to those that live and work here and for those that travel to the Kingdom. Adding Time Out Thailand as their franchise partner to our brand roster is an exciting development capturing my personal ambition to work only with the leading media brands in the world as we look to showcase the diversity that Thailand has to offer to visitors and residents alike”.

Stacy Bettman, Time Out Media CEO says: “A global brand with a national footprint and a local voice, Time Out is trusted around the world by both consumers and advertisers. We are delighted to partner with MediaMagination to grow the Time Out brand in new cities and destinations across Thailand, offering Time Out’s unique content and bespoke advertising solutions to a global audience. We look forward to continuing to bring together the best of Bangkok, as we add Phuket and Chiang Mai to our Thailand city coverage in the months ahead, while growing an engaged Time Out audience and marketing partnerships.”

For Time Out Thailand commercial opportunities please email: [email protected]

For Time Out Thailand editorial please email: [email protected]

China Accuses the Philippines of Deliberately Crashing One of Its Ships Into a Chinese Vessel

By

Associated Press

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19 August 2024, 11:54

China Philippines — This photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, shows damage on the Philippines coast guard vessel BRP Cape Engano (MRRV-4411) after a collision with a Chinese coast guard ship Monday, Aug. 19, 2024 in the disputed South China Sea. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — China’s coast guard accused the Philippines of deliberately crashing one of its ships into a Chinese vessel early Monday near Sabina Shoal, a new flashpoint in the increasingly alarming territorial disputes between the countries in the South China Sea.

Two Philippine coast guard ships entered waters near the shoal, ignored the Chinese coast guard’s warning and “deliberately collided” with one of China’s boats at 3:24 a.m., a spokesperson said in a statement on the Chinese coast guard’s website.

Philippine authorities did not immediately comment on the encounter near the disputed atoll in the Spratly Islands, where overlapping claims are also made by Vietnam and Taiwan.

“The Philippine side is entirely responsible for the collision,” spokesman Gan Yu said. “We warn the Philippine side to immediately stop its infringement and provocation, otherwise it will bear all the consequences arising from that.”

Gan added China claimed “indisputable sovereignty” over the Spratly Islands, known in Chinese as Nansha Islands, including Sabina Shoal and its adjacent waters. The Chinese name for Sabina Shoal is Xianbin Reef.

AP24232143221052 — This photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, shows damage in the auxiliary room on the port side near the port auxiliary engine of Philippines coast guard vessel BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) after a collision with a Chinese coast guard ship Monday, Aug. 19, 2024 in the disputed South China Sea. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)

AP24232143259595 — This photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, shows damage on the Philippines coast guard vessel BRP Cape Engano (MRRV-4411) after a collision with a Chinese coast guard ship Monday, Aug. 19, 2024 in the disputed South China Sea. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)

In a separate statement, he said the Philippine ship that was turned away from Sabina Shoal entered waters near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, ignoring the Chinese coast guard’s warnings. “The Chinese coast guard took control measures against the Philippine ship in accordance with law and regulation,” he added.

Sabina Shoal, which lies about 140 kilometers (87 miles) west of the Philippines’ western island province of Palawan, has become a new flashpoint in the territorial disputes between China and the Philippines.

The Philippine coast guard deployed one of its key patrol ships, the BRP Teresa Magbanua, to Sabina in April after Filipino scientists discovered submerged piles of crushed corals in its shallows which sparked suspicions that China may be bracing to build a structure in the atoll. The Chinese coast guard later deployed a ship to Sabina.

Sabina lies near the Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal, which has been the scene of increasingly alarming confrontations between Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships and accompanying vessels since last year.

China and the Philippines reached an agreement last month to prevent further confrontations when the Philippines transports new batches of sentry forces, along with food and other supplies, to Manila’s territorial outpost in the Second Thomas Shoal, which has been closely guarded by Chinese coast guard, navy and suspected militia ships.

The Philippine navy transported food and personnel to the Second Thomas Shoal a week after the deal was reached and no incident was reported, sparking hope that tensions in the shoal would eventually ease.

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Tourism Boost Helps Thai GDP Grow 2.3% in Q2 2024

By

Khaosod English

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19 August 2024, 11:38

pattaya tourism july24 — International tourists walk to board a boat from Pattaya to Koh Larn on July 28. 2024.

BANGKOK — On August 19, 2024, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), announced the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures for the second quarter of 2024 and the outlook for the Thai economy in 2024. The Thai economy expanded by 2.3%, following a 1.6% growth in the first quarter. After seasonal adjustment, the Thai economy grew by 0.8%.

The Thai economy benefited from a 4% expansion in private consumption, a 0.3% growth in government consumption, and exports expanding by 1.9% for goods and 19.8% for services. However, total investment still contracted by 6.2%.

Nevertheless, the disbursement of public investment is still below target but is expected to improve in the second half of the year with increased disbursements compared to the previous period. For the 2025 fiscal year, budget disbursements are expected to be on schedule.

The NESDC forecasts that Thailand’s GDP this year will expand by 2.3-2.8% (with a median of 2.5%), supported by key factors:

Continuous recovery of the tourism sector
Good expansion of domestic consumption
Increased momentum from government spending and investment
Slow return to growth in goods exports in line with global trade recovery

Private consumption and investment are expected to grow by 4.5% and 0.3% respectively. The value of goods exports in US dollar terms is projected to grow by 2.0%. The inflation rate is expected to be in the range of 0.4-0.9%, and the current account is forecast to have a surplus of 2.3% of GDP.

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Environmental Experts Join “KEMREX” at “88 Green Day Event”

By

MC Marketing

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19 August 2024, 11:15

Environmental Experts Join “KEMREX” at “88 Green Day Event”, Achieving Leadership Goals in Green Construction Technology and Launching the Low Carbon Association

August 8, 2024 – “KEMREX,” the leading company in green construction innovation, kicked off the “88 Green Day Event” as a major milestone for the construction industry. CEO Mr. Prasert Thammanoonkul spoke at the opening ceremony, attended by construction and environmental experts at The Banquet Hall, Nathong Terrace Bar and Restaurant, Bangkok.

The event’s highlight was the “Green Talk,” featuring eight distinguished experts who shared valuable insights in construction, environmental, and technological fields, including:

Dr. Chokanan Wanitlertthanasarn, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Environmental Design at Maejo University, who inspired the adoption of green construction in fostering a low-carbon society;
Asst. Prof. Dr. Ponthep Meunpong, an urban tree specialist from the Faculty of Forestry at Kasetsart University and one of only four internationally certified arborists by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA);
Prof. Dr. Suksun Horpibulsuk from the Center of Excellence in Innovation for Sustainable Infrastructure Development at Suranaree University of Technology, a visionary committed to sustainable development and green environments through his insights on construction and environmental practices;
Prof. Dr. Pisut Pianmanakul, a lecturer in environmental engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, is one of the prominent figures in educational and research development in environmental engineering in Thailand and a pioneer in promoting a low-carbon and green society in the country;
Ms. Anothai Sangthong, Director of Communications and the Carbon Credit Registry Office at the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO), an expert in greenhouse gas management and the development of eco-friendly projects;
Dr. Prompt Udomdech, head of Architectural and Design Intelligence,” emphasized high-energy efforts for a low-carbon society;
Mr. Ratchanont Suprakob (Guy Ratchanont), a passionate plant lover and the environment and a loyal KEMREX customer.

The session was moderated by Dr. Wit Sittivaekin, host of the “8 Minutes History” and “Morning Wealth” programs by The Standard, who also discussed environmentally friendly construction.

Moreover, Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Deputy Secretary General of the Board of Investment (BOI), delivered a speech on BOI’s role in supporting entrepreneurs across all sectors in driving Thailand toward becoming a low-carbon society and a regional leader of green economy.

“Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is what all countries and organizations are focusing on to achieve carbon neutrality. Reaching this goal requires a comprehensive approach, including environmentally-friendly construction materials, sustainable production practices, and efficient transportation. The BOI has been instrumental in supporting key sectors—industrial, energy, transportation, and community—to help Thailand transition to a low-carbon society and position the country as a regional leader in the green economy. I extend my gratitude to KEMREX for organizing this meaningful event and assure you that the BOI stands ready to support all efforts as we strive to achieve Net Zero together.”

Mr. Prasert Thammanoonkul, CEO of KEMREX, also announced the establishment of the Low Carbon Construction and Technology Association (LCTA) to promote and advocate for the increased adoption of green construction technologies in Thailand, aiming to contribute to a low-carbon society and enable true sustainability.

Additionally, KEMREX has aligned its operations with this initiative through the KEMREX-Green Framework 2025, which includes several key focus areas: Green Tech (low-carbon construction), Green Construction (foundations which minimize the need for drilling and reduce pollution and vibration), Green Space (promoting Flexi Tree to preserve green spaces), Green Energy (environmentally-friendly solar mounting solutions), and Green Living (enhancing quality of life and fostering a sustainable future).

KEMREX has been unwavering in its commitment to green construction innovation and technology, which can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption. A testament to this goal is our screw steel piles, which are installed by being screwed into the ground rather than using cement, digging, and hammering. This method reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 5 to 20 times.

Despite challenges in the construction industry in gaining acceptance, once tried and tangible results are seen, relevant stakeholders are likely to support it by easing limitations.

“We all share the common goal of promoting green construction, reducing greenhouse gasses, and combating climate change, which ultimately benefits the health and well-being of people and society. We also believe that future public policies and private sector initiatives will increasingly advocate for green construction. We extend our gratitude to every organization and individual who helped make today’s event possible and to everyone who has supported KEMREX across different dimensions,” he said.

“KEMREX” recognizes the environmental challenges that affect us all. Today’s event was organized to unite us and reaffirm our commitment in creating a low-carbon society. We are dedicated to ensuring that our operations are as environmentally friendly as possible, and we believe that through collaboration, we can drive our society toward sustainability. This collective effort will secure a brighter future for our children, our country, and the world,” emphasized the CEO of KEMREX Co., Ltd.

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