Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that the dumping of cheap Chinese-made elephant pants in the Thai market is a normal and opportunistic trade practice that should serve a lesson for Thai businesses to work faster to protect their interests.

The prime minister was responding to a reporter’s question about the flooding of Thai market with the cheap Chinese-made garments, which start at about 30 baht (6 yuan) wholesale price.

Thai retailers are selling them at 65 baht apiece for shorts, 75 baht for longs or two pairs for 150 baht.

“This is nothing new in doing business. Where there is an opportunity, there are opportunists. If we do not act fast, we will lose the opportunity, like have done before on several other things,” said the prime minister.

He also said that the first things that Thai businesspeople should do to beat the opportunists is to understand and undertake marketing and apply for patent registration.

He cited the government’s implementation of visa exemptions for tourists from some countries as a good example of “seizing the opportunity” to attract more tourists into Thailand.

Although elephant pants are a small issue, he said that the dumping of cheap garments from China into the Thai market reflects the need when doing business to “think fast, act fast and protect our national interests.”

According to the “Page Lui Chine” webpage, the Chinese-made elephant pants are selling like hot cakes in Thailand, noting that the online wholesale prices start at 30 baht apiece.

There is no way that the Thai producers can compete with the Chinese products as far as production cost is concerned. The only way to compete is to improve the quality of the Thai products, but the price must be reasonable, said the webpage.

It also suggested that Thai-made elephant pants should be made in such a way that the foreign tourists can also wear them upon their return home.

“Thai-made elephant pants are not just a mass product, but a quality product as well, which can be worn anywhere,” according to the page.

The post Dumping of cheap Chinese-made “elephant pants” is opportunistic trade practice – PM first appeared on Thai PBS World : The latest Thai news in English, News Headlines, World News and News Broadcasts in both Thai and English. We bring Thailand to the world.

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather alert for the northern part of the country, warning of cool to cold conditions with isolated thunderstorms. The capital, Bangkok, is expected to experience light rain while the country’s upper region faces moderate to high levels of dust particles and smoke haze today (February 5).

In the early hours of the morning, a blanket of fog engulfed the upper parts of Thailand, particularly the northern and northeastern regions, which experienced cool to cold weather. Meanwhile, the lower northeast, the lower central region, and the east were swept by southerly and southeasterly winds, leading to isolated thunderstorms in these areas. Residents are advised to take care of their health due to the changing weather conditions and to exercise caution when travelling through foggy areas.

The easterly and southeasterly winds, which are currently weak, cover the Gulf of Thailand, the South, and the Andaman Sea, resulting in less rainfall in the southern part of the country, reported KhaoSod.

For the north, the forecast predicts cool to cold weather with morning fog, and temperatures ranging from a low of 12-19 degrees Celsius to a high of 32-38 degrees Celsius. Mountain peaks are expected to experience colder conditions, with possible frost in some areas and temperatures dipping as low as 4-14 degrees Celsius. The westerly winds in this region are estimated to have speeds ranging from five to 15 kilometres per hour.

In the northeast, the weather is also expected to be cool to cold with morning fog. Light rain might occur in some areas, particularly in the lower parts. Minimum temperatures are anticipated to be between 14-24 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures between 34-37 degrees Celsius. Mountain tops in this region may experience cooler weather with minimum temperatures of 14-17 degrees Celsius. Southeast winds are expected to blow at speeds of five to 15 kilometres per hour.

The central region will see fog in the morning, with minimum temperatures of 21-25 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures of 35-38 degrees Celsius. The southerly winds are expected to flow at five to 15 kilometres per hour.

Thunderstorms

In the east, morning fog is predicted with a 10% chance of thunderstorms, particularly in the provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures in this region are expected to range from a low of 24-26 degrees Celsius to a high of 34-37 degrees Celsius. Southerly winds will have speeds of 10-30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves less than 1 metre high, but they may rise above 1 metre in areas with thunderstorms.

The southern region (east coast) is expected to have partly cloudy skies with a 10% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Minimum temperatures will likely range from 22-25 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 31-36 degrees Celsius. The southeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10-30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves less than 1 metre high, increasing to above 1 metre in thunderstorm areas.

For the southern region (west coast), partly cloudy skies are forecast, with light rain in some places. Minimum temperatures are anticipated to be between 23-24 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures of 33-37 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will have speeds of 10-30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves less than 1 metre high, but rising above one metre in areas with thunderstorms.

Bangkok and its vicinity will experience morning fog and partly cloudy skies, with light rain in some areas. Minimum temperatures will be between 25-27 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will range from 34-36 degrees Celsius. Southerly winds are expected at five to 15 kilometres per hour.

The TMD cautioned that the upper parts of Thailand will experience cold weather, with sporadic thunderstorms, while Bangkok is expected to see light rain. Stay updated on the Thailand weather news with The Thaiger.

The story Northern Thailand braces for cool weather and thunderstorms as seen on Thaiger News.

The post Thai Enquirer News Summary – February 5, 2024 appeared first on Thai Enquirer.

Anticipations are high for Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) to make its comeback on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in the coming year, as disclosed by Tibordee Wattanakul, the director-general of the State Enterprise Policy Office (Sepo). The national flag carrier’s liquidity is on the mend, and operations are systematically aligning with its rehabilitation plan. This positive shift is contingent on the airline recording a profit for 12 consecutive months and achieving positive equity.

The Finance Ministry has clarified that it has no intentions of reinstating the company as a state enterprise while continuing to hold a stake of less than 50% in the struggling national carrier. Despite this, the state remains the majority shareholder of THAI.

Wattanakul noted an improvement in THAI’s financial performance under the rehabilitation programme. The company has strategically limited its expenses by reducing its workforce by half and downsizing its fleet by approximately 40% via leasing.

The aviation industry faced a tremendous blow from the pandemic that spanned over two years, with THAI being one of the victims. In September 2020, the Central Bankruptcy Court approved a recovery plan when most of THAI’s fleet was grounded as a result of border closures, bringing air travel to a standstill. The airline’s total liabilities amounted to 200 billion baht (US$5.6 billion) as of September 30, 2020, reported Bangkok Post.

To stay afloat, the airline applied severe internal restructuring and instigated survival measures. These included generating additional revenue from unrelated businesses like selling food via THAI Catering, transportation of goods, and the sale of unused assets. Revenue was predicted to regain momentum as the pandemic receded in mid-2022.

In the second quarter of 2023, the carrier reported a nearly 2.3 billion baht (US$64 million) profit, marking a 20-year record and a year-on-year increase of 171%. The airline is projected to complete its rehabilitation by the fourth quarter of this year.

A resurgent tourism sector is instrumental to the recovery of the aviation industry. The Fiscal Policy Office announced on January 24 that foreign tourists, primarily from China and Malaysia, are expected to hit 33.5 million this year, a rise from 28 million in 2023, registering a 19.6% increase. Tourism revenue is projected at 1.48 trillion baht (US$41.5 billion), marking a 23.6% rise from the previous year.

In related news, Thai Airways addressed a passenger’s complaint of a seating discrepancy in business class. The airline revised its service model, communicated with affected passengers, and improved ticket sales transparency.

The story Thai Airways on track for Stock Exchange return amid rehabilitation success as seen on Thaiger News.

The Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS) recently announced a partnership with AstraZeneca (Thailand) Co Ltd. The partnership aims to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the fight against lung cancer, with the potential to significantly reduce mortality rates. The collaboration will initially be piloted at the Bangkok Cancer Hospital Wattanosoth, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two parties.

Cancer is currently the leading cause of death in 48 countries worldwide, including Thailand, as reported by Thiravud Khuhaprema, director of the Bangkok Cancer Hospital Wattanosoth. The nation records 190,000 cancer cases annually, with a devastating mortality rate of 120,000 deaths each year. This translates to 14 people succumbing to the disease every single hour.

Lung cancer is the deadliest form of the disease in Thailand, with approximately 19,000 out of 23,000 patients losing their lives to it annually, regardless of receiving treatment. Alarmingly, Thiravud noted that lung cancer has been detected in non-smokers, suggesting that other factors such as PM2.5 particles could be causing changes in the respiratory system cells, particularly in individuals carrying the EGFR or KRAS genes, reported Bangkok Post.

Currently, no screening guidelines exist for lung cancer in non-smokers, underscoring the urgent need for innovative technologies like AI. “AI will play a pivotal role in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, which helps analyse images, providing a multi-cancer risk screening for early detection through blood tests that can identify circulating tumour DNA,” Thiravud explained.

Roman Ramos, the country president of AstraZeneca (Thailand), echoed these sentiments, stating that AI could assist doctors in identifying smaller lung nodules, potentially indicating early-stage lung cancer. The AI-enabled screening process takes a mere three minutes. If an abnormality is detected, patients can receive a diagnosis and commence treatment promptly, which could significantly increase survival chances.

In related news, remember the inspiring journey of 28 year old doctor Kritthai, who bravely faced terminal lung cancer. His book ‘Fight for It’ and heartfelt wedding moments leave a lasting impact.

The story BDMS and AstraZeneca partner for AI-driven lung cancer battle in Thailand as seen on Thaiger News.

The severe consequences of climate change could potentially be curbed in Thailand by the expansion of forest coverage on unused lands, asserted a water expert. Royon Jitdon, who provides advice to the Hydro-Informatics Institute under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, expressed confidence in the climate change mitigation capabilities of forest plantations, particularly in terms of reducing drought impacts in agricultural regions.

Thailand’s forest zones span over 102 million rai, equivalent to 31% of the country’s total land area, according to Royon. In line with the national reform policy, the government aims to elevate green areas in the country by 45% within two decades. These green areas encompass economic forests, protected forest zones, and community forests.

Royon shed light on the government’s forest plantation policy, which is designed to encourage local involvement. This is achieved by permitting locals to reap benefits from the forests they plant.

He cited a pilot project in Nan as an example, where locals have the potential to yield approximately 10,000 baht (US$280) per rai annually from planting bananas and other commercial plants in green areas. This income is five times more lucrative than cultivating maize, which produces around 2,000 baht (US$56) per rai, reported Bangkok Post.

Forest expansion to combat forest fires and pollution

Royon also highlighted the potential for forest expansion to reduce the likelihood of forest fires and PM2.5 pollution by decreasing single-crop plantations in the highlands. The Nan project has successfully transformed 2,000 rai out of a total of 8,000 rai into green areas in its initial phase.

Furthermore, forests have the ability to curb sediment from flowing into dams, which can otherwise decrease the dam’s lifespan, a current issue for the Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit province. An abundant forest zone, like the one near the Vajiralongkorn Dam in Kanchanaburi province, can guarantee year-round water supplies.

Royon emphasized that forests can also help maintain temperature stability, and unusual weather patterns in Thailand have been a result of changing currents in the oceans. He also touched on the influence of El Nino, predicting that its impact will diminish this year, thus improving rainfall. However, he stressed the need for proper management plans to prevent potential drought or flooding issues.

Pirun Saiyasitpanich, the Department of Climate Change and Environment’s chief, revealed that the department plans to present a second version of the country’s adaptation strategy against climate change for the cabinet’s consideration soon. The plan focuses on mitigating climate change’s impacts on vulnerable groups, particularly local farmers, across six areas: water management, agriculture and food security, tourism, public health, natural resources management, and relocation and security.

He said that state agencies have been working together to develop drought and flood-resistant rice strains and other crops. Additionally, studies on rising sea levels and potential land loss from sea intrusion have been incorporated into the relocation plan.

The story Thailand could curb climate change impact with forest expansion as seen on Thaiger News.

The Social Security Office (SSO) is being accused by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of infringing human rights, by enforcing a yearly cap of 900 baht (US$25) on dental treatment expenses. The complaint was instigated in January 2023 by an insured individual leading to an inspection by the NHRC. The individual pointed out that the 900 baht limit is lower than the coverage under the state official welfare and the universal health scheme known as gold card.

Supatra Nacapew, a NHRC member, voiced concerns on Sunday, stating that the coverage limit does not cover certain treatments and is insufficient. In 2016, for annual check-ups and dental treatments, the Social Security Committee had established a 900 baht coverage limit per insured person. This amount, however, is inadequate for mandatory dental treatments, leading to an increased number of patients with severe dental diseases, according to Supatra.

As per the National Health Service Act 2002, everyone has the basic right to equal access to public health services of the same standard. This law aligns with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, as per the NHRC.

Supatra pointed out that the basic dental costs at most privately-run clinics usually exceed 900 baht. Teeth scaling prices range from 900-1,800 baht (US$25-50), dental fillings 800-1,500 baht (US$22-42), tooth extraction 900-2,000 baht (US$25-56) and impacted tooth removal 2,500-4,500 baht (US$70-126). The expenses that are eligible for reimbursement do not cover a variety of medical services, including medical equipment for dental services, medication, and X-rays, whereas these costs are covered under state official welfare and the gold card scheme, reported Bangkok Post.

In a meeting on human rights protection held on January 30, Supatra mentioned that there was agreement that the security fund committee and medical committee should revise the regulation to adjust the dental claims ceiling. The meeting also encouraged the committee and the National Health Security office to enable the insured to join the gold card system under the National Health Security Act.

In related news, the One ID Card, Universal Healthcare initiative in Thailand expanded to Phrae, Phetchaburi, Roi Et, and Narathiwat provinces, offering citizens access to healthcare services across diverse networks.

The story SSO accused of human rights infringement for capping dental expenses at 900 baht as seen on Thaiger News.

Stanford University Graduate School of Business Professor Amir Goldberg has stressed the urgency for businesses to actively engage with artificial intelligence (AI), according to a conversation with a former corporate executive. Highlighting the vital role AI plays in today’s competitive market, Professor Goldberg warned businesses of the risks of not adopting AI, likening it to a fast-moving train that cannot be ignored.

The former corporate executive, with over 15 years of business experience across various sectors, further elaborated on this point. AI, they argued, is not a prospect but an immediate opportunity for innovation and growth. A lack of understanding or reluctance to embrace AI, they warned, could leave companies trailing behind their competitors.

This viewpoint challenges the perception among many business leaders who consider AI a distant disruption. Instead, the former executive underscored the importance of integrating AI into business strategies currently.

In Thailand, AI has already begun to transform business models. Start-ups such as Vulcan Coalition are leading the way with their innovative use of AI. However, compared to global standards, Thai businesses still lag in AI adaptation, reported Bangkok Post.

The former executive highlighted the transformative potential of AI within their own professional education business. By accelerating the design process and simplifying content creation, AI has optimised efficiency, leading to quicker project completion with fewer people.

The power of AI extends beyond technology to influence company culture and work methodologies. The executive foresees AI as a catalyst for faster and continual evolution within businesses.

Overcoming challenges in AI integration

The advice to businesses venturing into AI is to start small. Companies should identify specific goals, educate their teams, and experiment with small-scale AI projects. The key is to learn from feedback and refine strategies before broadening the application.

As AI becomes more accessible, it’s no longer a luxury exclusive to tech giants. Thai businesses of all sizes can harness the potential of AI, transforming their working strategies and decision-making processes.

However, the biggest hurdle remains the human element. Resistance to change, personal biases, and reliance on intuition can hamper AI integration. The former executive emphasised the importance of cultivating an open culture where the use of AI is discussed freely, and its recommendations are trusted over personal instincts.

Arinya Talerngsri, Chief Capability Officer, Managing Director, and Founder at SEAC — Southeast Asia’s Lifelong Learning Centre, shares this belief. She advocates for the transformation of education through artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to improve prospects for Thais and people worldwide.

The story Businesses warned of risks of not adopting AI, says Stanford professor as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya City, located in Chon Buri, Thailand, was the unfortunate scene of the tragedy as two foreign men – a Swedish national and a Briton – plummeted to their deaths in seemingly unrelated incidents just thirty minutes apart early Sunday.

An official statement from Pattaya City Police Station, delivered by Police Inspector Police Lieutenant Aniruj Jeroh, confirmed the incidents but stopped short of ruling them as suicides, despite the similarities to other such cases.

The first incident, was reported to Pol. Lt. Aniruj involved a man falling from a hotel on Pattaya Sai 3 Road. The victim was later identified as Jack Imgemar Reffhood, a 60 year old Swedish national.

Nanthaphop Luakthaisong, a 25 year old security guard on duty at the time, reported seeing a silhouette descending from the third floor. The sound of impact confirmed the tragic event moments later.

Upon investigation of Room No. 309, from which Reffhood fell, the police found no evidence of a struggle, shared Pol. Lt. Aniruj.

A second report of a similar nature reached Pol. Lt. Aniruj around 2.30am. This time, the incident took place at a hotel located on Soi Bua Khao in central Pattaya, reported Bangkok Post.

The victim was Martin Upton, a 69 year old man from Britain. It was believed that Upton jumped from Room No. 408 on the fourth floor.

An eyewitness, a woman at the hotel, recounted hearing cries of pain and pleas for help. With the help of a torch, she found Upton on the ground, severely injured and overcome with pain. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Upton succumbed to his injuries.

The police are continuing with their inquiries into these tragic incidents.

In related news, a 33 year old British national tragically killed in a Pattaya BASE-jumping accident. Parachute malfunctioned during a stunt from a condominium’s 29th floor. Investigation revealed no signs of foul play.

The story Swedish and British nationals die in separate falls in Pattaya City as seen on Thaiger News.

The 76th Independence Day celebration of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has seen the participation of guests from around the world, including an invitation extended to Prime Minister Srettha Thvisin by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Srettha said the celebration is a step towards further development in the relationship between the two countries. The event also represents an opportunity for Thailand and Sri Lanka to continue their collaboration and work on enhancing their ties in different sectors and improving the lives of all citizens. (NNT)