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Daily Updates on COVID-19

Headlines summary as of 5 August 2020

August 5, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today, Thailand reports seven newly confirmed case, a total of 3,328 cases. Out of the total number, 3,144 have been discharged from hospital (at 94.47%); 126 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed cases are Thai nationals returned from UAE, Egypt and the US and have been in state quarantine since. This is the 72nd consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • Media reports that the Army has affirmed the public that the Army has arranged four additional personnel, including from Special Forces to make sure that the American and Japanese military currently at Alternate State Quarantine in downtown Bangkok will follow the public health regulations.—Thai Rath
    • An editorial questioning the necessity of allowing the US troops to hold a training operations. The article juxtaposed the Japanese Okinawa prefecture’s declaration of state of emergency with the outbreak likely to occur in Thailand.—Bangkok Post
  • After the weekly cabinet meeting, the Public Health Ministry has gained cabinet approval to allow health professionals, farmers and medical patients to grow, produce and export cannabis and its products. This is the latest development Thailand, since 2017 when Thailand became the first SEA nation to legalise marijuana for medical use and research, but merely the government has been allowed to cultivate. —AP, Reuters and all Thai media outlet

Politics

  • The PM has made a swift U-turn as he told the media in the media briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting that he and the government is open to the idea of constitutional amendments and that he is going to assign the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council to host a forum to listen to the needs of the student protestors.—all media outlet
    • The PM; however, has warned the students not to create chaos. The PM said “I beg people not to create chaos at this time. We are solving these problems together”.
    • Media reports that prior to the media briefing, the PM met with Deputy PM Wissanu and leaders of the coalition Democrat and Bhumjaithai parties to discuss the constitutional amendment by the Opposition.—Inside Thailand
  • The Digital Economy Minister posted on his Twitter account that the ministry is collecting evidence to seek the court order to capture the computer crime act violators. The Minister from the main coalition party stressed that foreign internet platforms that are operating in Thailand needs to abide by the Thai law. He also said that ‘good news’ is coming soon.—Siam Rath The DE Minister also said that the ministry is ready to press computer crime act charge against Facebook as the social media operator failed to block contents that the Ministry has requested with court orders.–Prachatai
  • This morning, Army Chief Apirat was at the Royal Military Academy and criticised those who is not patriotic. He said “COVID-19 can be cured, but the disease of hating the nation cannot be cured”. The Army Chief has long been vocal against those who is not loyal to the nation and the monarchy.—all media outlet

Business:

Cabinet’s Decisions, 5 August 2020

  • Finance Ministry received approval to borrow USD1.5 billion (48 billion Baht) from the Asian Development Bank as part of the government’s 1 trillion Baht loan scheme to stimulate the economy.  Interest is 0.50 percent a year, with repayments to be made in two tranches.  The first tranche is worth USD 500 million, with repayment term of 10 years or until year 2030.  The second tranche, worth USD1 billion, has a 5-year repayment term or until year 2025.  The borrowing must be disbursed by 30 June 2021. This would bring the proportion of overseas loans to public debt at 2.46 percent, which is still below the ceiling set by the government’s fiscal sustainability framework of 10 percent.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Approved of 884.62 million Baht to be spent on 157 economic recovery projects in 57 provinces to help farming businesses affected by the pandemic.  This is part of the 400 billion Baht budget earmarked for economic rehabilitation as part of Phase III stimulus package.  Source:  Nation TV Bangkok Post
  • Approved of Labour Ministry’s plan to allow more than half a million foreign workers from Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar with proper travel documents to continue their employment in Thailand until the end of March 2022.  Source: Bangkok Post

Thai Government website   The Nation

Others

  • Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) plans to offer privileges comparable to those of the BOI directly to investors, backed by Section 59 of the EEC Act.  In short, EECO plans to offer an 8-year corporate income tax exemption and a 50 percent corporate income tax reduction for investments in targeted industries in the Eastern Economic Corridor of Innovation, Eastern Economic Corridor of Digital and the Eastern Airport City project at U-tapao.  The EECO will next focus on smart city development, with proposal to be submitted to the EEC Policy Committee chaired by PM Prayut this month.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Tourism and Sports Ministry propose to PM Prayut the idea of abolishing dual pricing at local attractions for expatriates in Thailand.  The Tourism Authority of Thailand is also working with private tour companies to create packages specifically for expats, given that this group could contribute up to 1 billion Baht in tourism revenue.  Source: Bangkok Post
  • Starting from 4 August, the Government Savings Bank is launching the second round of its 20-billion Baht emergency loan for employees with fixed income who are affected by the pandemic (0.35 percent interest).  The emergency loan was launched for the first time in April as part of the Phase II stimulus package and while many applied for the loan, some were disqualified since they did not have fixed income.  GSB bank proposes for the loans to be extended to freelancers or informal workers with no fixed income.  Source:  Bangkok Post  Krungthep Turakij
  • Thailand’s agricultural GDP has declined by 5.1 percent in the first half of 2020, embattled by the drought, climate fluctuation and the pandemic, according to the Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE).  OAE urges farmers to adapt to the new normal by capitalising on new opportunities offered by e-commerce.  Source:  Thansettakij
  • Charoen Pokphand Group, the company building a high-speed railway line linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports, has established a panel of experts to supervise the construction of the project to ensure economic, social and environmental sustainability.  Source: Bangkok Post
  • KKP Research by Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group asserted that continuous foreign net outflows from Thailand’s stock market are not caused by headwinds to the economic outlook, but rather the country’s lower competitiveness and structural economic problems.  This is reflected in the reduced FDI figures in Thailand and foreign investors being net sellers of local equities since 2013.  Source: Bangkok Post

Headlines summary as of 4 August 2020

August 4, 2020

News

Updates related to COVID-19:

  • Today, Thailand reports a newly confirmed case, a total of 3,321 cases. Out of the total number, 3,142 have been discharged from hospital (at 94.61%); 121 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed case is a Thai national returned from Russia and has been in state quarantine since. This is the 71st consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
  • Yesterday, the CCSA informed the public that there are more than 100 military personnel from the US and Japan to take part in military training and will be in ASQ for 14 days in Conrad Hotel on Wireless Road and Anantra Riverside on Thonburi side of town.
  • At 10 am the office of attorney-general has told a press briefing that the office will press charge against the Red Bull heir on using illicit drugs; and will revise the investigation on driving at above speed limit, based on a new sets of evidence found.—all media outlet

Politics

  • After the weekly cabinet meeting, the PM has told in press briefing that he support the House’s committee proposal to amend the constitution. He said that in the next Parliamentary session, the House can discuss on this and he said the government is giving its full support on this.—Krungthep Turakij
  • Regarding the new cabinet line-up, the PM has approved the resignation of Government spokesperson Prof Dr Narumon effective from July, 30. The media speculates that it is highly likely that she will be nominated for the Deputy Labour Minister.—all media outlet  
  • Media quotes a source in the Government House saying that the PM has decided to nominate Mr Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the former main ruling PPRP spokesperson and the secretary to the former Finance Minister as the next government spokesperson, citing his ability to excel in politically complex issues.–Prachachart
  • Yesterday marks a significant moment of the series of flash mob as a human rights lawyer openly demanded reforms to the monarchy. The lawyer said the government has allowed the monarchy to exercise his power to be above the constitutional monarchy regime has allowed. Also, the monarch and the palace did not come out to deter or comment on the case of ultra-right wing Doctor Rianthong who has been using the monarchical institution to harass the dissidents. The organiser has proposed three points:
    • 1. Abolish or amend laws that would make the monarchy have powers that is incompatible with the constitutional monarchy regime;
    • 2. Amend the lese majeste law to be compatible with democratic regime;
  • Thailand’s digital minister has threatened legal action against Facebook and accused the social media giant of not complying with government requests to restrict content deemed illegal, including perceived insults to the country’s monarchy.–Reuters

Business

  • University of Thai Chamber of Commerce forecasts that Thailand’s GDP this year will contract by 11.4 percent in the worst-case-scenario, wherein Thailand is closed off for at least 6 months; the government’s 400-billion-Baht budget set aside for economic and social rehabilitation is not disbursed; and global trade worsens.  This will mark the deepest contraction since Thailand’s economic readings began in 1961.  The crisis would incur the heaviest economic losses, estimated at 2.1 trillion Baht as of yesterday, which will exceed the 1.4 trillion Baht worth of damages generated by the 2011 floods.  In addition, the drought would also cause 76.3 billion Baht in losses to the country.  Source: Bangkok Post
  • According to a survey conducted by the University of Thai Chamber of Commerce on 800 SMEs from 20-24 July, most SMEs can survive from 3 – 9 months if they continue to have instable income.  Those that can survive for 9 months are in fashion & textile; plastic & rubber; carpentry & furniture; wholesale; restaurants and beauty sectors.  SMEs that can survive for 6 months include food & beverages; jewellery; retail; tourism; hospitality; construction; and logistics.  Businesses that survive the shortest, for 3 months, is automotive.  Source: Krungthep Turakij
  • The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has expressed fresh concerns over the delay in disbursement of the 400-billion-Baht stimulus budget due to the political vacuum caused by economic minister reshuffling. The government is urged to launch short-term and mid-term plans to spur the economy, given that the 5,000 Baht cash-handout has ended since June.  It also noted that export may not recover as the Baht remains strong.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • The Tourism and Sports Ministry is encouraging hotels in Thailand to offer the same hotel rates to expatriates as the locals, given that the country aims to attract 2 million foreign residents to travel more domestically.  Moreover, expats have higher purchasing power than locals and if they travel domestically four times during the remainder of the year, they would generate 8 million trips for the tourism industry.  However, to date, government does not have stimulus measures for expats.   Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Gold price has been soaring and is anticipated to reach USD2,000 per ounce.  In Thailand, the price of bullion with 96.5 percent purity is edging closer to 30,000 baht per one-Baht weight gold.  The investment return generated from gold is around 30 percent year-to-date.  Gold Futures reached an all-time high on 1 August, with price surging past USD2,000 an ounce, while SPDR Gold Shares – an exchange-traded fund that most domestic gold mutual funds invest in – saw a 30 percent rise in the fund’s asset values as it had net inflows of over $20 billion during the past 12 months.  Source: Bangkok Post
  • Department of Trade Negotiations (DTN) has organised a public hearing aimed at revamping the Free Trade Agreement Fund (FTA Fund), which was launched to assist farmers who are affected by the 13 FTAs Thailand signed with 18 countries.  Recommendations were made for the FTA to become a revolving fund, with funds raised from the private sector rather than an allocation from the government.  DTN will finalise the proposals and submit it for Commerce Ministry’s approval by the end of this year.  Source: Prachachart Turakij
  • The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) said the EV market in Thailand is the most advanced among ASEAN countries and will grow quickly during 2025 to 2030.  While foreign auto companies are keen to invest in EV production in Thailand because it is a manufacturing base for normal cars, EV investment and production have been moving slowly due to high operating costs.  Meanwhile, the National EV Policy Committee has approved plans to make Thailand a production base for EVs within five years.  It is envisaged that by 2030, 30 percent of all vehicles produced in Thailand will be EV.  Source:  The Nation
  • The Chearavanont family who owns the Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), has ranked 21st on Bloomberg’s “World’s Richest Families” list for the year 2020 with assets totalling USD30.7 billion (959.19 billion Baht).  Of the 25 families listed on the Bloomberg 2020 listing, the Chearavanont family is the only Thai family on the list. Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Ministry of Finance reports that the number of applications for pico-finance loans in June 2020 was 1,214, a slight increase of 15 from May 2020 as the lockdown eases.  However, the number of NPLs from pico-finance loan in May, valued at 423.69 million Baht, remains high as debtors affected by COVID-19 are unable to service their debts.  Source: Thai Rath

Australia

  • An opinion piece on Australia’s dilemma in engaging with China economically and the American politically and militarily in the shifting domestic political climates within Canberra and Washington.—Bangkok Post

Headlines summary as of 3 August 2020

August 3, 2020

News

Updates related to COVID-19:

  • Today, Thailand reports newly three confirmed cases, a total of 3,320 cases. Out of the total number, 3,142 have been discharged from hospital (at 94.64%); 120 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed cases are Thai national returned from UAE (2) and India (1), and have been in state quarantine since. This is the 70th consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
  • Over the weekend, Thailand reports
    • A total of 3,317 cases (+7)
    • 3,142 have been discharged from hospital (at 94.41%);
    • 117 are being hospitalised. 
    • Death toll at 58.
  • The PM on Sunday ordered a second autopsy be conducted after the death of a key witness in a deadly hit-and-run case linked to the heir to the Red Bull energy drink fortune, amid public anger that the charges were dropped. The deceased witness who said last year that he saw Mr Vorayuth drove his car at lesser than 70-80 km/hr against the earlier calculation in 2012 that the car was at 170-180km/hr was scheduled to be cremated on Sunday.—all media outlet

Politics

  • Yesterday, Army chief Apirat denied the online rumours that the PM has ordered the immediate removal of the Army and Police Chief and the Army Chief was about to fly to special operation army division in Lopburi and scheduled to address the nation. The vocal Army Chief, then, turned to recommend the people to take a look at Netflix’s The Hater which touch upon fake news.–VoiceTV, Matichon
  • Justice Minister Somsak said “there could be an aftershock in the House once the new portfolio is announced”. He gave an interview to media on Sunday, implying that the PM may face some obstacles in some voting as Industry Minister Suriya (under the same “Sam-Mitr” roof) apparently will not be able to get the Energy Minister seat, again. Sam-Mitr group (primarily consisted of former Deputy PM Somkid, Justice Minister Somsak and Industry Minister Suriya) reportedly holds 40 MPs in the main ruling Palang Pracharat Party.—Krungthep Turakij, Thai Rath
  • A new poll carried about by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) and released on Sunday showed that 54 percent of the people agreed with the student protests; 41 percent disagreed. Regarding what should be the PM response to the protestors requests: 42.72 percent said the PM should go to listen to the student himself; 20.40 percent said the PM should announce the dissolution of Parliament and hold immediate election; 13.68 percent said the PM should help amend the constitution and then hold an election; 6.56 percent said the PM should do nothing; 5.36 percent suggested the PM should listen to student protestors using House mechanisms.—Nida Poll
  • The student flash mobs are still keeping its momentum:
    • On Sunday, at Krue Se mosque in Pattani around 200 local protestors gathered to protest and hi-parked in local Malaya on inefficient governance, lack of legitimacy and the illegitimate operation of Chana Industrial Zone.—The Standard
    • This evening, a group of student is scheduled to gather at the Democracy Monument under Harry Potter’s Wizardry theme to cast a spell on the dark power of “He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named”.
  • Amnesty International has sent an open letter to Gen Maj. Chaktip Chaichinda urging the Royal Thai Police to not arbitrarily interfere with the exercise of rights and peaceful assembly on its citizens when policing assemblies in Thailand.—Thai Enquirer
  • With cabinet rejig is set to be announced very soon, a media has published the following list of cabinet member (highlighted are newly appointed):
Quota/PartyNamePosition
PMPrawit WongsuwanDeputy PM
PMWissanu Krea-ngamDeputy PM
BhumjaithaiAnutin CharnvirakulDeputy PM and Public Health Minister
DemocratJurin LaksanawisitDeputy PM and Commerce Minister
PMPredee DaochaiFinance Minister
PMDon PramudwinaiForeign Minister
BhumjaithaiPhiphat RatchakitprakarnTourism Minister
PPRPAnucha NakasaiPMO Minister
DemocratJuti KrairerkSocial Development and Human Security Minister
Action Coalition for ThailandAnek LaothamatasHigher Education Minister
DemocratChalermchai SrionAgriculture Minister
BhumjaithaiSaksayam ChidchobTransport Minister
PPRPPuttipong PunnakantaDigital Economy Minister
Chart Thai Pattana PartyVarawut Silpa-archaNatural Resources Minister
PMSupattanapong PunmeechaowEnergy Minister
PMAnupong PaochindaInterior Minister
PPRPSomsak ThepsutinJustice Minister
PPRPSuchart ChomklinLabour Minister
PPRPIttipol KhunpluemCulture Minister
PPRPSuriya JuangroongruangkitIndustry Minister
PPRPNataphol TeepsuwanEducation Minister
PMChinchan ChangmongkonDeputy Defence Minister
PPRPSanti PromphatDeputy Finance Minister
PPRPThamanat PrompowDeputy Agriculture Minister
BhumjaithaiMananya ThaisetDeputy Agriculture Minister
Chart Thai Pattana PartyPraphat PhothasoothonDeputy Agriculture Minister
PPRPAtirat RatanasateDeputy Transport Minister
DemocratThaworn SenniamDeputy Transport Minister
BhumjaithaiWeerasak WangsuphakijkosolDeputy Commerce Minister
DemocratNipon BunyamaneeDeputy Interior Minister
DemocratKalaya SophonpanichDeputy Education Minister
DemocratSatit PitutachaDeputy Public Health Minister
BhumjaithaiKanokwan WilawanDeputy Education Minister
BhumjaithaiSongsak ThongsriDeputy Interior Minister
PPRP / (?)Narumon PinyosinwatDeputy Labour Minister

*It is expected that the PM will announce the name list by 10 August 2020.—Matichon Weekly

Business:

Tourism

  • For the first six months of 2020, the number of foreign tourists contracted by 66 percent YoY to total 6.69 million.  Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) predicts that foreign tourist figure would reach only 7 million and revenue 1.23 trillion if Thailand remains closed in the last quarter of 2020.  TAT noted that the sixth phase of lockdown easing includes Thailand opening up to specific groups of visitors such as film crews, businessmen, medical visitors as well as some 200 foreigners who hold the Thailand Elite Card.  Direct flights to Phuket will also be provide to take travellers to Alternative State Quarantine in October this year.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Alternative state quarantine (ASQ) hotels may be in short supply when foreigners are allowed into Thailand, with the Thai Hotels Association (THA) saying the extra medical cost is preventing operators from taking part.  Operators urge the government to partly subsidise medical costs for hotels to help guests pay less.  Source:  Bangkok Post

CPTPP

  • The parliament-appointed sub-committee to study CPTPP’s impact on agriculture will convene a meeting tomorrow (4 August).  Among the topics of discussion is the impacts of UPOV 1991 on Thai agricultural exports, farmers and the available remedies.  It will also consider other alternatives to CPTPP.  The subcommittee will continue with its studies and is scheduled to submit the results to the parliament on 8 September.  Source:  Thansettakij

Others

  • Bank of Thailand projects that the Thai economy could contract up to  13 percent YoY in Q2 2020, worse than the 12.5 percent GDP contraction in Q2 of 1998.  The record contraction owes largely to the lockdown measures in Thailand and throughout the world, yet the central bank also asserts that the Thai economy has bottomed out in Q2.  For June, BOT contends that the Thai economy improved from May, evidenced by the lower contraction rate in export, consumption, investment and manufacturing.  However, tourist number remained zero.   Source: Bangkok Post   Bank of Thailand Press Release
  • The phase II of Bank of Thailand’s debt relief measures come into effect since 1 August, including debt restructuring and interest rate cuts and increasing credit limit for credit cards and personal loans.  Source:  Krungthep Turakij newspaper
  • Thai Airways expects the Central Bankruptcy Court to allow for a rehabilitation process after its first hearing on 17 August on its restructuring proposals.  Once the court accepts the airline’s request, it would appoint a committee to design a rehabilitation plan, which will be submitted to creditors and court for approval next year.  Restructuring is expected to begin in May or June 2021 and could take up to seven years.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Thai exports may be affected by the looming China-India conflict and the US-China technology war, in addition to currency volatility and tightened human rights, according to the Thai Chamber of Commerce University.  TCCU also urges the government to assist business sectors, from loans and tax incentives to stimulus packages.  Source: Bangkok Post

Australia

  • Ultra-royalist doctor, “Garbage-collection” group leader, Mongkutwattana Hospital’s director and one of the PM hand-picked counsels to study the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 Dr Rianthong Nanna has posted on his Facebook Page the photos of his three children who he claimed are being threatened. He said that should he and his family are not able to live in Thailand, he will seek asylum and establish a Radiation Oncology Centre in the city of Perth, WA. Recently he has been launching “Closing-down Opportunity” campaign against the anti-Prayuth young protestors, threatening to send photos of protestors to like-minded companies for social sanctions.

Headlines summary as of 31 July 2020

July 31, 2020

News

Updates related to COVID-19:

  • Today, Thailand reports six newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,310 cases. Out of the total number, 3,125 have been discharged from hospital; 127 are being hospitalised (at 94.41%). The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed cases are Thai national returned from Egypt (5) and the Netherlands (1), and have been in state quarantine since. This is the 67th consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
  • Following the accident death of the first witness who told the police last year that he saw Mr Vorayuth drove at 50-60 km/hr; not 170-180 km/hr as earlier indicated, House Committee on Police affairs told a press briefing on Thursday the panel had questioned officers who handled the case why they did not press charges related to illicit drug use against Mr Vorayuth. The officers told the committee because a dentist confirmed he had administered medicines which had cocaine as a component for dental treatment. That’s the reason why the police did not press charges related to illicit drugs.—all media outlet

Politics

  • Media reports that the PM has already submitted the new cabinet list to HM the King–Prachachart, Thai Rath; however, just this noon the PM has not submitted the name; still in vetting process.—The Reporters
    • Mr Preedee Daochai as Deputy PM and Finance Minister
    • Mr Anucha Nakasai as PMO Minister
    • Professor Anek Laothamatas as Higher Education Minister
    • Mr Supattanapong Pongmeechao as Energy Minister
    • Mr Suchart Chomklin as Labour Minister
  • Yesterday, pro-government took the street of Bangkok requesting student protests to stop using anti-monarchical messages. The organiser claimed to be a representative of vocational students. iLaw, a local NGOs on rule of law estimated that there were 50-60 participants.—all media outlet
  • Yesterday, the PM chaired a meeting at the Royal Police Headquarters with an agenda on the set-up of Police Special Operation Command, formerly 904 King’s Own Bodyguard Police Regiment with number of responsibilities, including intelligence operation against people who pose threat against the monarchy.—BBC Thai
  • A special report in Matichon Weekly reported that after his retirement in October, Army Chief Apirat will not be part of the cabinet, since under the current constitution, the Army Chief as Senator by position will need to be exempted from politics for two years. Army Chief will work more in the Crown Property Bureau (currently Lord Chamberlain is the chairperson of the Bereau).
  • The Supreme Court yesterday (July 30) handed down a 5-year jail sentence to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra for illegally holding shares in the state’s phone concessionaires and conflict of interest and issued a warrant for his arrest.—all media outlet
  • The Digital Economy Minister came out to condemn Facebook as the English-to-Thai auto-translation in a King’s Birthday ceremony post by ThaiPBS caused royalist public outrage. The Minister said Facebook needs to be held responsible for this potentially lese majeste auto-translated caption.–Manager, Bangkok Post

Business:

Tourism

  • Inbound tourist operator demand for clarity on the travel bubble arrangement, which Tourism Ministry said will be implemented in October, as they need 2 months to prepare marketing campaigns in advance.  Without the arrival of tourists, some 80 percent of inbound tourist operators may have to exit the market.  Tourism operators in Phuket also urges the government to allow international direct flights to the province to resume to fulfil foreigners’ demands for alternative state quarantine.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Tourism Ministry reported that during the long weekend from 25-28 July, almost 2 million Thais travelled domestically and spent some 6.8 billion Baht.  Finance Ministry added that as of 29 July, 4.65 million Thais registered online to participate in the We Tour Together scheme.  Hotel bookings as of 30 July reached 307.041 rooms, with 4.7 million remaining rooms available.  Altogether 6,607 hotels, 58,247 restaurants and 1,560 tourist attractions have joined the We Tour Together project.  Source:  Thai PBS World  Thansettakij
  • The first public hearing on a sport yacht marina project, identified as one of the 6 new economic drivers of the province, was held on Thursday.  If approved, the marina expects to have a soft launch at the end of this year.  In addition to marina, other economic drivers are education; health and wellness; tuna exports; seafood and gastronomy; sports and events businesses.    Source:  Bangkok Post

Others

  • Commerce Ministry’s Department of Trade Negotiations will work with the public and private sectors to promote Thai agricultural products in the RCEP markets as the free trade agreement since scheduled to be signed this November.  DTN will also educate farmers and those in its value chain on how to maximise the benefits from RCEP privileges.  Source:  Thailand Plus TV
  • Ministry of Finance forecasts that the Thai economy will contract by 8.5 percent this year, with export plunging by 11 percent and foreign arrivals totalling 6.8 million.  Recovery will begin in Q3, after the economy has bottomed out in Q2 with over 10-percent GDP contraction.  The annual GDP contraction forecast surpasses the 7.8 percent decline in the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis.  However, this time the government has more room to manoeuvre fiscal policy, with public debt and inflation data in better shape than in 1997.  Source:   Bangkok Post
  • Security Houses expect net profit in the retail sector to see a 50 percent decrease YoY as a result of the nationwide lockdown in Q2.  Despite being less affected, CP All suffered significantly from the lockdown, even with a large network of 7-Eleven branches and efficient operations.  Source: Bangkok Post
  • The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand unveiled the white paper entitled ‘Better than Before – Creating Long Term Growth in Thailand Post-Covid-19’.  Among the recommendations is for the Thai government to build up its digital infrastructure to prepare for the acceleration in digital transformation, the prioritization of the Regulatory Guillotine Project and the strengthening of Thailand’s position as Asia’s medical hub by building an ecosystem of value-based healthcare and market environment.  Source:  Bangkok Post
  • Nok Air has filed a business rehabilitation request with the Central Bankruptcy Court, but insists it has no plans to downsize workforce or operations.  The move is to solve the airline’s liquidity problem, but it will not go bankrupt.  Source:  Bangkok Post

ASEAN/World

  • Media is giving its attention to Ladda “Tammy” Duckworth, a Thai-born Democrat Senator who is being on the short list for Joe Biden’s running mate in November’s presidential election to floated as a potential U.S. secretary of Defence.—Nikkei Asian Review

Headlines summary as of 30 July 2020

July 30, 2020

News

Updates related to COVID-19:

  • Today, Thailand reports six newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,304 cases. Out of the total number, 3,111 have been discharged from hospital; 135 are being hospitalised (at 94.16%). The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed case is a Thai national returned from Egypt (4) and Saudi Arabia (2), and has been in state quarantine since. This is the 66th consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
  • The cabinet has approved CCSA proposal to extend the state of emergency for one more month in an attempt to collaborate the administrations in curbing COVID-19.
  • The development regarding the dropping of all charges against Red Bull heir is still developing:
    • TCP Group (Yoovidhaya extended family) has issued a statement saying that they are not related to the case of Mr Vorayuth. And that they asked Mr Vorayuth to clear public doubt over the hit-and-run case.
    • Authorities have responded to the case by setting up probing committees:
      • The Office of Attorney-General, on 28th July, set up a committee to look into the motives of the OAG decision and the legality of the decision. The timeframe of the probe is within seven days.—The Standard
      • Police Chief has also set up a committee to look into the legality of the police dropping all charges as the OAG suggested. The timeframe of the study is within 15 days.—Channel7
      •  The PM has ordered setting-up an independent committee consisting of academia to probe into the case. The timeframe is within 30 days.—Krungthep Turakij, AP
    • Yesterday, the Police said that the decision of the Police and the Attorney-General is ultimate and cannot be revised. Only with the victim intend to revise the investigation, the case could then be continued.—all media outlet
    • Last night, the first witness who said in 2019 that Mr Vorayuth drove his car at around 50-60 km/hr not 177 km/hr as earlier indicated passed away in an accident.—Isra News Agency
  • The Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Center under the Royal Thai Police, said Thailand had a shortage of officers based outside the capital with expertise in investigating cases of human trafficking. The Police vowed to boost training for police nationwide to better respond to a rising number of cases of sexual exploitation and forced labour.–Reuters

Politics

  • The flash mobs are still on bulletin:
    • Today, a group of vocational school students and alumni will gather at the Democracy Monument to read their statement protecting the monarchy. The PM has warned against possible confrontation between protestors.
    • Broken out by an MP from Move Forward Party and later distributed online, an internal police memo showed that the authority is deploying Border Patrol Police to control the situation in the upcoming mass demonstration this Saturday. The document also showed that the authority is arranging venue to arrest 100 protestors and five protest leaders.–Prachatai, Nation Weekend, Thai Post
    • On a related note, ultra-royalist doctor, “Garbage-collection” group leader, Mongkutwattana Hospital’s director and one of the PM hand-picked counsels to study the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 Dr Rianthong Nanna has launched a “Closing-down Opportunity” campaign against the young protestors. He has asked his followers to camouflage into the anti-government protestors and take a picture of the protestors who might have hold signs that could irritate the monarchy. He will publicly publish the name of the protestors and ask for social sanctions, including sending the name lists to companies not to recruit these protestors. Former PM hand-picked National Reform Council member Ticha Na Nakorn came out to warn the campaign might be unconstitutional and violating basic human rights. She said the National Commission on Human Rights needs to look into the issue.—Thai Post
  • In the press briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting, the PM said that his personal portfolio quotas are ready and now in vetting process. The PM will present the list to HM the King for royal endorsement by mid-August.—all media outlet
  • Move Forward Party spearheaded in a bill seeking constitutional amendments. The secretary-general of the party said they are seeking to collect 1/5 of MPs from both sides, proposing three motions:
    • Setting-up Constitution Drafting Committee
    • Abolition of current appointed senators
    • Abolition of all NCPO orders and announcements—all media outlet
  • In response to the news quoted a high-ranking source in the main opposition Pheu Thai Party said that ousted and self-exiled former PM Thaksin has approved the party’s chief strategist Sudarat to be the party candidate for up-coming Bangkok Governor Election. Khunying Sudarat came out to dismiss the report and said that this report may end up causing the dissolution of the Pheu Thai party.—The Standard
    • Breaking: Pheu Thai Party leader announced the party’s resolution to have Khunying Sudarat as the chairperson in recruiting candidates for Bangkok’s gubernatorial and local elections. The party will invite former Transport Minister and party’s PM candidate Chatchart to run for the Bangkok Governor election on the party’s behalf. The party leader denied that ousted and self-exiled former PM Thaksin involved in any of these processes.–ThaiPBS
  • Regarding the rift within the Royal Thai Police, the Police chief has ordered Deputy Police Chief to be “สำรองราชการ” (might mean somewhat removed from his current position and in a pending investigation) as Pol Gen Wirachai Songmetta allegedly leaked the conversation he had with the Police Chief.—Manager, Daily News

Business:

Cabinet’s Decisions, 29 July 2020

  • Approved the amendment on the import procedures of potato under TAFTA and onion under TNZCEP.  The amendment will require that the abovementioned items are brought into Thailand through Customs entry points with plants, food and medicine screening capabilities or through entry points with relevant officials present.  Notifications are being drafted.  Source:  https://www.thaigov.go.th/news/contents/details/33742
  • Approved of appointing Setthaput Suthiwart-Narueput, an economic adviser to PM General Prayut and also a Monetary Policy Committee member, as next Bank of Thailand governor.  He will assume the role on 1 October and will be the 24th  BOT Governor.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959655/winner-of-bot-governor-race-chosen
  • Ministry of Public Health will pay 500 Baht monthly to the health volunteers in appreciation of their work in containing COVID-19 outbreak for 7 months (March – September).  The payments will be made to some 1,054,000 health volunteers.  The 3.6 billion Baht budget for this scheme is allocated from the 45 billion Baht MoPH borrowed as part of the Stimulus Package Phase II.  Source:  https://www.thansettakij.com/content/normal_news/443635

Gold

  • Bank of Thailand agrees with major local traders in using only the US dollar for gold trading and settlement to mitigate foreign exchange volatility and curb the strong Baht. BoT also plans to permit gold traders to apply for foreign currency deposits (FCDs) in preparation for gold trading in the dollar.  The move is slated to be implemented at the end of this year.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959587/traders-on-board-with-us-valuation
  • Experts are divided over whether gold will hit the magic price of Baht 30,000 per Baht weight by the end of this year,.  One expert speculates that the spot gold price could hit a new high of USD2,000 per ounce soon as investors react to the US-China Trade war, pandemic and central banks’ move to inject cash into economies worldwide.  Source:  https://www.nationthailand.com/business/30392111?utm_source=homepage&utm_medium=internal_referral

Others

  • Thailand’s rubber glove industry is attracting foreign investments, with over 10 investors from England, USA, EU, Germany and China expressing interest in setting up factories in Thailand.  Orders for Thailand’s rubber gloves have also been filled up to year 2022.  British investors said they are ready to invest 2.6 billion Baht in the EEC, although the details are yet to be discussed.  The Thai Rubber Tapper Association has warned for local rubber farms to be cautious of the foreign investments.  It also called for BOI to provide incentives for rubber glove production manufactured from natural rubber grown in Thailand rather than synthetic rubber.  The Association.  Source:  https://www.prachachat.net/economy/news-496984
  • The University of Thai Chamber of Commerce estimated that in the worst-case scenario, Thailand’s export could shrink by 13.5 percent if no vaccine is found this year. The automobile and parts industries are the most affected sectors, followed by electronic appliances, plastic pellets, fuels and chemical products. The crisis might boost export opportunities for processed food, beverage and rubber glove sectors.  Overall, the pandemic could reduce the value of Thai trade by 423 billion – 1.02 trillion Baht.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959663/exports-likely-to-shrink-by-up-to-13-5-    https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30392120
  • The “We Travel Together” campaign may be extended until year-end as uptake has been slow.  This may include launching the second phase that focuses on second-tier provinces and weekday travels.  Travel bubbles for tourists might also take place in October, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959595/travel-stimulus-scheme-may-run-till-year-end
  • Thailand’s manufacturing production index (MPI) in June increased for the second consecutive month by 4.1 percent to 83.0 points as people begin to resume their normal spending, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).  The MPI gains for June are driven by consumer products (food and medicine).  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959623/mpi-rises-for-second-month-as-normalcy-resumes
  • Si Racha in Chonburi province is set to be upgraded as the “smart” city hub of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).  Developers boast that the Sriracha Creative District will run on 100 per cent renewable energy to become Asia’s first carbon-neutral smart city.  In the pipeline is also the plan to develop the 1-billion Baht Sriracha Creative District between a Thai company, Life and Living, and Hong Kong’s Ho & Partners.  Source:  https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30392109

Headlines summary as of 29 July 2020

July 29, 2020

News

  • Yesterday, the entire country celebrated the King’s 68th Birthday with drones portraying the King’s portrait on the sky over the Royal Plaza (Sanam Luang)
  • Updates related to COVID-19:
  • Today, Thailand reports a newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,298 cases. Out of the total number, 3,111 have been discharged from hospital; 129 are being hospitalised (at 94.33%). The death toll is at 58. The newly confirmed case is a Thai national returned from the US (Thai military returned from training in Hawai’i), and has been in state quarantine since. This is the 65th consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
  • Thai media are reporting on Thailand being ranked best in Recovery Rating of the Global COVID Index (GCI). In mid-June Thailand ranked second to Australia.—Nation TV
  • The development regarding the dropping of all charges against Red Bull heir is still unfolding:
  • This morning the PM has penned down the establishment of a committee to look into the decision of the attorney-general office. The probe committee will work within the 30-day timeframe.—Thai Post

Politics

  • The anti-government flash mobs are still keeping its momentum with some of them gained international coverage:
    • This morning a group of high school students marched to the Ministry of Education under “Student Pride” to hand over its four propositions regarding LGBTQ+, including hair style, costumes, proper understanding of LGBTQ+ and discrimination.—Voice TV
    • On Sunday, protestors, mostly high-school students participated in a mocking demonstration singing Japanese animation song while marching around the Democracy Monument.—Nikkei Asian Review, Reuters
    • On Saturday, LGBTQI protestors took the street in front of Democracy Monument to call for student movements three main propositions and to call for equal marriage.—Voice TV, Reuters
    • Pro-government protests will gather tomorrow to call for the protection of the monarchy. The protest is led by the vocational students groups. The organiser turned out to be one of the recruiters of the now-defunct pro-coup People’s Democratic Reform Committee and unelected MP candidate for the governing Action Coalition for Thailand. Historically, the vocational students were part of the ultra-right wing groups against socialist movement backed in the late 70s —Inside Thailand
    • The Free Youth Movement, the main ignitor of the latest series of flash mobs, announced through its outlet that this Saturday (the deadline the group gave the government to fulfil its three propositions: dissolution of parliament, new constitution and stop harassment of dissents) will not yet mean they will organise a mass demonstration. What they will respond, should the government dismissed the requests remained unknown.—Free Youth
  • Breaking: ahigh-ranking source in the main opposition Pheu Thai Party said that ousted and self-exiled former PM Thaksin has approved the party’s chief strategist Sudarat to be the party candidate for up-coming Bangkok Governor Election.–Prachachart
  • The acting Finance Minister has submitted the name of Mr Sethaput Suthiwart-Narueput as the new Bank of Thailand Governor.—Krungthep Turakij

Business:

  • Predee Daochai, Co-President of Kasikornbank and Chairman of the Thai Bankers’ Association, who is expected to become Deputy Prime Minister and also the Finance Minister, has resigned from his posts on 24 July in a move that could pave the way for his appointment.  Supattanapong Punmeechaow, the Director of PTT Global Chemical Plc (PTTGC) on 24 July also resigned from his position amidst the speculation that he will become the new Energy Minister.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1957103/predee-quits-kasikornbank-ahead-of-taking-cabinet-job

EEC – Investment and Infrastructure

  • Dr Luxmon Attapich, the Deputy Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO), said the EEC project will not be disrupted by the cabinet reshuffle.  The EECO did not revise the timeline for the EEC’s 3 flagship projects, which remained scheduled to be completed in four years, namely:
  • High-speed rail network linking three airports, worth 224 billion Baht, in which State Railway Thailand signed contract with the winning bidder, CP Group consortium on 24 October, 2019
  • Eastern Airport City project at U-tapao, Rayong, worth 290 billion Baht.  The government signed the contract with BBS consortium on 19 June.  The government’s current focus is on developing the smart city.
  • The MRO project at U-Tapao is likely to be delayed
  • The third phase of Map Ta Phut deep seaport development, worth 55.4 billion Baht.  The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand signed a PPP contract with Gulf MTP LNG Terminal on 1 October 2019.
  • For the remaining six months of the year, the government will focus on attracting investments into food, beauty, medical, aerospace and 5G technology-related businesses.
  • Investment in the EEC is likely to recover in the latter half of the year, driven by higher demand from foreign investors who will rev up relocation of production bases out of China and higher confidence in the government’s effectiveness in outbreak management.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1959175/cabinet-exodus-shakes-faith-in-eec
  • Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) views the EEC as a key economic tool to drive the domestic economy in the post-pandemic period.  In the short-run, the FTI urges the government to find ways to help businesses as coronavirus relief packages near expiration.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1957199/fti-says-contagion-an-opportunity-to-push-eec
  • The State Railway of Thailand has conducted a feasibility study on Phase 2 of the high-speed railway linking the 3 airports and revealed that it may not be worth investing in due to low passenger numbers.  Phase 2 will trail the routes U-Tapao-Rayong-Chantaburi-Trat provinces.  The study, set for completion in August, will be forwarded to the government’s committee on special development of the eastern special area development policy and then to the cabinet for endorsement.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1958427/cold-water-poured-on-rail-projects

Food Export

  • Thai food exports are picking up as many countries are increasing imports amid quarantine conditions.  Food exports have grown 20 percent, with high demands fresh, frozen chicken, processed seafood, including ready-to-eat food, and foods that contain herbs, according to International Trade Promotion Department.  Source: National News Bureau of Thailand fb page, 28 July 2020
  • Thailand exported USD 567 million worth of Durians to China in the first four months of 2020, up 78% YoY.  Trade Negotiations Department’s DG Auramon attributes the robust growth partly to FTAs and advance orders placed by Chinese fruit dealers before the start of the annual harvest season.  CP Group added that Thailand’s Durian supply is far from satisfying strong demand in China.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1958175/china-demand-spiking-for-thai-durian

Others

ASEAN/World

  • Former Malaysian PM Najib Razak was found guilty Tuesday of corruption over the multi-billion-dollar 1MDB scandal that cost him his government, and could face decades in jail.—Thai PBS World, Manager

Australia

  • Australia and the US will expand military cooperation as the two countries’ relations with China have been increasingly sour. The heads of Defence and Foreign Affairs met in Washington and issued a joint statement to maintain rule of law in the South China Sea. Australian Foreign Minister, however, said Australia does not agree with the US on every front regarding China. Minister Payne said the relations with China is also crucial to Australia.—Bangkok Post; The Standard

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