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Thailand is planning to introduce new tax incentives to attract investment in the hybrid auto industry. Hybrid car manufacturers will benefit from lower excise tax rates between 2028 and 2032 if they meet certain criteria. The new scheme is part of Thailand's efforts to transition towards vehicle electrification and become a production hub for all types of electrified cars. To qualify for the reduced tax rates, hybrid car makers must invest a minimum of 3 billion baht in the Thai electric vehicle industry and meet specific emission and advanced driver-assistance system requirements. Thailand has already attracted investment from 24 EV makers since 2022 and aims for 30% of its car output to be electric by 2030. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economy is expected to grow faster than initially projected, thanks to a rebound in exports and an increase in foreign tourist arrivals. The government now predicts a growth rate of 2.7% this year, up from the previous forecast of 2.4%. This growth will be driven by a 4.5% increase in private consumption, with tourist arrivals expected to reach 36 million and revenue from foreign visitors estimated at 1.69 trillion baht ($46.7 billion). The recovery in tourism, particularly from Chinese tourists, is seen as the main driver of economic recovery. The optimistic outlook has led to a rise in the value of the baht and the country's benchmark stock index. The revised growth projection aligns with the International Monetary Fund's assessment and supports the central bank's decision to maintain interest rates. The government has also introduced a cash handout program and other measures to stimulate economic activity. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economy is expected to grow faster than initially projected, with a forecasted growth rate of 2.7% this year. This growth is driven by an estimated 4.5% increase in private consumption, which makes up a significant portion of the country's GDP. The recovery in tourism, aided by the easing of travel restrictions and the return of Chinese tourists, is a key factor in this economic growth. The government has also implemented measures such as cash handouts, soft loans for small businesses, and tax incentives to further stimulate the economy. Tourism is a vital industry for Thailand, accounting for about 20% of total jobs and 12% of the nation's economy. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand plans to distribute a cash handout of 10,000 baht ($277) to most adult citizens in an effort to revive the economy and address high household debt. The handout, originally scheduled for early 2024, will now take place in the fourth quarter of this year. Beneficiaries can sign up for a digital wallet called "Tang Rath" and spend the cash at over 2 million retail outlets, convenience stores, and small businesses. However, there are restrictions on what the money can be used for, including a ban on alcohol and cannabis purchases. The government expects the stimulus to boost purchasing power, manufacturing, and overall confidence in the economy. The program has an annual income limit and excludes individuals with significant savings. The funding for the handout will come from the state budget over two fiscal years, with a total cost estimated at around 450 billion baht. If successful, the stimulus is expected to lift Thailand's growth rate, which has been below 2% annually for the past decade. The country's recovery from the pandemic has been hindered by a decline in manufacturing and exports, with tourism being the only bright spot. Household debt in Thailand has risen to 90.8% of the nation's GDP, prompting the government to hold borrowing costs at a decade-high level. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is considering regulating its cannabis industry through legislation, potentially abandoning plans to reverse its decriminalization policy. The government will discuss a draft bill to regulate the industry, allowing political parties to submit their own versions to parliament. This move could halt the prime minister's push to outlaw cannabis, which has caused tension within the ruling coalition. Advocacy groups have praised the decision to protect the cannabis policy, while the Minister of Public Health has stated that the ministry's proposal to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic remains unchanged. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is considering regulating its cannabis industry through legislation, rather than reversing its decriminalization policy, due to opposition within the ruling coalition. The government will discuss plans for a draft bill to regulate the industry, or political parties may submit their own drafts to parliament. This move could potentially halt the Prime Minister's plan to outlaw cannabis, which had already been set in motion but had yet to clear the Narcotics Control Board. [Extracted from the article]

Sugar futures have dropped to a five-week low due to improved crop prospects in Europe and Thailand, which have helped to offset concerns about weather conditions in Brazil, the top sugar producer. Thailand is experiencing regular rains that are benefiting its crops, and the outlook for production in Europe and Central America is also positive. However, there are still concerns about drought affecting sugar-cane yields in Brazil, although acreage expansion in the country may partially offset the impact. Overall, investors are cautious about adding long positions in sugar. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is planning to establish a one-stop agency for integrated financial services in order to attract foreign funds and investors. The agency will issue licenses for banking, securities, insurance, digital assets, and forward contracts for foreign companies. It will also provide services for foreign businesses, such as work permits and tax incentives. The creation of this agency is part of Thailand's efforts to position itself as a regional financial hub and improve its regulatory and legal ecosystems. The government believes that this move will help attract capital and qualified workers, and transform the country's economic growth structure. Additionally, the government plans to grant licenses for virtual banks and establish a National Credit Guarantee Agency to improve loan access for small and medium enterprises. [Extracted from the article]

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered an urgent investigation into the deaths of six foreigners at a luxury hotel in Bangkok. The victims, who were Vietnamese with two holding US citizenship, were found dead in a suite at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok hotel. The cause of death appears to be poisoning, and the bodies had been dead for approximately 24 hours before being discovered. The motive for the killings is unclear, and authorities are working to identify any perpetrators. The incident is not expected to have a significant impact on Thailand's tourism industry, which is a key sector of the country's economy. [Extracted from the article]

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered an urgent investigation into the deaths of six foreigners at the Grand Hyatt Erawan hotel in Bangkok. The victims, including three females aged between 37-56, were found dead in an area popular with foreign tourists. Four of the victims were Vietnamese and two had US citizenship, and their deaths are suspected to be due to cyanide poisoning. The Thai government is taking steps to contain panic among tourists and the public, as tourism is a key industry for the country, accounting for about 20% of total jobs and 12% of the economy. [Extracted from the article]

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered an urgent investigation into the deaths of six foreigners at a luxury hotel in Bangkok. The victims, who were all Vietnamese with US citizenship, were found dead in the Ratchaprasong area, a popular tourist destination. The cause of death is suspected to be cyanide poisoning. The Thai government is concerned about the impact this incident may have on the country's tourism industry, which is a significant contributor to the economy. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is set to enroll eligible citizens next month for a $14 billion stimulus program aimed at stimulating the country's economy. Under the program, an estimated 50 million Thais aged 16 and older will receive 10,000 baht ($276) each through a digital wallet scheme. The government plans to disburse the funds in the fourth quarter of this year, with the aim of creating a significant impact on the economy. The program has faced controversies over its financing, but the government has now dropped a plan to borrow from a bank due to potential legal challenges. The finance ministry estimates that around 90% of eligible people will sign up for the scheme, limiting the cost to 450 billion baht. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is expanding its visa-free entry to 93 countries and territories, up from the current 57, starting July 15. Visitors will be allowed to stay for up to 60 days and can come for tourism or short-term business purposes. The number of territories eligible for a visa on arrival will also increase. This move aims to boost tourism, as foreign arrivals to Thailand have already increased by 35% this year. Additionally, Thailand will introduce a new visa category called the Destination Thailand Visa, which targets digital nomads, freelancers, and visitors interested in learning skills like cooking and martial arts. This visa allows holders to stay for up to 180 days and is valid for five years. Another visa change will allow visiting students who earn a bachelor's degree or higher in Thailand to stay for one year after graduation. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's Election Commission has certified the results of the first Senate contest since the 2014 coup, allowing new lawmakers to replace the previous military-appointed upper house of parliament. The 200 winners of the Senate race will need to pick up certificates at the Election Commission office before formally joining parliament. The Senate plays a crucial role in Thai politics, with the power to amend the military-backed charter and make appointments to important positions. The new Senate was selected through a complex process, with candidates voting among themselves in various categories. The incoming senators will serve a five-year term and their stance on proposed constitutional amendments will be closely watched. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's Election Commission has confirmed the results of the first Senate contest since the 2014 coup. The 200 winners of the Senate race will need to collect their certificates from the Election Commission before officially taking their positions in parliament. The official winners list will be published in the Royal Gazette. [Extracted from the article]

The Thai government is considering alternative funding options for its "digital wallet" cash handout program, which has faced controversy over its funding plans. The finance ministry estimates that only 90% of the eligible population will sign up for the scheme, reducing the cost from 500 billion baht to 450 billion baht. The government is exploring the possibility of financing the project entirely from two years of state budget spending, potentially avoiding the need to borrow. However, the plan still needs to be proposed to the main committee leading the project. The cash handout program aims to stimulate an economy that has experienced low growth rates in recent years. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is moving forward with its plan to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics, with a committee agreeing that they should only be used for medical treatment. The committee will submit a report to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, and if approved, the Food and Drug Administration will amend cannabis-related laws and provide usage criteria. This change is set to take effect on January 1. While Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022, the government has now decided to restrict its use to medical purposes, leading to opposition from advocacy groups and businesses. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is taking steps to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics, with the intention of limiting their use to medical purposes only. A committee tasked with controlling illegal drugs has agreed that cannabis should not be used recreationally, and a majority of the committee members support putting cannabis and hemp back on the narcotics list. The committee will submit a report to the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, and if approved, the Food and Drug Administration will amend cannabis-related laws and provide guidelines for usage. This change is planned to take effect on January 1. While Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022, the government has now decided to restrict its use to medical purposes, which has been met with opposition from cannabis advocacy groups and businesses. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's finance ministry has stated that the rise in government borrowing to fund the budget deficit and a cash handout will not crowd out the private sector. The ministry is working closely with the Bank of Thailand to manage the state bond supply and ensure that higher borrowing does not affect bond offerings from the private sector. The government's plan to distribute cash to citizens has faced criticism for its potential inflationary and fiscal impact, but the ministry believes it has enough liquidity to handle the increased borrowing. The Cabinet has approved a revision of the public debt management plan to accommodate the financing needs for the cash handout. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's cabinet has approved a revised debt plan that includes funding for a cash stimulus program. The plan involves distributing approximately $13.5 billion in cash to Thai citizens, with each person receiving 10,000 baht. The government believes that this cash handout, along with the implementation of a digital wallet, will boost consumer spending and sentiment, ultimately lifting the economy. However, the Bank of Thailand and some economists have expressed concerns about potential inflationary and fiscal impacts, suggesting that the benefit should be limited to those in need. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's central bank governor, Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, is facing pressure from the government to lower interest rates and stimulate economic growth. However, Sethaput argues that the central bank's role is different from that of the government, and his focus is on doing his job rather than personal feelings. The government, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, is targeting 3% growth this year and wants the central bank to cut rates and raise its inflation target. Sethaput has called for structural reforms and more investment to boost growth, but tensions between the central bank and the government continue to simmer. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is implementing a pilot project that will allow data centers to directly purchase renewable power, which could help international tech companies meet their green goals in the country. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated that clean electricity is a competitive advantage and that direct power purchase agreements will benefit Thailand. Currently, there is no policy framework in Southeast Asia for corporations to buy green power directly, posing a challenge for energy-intensive industries. Participating companies in the pilot project must meet certain criteria and are not allowed to sell surplus power to the domestic electricity system. The project has a maximum power generation capacity of 2 gigawatts, and its impact will be studied by the energy ministry and related agencies. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is implementing a pilot project that will allow data centers to directly purchase renewable power, which could help international tech companies meet their green goals in the country. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated that clean electricity is a competitive advantage and that direct power purchase agreements will benefit Thailand. Currently, there is no policy framework in Southeast Asia for corporations to buy green power directly, posing a challenge for energy-intensive industries. Participating companies must meet certain criteria and are not allowed to sell surplus power to the domestic electricity system. The pilot project has a maximum power generation capacity of 2 gigawatts, and its impact will be studied by the energy ministry and related agencies. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is planning to increase tax breaks and reduce lock-up periods for investors in ESG-focused funds in an effort to boost the country's equity market, which has been negatively impacted by a decline in foreign investment. The tax allowance for individual investments in these funds will be raised to 300,000 baht ($8,170) from 100,000 baht, and the required holding period for the tax waiver will be reduced to five years from eight years. The government hopes that these measures will attract more individual investors and promote ESG-linked assets. The Stock Exchange of Thailand is also implementing measures to improve investor confidence, including requiring high-frequency traders to register and disclosing information on "inappropriate trading practices." [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is implementing measures to boost its equity market, which has been negatively impacted by foreign investor withdrawals. The government plans to increase the tax allowance for individual investments in ESG-focused funds from 100,000 baht to 300,000 baht, as well as reduce the lock-up period for these investments from eight years to five years. These proposals aim to attract more individual investors and promote ESG-linked assets. Additionally, the Stock Exchange of Thailand will implement measures to enhance investor confidence, including requiring high-frequency traders to register and disclosing information on "inappropriate trading practices." The finance ministry is also considering establishing a state-managed fund with guaranteed returns to appeal to local investors and support the broader stock market. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's lower house of parliament has approved a $102 billion budget for the next fiscal year, aimed at boosting state spending to drive growth in the country's economy. The budget includes a controversial cash-handout program that will give each Thai citizen 16 years and older 10,000 baht each, with the aim of stimulating consumption and manufacturing. The budget plan will now undergo further scrutiny before being sent to the Senate for consideration and approval. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's central bank is taking action against financial fraud by cracking down on mule accounts, which are used to transfer illegal funds. Over the past two years, bank customers in Thailand have lost $1.6 billion to scams involving these accounts. The Bank of Thailand has frozen nearly 200,000 mule accounts and plans to share a database of risky customers among banks to prevent further fraud. The country has seen a surge in financial crimes, with online scams causing a total of $1.7 billion in damage between March 2022 and May 2024. The central bank has also ordered commercial banks to upgrade their security systems for online transactions. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is preparing for an increase in tourism following the filming of Season 3 of the TV show "The White Lotus" in various locations in the country. The previous seasons of the show filmed in Hawaii and Sicily led to a surge in visitors to those destinations. Luxury travel agencies have already seen a spike in bookings to Thailand, with prices increasing as well. Hotels and tour operators are anticipating a "White Lotus bump" and are experiencing increased interest and bookings. Thailand's tourism ministry has also offered incentives to attract film productions to the country. However, there are concerns about the readiness of certain areas, such as Koh Samui, to handle the influx of tourists due to issues like waste management and water shortages. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's central bank is expected to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2.5% for a fourth meeting, according to a survey of analysts. Some economists have pushed for monetary easing to be delayed until 2025 or later due to rising spending and inflation. However, political turbulence and uncertainty surrounding the fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the opposition party Move Forward could impact the government's spending plan and potentially revive calls for central bank support. The government has repeatedly called for a rate cut, but the central bank has maintained that the current inflation target is appropriate. The country's growth outlook is also uncertain, with the central bank's forecast of 2.6% GDP growth this year seen as challenging. The Thai baht has weakened significantly this year, and the central bank has stated that it will intervene in the currency market only when necessary. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is facing a period of political uncertainty that could have negative effects on the country's financial markets. The fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, and the main opposition party will be decided by Thai courts in the coming weeks. The outcomes of these cases could lead to Srettha's removal, the dissolution of the coalition government led by Thaksin, and a resurgence of street protests by supporters of the opposition Move Forward Party. This political turmoil is occurring amidst stock market losses, a weak baht, and capital outflows, which have already been exacerbated by a dispute between the government and the central bank over monetary policy. The potential for political upheaval also poses a risk to important economic bills, such as the 2025 budget. The Thai economy has already suffered due to delays in the 2024 budget, with growth falling to 1.5% in the first quarter of the year. Foreign investors have been selling Thai bonds and equities, leading to outflows and a decline in the value of the baht. The uncertainty may cause foreign investors to seek opportunities elsewhere. The cases against Srettha and Thaksin are seen as a response from Thailand's pro-royalist establishment to their attempts to consolidate power. If Srettha is found guilty of ethical breaches, a new prime minister will need to be selected. The Move Forward Party is also facing dissolution due to its pledge to amend the lese maj [Extracted from the article]

Thailand has released a draft regulation that will reclassify cannabis as a narcotic starting from January 1st of next year. The move is aimed at curbing the widespread recreational use of marijuana in the country. While cannabis buds will be classified as a category five narcotic, other parts of the plant such as roots and leaves will remain legal. The Ministry of Public Health is seeking public feedback on the proposal until June 25th. This decision has sparked opposition from cannabis advocacy groups and businesses, who have staged rallies and threatened legal action against the Prime Minister. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's central bank is expected to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2.5% for a fourth meeting, according to a survey of analysts. Some economists have pushed for monetary easing to be delayed until 2025 or later. The government has called for a rate cut, but banks have already reduced lending rates in response to this appeal. Political turbulence and uncertainty surrounding the fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the opposition party Move Forward may impact the government's spending plan and could lead to calls for central bank support. The BOT's growth outlook of 2.6% for this year may be challenging, and the baht has weakened by over 7% this year. [Extracted from the article]

Suzuki Motor Corp. has announced that it will cease production of cars and trucks in Thailand by the end of next year in order to focus on manufacturing electric and hybrid vehicles in other locations. The company plans to continue sales and after-sales services in Thailand by importing vehicles from plants in the ASEAN region, Japan, and India. The decision to close the 12-year-old plant in Thailand's Rayong province is part of Suzuki's efforts to optimize global production sites and promote carbon neutrality and electrification. This move comes as Japanese automakers face competition from Chinese rivals in Thailand and increasing pressure to produce more electric and hybrid vehicles. Suzuki aims to have six EV models by 2030-31 and plans to launch its first EV in India next year for export to Japan and Europe. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's government plans to provide a cash stimulus program to 15 million welfare cardholders in an effort to boost the country's economy. Each cardholder will receive 10,000 baht ($273) through a digital wallet scheme by September 30. The funding for the first phase of the program will come from the current fiscal year's budget. The government hopes that this stimulus will help revive economic growth after a period of stagnation. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's parliament will hold a special session in June to expedite the approval of a budget bill aimed at revitalizing the country's economy. The session was announced by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and will begin on June 18. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is seeking to speed up the budget approval process after delays in approving expenditure for the current year negatively impacted the economy. The government plans to raise debt levels to just below the legal limit in order to fund economic revitalization efforts. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is facing a period of political uncertainty that could have negative effects on the country's financial markets. The fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, and the main opposition party will be decided by Thai courts in the coming weeks. The outcomes of these cases could lead to Srettha's removal, the dissolution of the coalition government led by Thaksin, and a resurgence of street protests by supporters of the opposition Move Forward Party. This political turmoil is occurring amidst stock market losses, a weak currency, and capital outflows, which have already impacted Thailand's economy. The situation could potentially delay the approval of the 2025 budget and deter foreign investors. The cases against Srettha and Thaksin are seen as a response from Thailand's pro-royalist establishment to their attempts to consolidate power. The Move Forward Party is also facing dissolution due to its pledge to amend the lese majeste law, which protects the royal family from defamation. Thaksin himself is facing charges under this law. It is believed that Thailand's elites are attempting to control Thaksin rather than sever ties with him, as he and his party serve as useful allies for the establishment. The current situation may be a rough patch in their relationship rather than a complete separation. The mounting legal challenges may prevent Srettha from fully implementing the Pheu Thai party's cash handout scheme, which aims to provide financial assistance to millions of Thais [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is facing a period of political uncertainty that could have negative effects on the country's financial markets. The fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, and the main opposition party will be decided by Thai courts in the coming weeks. The outcomes of these cases could lead to Srettha's removal, the dissolution of the coalition government led by Thaksin, and a resurgence of street protests by opposition supporters. This political turmoil is occurring amidst stock market losses, a weak currency, and capital outflows, which have already been exacerbated by a dispute between the government and the central bank. The potential for political upheaval also poses a risk to important economic bills, such as the 2025 budget, which may be delayed. Thailand's economy has already suffered due to a delay in the 2024 budget, with growth falling to 1.5% in the first quarter of the year. The country's currency and stock market have also performed poorly compared to other Asian countries. Foreign investors may be deterred by the political instability and could seek investment opportunities elsewhere. The cases against Srettha and Thaksin are seen as a response from Thailand's pro-royalist establishment to their attempts to consolidate power. If Srettha is found guilty, a new prime minister will need to be selected. Despite the legal challenges, Srettha remains confident that he can withstand the court's scrutiny. Thaksin, who is currently on [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is planning to issue $1.1 billion of baht-denominated sustainability-linked bonds in the fourth quarter, making it the first Asian government to do so. The bonds will be used to finance the government's budget deficit and will be tied to programs aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The sale has garnered strong interest from both local and foreign institutional investors, reflecting a growing global trend towards green financing. Thailand's Prime Minister is emphasizing sustainability as a way to attract foreign investors, and the country has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The issuance of sustainability-linked bonds may replace the government's previous offerings of sustainability bonds, as they offer more flexibility in how the proceeds can be used. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is planning to give its market regulator, the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), the power to investigate criminal activities in the country's securities markets. This move comes after a series of corporate scandals that have eroded investor confidence. The proposed legal changes will allow the SEC to probe suspected illegal conduct, speeding up the process of imposing charges and punishment against violators. The Thai authorities are looking to strengthen rules and controls on listed companies and stock trading to restore investor confidence after significant market value was lost in 2023. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has stated that Thailand is actively working to resolve the crisis in neighboring Myanmar, where rebel groups are clashing with the military-government. Thailand is collaborating with Laos and other member nations of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to address the issue. They are also increasing humanitarian assistance for people along the Thailand-Myanmar border who have been affected by the conflicts. Thailand's efforts are driven by a desire to see Myanmar return to democracy and achieve peace and stability. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is planning to give its market regulator, the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), the power to investigate criminal activities in the country's securities markets. This move comes after a series of corporate scandals that have eroded investor confidence. The proposed legal changes will allow the SEC to probe suspected illegal conduct, speeding up the process of imposing charges and punishment against violators. The Thai authorities are aiming to strengthen rules and controls on listed companies and stock trading to restore investor confidence. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is considering a supplementary budget of up to $3.4 billion to boost state spending and stimulate the economy through a cash handout program. The additional funds will finance a digital wallet program that aims to provide 10,000 baht to around 50 million Thais in the fourth quarter. The government believes this stimulus will help improve economic growth, which has been lagging behind neighboring countries. The budget will be funded through a wider fiscal deficit and additional revenue collection, and the government plans to spread out borrowing over several years to minimize the impact on the domestic bond market. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is considering a supplementary budget of up to $3.4 billion to boost the economy through a cash handout program. The details of the budget will be presented to the cabinet on May 28. The additional spending will be in addition to the current budget and will widen the budget deficit. The government plans to distribute 10,000 baht to 50 million adult Thais in the fourth quarter to stimulate growth. The funding for the supplementary budget has not been specified, but officials believe it will not negatively impact the domestic bond market. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economy grew better than expected in the first quarter, driven by tourism and private consumption. Gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 1.5% compared to the previous year, surpassing the median estimate of 0.8%. The baht also rose in response to the positive GDP report. While the report may reduce pressure on the central bank to lower borrowing costs, there are concerns about "broad-based weakness" in the economy, particularly in government spending and investment. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) revised its GDP outlook to 2.5% growth, down from the previous estimate of 2.7%. The NESDC also expects the government's cash handout program to contribute to economic expansion. Some economists predict that the central bank may cut interest rates later this year. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economy grew better than expected in the first quarter, driven by tourism and private consumption. Gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 1.5% compared to the previous year, surpassing the median estimate of 0.8%. The baht also rose in response to the positive data. The strong GDP report may reduce pressure on the Bank of Thailand to lower borrowing costs, although there are still concerns about weak investment and slower growth in private consumption. The National Economic and Social Development Council revised its GDP outlook to 2.5% growth, down from the previous estimate of 2.7%. The government's cash handout program is expected to contribute to economic expansion, but there are concerns about inflation and fiscal consolidation. Overall, the GDP report is seen as encouraging for the baht and may shift market sentiment towards the positive impact of tourism. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economy grew better than expected in the first quarter, driven by tourism and private consumption. Gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 1.5% compared to the previous year, surpassing the median estimate of 0.8%. Private consumption rose by 6.9% year-on-year, offsetting a decline in government spending. The positive GDP data may reduce pressure on the Bank of Thailand to lower borrowing costs, and the government plans to roll out a $14 billion cash handout later this year to stimulate consumption. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's economic growth in the first quarter of the year was slower than expected, putting pressure on the central bank to lower borrowing costs to aid recovery. Gross domestic product (GDP) rose 1.5% from a year earlier, surpassing the median estimate of 0.8% in a Bloomberg survey. However, the economy expanded 1.1% quarter-on-quarter, compared to a median estimate of 0.6% growth. The slower economic growth is likely to support the case for an interest-rate cut in the Bank of Thailand's next meeting in June. The government and central bank tensions have cooled, with the finance minister stating that lending and liquidity are more important than borrowing costs. The central bank's policy rate has remained at 2.5% since September, despite negative consumer prices and stuttering GDP growth. Inflation increased in April, marking the first gain in seven months. The second half of the year is expected to see an acceleration in economic growth due to public spending and a $14 billion cash handout to boost consumption. However, critics have warned that this could lead to inflation and hinder fiscal consolidation. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic has sparked concerns of protests and lawsuits from dispensary owners who had opened businesses following the decriminalization of cannabis two years ago. The reclassification will push the cannabis trade underground and make it a crime to produce, sell, import, export, or possess the plant for recreational use. However, medical and health purposes will still be allowed. The policy reversal is seen as a blow to Thailand's cannabis industry, which had hoped to boost agricultural income and wellness tourism. The constant changes in policy risk damaging foreign investor confidence and could have wide-ranging effects on the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic has sparked concerns of protests and lawsuits from dispensary owners who opened their businesses after the drug was decriminalized two years ago. The re-criminalization will also drive the cannabis trade underground. While cannabis for medical and health purposes will still be allowed, the move is seen as a blow to Thailand's emerging cannabis industry, which was intended to boost agricultural income and wellness tourism. The policy reversal is part of the ruling party's anti-drug campaign, and critics argue that it will have negative effects on legitimate cannabis businesses and workers. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's Prime Minister has ordered a reversal of the country's cannabis policy, classifying the plant as a narcotic again and limiting its use to medical and health purposes. This decision comes two years after Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis. The move is seen as a blow to the country's nascent cannabis industry, which was expected to boost agricultural income and wellness tourism. The decision to reclassify cannabis is part of a hard-line anti-drug campaign promoted by the ruling party, which aims to eradicate drugs from Thai society. [Extracted from the article]