Showing 1 - 8 of 8
Getting soft power right
Life, Published on 08/01/2024
» After three months in office, the Srettha Thavisin government has raved on about populist policies in the guise of digital wallets and soft power projects that will create income to boost our declining economy. With optimism, we learned that Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Pheu Thai party leader and head of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee (NSPSC), has drafted a budget of 5.1 billion baht to boost festivals and creative industries. It is welcoming news to hear this government is priortising art, music, literature, design, fashion, film, food, games, sports and festivals as essential sources for the creative economy. Where this enormous chunk of budget will come from, like digital wallets, remains to be seen.
Myanmar renews SEZ push
Asia focus, Larry Jagan, Published on 02/10/2017
» Myanmar's special economic zones (SEZs) are a central part of a revitalised economic strategy in which increased manufacturing activity will play a key role. And breathing renewed life and energy into stagnant or stalled SEZs has moved to the top of the government's agenda.
Somkid Jatusripitak: Research institute, not politics
Jon Fernquest, Published on 30/07/2012
» Bridging the gap between universities & business, the best way he can help his country, decides former economics tsar Somkid Jatusripitak.
Big changes in taxes possible
Jon Fernquest, Published on 03/10/2011
» 150,000 to 250,000 baht change in untaxed income. Of 9 million taxpayers only 18,000 in highest 37% bracket.
Too much rice in Thailand
Jon Fernquest, Published on 26/09/2011
» Real problem is overproduction & excess of rice pushing prices down. Labour wasted, used only sporadically in peak months. Poor farmers produce only 15 tonnes of rice per harvest, but are 82% of all rice-farming households.
War on drugs, without extrajudicial killing
Jon Fernquest, Published on 09/06/2011
» This time all parties are renouncing the mass-killing of Thaksin's war on drugs in their anti-drug policies.
Credit cards for farmers and more
Jon Fernquest, Published on 27/05/2011
» In the run-up to Thailand's election, political parties are putting together competitive policy platforms to win the rural vote.
Footwear industry strategy
Jon Fernquest, Published on 16/05/2011
» China faces environmental and dumping problems, so Thailand has high potential as a center for high-end footwear production.