Showing 1 - 10 of 25
Striving for a more balanced economy
Oped, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 14/05/2020
» In its bid to alleviate the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic through the 1-trillion-baht borrowing scheme, the Prayut Chan-o-cha government aims to provide immediate relief to millions who are in trouble, and also restore the grassroots economy, with a view to better balancing the economic system, so it depends less on exports and tourism.
Wake up and ‘smell’ the boiling water
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 10/01/2019
» Despite the uncertain date of the long-awaited election, political parties have intensified their poll campaigns, offering tempting policies to attract voters. A quick look at the campaign pledges of the competing parties suggests they want to turn Thailand into a welfare state. That would be a tough task.
Savvy excise tax hike going up in smoke
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 06/09/2018
» I have a strong reason to oppose the recent decision by the Finance Ministry to delay an increase in excise tax on cigarettes for another two years, from next year to October 2021. The delay doesn't spell good news for the state coffers, which is one consideration. Another concern is that it would deal a harsh blow to the state's efforts to discourage young smokers.
Act now on ageing society before it's too late
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 05/07/2018
» In the next three years, people aged over 60 in Thailand will account for 13.8 million, or 20% of the population. This means in a group of five, there will be one elderly person. In demographic science, a country where 20% of its people are aged 60 years old or higher is categorised as an ageing society.
Time for new chapter in tackling poverty
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 14/06/2018
» Over the past years the government has boasted of numerous economic advances, including an increase in GDP figures. Yet this does not necessarily bode well for its plan to tackle poverty. In fact, these achievements have exacerbated economic inequality, with farmers now marginalised at the bottom of the social spectrum.
Fiscal discipline can still save the day
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 03/05/2018
» Fiscal security is of the utmost importance. When the country faces an economic crisis, every government must resort to stimulus measures to reinvigorate the economy. At times, some make use of fiscal measures to narrow the socio-economic gap. Either way, much money is needed.
Healthcare woes never too big to solve
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 23/11/2017
» Anyone who has never had to admit or nurse a loved one at state hospitals in the provinces cannot really understand what it feels like to be in such crowded and cramped state medical facilities.
Gap between rich, poor fuels our woes
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 01/09/2017
» For decades, poverty and inequality have been chronic problems which have derailed Thailand's economic growth and fuelled political conflicts and unrest. These problems remain even though about a trillion baht has been collectively spent by many governments to address them. What have we missed or done wrong?
Unsustainable welfare a time bomb
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 29/06/2017
» I don't believe any government would be insane enough to revoke the Universal Healthcare Coverage (UC) scheme, also known as the "gold card", or cut the benefits it provides to about 49 million Thais, let alone propose a co-payment scheme as feared by health advocates. Such acts would effectively translate as political suicide.
Sad state of city buses holds back economy
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 06/04/2017
» "Please make room for other passengers," a middle-aged female bus conductor shouted across the cramped cabin of an air-conditioned Bangkok bus during the Monday morning rush hour.