Showing 1 - 10 of 35
Grasping the VAT nettle
Oped, Editorial, Published on 24/11/2025
» The proposal to raise value-added tax from 7% to 8.5% in 2028, and to 10% in 2030, by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas is a display of political courage rarely seen in a political landscape where politicians are quick to spend money in the name of "economic stimulus" but stay mum when asked how to finance the schemes.
Bread, butter and bikes
Oped, Editorial, Published on 04/06/2025
» The government's latest campaign to arrest and fine motorcyclists and pillion riders for not wearing helmets has hardly seemed to inspire hope among the public that it will have a positive impact, nor scare potential law breakers.
Health cover needs review
News, Editorial, Published on 03/03/2025
» The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently released its 2024 Social Conditions Report, which contained alarming figures regarding healthcare expenses incurred by non-Thai citizens along Thailand's border areas, particularly along its border with Myanmar.
Social Security Office spending concerns
Oped, Editorial, Published on 19/02/2025
» Concerns raised about budget spending on communication and PR by the Social Security Office (SSO) have brought a much-needed spotlight on the agency that oversees the Social Security Fund (SSF).
Saving Thailand's Social Security Fund an urgent priority
Editorial, Published on 08/09/2024
» With the Social Security Fund (SSF) facing the existential threat of bankrupt in coming decades, the government should realise this is no time for indecision.
Don't tamper with Social Security Fund
Oped, Editorial, Published on 16/07/2024
» The Srettha government is considering various measures to resuscitate the country's economy, including reducing financial contributions to the Social Security Fund (SSF) -- the state pension and welfare fund for millions of workers and retirees.
Bad habits on full display
News, Editorial, Published on 25/03/2024
» The primary duties of MPs are vetting laws and scrutinising fiscal budget legislation. However, a recent incident involving a member of the Pheu Thai Party sparked criticism and raised concerns over the ethical conduct of elected representatives.
Overhauling defence
News, Editorial, Published on 15/01/2024
» While Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang's plan to seek 600 million baht from the central budget to fund an early retirement scheme for high-ranking generals is a step in the right direction towards streamlining the armed forces, it nevertheless falls short of the promises it had made.
Budget bill lacks focus
News, Editorial, Published on 08/01/2024
» The House debate following the first reading of the 2024 Budget Bill concluded on Friday with most government MPs voting in support of the bill, despite concerns sounded by the opposition, most notably the Move Forward Party, about the 3.48-trillion-baht budget.
PM must show courage
Oped, Editorial, Published on 29/12/2023
» Deputy PM Somsak Thepsutin is known as a man of few words. His ability to hold his tongue illustrates the old adage that silence is golden. Despite critics often criticising his chameleon-like political nature, they always open their ears whenever he speaks. Needless to say, Mr Somsak rarely has a loose tongue.