Showing 1 - 10 of 13
Rethinking our attitude towards populism
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 06/12/2018
» The new package intended for the poor, valued at 38 billion baht issued by the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration ahead of the election, is seen by critics as a populist tactic aimed at maximising political gain. Yet in my opinion, it's time we took a new look or changed our attitude toward populist policies. The fact is that all governments, elected or not, tend to embrace populism and even though some packages may not benefit the middle class, populist policies are just inevitable.
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.
EEC needs political will to succeed
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 25/01/2018
» The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), a project that will strengthen not only the country's economic performance but also its competitiveness, is making rapid progress, which is commendable.
Customs not up to speed on supercar scam
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 21/09/2017
» Bangkok shouldn't be an ideal city for high-powered supercars. Given the city's notorious traffic congestion, it is hard to imagine how people can maximise their supercars' engine capacity by driving them at high speed. Yet, luxury cars are still one of the key items possessed by millionaires here.
Supercar tax-dodging game far too easy
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 08/06/2017
» The ongoing supercar saga reflects the flaws in the country's tax system and deep-rooted corruption in state mechanisms.
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.
Society must work to sanction tax cheats
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 12/05/2016
» The Finance Ministry's tax reform process, with a new tax structure, is well under way. The next step is to find ways to get tough with tax dodgers.
Mass-transit projects raise hopes of easing traffic woes
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 26/11/2015
» The government's plan to fast-track infrastructure development projects, especially the city mass-transit system in Bangkok under the public-private partnership (PPP) programme, is more than welcome. These projects are worthy because they will not only boost the country's economy, but also upgrade the quality of life for urban residents.
Citizens shoulder burden of vast state debt
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 11/06/2015
» Bad policies formulated by previous governments including the previous government's rice scheme have left the country in financial trouble, owing some 720 billion baht.
Evading taxes shortchanges the nation's potential
News, Wichit Chantanusornsiri, Published on 24/04/2014
» Boosting the tax base has been on the horizon of policymakers for years. After all, only 10 million people file tax returns out of a population of 67 million. Simple maths suggests that whether out of ignorance or intention, there are plenty who simply are not meeting their civic duties.