Thailand’s poor regions may be left behind in race for COVID-19 vaccines

16 Sept 05:01 Key points summarised by AI

Wealthier Thai municipalities are independently procuring COVID-19 vaccines, raising concerns about inequality between rich and poor regions and potential political motives ahead of upcoming local elections.
The central government allows local vaccine acquisition but mandates FDA approval for safety, while critics question municipalities' limited experience and warn against a fragmented, unequal vaccination rollout.
While some local leaders believe they can expedite the nationwide vaccination process, opposition parties argue that vaccine procurement is solely the central government's responsibility to ensure equitable access for all citizens.

CP Group denies role in CPRAM’s holy basil protection applications

Yesterday 11:10 Key points summarised by AI

CP Group explicitly denies involvement in CPRAM's decisions to research and apply for plant variety protection of four holy basil varieties, countering widespread media reports.
The group clarifies that CPRAM operates as an independent entity under CP ALL, a listed subsidiary, with its own management and decision-making authority, separate from CP Group's direct control.
CP Group refutes inaccurate media claims suggesting it secured protection over all holy basil varieties, which caused public alarm and damaged its reputation.
While supporting the development of new plant varieties to benefit farmers, CP Group emphasizes that such efforts must not infringe upon farmers' rights to cultivate and use native plant varieties.