Myanmar coup to take big toll on trade with Thailand, the world: Experts

13 Sept 09:56 Key points summarised by AI

**Foreign Investment Dries Up:** The military coup triggers immediate delays and cancellations of foreign and Thai investments, with experts predicting a 30-40% drop in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) due to political uncertainty and potential international sanctions.
**Trade Privileges Threatened:** The US and Europe are considering sanctions that could revoke trade privileges, severely impacting Myanmar's exports—especially its crucial textile and clothing sector—by imposing significant tariffs.
**Border Trade and Labor Disrupted:** The coup jeopardizes border trade with Thailand through potential new customs regulations and a forecasted decline in Thai exports. It also threatens migrant labor mobility, risking worker shortages in vital Thai sectors.
**Economic Contraction Looms:** Experts forecast a significant economic contraction for Myanmar this year, as the coup's instability stifles trade, investment, employment, and domestic consumption, undoing recent economic progress.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.