Explainer: Thailand's vaccine plans and rollout timeline

14 Sept 03:01 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand targets vaccinating 50 million residents, including non-citizens, by year-end to achieve herd immunity, with an eventual goal of inoculating the entire 70 million population.
The AstraZeneca vaccine, locally produced by Siam Bioscience, will be the main vaccine administered from June, with plans to consider and procure other brands in the future.
Current vaccination efforts prioritize medical personnel, high-risk groups, and specific non-Thai residents like pink card holders (aged 60+ or with underlying conditions) and foreign diplomats, with broader plans for other expatriates still unclear.
While private, paid vaccination options are not yet available, Moderna is expected to be the first elective vaccine, procurable by private hospitals through the Government Pharmaceutical Organization after anticipated FDA approval.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.