Thailand’s Kratom Plant Act announced in Royal Gazette

20 Sept 07:21 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand officially decriminalizes kratom leaves, removing them from the Category 5 narcotics list, effective upon publication in the Royal Gazette.
The government promotes kratom as a potential cash crop to boost the grassroots economy, allowing individuals to possess and consume the leaves.
Strict regulations govern kratom sales, prohibiting distribution to pregnant/breastfeeding women, those under 18, and in specific locations like schools and public parks.
Advertising for recreational use is forbidden, and both unauthorized import/export and sales violations incur significant fines and potential imprisonment.

Thailand secures US$200m World Bank loan for clean energy and low carbon cities

Today 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand secured a US$200 million loan from the World Bank to significantly invest in clean energy and low-carbon urban development initiatives.
The program aims to drive clean energy funding and low-carbon growth, ensuring a just transition for small and medium-sized enterprises, workers, farmers, and local communities.
Channelled through the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, the loan will fund energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas, including rooftop solar installations and electrical system modernizations, reducing initial capital burdens via Energy Service Companies (ESCOs).