Phuket ready for first major vegetarian festival in two years

13 Sept 19:21 Key points summarised by AI

Phuket expects over 200,000 tourists, mostly Thai, and 3.4 billion baht in revenue from its first major vegetarian festival in two years, with hotels nearing full occupancy.
The festival's return after two years of COVID-19 cancellations has spurred brisk business for vendors and extensive preparations at shrines in both Phuket and Krabi.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.