Industry Ministry seeks help to curb sugarcane burning

13 Sept 03:30 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Industry Ministry is seeking inter-ministerial cooperation to enforce the ban on sugarcane burning, as farmers continue the practice and millers still purchase burnt cane.
Sugarcane burning accounts for 31% of the current harvest (23 million tonnes), significantly contributing to PM2.5 air pollution across numerous provinces, including Bangkok.
Farmers prefer burning due to its lower cost and faster process compared to manual cutting or expensive mechanical harvesters, despite the negative impact on sugar content and environmental health.
The widespread burning poses a serious threat to human health, the environment, and the national economy, particularly impacting the recovering tourism industry during its peak season.

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.