Thai private sector confident of up to 3% economic growth this year

13 Sept 15:46 Key points summarised by AI

The Thai private sector projects 3-3.5% economic growth this year, contingent on the new government swiftly implementing stimulus packages upon formation.
A key proposed stimulus is the Pheu Thai party's "digital wallet" scheme, which would provide a one-time 10,000 baht subsidy to 50 million Thais, costing 500 billion baht and potentially boosting GDP by up to 3%.
Concerns include securing the 500 billion baht funding without severely impacting state reserves, addressing high fuel and power charges, export contraction, and mitigating an estimated 53 billion baht in drought damage.
The private sector urges the rapid formation of a new government to tackle these economic challenges, broaden the tax base, and prioritize environmental sustainability, which is increasingly used as a trade barrier.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.