Postponement of International Horticultural Expo 2026 likely

18 Sept 20:23 Key points summarised by AI

The International Horticultural Expo 2026 in Udon Thani is facing a likely postponement to November 2027 due to significant delays in construction and a severe shortage of funding.
The Thai organizing committee plans to seek permission from the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) for a one-year delay.
Construction of buildings has not yet commenced, as the sole interested company withdrew, citing an unviable median price and tight contractual deadlines.
The project faces a substantial funding gap; the initial 2.5 billion baht estimate was deemed insufficient by AIPH (proposing 5 billion baht), and the government rejected a request for additional funds as unviable.

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.