Falling rice prices a hot potato for Thai government

9 Sept 17:45 Key points summarised by AI

Thai rice prices are plummeting due to global market shifts and increased domestic output, igniting protests from farmers demanding government intervention and creating a challenging situation for the administration.
The government proposes short-term measures, totaling 1.893 billion baht, including loans to farmers for delayed sales, storage support, and incentives for millers to stockpile, aiming to stabilize paddy prices.
Farmers reject current government support, insisting on a price guarantee of 10,000-12,000 baht per ton, significantly higher than the current market average, citing rising production costs.
Experts caution against repeating past unsustainable price subsidy schemes, advocating instead for increased investment in rice breeding research and productivity to achieve long-term stability and competitiveness.

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.