Power price may stay at Bt3.88 as minister proposes subsidy use

12 Sept 23:31 Key points summarised by AI

Energy Minister Akanat Promphan aims to maintain the electricity price at Bt3.88/unit for May-August, challenging the Energy Regulatory Commission's (ERC) proposed increase to Bt3.95/unit.
He proposes utilizing a 9 billion baht surplus from the claw-back mechanism to subsidize the current rate, preventing consumers from facing a price hike.
The ERC, which based its Bt3.95/unit decision on rising fuel costs and public input, warns that keeping the price at Bt3.88/unit would necessitate an additional 5 billion baht subsidy, impacting financial stability and long-term energy security.
The National Energy Policy Committee, led by the prime minister, retains the authority to review and potentially overturn the ERC's decision.

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.