Can Thailand avert US trade retaliation under Section 301?

14 Sept 14:31 Key points summarised by AI

The US has initiated a Section 301 trade investigation against Thailand, citing its substantial trade surplus and seeking market liberalization in sectors like agriculture, intellectual property, and services.
Section 301 empowers the US to address perceived unfair trade practices and protect domestic industries, serving as an alternative tool after the Supreme Court ruled against previous reciprocal tariffs.
Thailand's Ministry of Commerce has established a task force to prepare a robust defense, planning to submit detailed clarifications and participate in public hearings to avert potential US trade retaliation.
Experts warn of the broad scope of Section 301 and the risk of severe tariffs, advising the Thai government to carefully manage negotiations and diversify its export markets beyond the US.

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.