Commerce minister defends her controversial livestream durian sales campaign

21 Sept 05:41 Key points summarised by AI

Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun defended her controversial livestream durian sale, which, despite attracting 800,000 viewers and 200,000 orders, faced criticism for its 100 baht per fruit price point.
The Minister explained the campaign was a proactive strategy to mitigate an impending durian oversupply, smaller fruit sizes due to weather, cautious consumer spending, and rising transport costs.
The ministry is actively promoting domestic consumption of affordable "Super Small Durian" and exploring new export markets like South Korea, India, and UAE, alongside new transport routes, to build a more robust market mechanism.
Despite grower feedback that the 100 baht/fruit price is unrealistic, the Minister affirmed her commitment to creating a new market mechanism and stimulating demand, accepting current criticism to safeguard farmers' future.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 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.