Thailand, Malaysia open new Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam border link

13 Sept 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand and Malaysia officially opened a new road connecting the Sadao customs checkpoint with Malaysia's Bukit Kayu Hitam post, aiming to achieve an annual border trade target of US$30 billion.
This new link is crucial for regional logistics, designed to alleviate congestion, reduce waiting times and costs, and expedite import/export processes, benefiting agriculture, tourism, and transport sectors.
The Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam crossing is Thailand's most vital border trade gateway with Malaysia, with the Sadao checkpoint alone accounting for over 80% of the total bilateral trade value.
Both nations committed to expediting further border development projects and streamlining immigration and customs procedures to foster economic growth and improve livelihoods in their respective border regions.

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.