El Niño brewing a new crisis for Thai economy next year

11 Sept 01:14 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand faces a looming economic and societal crisis as an intensifying El Niño is projected to cause severe impacts from next year, potentially lasting until mid-2027.
The agricultural sector, particularly rice production, is expected to suffer significant losses, with damages estimated up to 62 billion baht, leading to an 8% decline in income and shifts in the labor market.
Wider consequences include threats to tourism from wildfires and air pollution, increased economic inequality, and widespread water shortages affecting households and industries, alongside health risks for vulnerable populations.
Experts recommend proactive strategies such as promoting water-efficient crops, developing drought-tolerant varieties, and implementing demand-side water management policies, including pricing water usage to fund sustainable infrastructure.

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.