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AI In-brief Today 15:18

Cabinet approves tax hike on imported EVs to 35% from 2027

The Cabinet approved raising excise tax on imported electric vehicles (BEVs and REEVs) to 35%, effective January 1, 2027, from current rates of 10-15%.
This tax hike aims to protect Thailand's local automotive manufacturing, safeguard jobs, and encourage new investments by offering tax incentive packages for companies establishing or expanding production facilities within the country.

AI In-brief 1 Nov 19:56

CPRAM, a subsidiary of CP Group, secured plant variety protection for new hybrid basil strains, sparking public concern in Thailand over corporate influence, potential seed monopolies, and the erosion of traditional farmers' rights.
Kasetsart University, a research partner, defended the protection, clarifying it applies only to specific hybrid strains, not native varieties, and is essential for protecting intellectual property and fostering agricultural innovation through public-private collaboration.
CP Group and CPRAM denied top-level involvement, stating the protection is for internal use of raw materials in their ready-to-eat food division, not for commercializing seeds or creating a monopoly, while threatening legal action against misinformation.
The controversy fuels a broader debate on Thailand's potential accession to UPOV 1991 (a condition for a potential EU free-trade agreement), with proponents citing agricultural economic benefits and critics warning of risks to local biodiversity and farmer autonomy.