National
Commerce Ministry Launches Fast Track Plus+ to Accelerate Intellectual Property Registration
Thailand's Commerce Ministry has introduced an enhanced Fast Track Plus+ service to speed up intellectual property registrations. The new initiative aims to streamline and accelerate the process of registering intellectual property, supporting innovation and business development in the country.
Finance Ministry to propose tax overhaul to new government, raise VAT to 8.5%
Thailand's Finance Ministry is planning a comprehensive tax reform proposal, including raising the Value Added Tax (VAT) to 8.5%. The proposed changes come alongside economic projections indicating an anticipated 2 percent economic expansion in 2026.
Thai foreign minister hopes Myanmar polls ‘start of transition’ to peace
Thailand's foreign minister expressed optimism about Myanmar's recent election, hoping it could be a first step towards sustainable peace in the country plagued by ongoing civil conflict. The statement reflects Thailand's diplomatic interest in regional stability and peaceful resolution of Myanmar's internal tensions.
Chinese goods ‘a bigger threat than US tariffs’
A leading Thai economic think tank warns that Chinese imports are posing a more significant economic challenge to Thailand than US tariffs. The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) suggests that low-priced Chinese goods are creating substantial economic pressure for Thai producers.
Man who exposed human rights abuses in China granted US asylum
A Chinese human rights activist named Guan Heng has been granted asylum in the United States after secretly documenting detention facilities in Xinjiang. His case highlights ongoing international concerns about human rights abuses in China's Xinjiang region.
Indians pay tribute after Arijit Singh retires at 38 as Bollywood singer
Acclaimed Bollywood singer Arijit Singh has announced his retirement at the age of 38, prompting widespread tributes from fans and the music industry. Singh has been a prominent voice in Indian cinema for over a decade, known for his distinctive and emotional singing style.
China sends police to Australia in hunt for man who doused baby with coffee
Chinese and Australian authorities are collaborating to investigate a shocking incident where a nine-month-old baby was deliberately doused with boiling liquid during a family picnic in 2024. Chinese police have been sent to Australia to assist in the hunt for the perpetrator of this brutal attack.
The politician whose death leaves a vacuum in India's richest state
Ajit Pawar, a prominent Indian politician from Maharashtra, died in a plane crash, leaving a significant impact on the state's political landscape. Known for his ability to reshape Maharashtra's politics in unexpected ways, his death creates a notable vacuum in India's wealthiest state's political ecosystem.
Why China views the UK visit as part of something bigger
Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Labour Party leader, is visiting China as part of a broader diplomatic engagement with international leaders. The visit highlights the ongoing diplomatic interactions between the UK and China, potentially signaling potential shifts in bilateral relations.
Phuket Governor Steps Up Screening Measures to Prevent Nipah Virus
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn has ordered enhanced surveillance and screening measures to prevent the spread of Nipah virus, with a focus on travelers from West Bengal. The initiative involves Phuket International Airport and local health checkpoints to protect public health and maintain confidence among residents and tourists.
Malaysia football officials quit over foreign-born players scandal
Malaysia's football association has faced a major controversy after Fifa accused officials of fraudulently manipulating citizenship documents for foreign-born players. As a result, several football officials have resigned in response to the serious allegations of document falsification.
South Korea's ex-first lady jailed for 20 months for bribery
Kim Keon Hee, wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for bribery. The court ordered her to return a Graff diamond necklace and repay 12.85 million won in cash as part of the conviction.