B8bn in funding for researchers
80億泰銖資金被投入去培育研究人才
Thailand is making a significant investment in bolstering its supply of young researchers with an 8 billion baht allocation for fiscal 2025, primarily to support S-curve industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), and quantum technologies. Sirirurg Songsivilai, chairman of the National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation, emphasized the urgent need for more researchers to enhance the country’s competitiveness in science and innovation. The initiative aims to equip 100,000 employees for the semiconductor industry, leveraging opportunities from geopolitical shifts. Additionally, the plan involves expanding research infrastructure, acquiring new equipment and laboratories, increasing research funding, and fostering a collaborative research network. This “frontier” research is expected to drive new discoveries and advance Thailand’s scientific capabilities, contributing to the development of the country.
The government has set a target to increase the number of researchers to 420,000 by 2027, from the current 250,000, necessitating a budget of 30 billion baht. Patamawadee Pochanukul, president of TSRI, highlighted the need for 160,000 annual graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by 2027, up from 110,000 at present, to support this growth. The focus on semiconductors as a strategic industry is crucial, with the geopolitical tensions between the US and China prompting the relocation of semiconductor plants to Southeast Asia. Thailand aims to attract significant investment in this sector by providing 100,000 high-skilled workers. Furthermore, the initiative recognizes the importance of multidisciplinary research to address environmental issues like PM2.5 pollution and includes a strong emphasis on developing social scientists and environmental researchers to tackle the country’s pressing challenges.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2808540/funding-of-b8bn-for-researchers
編者按：泰國政府大膽地投入80億泰銖資金支持此計畫，目標是在 2025 財政年度前培養出一支強大的青年研究人才隊伍。這項資金將聚焦於推動 AI、EV及量子技術等「S 曲線型」產業，並擴大研究基礎設施、為半導體產業培訓勞動力，以及加強 STEM 教育，以達成在 2027 年前增加研究人員與畢業生數量的宏偉目標。此計畫彰顯了泰國在不斷演變的全球局勢下，轉向創新驅動型增長的戰略核心，力求將自己定位為東南亞技術領域的關鍵角色。
Semiconductor industry crucial for future foreign investment
半導體產業對於未來外資的投入至關重要
The Thai government is set to establish a national semiconductor board to develop investment and development strategies for this critical industry, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced. Following a meeting of economic ministers chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Pichai emphasized that this board aims to attract foreign investments and drive economic growth to achieve an annual expansion goal of 5%. He acknowledged that Thailand has been lagging behind other regional countries in having a dedicated national committee for the semiconductor sector, which is pivotal to future investment plans. To address concerns about the lack of advanced skills among Thai workers, the meeting proposed partnerships with Taiwanese factories and universities to train Thai students in electronics, enhancing their skills to meet market demands immediately upon graduation.
Additionally, Pichai highlighted a report from the Board of Investment (BOI) that underscores the promotion of investment in the electronics industry, particularly in response to the trend of production base relocation due to geopolitical conflicts. The BOI reported significant investments in the electric vehicle and semiconductor sectors, urging the government to create supportive ecosystems for these industries. This involves attracting entrepreneurs in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, including chip production, electronics design, subcontract manufacturing, and advanced chip testing, to establish their facilities in Thailand. Such initiatives are expected to enhance the industry’s value and generate high-skilled jobs for Thai workers. The BOI noted that negotiations with global companies are already in progress to support this move. The government’s decision to hold weekly meetings of economic ministers comes in response to disappointing economic growth of only 1.5% in the first quarter of this year.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40038708
編者按： 泰國正在加強對半導體產業的關注，並成立國家委員會以優化投資戰略與促進經濟增長。副總理兼財政部長皮猜（Pichai Chunhavajira）強調，政府正致力於吸引外資，並與台灣相關產業鏈建立合作夥伴關係，以提升電子領域的技術實力。透過齊力打造支援性的產業生態系統並吸引全球半導體製造商，泰國旨在把握產業鏈轉移的契機，增強自身技術能力以驅動經濟擴張。
July will see a VAT on cheap imports
七月起將對廉價進口商品徵收增值稅
The Royal Gazette has announced that starting July 5, the Finance Ministry will begin collecting value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods, including those priced below 1,500 baht. This measure, effective until December 31, 2024, aims to ensure fairness for domestic entrepreneurs who already pay VAT and to comply with international agreements. The policy addresses the issue of unfair competition from cheap imported consumer goods that previously were not subject to VAT. The announcement, signed by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, stipulates that the Customs Department will handle VAT collection until the end of 2024, after which the Revenue Department will take over, necessitating amendments to the Revenue Code.
This initiative, approved in principle by the cabinet on June 4, is part of a broader effort to prevent the influx of cheap imported goods, particularly from China, that undermine the domestic market. The new VAT policy replaces the previous regime in place since 2018, which only applied to imported goods valued at more than 1,500 baht. The government’s decision responds to complaints from local businesses about the negative impact of cheap online products on their income. By implementing VAT on all imported goods, the government aims to create a level playing field for both importers and local producers, supporting the domestic economy and ensuring fair competition.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2815640/cheap-imports-levied-vat-from-july
編者按： 自 7 月 5 日起至 2024 年 12 月 31 日，泰國將對所有進口商品徵收增值稅（VAT），包括售價低於 1,500 泰銖的商品。財政部長皮猜（Pichai Chunhavajira）發起的這項提案，旨在解決在地企業家面臨的不公平競爭問題，並與國際貿易規範接軌。此項政策改革取代了先前基於門檻的免稅制度，透過確保在地生產商與進口商之間的平等條件，來強化國內市場。
Thailand names leading smart cities
泰國政府評選出領先中的智慧城市
Phuket has been ranked as the top province-based smart city, while the Wang Chan Valley in Rayong province has been named the leading city-based smart area in Thailand, according to the Thailand Smart City Competitiveness Index 2023. This index, which assessed 30 cities across 23 provinces, aims to raise awareness among leaders and residents about the progress, strengths, and weaknesses of smart city development. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, president of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), stated that the initiative seeks to inspire the development of smart cities by showcasing successful examples. In the 2023 rankings, the top city-based smart areas were Wang Chan Valley in Rayong (83.6%), Samyan Smart City in Bangkok (79%), and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in Bangkok (74.6%). For province-based smart areas, the top three were Phuket (83.6%), Chachoengsao (76.8%), and Khon Kaen (53.8%).
The index categorizes cities into city- and province-based rankings, utilizing data and performance reports from city developers. It evaluates five components: vision and goals, physical and digital infrastructure development, data and security systems, seven aspects of smart city services, and sustainable investment and management strategies. According to Depa, the report aims to raise awareness about the progress and challenges of smart city development, inspire further growth, and foster positive competition among smart cities. This competition encourages cities to improve their plans and practices to enhance their local and international reputations while ensuring sustainable development. Nuttapon emphasized that the Thailand Smart City Office is responsible for creating master plans, action plans, and driving smart city development in alignment with national development goals. The master plan 1 (2024-27) targets the development of 105 smart cities in 77 provinces by 2027, aiming for direct and indirect investments totaling 200 billion baht. Depa is currently proposing master plan 2 to the national smart city development board, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2815356/thailand-crowns-leading-smart-cities
「2023 年泰國智慧城市競爭力指數」評選結果顯示，普吉府（Phuket）在省級智慧城市類別中排名第一，而位於羅勇府的 旺占谷（Wang Chan Valley）則在城市級智慧區域類別中居於首位。這項由泰國數位經濟促進局（Depa）主導的計畫，旨在展示遍布 23 個府、共 30 座智慧城市的成功發展案例。該排名突顯了各城市在願景、基礎設施、數據系統、服務遞送及永續管理方面的進步，透過推動城市間的良性競爭，不僅能提升在地與國際名聲，更能進一步帶動經濟與社會的全面發展。
Thailand climbs five spots in the index of competitiveness
泰國的世界競爭力排名攀升五個名次
The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) has released its World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, revealing that Thailand’s competitiveness ranking has improved by five positions from the previous year, now standing at 25th out of 67 economies worldwide and second in ASEAN, behind Singapore. Thailand’s advancement is notable across several criteria used to assess overall economic competitiveness. Specifically, the country has shown significant progress in Economic Performance, rising to fifth place from 16th last year. Business Efficiency has also improved, with Thailand now ranked 20th compared to 24th in 2023. Government Efficiency saw a slight decline, dropping to 24th from 23rd, while the Infrastructure ranking remained steady at 43rd.
Within the ASEAN region, the competitiveness rankings place Singapore at the top, followed by Thailand at 25th, Indonesia at 27th, Malaysia at 34th, and the Philippines at 52nd. This regional comparison highlights Thailand’s strong performance and improvement in global competitiveness, positioning it as a key player in the ASEAN economic landscape.
編者按： 泰國在《2024 年 IMD 世界競爭力年報》中表現優異，全球排名上升五位至第 25 名，顯著提升了其國際競爭力。泰國在「經濟表現」方面進步神速，目前高居全球第五，加上「營商效率」的提升，均突顯了其日益增長的經濟實力。儘管「政府效率」略有下滑，但泰國的總體進步鞏固了其作為東協（ASEAN）領先經濟體的地位，在區域排名中僅次於新加坡。
Shopping centers support the net-zero objective
泰國購物中心同步支持淨零目標
The Thai Shopping Centre Association (TSCA) is advocating for sustainable policies that encompass economic, environmental, and social dimensions to bolster the economy. As a crucial player linking various industries from upstream to downstream, shopping centers provide vital opportunities for entrepreneurs, farmers, and communities, according to Chanavat Uahwatanasakul, TSCA president. The association has committed to supporting Thailand’s net-zero goal by encouraging member centres to raise air-conditioning temperatures by 1°C to conserve energy and urging public sector involvement in energy-saving initiatives. In waste management, TSCA has partnered with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to launch the “This shopping centre separates waste” campaign, focusing initially on food waste management and setting a model for other large retail operators. Additionally, the TSCA aims to develop 18 new projects worth over 152 billion baht by 2030, with its members operating 90 malls nationwide, which comprise 50% of Thailand’s shopping sector and employ approximately 500,000 people.
Furthermore, the TSCA is promoting energy management measures among its members, who have already reduced energy consumption by 25 million units per year, saving 113 million baht annually and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 12,527 tonnes of carbon dioxide, equivalent to planting over 1.3 million trees. Chanavat highlighted that if the entire industry collaborates, energy consumption could be reduced by 53 million units, saving 238 million baht annually. The association also endorses the use of clean energy in the service sector by installing rooftop solar panels, with a total production capacity of 66 megawatts, surpassing the Ubonrat Dam’s combined hydro and solar power capacity by 34%. TSCA members’ solar power systems generate 86 million units of electricity, representing a total investment of 1.7 billion baht. The TSCA consists of 12 prominent shopping centre operators, including Central Pattana, The Mall Shopping Complex Co, Siam Piwat Co, and others, all contributing to the sector’s sustainability and economic strength.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2813574/mall-operators-back-net-zero-goal
編者按： 泰國購物中心協會（TSCA）正積極在會員間推動永續發展，包括節能措施與廢棄物管理活動。這些努力旨在支持泰國的「淨零排放」目標，同時透過遍布全國的大規模零售營運來驅動經濟增長。
Third floating solar project to be launched by Egat
泰國發電局（Egat）將啟動第三座水面太陽能板計畫
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) has announced plans to outsource engineering, procurement, and construction firms for the development of a third solar floating project on the Srinagarind Dam reservoir. According to Thidade Eiamsai, the deputy governor for power plant development and renewable energy, this new project is expected to generate 140 megawatts of power. This will be Egat’s third solar floating project, following the 44MW floating solar plants at Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani and Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen. The Srinagarind Dam project will integrate with the existing hydroelectric power system, creating a hybrid power generation model that enhances the stability and reliability of the power supply, particularly during off-peak hours to support agricultural activities.
This project is part of a broader government-approved initiative to install a total of 2,725MW of floating solar power by 2037, contributing to Thailand’s goal of achieving 20 gigawatts of renewable energy generation from both Egat and private investors. This initiative is outlined in the revised National Power Development Plan for 2024 to 2037. The integration of floating solar panels with hydroelectric plants optimizes the use of water resources and significantly supports the country’s renewable energy targets, improving the overall energy security and sustainability of Thailand’s power supply system.
編者按： 泰國發電局（Egat）正積極擴張其再生能源組合，計畫在詩那卡林大壩（Srinagarind Dam）建設第三座水面太陽能板計畫，預計發電量達 140 百萬瓦。此項提案與泰國雄心勃勃的再生能源目標一致，透過混合動力發電技術，進一步強化全國的能源安全與永續發展。
Delta to discuss Sustainability for Business Competitiveness with Industry Leaders at the Bangkok Post-ESG Conference in 2024
台達電將於 2024 年《曼谷郵報》ESG 論壇與業界領袖探討「永續發展提升企業競爭力」議題
Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL showcased Thailand’s advanced electronics manufacturing sector at the Bangkok Post ESG Conference 2024, held at Centara Grand CentralWorld in Bangkok. As a keynote speaker, Delta, represented by CEO Mr. Victor Cheng, underscored its 35-year success built on sustainable development principles. Highlighting initiatives like eight power electronics and automation labs at top universities, workforce upskilling programs, and a localized supply chain, Delta outlined its commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy in operations by 2030. Cheng emphasized that Delta’s robust ESG strategy has been pivotal in attracting world-class customers and partners, serving as a cornerstone of their competitive edge.
The conference, themed “Greening the Future: ESG Leadership in the Sustainability Revolution,” convened industry leaders, including H.E. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, who addressed global sustainability regulations, climate FinTech, and biodiversity. Delta was featured alongside leaders from Thailand’s retail, industrial estate, energy, banking, and property development sectors. As a leader in Thailand’s electronics industry, Delta remains committed to advancing ESG practices and collaborating with industry peers to foster a low-carbon society. Notably, Delta is the sole Thai electronics manufacturer listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices’ World Index (2022-2023) and has earned the Supplier Engagement Leader 2022 recognition from CDP for its supply chain sustainability efforts.
編者按： 泰國台達電子在 2024 年《曼谷郵報》ESG 論壇上展現了其永續發展面的領導力，強調其建立在環保原則與創新實踐之上的 35 年深厚根基。台達電執行長鄭平突顯了公司邁向 2030 年達成 100% 再生能源使用的進程，並輔以大學合作夥伴關係及在地供應鏈建置等計畫。作為泰國頂尖電子企業之一，台達再次重申對 ESG 卓越表現的承諾，透過跨界合作推動永續商業實踐，並進一步強化其全球競爭力。
Auto sales in May increased by 6%
五月汽車銷量成長6%
In May, Vietnam’s auto sales showed a 6% increase compared to April, reaching 25,794 units, driven by stimulus measures implemented by dealers to boost consumption, as reported by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA). Passenger car sales rose by 6% to 18,235 units, while commercial vehicle deliveries grew by 7% to 7,292 units. However, sales of special-purpose vehicles saw a slight decline of 4%, totaling 267 units for the month. Over the first five months of the year, VAMA members collectively sold 108,309 vehicles. Notably, sales of domestically produced autos fell by 14% year-on-year, contrasting with an 8% increase in imported vehicle sales.
Several international brands such as Audi, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Volkswagen, Volvo, and Haval did not disclose their sales figures. Vinfast, a prominent Vietnamese automaker, also did not report sales results, citing its quarterly reporting schedule starting from August 2023 as mandated by the U.S. stock market regulations.
Industry experts attributed the stronger growth in completely built-up units (CBUs) compared to domestically produced vehicles to incentives such as zero tariffs for imported vehicles with a localization rate of 40% or higher under Vietnam’s free trade agreements. Additionally, Vietnamese dealers initiated various promotional campaigns, including discounts, support for registration fees, and gift offers, which proved effective in attracting more buyers to imported units during the period.
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/data-speaks/may-auto-sales-inch-up-6-4757795.html
編者按： 越南汽車市場 5 月銷量增長 6%，達到 25,794 輛，這主要受惠於經銷商為刺激消費者需求而推動的促銷優惠。其中，自用車銷量增長 6%，達到 18,235 輛；商用車交付量則成長 7%，至 7,292 輛。儘管特殊車款銷量略有下降，但整體表現反映出持續的努力與優惠激勵措施，有力地支撐了市場的復甦。
Smaller enterprises might cut corporate income tax to as little as 15%
小型企業的企業所得稅可能降至 15%
The Ministry of Finance in Vietnam has proposed significant amendments to the Law on Corporate Income Tax aimed at bolstering the private economic sector, particularly small and micro-sized enterprises (SMEs). A key highlight of these proposed changes includes a potential reduction in corporate income tax rates for SMEs from the current standard rate of 20%. Under the new proposal, SMEs could benefit from reduced tax rates ranging between 15% to 17%, contingent on their previous year’s revenues. This initiative is designed to stimulate the transition of business households into formal enterprises and foster overall economic growth.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the rationale behind lowering tax rates for SMEs is to align with global practices where many countries impose lower tax rates on small businesses to facilitate their growth and competitiveness. Currently, Vietnam’s corporate tax rate of 20% is on par with countries like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, but higher than regional counterparts such as Singapore (17%) and Brunei (18.5%), while lower than others like the Philippines (30%), Myanmar (25%), and Indonesia (22%). With nearly 94% of Vietnam’s 900,000 enterprises classified as small and micro-sized, these tax reforms aim to create a more favorable business environment, incentivize formalization, and ultimately enhance revenue generation for the State budget in the long term.
In addition to proposing lower tax rates, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of supporting SMEs, which are vital to Vietnam’s economic landscape. By encouraging their development through favorable tax policies, the government aims to boost employment, innovation, and productivity within the private sector, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth and prosperity. The amendments signify a strategic move towards nurturing a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem that can adapt and thrive amidst evolving global economic challenges.
編者按： 越南財政部已提議修訂法律，調降中小微型企業（SMEs）的企業所得稅率，作為加強私營經濟部門努力的一環。提議的稅率可能落在 15%至 17%之間，旨在激勵企業正規化並提升中小微型企業的競爭力。透過接軌國際慣例並減輕稅收負擔，越南尋求為中小微型企業的增長、創造就業及長期經濟穩定營造更具支持性的環境。
Indonesia’s “dirty” nickel growth driven by the EV transition
電動車轉型驅動印尼「髒鎳」產量增長
Indonesia’s nickel industry has experienced rapid expansion in recent years, positioning itself as a crucial global supplier essential for electric vehicle batteries. This transformation was spurred by President Joko Widodo’s policy banning the export of raw nickel ore, prompting significant investments from Chinese companies to establish domestic processing plants. While this has bolstered Indonesia’s exports and attracted record foreign direct investment, critics have raised concerns over the environmental toll. They accuse the government of prioritizing nickel extraction at the expense of rainforest conservation, pointing to deforestation, water pollution from processing plants, and heavy reliance on coal-fired power for nickel smelting.
The country, already dominating global refined nickel production with a 57% share, aims to increase this to 69% by 2030 despite recent global price fluctuations. Pressure from Western markets demanding cleaner practices has pushed Jakarta to announce a “decarbonisation road map” for the industry by 2025. However, transitioning to greener energy sources like renewables remains a long-term challenge due to infrastructure limitations and cost considerations, particularly in remote mining areas. Indonesian officials acknowledge the need for balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, proposing potential shifts to natural gas as an interim step towards reducing emissions, albeit acknowledging current infrastructure gaps.
The industry faces complex decisions ahead as it navigates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) expectations while maintaining cost competitiveness. While some companies are exploring renewable alternatives, the broader shift away from coal is expected to be gradual, contingent upon infrastructure development and economic feasibility. As Indonesia charts its course towards a more sustainable nickel sector, balancing these competing demands will be critical in shaping its future as a global leader in the supply chain for green technologies.
https://www.ft.com/content/149f1153-d745-4b51-ba5e-7c118d30cf23
編者按： 印尼鎳礦產業因其在供應電動車電池方面的關鍵角色而開始蓬勃發展，這主要得益於印尼政府禁止鎳原礦出口的政策，以及對加工煉製廠的大量投資。然而，這種增長也引發了環境隱憂，包括森林砍伐和環境污染，且加工過程高度依賴燃煤發電。隨著雅加達當局目標進一步提升在全球精煉鎳生產中的市場份額，來自西方市場對於「更乾淨做法」的壓力，正促使印尼在應對基礎設施挑戰與經濟考量的同時，制定去碳化轉型路線圖。
Finland and Indonesia increase their collaboration in smart cities and green energy
芬蘭與印尼正在加強智慧城市與綠色能源領域之合作
Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi met with her Finnish counterpart Elina Valtonen in Helsinki to bolster bilateral ties, emphasizing collaboration in green energy and smart cities. Marsudi highlighted Finland’s expertise in renewable energy, citing agreements between private sectors like Medco Group and Valmet Technologies to construct a biomass-to-energy plant in Merauke, Papua. This initiative aims to reduce diesel oil consumption by 27.5 million liters over five years, underscoring Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Marsudi expressed optimism for expanding these efforts and exploring further partnerships in green energy.
Additionally, Marsudi discussed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital Authority and Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, focusing on enhancing cooperation for Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara. She underscored Finland’s role as a key trading partner, noting a significant increase in trade volumes that surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching US$713 million in 2023. Both ministers affirmed their intent to foster greater investment, particularly in green energy and smart cities, and expressed hopes for concluding Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations. Educational cooperation was also a priority, with plans to expand exchanges, joint research endeavors, and scholarships between the two nations. In the context of celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations, Marsudi and Valtonen reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting shared aspirations for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
編者按： 隨著印尼外交部長蕾特諾·馬蘇迪（Retno Marsudi）與芬蘭外交部長愛琳娜·瓦爾托寧（Elina Valtonen）在赫爾辛基會晤，印尼與芬蘭正加強在綠色能源與智慧城市措施上的合作。雙方討論的核心聚焦於再生能源項目，例如位於馬老奇（Merauke）的生物質轉能源發電廠，並強化在印尼新首都「努山塔拉」（Nusantara）建設上的協作。兩國還目標提升貿易限額與教育交流，在慶祝建交 70 週年之際，再次重申對永續發展與共同經濟增長的承諾。