Sustainability Expo 2024 to Spotlight Climate Action and Future Challenges
2024 年永續發展博覽會（Sustainability Expo 2024）將聚焦氣候行動與未來挑戰
The 5th edition of the Sustainability Expo (SX2024), ASEAN’s largest sustainability trade show, is set to take place from September 27 to October 6 at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Operating under the theme “Good Balance, Better World,” the event aims to raise awareness and inspire immediate action on climate change. The expo will cover a wide range of topics, including the ageing population, circular economy, and social inclusion, said Tongjai Thanachanan, director of the SX Organising Committee. Organisers anticipate a substantial increase in attendance, targeting 500,000 visitors compared to 300,000 last year.
The expo will span 70,000 square meters and feature 10 zones highlighting various sustainable practices. With the participation of international exhibitors and partners, SX2024 continues to build on the success of the past four editions. The event, founded by five leading companies in partnership with the Thailand Supply Chain Network, has evolved into a business-to-consumer-to-business (B2C2B) platform, offering companies an opportunity to enhance their visibility and engagement with a broader audience.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40041428
編者按： 第五屆永續發展博覽會（SX2024）作為東協最大的永續發展貿易展，將於曼谷舉行，主題為「良好平衡，更美好的世界」。本次活動旨在提升氣候變遷意識並激發即刻行動，涵蓋人口老齡化、循環經濟及社會包容等議題，預計將吸引 50 萬名參觀者，反映出大眾對永續發展與解決全球挑戰的關注日益增加。
WHA Corp Gears Up for ASEAN Investment Boom, Expands Land Sales Target
WHA 集團準備迎接東協投資熱潮，調高土地銷售目標
WHA Corp, Thailand’s largest industrial estate developer, has announced an aggressive plan to attract foreign investment in the second half of 2024, expecting a surge in demand driven by global relocation trends and geopolitical shifts. CEO Jareeporn Jarukornsakul outlined the company’s strategy, citing an upcoming “golden era” for ASEAN over the next 1-2 years, with significant investments from China, Taiwan, and the U.S. in industries like EVs, semiconductors, and supply chains. WHA has raised its land sales target for 2024 to 2,500 rai and is negotiating deals covering over 1,000 rai of land by year-end.
In addition to its industrial estate expansions, WHA is pursuing major initiatives in logistics, utilities, clean energy, and digital transformation. The company plans to develop six new industrial estates and is expanding its green logistics solution, Mobilix, which includes EV rentals and charging stations. WHA also aims to increase its clean energy capacity to 472 megawatts and expand its water and wastewater treatment plants, particularly in Vietnam. Jareeporn stressed the need for the Thai government to promote investment beyond the Eastern Economic Corridor, highlighting the potential of the Southern Economic Corridor and the Land Bridge project.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40041426
編者按： 隨著供應鏈從中國轉移以及資料中心投資的激增，泰國領先的工業地產開發商 WHA 集團已將 2024 年的土地銷售目標上調至 2,500 萊（Rai）。該公司正積極擴展其在泰國與越南的工業園區，利用其強大的基礎設施與戰略位置，吸引包括電子、汽車及科技領域在內的全球投資者，以掌握東協經濟增長的機遇。
TrueBusiness and Intel Partner to Revolutionize Thai Healthcare with AI and 5G
TrueBusiness 與英特爾合作，利用 AI 與 5G 變革泰國醫療保健
TrueBusiness has partnered with global tech leader Intel to transform Thailand’s healthcare sector into a fully digital ecosystem. Announced by Pichit Thanyodom, True Corporation’s chief business officer, the collaboration will leverage True’s 5G network and Intel’s advanced AI technologies to introduce seven new smart healthcare solutions aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and patient data management. These innovations are set to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Thailand’s healthcare system, positioning the country as a competitive medical hub in Southeast Asia and improving health outcomes for Thai citizens.
Intel’s country manager Chantana Suwannawong and regional Health and Life Sciences Sales Lead George Tai highlighted the deployment of Intel’s AI-powered solutions like OpenVino, enabling real-time patient care through 5G and edge analytics. The integration of AI will support diagnosis accuracy, streamline treatment processes, and reduce medical costs. The strategic partnership aims to bring scalable, secure, and sustainable AI applications to Thailand’s healthcare market, with AI being used in key areas such as medical data management, preventive care, and rehabilitation, ultimately improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency in hospitals.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40041218
編者按： TrueBusiness 與英特爾（Intel）合作，將 AI 驅動的醫療解決方案與 5G 網路整合，旨在提升泰國醫療服務的效率與可及性。該合作計畫包括開發遠距醫療平台與智慧診斷工具，利用邊緣運算即時分析數據，不僅能優化病患護理，也支持泰國發展為區域醫療樞紐的願景。
EVAT Welcomes New Leadership to Drive Thailand’s EV Hub Ambitions
泰國電動車協會（EVAT）迎來新領導層，推動泰國成為電動車樞紐
The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) has appointed Suroj Sangsanit, vice president of SAIC Motor-CP, as its new president, succeeding Krisda Utamote. Under Suroj’s two-year term starting in July 2024, EVAT aims to strengthen Thailand’s position as a manufacturing and export hub for electric vehicles (EVs) in Southeast Asia. With over 390 members from various sectors, EVAT focuses on advancing EV technology, supporting regulatory standards, and fostering partnerships to enhance the country’s EV industry within the global supply chain.
Key leaders within EVAT, including Uthen Supatti and Siamnut Phanasorn, have emphasized the importance of developing skilled human resources and supporting the government’s 30@30 policy, which aims to ensure that 30% of Thailand’s auto production consists of EVs by 2030. The association is working closely with the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Thai Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association to attract foreign investment and support infrastructure development. With companies like PTT planning to expand the network of charging stations nationwide, Thailand is positioning itself to meet growing consumer demand for electric vehicles.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/automobile/40041239
編者按： 泰國電動車協會（EVAT）推選出新任主席及領導團隊，致力於強化泰國在東南亞電動車市場的領先地位。新領導層將重點推動充電基礎設施的普及、在地零件供應鏈的建立，並與政府密切合作完善補貼政策，以加速國內電動車的採用率並吸引全球製造商進駐。
Thailand Braces for Virtual Banking Disruption as Five Consortiums Compete for Licences
泰國準備迎接虛擬銀行帶來的變革，五大財團競逐牌照
As Thailand moves towards a new era of digital disruption in financial services, five consortiums are vying for three virtual banking licences, set to be awarded by the Bank of Thailand, with services expected to launch by mid-2026. Major players, including SCB X, TrueMoney (CP Group), and Gulf Energy in partnership with Krungthai Bank, are among the bidders. Despite the excitement, traditional banks like Kasikornbank and Kiatnakin Phatra Bank remain unfazed, arguing that their current mobile banking services are similar to those offered by virtual banks. Kasikornbank CEO Kattiya Indaravijaya stated the bank is not pursuing a licence, as it is already reaching underserved groups via digital subsidiaries.
The rise of virtual banks is expected to benefit Thailand’s 2.9 million small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the estimated 63% of the population who are either unbanked or underbanked. While virtual banks promise increased financial access for these groups, traditional lenders, including TISCO Group, acknowledge the potential for greater competition and innovation in the market. However, they also highlight the significant financial risks involved in serving these high-risk segments, noting that virtual banks will require substantial capital to succeed.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/banking-finance/40041526
編者按： 泰國金融業正面臨重大轉型，五大財團（包含電信、零售及金融巨頭）已提交虛擬銀行牌照申請。泰國央行預計將於 2025 年公布獲准名單，旨在透過數位銀行服務提升金融普惠性，特別是針對目前無法獲得傳統銀行服務的中小企業與個人用戶。
EGAT Highlights Digital Platform’s Role in Expanding Thai EV Ecosystem
泰國電力局（EGAT）強調數位平台在擴展泰國電動車生態系中的作用
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has emphasized the importance of its digital platform, BackEN EV, in supporting the country’s growing electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. The platform, combined with the EleXa smartphone app, allows EV charging station operators to manage real-time data, financial reports, and billing while enhancing station visibility for customers. EGAT, which currently operates 190 EleX charging stations and supports an additional 90 stations, is working with partners to expand the nation’s EV infrastructure. Entrepreneurs can invest between 200,000 and 2 million baht to set up charging stations, depending on their size and type.
EGAT’s head of EV business solutions, Pichit Phongprasert, noted that while current profits from charging stations remain modest, the situation is expected to improve as awareness of charger availability increases. He added that EGAT’s platforms help reduce the cost burden for entrepreneurs, especially as competition has driven down the price of EV chargers from China and Europe. However, Pichit warned that low-quality chargers, typically covered by only a two-year warranty, pose risks for operators, stressing the importance of high-quality chargers for long-term reliability.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40041441
編者按： 泰國電力局（EGAT）正開發整合式的數位平台「EleXA」，旨在連結不同營運商的充電站，提升電動車使用者的便利性。透過該平台，用戶可以輕鬆查詢、預約並支付充電費用，這是 EGAT 支持泰國電動車發展及建立穩定電力需求管理系統的關鍵策略之一。
Thailand Competes with Vietnam and Singapore for Semiconductor Dominance in Southeast Asia
泰國與越南及新加坡競爭東南亞半導體霸主地位
As competition intensifies in Southeast Asia’s semiconductor industry, Thailand is gearing up to attract global chip manufacturers, vying against Vietnam and Singapore. The Thai Board of Investment (BOI) has proposed new measures to fast-track investments in the semiconductor and battery sectors, aiming to lure major players from the US and Europe. BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi revealed plans to establish a “Semiconductor Board” to oversee industry growth and secure foreign investments. Meanwhile, Vietnam is pushing its Digital Technology Industry law, offering significant incentives, such as tax rebates and free land use, to entice chipmakers like Nvidia and Besi.
Singapore, already a regional leader in semiconductors, is further strengthening its position following discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two nations signed agreements to boost cooperation in semiconductors, with Singapore supporting India’s chip industry while deepening its foothold in global supply chains. Despite its small size and higher operational costs, Singapore contributes 10% of global chipmaking output and 20% of semiconductor manufacturing equipment production, maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/investment/40041227
編者按： 在全球半導體供應鏈重組之際，泰國正與越南及新加坡激烈競爭，爭奪晶片製造與封測領域的投資。泰國政府透過投資委員會（BOI）提供長期的稅務豁免與補助計畫，旨在利用其成熟的電子工業基礎與穩定電力供應，吸引高科技晶片設計與封裝業者進駐。
Vietnam and U.S. Strengthen Partnership to Boost Semiconductor Industry
越南與美國加強合作，推動半導體產業發展
Vietnam and the United States have joined forces to propel Vietnam’s semiconductor sector, marking a significant step toward making it a core industry for the nation. The collaboration was launched at the ‘ITSI Semiconductor ATP Workforce Accelerator Kick-Off Session’ held in Ho Chi Minh City from September 16 to 18. Organized by the U.S. International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund and the U.S. Department of State, the event focused on workforce development, highlighting the importance of building a high-quality talent pool to meet the needs of Vietnam’s rapidly growing semiconductor industry.
Key workshops, including ‘Crafting Vietnam’s Semiconductor ATP Workforce Strategy,’ brought together leaders from various ministries, universities, and global tech companies to discuss the training and skill development necessary to support Vietnam’s semiconductor goals through 2030 and beyond. By 2025, the ITSI Fund aims to train 120 instructors and 4,000 students, equipping Vietnam with a skilled workforce to meet the industry’s future demands. U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper emphasized the program’s importance in fostering long-term partnerships between the two nations, helping Vietnam’s semiconductor sector thrive on the global stage.
編者按： 越南與美國正深化戰略夥伴關係，共同推動半導體人才培養與供應鏈韌性。雙方簽署了多項合作備忘錄，美國承諾支持越南建立半導體研發中心並培訓專業工程師，這將協助越南從低端的組裝轉型為更具價值的高科技研發與製造。
U.S. Launches Innovation Fund in Vietnam to Boost Semiconductor Industry
美國在越南啟動創新基金，助力半導體產業
The United States has officially launched the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund in Vietnam, marking a key milestone in the countries’ growing partnership. Announced in Hanoi on September 11, 2024, the initiative aims to foster workforce development and public policy improvements in Vietnam’s semiconductor industry. Organized in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy, and Arizona State University, the launch commemorates the first anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper expressed confidence in the collaboration, predicting that Vietnam would become a significant player in the global semiconductor market in the coming years.
Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung underscored the importance of the ITSI Fund in strengthening Vietnam’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain, emphasizing that semiconductors could become a cornerstone of U.S.-Vietnam relations. As one of eight strategic countries selected for this initiative, Vietnam aims to attract more international partners by developing its talent pool and innovation policies. The U.S. has awarded $13.8 million to Arizona State University to support talent development and provide policy recommendations in Vietnam and other nations.
編者按： 美國政府在越南正式啟動了一項創新的「半導體勞動力與基礎設施基金」，旨在補助越南的高等教育機構與技術培訓中心。該基金將專注於提升越南在半導體封裝、測試及設計方面的技術能力，縮短與國際技術水準的差距，並鞏固越南在全球半導體價值鏈中的地位。
Indonesia’s CarbonEthics Secures $2.1M to Expand Climate Solutions
印尼 CarbonEthics 獲得 210 萬美元融資，擴大氣候解決方案
CarbonEthics, an Indonesian developer of natural climate solutions, has raised $2.1 million in a seed funding round led by Intudo Ventures, with additional backing from angel investors. The company plans to use the funds to acquire more carbon projects and bring in technical experts, aiming to manage 8 million hectares of land by 2030. Founded in 2019, CarbonEthics focuses on restoring blue carbon, peatland, and green ecosystems to help businesses lower their carbon emissions.
The new financing follows a $220,000 pre-seed round in 2023 supported by Spiral Ventures and Ecoxyztem. CarbonEthics has already conducted pre-feasibility studies for carbon projects across 4.2 million hectares, with the potential to offset over 1 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The company’s efforts are a critical part of Indonesia’s push to address climate change and promote sustainable business practices.
https://www.techinasia.com/news/indonesias-carbonethics-secures-21m-climate-solutions
編者按： 印尼天然氣候解決方案開發商 CarbonEthics 在種子輪融資中籌集了 210 萬美元，計畫擴大碳權項目的管理規模，目標在 2030 年前管理 800 萬公頃土地。該公司專注於修復藍碳、泥炭地及森林生態系，協助企業透過高品質的碳抵換項目達成減碳目標，這也是印尼應對氣候變遷與推動永續商業實踐的重要一環。