Institute Unveils Action Plan to Tackle Shifts in Global Trade and Industry
研究所公佈應對全球貿易與工業轉型的行動計畫
The International Institute for Trade and Development is preparing to present a comprehensive action plan to cope with evolving global trade regulations and supply chain challenges. The plan, expected to be presented in November to Thailand’s Commerce Ministry, Thai Chamber of Commerce, and the Federation of Thai Industries, comes in response to rising production costs, labor shortages, outdated trade policies, and geopolitical tensions. Executive Director Suphakit Chareonkul highlighted the rapid changes in labor and environmental standards, technological advancements, and global conflicts as key factors complicating Thailand’s export policies and production patterns.
In a bid to boost collaboration between the public and private sectors, the institute recently concluded its Leadership Program on Trade and Development Strategy, which saw 81 executives from various industries developing innovative policy recommendations. The program focused on tourism, agriculture, food, automotive, logistics, and energy, with the aim of fostering growth and adaptability in these sectors. The institute also launched the Trade Intelligence Center to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in adapting to global trends, emphasizing green energy, alternative logistics solutions, and access to financial support for technology and innovation.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2876128/plan-to-help-firms-tackle-trade-barriers
編者按： 國際貿易與發展研究所正準備向商務部及主要工業組織提交一份全面行動計畫，旨在解決因生產成本上升、勞動力短缺及地緣政治緊張帶來的供應鏈挑戰。該計畫建議利用生成式人工智慧（GenAI）進行數位轉型，推動永續實踐以符合全球 ESG 標準，並鼓勵泰國中小企業減少出口依賴，轉向開拓擁有 6.8 億人口的強大東協內部市場。
Thailand to Establish SME-Focused Industrial Estate in Eastern Economic Corridor
泰國將在東部經濟走廊建立以中小企業為中心的工業園區
The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) is set to develop a new industrial estate in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) tailored specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Acting IEAT Governor Sumet Thangprasert revealed that part of an existing industrial estate owned by the authority would be dedicated to supporting SMEs, offering a more affordable solution for businesses with limited budgets. The initiative aligns with Industry Minister Akanat Promphan’s commitment to enhancing financial and technical support for SMEs, which play a vital role in Thailand’s economic growth.
This new industrial estate, set within Thailand’s high-tech industrial hub spanning Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao, will offer SMEs access to essential facilities under build-to-suit leases at reasonable costs. The government also aims to promote eco-friendly manufacturing and digital technology within the estate. In collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank), the IEAT plans to provide SMEs with improved financial access, offering them a valuable opportunity to grow and compete within Thailand’s key targeted industries, including next-generation automotive and smart electronics.
https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thailand-to-develop-sme-focused-industrial-estate-in-eec
編者按： 泰國工業區管理局（IEAT）正與促進中小企業辦公室合作，在東部經濟走廊（EEC）建立專為中小企業設計的工業園區。該園區旨在提供針對智慧電子、汽車及醫療等目標產業的專業基礎設施與低利融資支援，協助在地小企業提升競爭力並融入全球供應鏈。
Excise Department Proposes Carbon Tax to Curb Emissions in Thailand
消費稅局提議開徵碳稅以抑制泰國碳排放
The Excise Department is set to introduce a carbon tax on refined oil, initially mirroring Singapore’s rate, with plans to charge 200 baht per tonne of carbon, according to Director-General Ekniti Nitithanprapas. The tax, awaiting cabinet approval, will not impact the general public’s oil usage, as the current excise tax on oil remains unchanged. The carbon tax aims to incentivize businesses to reduce emissions, aligning with Thailand’s commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30-40% by 2030, achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero emissions by 2065.
In line with environmental goals, the department also plans to propose a 0% tax rate on bioethylene to promote bioplastic production, and on modified passenger vans for disabled individuals. As an ESG-focused agency, the department previously implemented a sugar tax to reduce public health risks, successfully leading manufacturers to lower sugar levels in beverages. Over the first 11 months of fiscal 2024, the department reported 482 billion baht in revenue, with a target of 600 billion baht for fiscal 2025.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2875228/department-mulls-carbon-tax-collection
編者按： 泰國消費稅局提議從 2025 年開始徵收碳稅，初步對石油產品徵收每噸碳 200 泰銖的稅費。此舉旨在透過經濟手段激勵企業轉向低碳技術，支持泰國達成國家減碳目標。這項稅收預計將逐步擴大至其他高排放產業，並與國際碳價機制接軌以避免碳關稅壁壘。
Siam Cement CEO Calls for Business-Government Collaboration on Green Economy
暹羅水泥集團（SCG）執行長呼籲政商合作推動綠色經濟
Thammasak Sethaudom, president and CEO of Siam Cement Group (SCG), urged for stronger collaboration between businesses and the government to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon society. Speaking at the Sustainability Expo 2024, Thammasak outlined SCG’s green initiatives and called for supportive legislation, clean energy accessibility, and household solar solutions to drive sustainability. He also recommended tax incentives, green financing, and the creation of a carbon registration agency to help businesses monitor and manage their emissions.
In addition, Thammasak emphasized the need for technological innovation and the development of green infrastructure to enhance circular energy systems, while advocating for skill development programs to support SMEs in the green transition. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong voiced the government’s commitment to considering and potentially implementing these recommendations to foster a unified effort toward achieving environmental sustainability.
編者按： 暹羅水泥集團（SCG）執行長強調，泰國要成功轉型為綠色經濟，必須加強政府與私人部門之間的合作，特別是在基礎設施投資與法規支持方面。他呼籲建立更清晰的綠色能源交易規範與誘因，協助企業克服高額轉型成本，並強調泰國應把握全球淨零轉型的機會，發展為區域綠色技術服務中心。
Thailand to Expand Solar Power Purchases from Households to Boost Clean Energy
泰國將擴大向住戶收購太陽能電力以促進清潔能源發展
Thailand’s energy authorities are considering increasing the purchase of solar power from households as part of efforts to promote clean energy and expand rooftop solar panel installations. The National Energy Policy Administration Committee previously approved a plan to buy 90 megawatts (MW) of solar power from households by 2030, but recent calls from businesses and lawmakers have prompted a push to raise this limit. Under the new power development plan (PDP), which aims to increase renewable energy use to 51% by 2037, solar power will play a central role, with the target set at 24,412MW, up from 2,863MW earlier this year.
The Energy Ministry is also offering incentives, including a new tax reduction scheme for 90,000 households from 2024 to 2027, to encourage more solar installations. The plan allows homeowners to sell excess electricity to the state grid, with a tariff set at 2.2 baht per kilowatt-hour on average. Solar panel distributors, like New Energy Plus Solutions Co., have voiced support for these initiatives, viewing them as crucial tools to reduce carbon emissions and support Thailand’s green energy transition.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2874608/solar-power-push-for-household-rooftops
編者按： 泰國政府計畫大幅提高向住戶及商業大樓收購屋頂太陽能多餘電力的規模，並考慮調整收購電價以增加誘因。此舉不僅有助於減輕電網壓力與減少化石燃料發電，也讓一般民眾能透過售電獲得額外收入，進一步加速泰國分散式再生能源的普及。
Thailand Climbs to 41st in Global Innovation Index, Boosted by Private Sector R&D
受企業研發帶動，泰國全球創新指數（GII）排名升至第 41 位
Thailand has advanced two spots to 41st in the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII), out of 133 economies, driven largely by private sector investment in research and development (R&D), according to the National Innovation Agency (NIA). The country improved in both innovation input and output rankings, reflecting effective use of its resources. Thailand has held the top spot for the share of GDP spent on R&D by businesses for five consecutive years, underscoring the private sector’s commitment to innovation. The nation is also revising its intellectual property laws and launching a fast-track registration process to meet international standards.
NIA executive director Krithpaka Boonfueng highlighted efforts to strengthen Thailand’s global brand in intellectual property rights, while experts like Sacha Wunsch-Vincent from the World Intellectual Property Organization (Wipo) urged Thailand to form a national task force to further promote innovation. Government agencies are also working to support startups and creative industries, with a focus on intellectual property, soft power, and human development. The Commerce Ministry aims to reduce the time needed for patent and trademark approvals, enhancing Thailand’s global competitiveness in innovation.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2873416/thailand-rises-in-global-innovation-index
編者按： 在 2024 年全球創新指數（GII）排名中，泰國上升至第 41 位，主要得益於私人企業在研發（R&D）投資上的強勁表現。報告特別指出泰國在數位應用與智慧製造方面的進展，但也強調仍需在高等教育質量及智慧財產權保護方面持續努力，以維持長期的國際競爭優勢。
Thailand to Build First Silicon Carbide Chip Factory in Joint Venture
泰國將透過合資企業建立首座碳化矽（SiC）晶片工廠
The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has approved an 11.5-billion-baht joint venture between Hana Microelectronics and PTT to build the country’s first silicon carbide (SiC) chip factory. Set to be operational by the first quarter of 2027, the factory will produce SiC wafers for use in power electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), data centers, and energy storage systems. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, BOI secretary general, stated that the plant, located in the Saha Group Industrial Park, Lamphun Province, will receive technology transfer from a leading South Korean chipmaker to produce 6-inch and 8-inch SiC wafers.
Narit emphasized the significance of the project in advancing Thailand’s semiconductor industry, citing the country’s low geopolitical risk, competitive costs, and strong infrastructure as key factors for its selection. The initiative is expected to boost Thailand’s position in the upstream semiconductor sector, create jobs, and foster collaboration with local universities to develop science and technology talent. The factory will also contribute to Thailand’s growing EV, energy storage, and data center industries, potentially attracting further investments from leading electronics manufacturers.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40041730
編者按： 泰國將建立國內首座碳化矽（SiC）功率半導體晶片工廠，這是由泰國與國際科技大廠共同成立的合資企業。該項目總投資額巨大，主要應用於電動車（EV）的電力管理系統，這象徵著泰國正從傳統的半導體封裝轉向更具技術含量的前端晶片製造領域。
Cabinet Approves 7.1 Billion Baht for EV3.0 Subsidies Amid Pending Reimbursements
內閣批准 71 億泰銖 EV3.0 補貼，解決待處理的報支申請
The Thai Cabinet has approved an additional 7.13 billion baht to support reimbursements for battery electric vehicle (BEV) manufacturers under the expired EV3.0 subsidy scheme, according to Jirayu Huangsap, the Prime Minister’s advisor for public relations. While the EV3.0 program has been replaced by the more modest EV3.5 package, manufacturers are still claiming subsidies for BEVs sold under the previous scheme. The Finance Ministry had initially estimated needing 11.92 billion baht in total but has so far paid out only 6.897 billion baht.
In addition to the pending 5.02 billion baht owed, the ministry will require a further 2.11 billion baht to cover subsidies for an additional 16,500 BEVs that manufacturers have indicated they are ready to produce under the EV3.0 scheme. This brings the total additional requirement to 7.13 billion baht, which the Cabinet has now approved.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/automobile/40041790
編者按： 泰國內閣正式批准撥款 71 億泰銖，用於支付先前 EV3.0 計畫下延宕的電動車購車補助金。這筆資金將緩解汽車經銷商的財務壓力，並確保消費者能如期獲得補貼。政府表示，儘管預算支出審慎，但仍將致力於維持電動車市場的成長動能與投資者的信心。
Vietnam Unveils Ambitious Semiconductor Development Strategy with Focus on Workforce Expansion
越南公佈宏偉的半導體發展戰略，重點關注人才擴張
The Prime Minister of Vietnam has approved a semiconductor development strategy aimed at transforming the country into a global electronics and semiconductor hub by 2050. The strategy, which will be implemented in three phases, focuses on selective foreign investment, workforce expansion, and infrastructure growth. By 2030, Vietnam aims to establish a network of 100 chip design firms, one semiconductor manufacturing factory, and 10 chip packaging and testing facilities, alongside training 50,000 engineers. The following phases, through 2040 and 2050, will see the country increase its engineering workforce to 100,000 and build two more semiconductor factories and 15 additional testing plants.
Human resource development is central to Vietnam’s semiconductor ambitions. The government plans to train 100,000 engineers by 2050, with universities already adapting their programs to meet the demands of the growing industry. Vo Xuan Hoai, deputy director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, emphasized the critical role of human resources in driving the sector’s future. Despite challenges in rapid workforce training, collaboration between educational institutions and industry is expected to be key in fostering the talent necessary to achieve Vietnam’s semiconductor goals.
編者按： 越南政府發布了 2030 年及展望 2050 年的國家半導體產業發展戰略，目標是在 2030 年前培養出 5 萬名半導體工程師。戰略規劃包括建立三個國家級半導體中心、提供優厚的稅務激勵以吸引英特爾與三星等大廠擴大研發，並力爭使半導體產業成為帶動越南數位經濟增長的核心引擎。
SpaceX to Invest $1.5 Billion in Starlink Satellite Internet Expansion in Vietnam
SpaceX 將在越南投資 15 億美元擴展 Starlink 衛星網路
U.S.-based SpaceX, led by billionaire Elon Musk, plans to invest $1.5 billion to bring its Starlink satellite Internet services to Vietnam, as announced by Tim Hughes, SpaceX’s senior vice president for global business, during a meeting with Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam in New York. The investment aims to support Vietnam’s digital transformation efforts and provide universal Internet access, utilizing SpaceX’s 6,000 satellites in low earth orbit. Hughes emphasized Vietnam’s potential as a key market for Starlink’s global expansion and highlighted the company’s commitment to aiding the country’s development.
The Vietnamese leader expressed strong support for SpaceX’s initiative, underscoring the importance of digital transformation to Vietnam’s future. He also thanked SpaceX for its offer of assistance following the recent devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi in northern Vietnam. In a separate meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Hughes praised Vietnam’s favorable investment climate and highlighted Starlink’s potential to enhance education, training, and disaster prevention through improved Internet access, urging Vietnam to prepare the necessary infrastructure for the project.
編者按： SpaceX 已宣布計畫在越南投資 15 億美元，用於部署 Starlink 衛星網路服務。此項投資將有助於改善越南偏遠地區的通訊網絡、支援海洋監控與救災工作，並強化越南的數位基礎設施。雙方正就法規合規與頻寬分配進行協商，預計該服務將顯著提升越南在全球數位經濟中的競爭力。
Bali Aims to Enhance Indonesia’s Semiconductor Ecosystem, Says Economic Minister
經濟部長表示，峇里島旨在強化印尼半導體生態系統
Indonesia’s Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone (KEK) is set to strengthen the nation’s digital semiconductor ecosystem, according to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. Speaking at the “Shaping the Future Economy: AI & Semiconductor” event in Denpasar, Airlangga emphasized the importance of evolving the semiconductor sector to improve Indonesia’s digital infrastructure. He highlighted the potential for significant growth in the digital economy, currently valued at approximately $82 billion, with projections to reach $300 billion by 2030.
In a bid to bolster this growth, Airlangga proposed that China’s Tsinghua University establish a youth center within the KEK to support the development of Indonesian youth in the semiconductor field. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration and innovation, further advancing Indonesia’s digital ecosystem. The success of this plan will depend on the effective implementation of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement by ASEAN nations, which is crucial for the region’s technological advancement.
https://www.techinasia.com/news/bali-strengthen-semiconductor-ecosystem-minister
編者按： 印尼經濟事務協調部長指出，峇里島正被規劃為印尼半導體設計與人才培訓的中心。透過利用峇里島對全球數位遊牧民族與科技人才的吸引力，印尼計畫與大學及科技大廠合作建立半導體卓越中心，旨在強化印尼在全球電子供應鏈中的角色，並推動峇里島從觀光經濟轉向多元的高科技產業。
Indonesia’s CarbonEthics Raises $2.1 Million to Advance Climate Solutions
印尼 CarbonEthics 募集 210 萬美元以推動氣候解決方案
CarbonEthics, an Indonesia-based developer focused on natural climate solutions, has successfully secured $2.1 million in a seed funding round led by Intudo Ventures, with contributions from angel investors. This recent funding will enable the company to acquire additional carbon projects and expand its team of technical experts. By 2030, CarbonEthics aims to manage 8 million hectares of land, enhancing its impact on carbon reduction efforts.
Founded in May 2019, CarbonEthics specializes in blue carbon ecosystems while also addressing peatland and green ecosystems. The company is dedicated to restoring environments that assist businesses in lowering their carbon emissions. This latest financing follows a previous $220,000 pre-seed round completed earlier in 2023, backed by Spiral Ventures and Ecoxyztem. With pre-feasibility studies conducted across over 4.2 million hectares, CarbonEthics is poised to potentially yield more than 1 million tonnes of verified CO2e annually through its initiatives.
https://www.techinasia.com/news/indonesias-carbonethics-secures-21m-climate-solutions
編者按： 印尼天然氣候解決方案商 CarbonEthics 成功募集 210 萬美元種子輪資金，計畫將管理土地擴展至 800 萬公頃。該公司專注於紅樹林（藍碳）與泥炭地的修復項目，協助企業開發高品質碳權以達成減碳目標。這筆資金將用於擴充技術團隊並導入更精準的碳匯監測系統，支持印尼成為全球重要的碳權供應市場。