VinFast Joins GAIKINDO to Strengthen Commitment to Indonesia’s EV Future
VinFast 加入印尼汽車工業協會 GAIKINDO，深化對印尼電動車未來的承諾
VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has officially become a member of the Association of Indonesia Automotive Industries (GAIKINDO), marking a significant step in its commitment to Indonesia’s green mobility goals. The membership not only reinforces VinFast’s long-term investment in the local market but also enables the company to actively contribute to shaping policies and accelerating EV adoption across the country. GAIKINDO, established in 1969, serves as a key bridge between automotive businesses and the Indonesian government, promoting the development of environmentally friendly transportation.
Since entering Indonesia, VinFast has made notable strides, including launching five electric vehicle models, initiating an EV assembly plant in Subang, and partnering with local players like Green SM and V-GREEN to expand charging infrastructure. With 24 showrooms across major cities and a growing service network, VinFast is making its vehicles more accessible through programs like free charging, zero-interest financing, and guaranteed buyback offers. Both VinFast and GAIKINDO leaders have expressed optimism about the collaboration, highlighting the company’s role in driving sustainable growth in Indonesia’s automotive sector.
小編點評：VinFast 加入 GAIKINDO 以支持印尼的綠色移動目標，並透過在地電動車生產、合作夥伴關係與政策參與，強化其長期投資布局。藉由組裝廠、擴充充電基礎建設，以及多項友善消費者方案，VinFast 正快速推進印尼的電動車普及。
Thailand Races Against Time to Secure US Tariff Deal Amid Mounting Pressure and Geopolitical Tensions
壓力與地緣緊張升高，泰國與時間賽跑力拚美國關稅協議
Thailand is making a final push to secure a favorable trade deal with the United States before the August 1 deadline, aiming to match Vietnam’s 20% tariff rate and avoid the punitive 36% levy currently applied to US goods. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is set to submit Thailand’s last counterproposal, with hopes of reaching parity with recent US trade deals — including zero-tariff access for the Philippines and a 19% agreement with Indonesia. The urgency is driven by fears of economic fallout and political backlash, as the International Monetary Fund projects that Thailand may fall from its position as Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy to fifth within just a few years. Domestically, opposition parties like the Bhumjaithai Party are raising alarms over potential risks to Thai farmers and national sovereignty, calling for full parliamentary scrutiny.
Caught between growing US demands and its deepening ties with China, Thailand faces a complex balancing act. Since 2001, Bangkok has aligned closely with Beijing and remains a key member of the China-backed RCEP trade bloc. However, increasing US expectations for regional tariff consistency have placed Thailand in a diplomatic bind. With Chinese firms expanding rapidly in Thai manufacturing, any sweeping concessions to Washington risk straining relations with Beijing. Meanwhile, concerns over rural livelihoods, national policy autonomy, and currency volatility add to the pressure. As tensions rise in the South China Sea and the US strengthens alliances with Manila and Hanoi, Thailand’s ability to navigate this high-stakes trade crisis may well determine its economic trajectory and regional alignment in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
小編點評：泰國正緊急協商與美國的貿易協議以降低關稅並避免經濟挫敗，同時面臨國內批評壓力與對區域經濟地位下滑的憂慮。在與中國深厚關係與美國要求升高之間周旋，此次談判結果可能重塑泰國在東南亞的地緣政治定位與未來貿易走向。
Vietnam Launches $69 Million Semiconductor Packaging Lab in Da Nang to Boost Global Supply Chain Role
越南在峴港啟動 6,900 萬美元半導體封裝實驗室，強化全球供應鏈角色
Vietnam has officially launched construction of a VND1.8-trillion ($69 million) advanced semiconductor packaging laboratory in Da Nang, marking a major step toward strengthening its role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Developed by VSAP LAB JSC, the facility will be located at Da Nang IT Park No. 2 near Thuan Phuoc Bridge and is expected to be operational by the end of 2026. Spanning over 2,288 square meters with a floor area of more than 5,700 square meters, the lab will house both a research and development zone and a fabrication area for trial production using real wafers and cutting-edge equipment. The lab is designed to produce up to 10 million units annually for both domestic and international markets.
At the launch ceremony on July 28, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung emphasized the lab’s strategic role in enhancing Vietnam’s semiconductor capabilities, particularly in packaging and testing — critical steps in chip manufacturing. The project follows a public-private partnership model and aims to become a hub for innovation, workforce training, investment attraction, and technology transfer. The Ministry of Science and Technology pledged support for Da Nang in developing research infrastructure and fostering global partnerships in semiconductor design, packaging, and testing.
小編點評：越南已在峴港開工興建一座 6,900 萬美元的半導體封裝實驗室，透過先進研發與試量產能力（年產能最高可達 1,000 萬件）來強化其在全球供應鏈中的地位。這項公私協力計畫在科技部支持下，將成為創新、人才培育與國際合作的樞紐，涵蓋晶片設計、封裝與測試領域。
Sumitomo Vows to Make North Hanoi Smart City a Landmark of Vietnam–Japan Relations
住友誓言打造北河內智慧城市，成為越日關係地標
Sumitomo Corporation has pledged to develop the North Hanoi Smart City into a symbol of the strong and growing partnership between Vietnam and Japan. At a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on July 22, Yukihito Honda, managing executive officer and general manager of Sumitomo’s infrastructure business unit, outlined the group’s ambitious $4.2 billion project. Developed in partnership with Vietnam’s BRG Group, the smart city will feature a 108-story financial tower reaching 639 meters—set to become the tallest building in Vietnam and among Southeast Asia’s highest. Honda emphasized Sumitomo’s decades-long presence in Vietnam, citing major investments in industrial zones, urban rail, and energy, including the now-operational Van Phong 1 thermal power plant.
Prime Minister Chinh praised Sumitomo’s large-scale investments and affirmed the government’s commitment to creating a transparent, stable, and investor-friendly environment. He urged the company to work closely with local partners to ensure the timely and lawful execution of the North Hanoi Smart City project. The PM also encouraged Sumitomo’s continued engagement in urban rail and energy development, particularly the proposed Van Phong 2 gas-fired power plant. As both nations deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership, the government reaffirmed its support for transformative projects that advance bilateral cooperation and contribute to Vietnam’s socio-economic development.
小編點評：住友商事承諾投入 42 億美元開發「北河內智慧城市」，其中包含越南最高摩天大樓，並將其定位為越日關係的重要地標。越南政府肯定住友長期投資並承諾全力支持，確保專案如期推進，進一步強化雙邊在基礎建設與能源領域的合作。
Thailand Accelerates EV Revolution with Ambitious 2025 Green Mobility Push
泰國以雄心勃勃的 2025 綠色移動政策，加速電動車革命
Thailand, Southeast Asia’s automotive manufacturing hub, is fast-tracking its transition to electric mobility with a bold set of 2025 EV policies aimed at transforming the nation into a regional green automotive leader. The government’s roadmap targets 30% of all cars produced in Thailand to be electric by 2030, backed by generous tax incentives of up to 40%, direct consumer subsidies of $2,000 to $4,500, and eight-year corporate tax holidays for automakers. Infrastructure expansion is also a priority, with 2,000 public chargers already operational and 12,000 planned by 2030. These measures have attracted major global investments, including new plants from BYD, Great Wall Motors, and expansions by Toyota and Honda, while Tesla is exploring a regional distribution hub.
Domestic EV sales are booming, with 2025 registrations expected to exceed 100,000 units—triple the previous year—driven by affordable models and growing urban charging networks. Thailand is also positioning itself as a key player in Asia’s EV supply chain through local battery production, EV component exports, and R&D in autonomous and AI-driven vehicle technologies. The shift is delivering dual economic and environmental benefits, from job creation and oil import savings to improved urban air quality, solidifying Thailand’s role as ASEAN’s leading EV hub.
小編點評：泰國正以積極的 2025 年政策加速電動化轉型，目標在 2030 年達到 30% 電動車生產占比，並以稅務優惠、消費者補貼及大型全球投資作為支撐。在國內銷售快速成長、充電網路擴張與在地供應鏈布局同步推進下，泰國正崛起為東協領先的綠色汽車樞紐。
Thailand Rolls Out Financial Relief Measures for Border Communities Amid Thai-Cambodian Unrest
泰柬邊境動盪之際，泰國推出邊境社區金融紓困措施
Thailand’s Finance Ministry has introduced a series of urgent financial aid measures to support communities impacted by ongoing clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the move following reports of property damage, disrupted livelihoods, and economic distress in affected provinces. Key interventions include debt suspensions, interest rate cuts, and low-interest loans provided through state financial institutions. The Government Savings Bank, for instance, will offer loans to small entrepreneurs at just 0.75% monthly interest, while SMEs can access loans of up to 5 million baht with preferential rates. The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives will provide emergency consumer loans, and the Export-Import Bank of Thailand will extend repayment deadlines and offer temporary credit line increases.
To bolster relief efforts, the Comptroller General’s Department has also increased the emergency spending limit for provincial governors in Surin, Sri Sa Ket, Buri Ram, and Ubon Ratchathani from 20 million to 100 million baht. Meanwhile, the Bank of Thailand is monitoring the situation closely, ensuring both employees and customers of financial institutions are supported. Several Thai bank branches in Cambodia have repatriated their staff, and banks in affected Thai border provinces have been temporarily closed for safety reasons. The Thai Bankers’ Association cited ongoing unrest, which has led to loss of life and severe community disruptions, as the reason behind these precautionary closures.
小編點評：泰國財政部已推出緊急金融紓困，以協助受泰柬邊境動盪影響的社區，包括暫停債務、提供低利貸款，以及提高省長可動用的緊急預算上限。出於安全考量，受影響地區銀行分行已暫時關閉；央行則持續監測情勢並支援受波及的員工與客戶。
Thailand Confident of Tariff Deal with U.S. Ahead of August Deadline
泰國對 8 月期限前達成美國關稅協議具信心
Thailand has submitted its final counter-proposals to the United States in ongoing tariff negotiations, with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira expressing confidence in securing a new trade agreement before the August 1st deadline. Speaking on Friday, Pichai said that “Team Thailand” had incorporated amendments based on specific U.S. requests and that the proposals were now “99.99% submitted.” While withholding details on which items might benefit from 0% tariffs, he confirmed that U.S. pork imports remain excluded from liberalisation. He also noted that any final agreement would require Thai parliamentary approval.
Permanent Secretary for the Finance Ministry, Lavaron Sangsnit, echoed Pichai’s optimism, stating that a conclusion to talks is “certainly expected before August 1st.” He emphasised that Thailand’s offer reflects the best possible terms the country can provide and anticipates a swift review from Washington. The submission marks a critical step in deepening trade ties between the two nations amid a complex negotiation landscape.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40053071
小編點評：泰國已向美國提交最終關稅提案，高層官員對於在 8 月 1 日期限前達成貿易協議表達高度信心。該協議排除美國豬肉進口，象徵推進雙邊貿易關係的重要節點，且最終仍需泰國國會批准。
Thailand’s Growth Outlook Dampened by U.S. Tariff Pressures, SCB EIC Warns
SCB EIC 警告：美國關稅壓力拖累泰國成長前景
Thailand’s economy is projected to grow by just 1.5% in 2025, according to the latest forecast from Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Centre (SCB EIC), as trade tensions with the United States continue to weigh on export performance. While early-year growth was supported by front-loaded exports ahead of anticipated tariff hikes, the second half of 2025 is expected to bring mounting pressure on Thai goods in the U.S. market due to higher reciprocal tariffs. Even if a partial tariff reduction deal is reached before the August 1 deadline, Thailand’s rates will likely remain less competitive than those of key rivals such as Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea.
The SCB EIC warns that the situation could worsen in 2026, with GDP growth potentially slowing to just 1.2%, or even 0.4% in a worst-case scenario where the U.S. imposes a 36% retaliatory tariff and Thailand fails to secure relief. Electronics and electrical appliances are seen as especially vulnerable to market share losses, while stricter U.S. rules of origin and potential transhipment tariffs may further raise trade costs. Meanwhile, the Thai government is cautiously assessing broader concessions in agricultural trade, amid fears of disruptions to domestic pork, poultry, and maize producers. If liberalisation proceeds, comprehensive support for smallholder farmers will be crucial to cushion the impact.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40052927
小編點評：在美國關稅壓力加劇下，泰國成長前景轉弱，2025 年 GDP 預期僅 1.5%，若未能取得貿易紓解措施，2026 年風險更上升。電子與農業等脆弱產業面臨成本攀升與競爭力壓力，促使政府評估讓步方案並研議對受衝擊農民的支持配套。
SCB EIC Warns Nearly 3,000 Thai Industries Risk Becoming ‘Chinese Product Fronts’
SCB EIC 警告：近 3,000 個泰國產業恐淪為「中國產品門面」
Thailand is undergoing a structural economic shift that could see nearly 3,000 domestic industries reduced to mere fronts for Chinese goods, according to new analysis from Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Centre (SCB EIC). The report highlights that the country’s role in global supply chains is increasingly shifting from producer to transit hub, as Thai industries grow more dependent on Chinese-made inputs. Imports have risen at an average annual rate of 10% from 2020 to 2024, outpacing GDP and export growth, driving the import-to-GDP ratio to 53%—its highest level in 12 years—and contributing to a third consecutive year of trade deficits.
SCB EIC attributes the surge to three key factors—the release of surplus goods from China’s slowing economy, the rise of cross-border e-commerce, and the expansion of domestic businesses heavily dependent on imported raw materials. Critical sectors such as steel, plastics, and automotive have become deeply integrated into Chinese supply chains, while some firms reportedly operate as low-value “buy-and-sell” ventures or conduct minimal assembly to bypass Western tariffs. The centre warns that this trend risks hollowing out local production and could undermine Thailand’s economic sovereignty if left unchecked.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40052831
小編點評：SCB EIC 警告，由於進口攀升與供應鏈依賴加深，泰國可能有近 3,000 個產業面臨淪為中國商品「門面」的風險，使泰國角色從生產者轉向中轉樞紐。鋼鐵、塑膠與汽車等關鍵產業本地生產能力下滑，且在貿易逆差擴大的背景下，恐對經濟主權造成威脅。
Taiwan’s New Representative Peter Sha-li Lan Arrives in Thailand to Boost Bilateral Ties
台灣新任駐泰代表藍夏禮抵泰，推動雙邊關係升溫
Taiwan’s newly appointed representative to Thailand, Peter Sha-li Lan, arrived in Bangkok on Sunday, where he was welcomed by his deputy, staff from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, and members of the Taiwanese community. Speaking at the airport, Lan highlighted the importance of President Lai Ching-te’s New Southbound Policy, the “economy on which the sun never sets” vision, and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung’s Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in fostering trade and economic relations. He noted that the ongoing restructuring of global supply chains underscores Taiwan’s strength in high-tech, electronics, and semiconductors, which has prompted many Taiwanese businesses and entrepreneurs to expand into Thailand.
Lan, who previously led the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs and served as ambassador to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, succeeds Chang Chun-fu. During Chang’s tenure, Taiwan and Thailand signed a landmark investment promotion and protection agreement in June 2024, followed by a memorandum of understanding on technical and vocational education and training this June. Lan said he plans to strengthen cooperation across trade, technology, education, labor, and culture while deepening bilateral connections amid Thailand’s evolving geopolitical and business landscape.
https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202507200012
小編點評：台灣新任駐泰代表藍夏禮已抵達曼谷，將在新南向政策與台灣高科技優勢的脈絡下推進台泰關係。延續近期投資與教育合作協議的基礎，藍夏禮希望在全球供應鏈重組之際，深化雙方在多個關鍵領域的合作。
13MP Expected To Focus On Green Technology, Digital Transformation, Social Protection – Academicians
學者預期第十三大馬計畫（13MP）將聚焦綠色科技、數位轉型與社會保障
KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) — The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is expected to focus on green digital transformation, modernisation of high-tech industries and the empowerment of artificial intelligence (Al) as part of long-term strategies to build economic resilience and sustainable development. An expert in Finance and Entrepreneurship, Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Professor Datuk Dr Nik Maheran Nik Muhammad said she anticipates the 13MP to be aligned with key policy documents such as the MADANI Economy framework, the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030.
She added that infrastructure development will be a critical pillar, with expected initiatives including the expansion of green transport networks, renewable energy grids and high-speed internet in rural areas. In the education sector, she foresees a continued focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), digital education and curriculum development for future-ready skills. For the health sector, she predicts that emphasis will be placed on preventive healthcare, telemedicine and the digitisation of national health records to improve service delivery and access across the population.
Building on the performance of the 13MP, he said the 13MP is likely to focus on balanced development, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, digital transformation, green economy initiatives, education and TVET reform, food security, energy security and strengthening the public health system post-COVID-19. The 13MP is scheduled for tabling in Parliament on July 31.
小編點評：馬來西亞正面臨嚴峻的水資源供應挑戰，氣候變遷、長期乾旱與污染問題在巴生谷等都市地區尤為明顯，已威脅公共健康、生態多樣性與經濟穩定。為改善情況，馬來西亞需加速水務基礎設施現代化、加強污染管制並提升全民節水意識。然而，治理架構分散、成本高昂與公眾參與度不足，使改革進展充滿挑戰。
Website: https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2446211
Malaysia to Host Inaugural ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025
馬來西亞將主辦首屆「2025 東協人工智慧馬來西亞高峰會」
PUTRAJAYA, 18 July 2025 –The Ministry of Digital officially announced the ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025 from 12 – 13 August 2025 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, a first-of-its- kind regional convergence designed to catalyse collaboration, governance, and innovation in artificial intelligence. This landmark event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and civil society from across the globe with a unified purpose: to shape a sustainable, secure, and inclusive AI future for Southeast Asia. The Summit underscores Malaysia’s leadership as the Chair of ASEAN and reflects its commitment to advancing responsible AI development through regional solidarity and action.
This flagship event will serve as a high-level platform to harmonise national strategies, align data governance standards, and unlock cross-border innovation opportunities. Discussions will span AI sovereignty, innovation, regulatory harmonisation, digital public infrastructure, talent development, and more.
The ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025 is proud to be supported by a distinguished group of strategic partners, including the ASEAN Secretariat, ASEAN Foundation, EU- ASEAN, US-ASEAN Business Council, 500 Global, Alibaba Cloud, Grab, McKinsey and Women in Tech. These partners play a pivotal role in co-creating the Summit’s agenda, driving high-impact initiatives and shaping the region’s AI trajectory.
The Summit will also feature a special event, Youth Caucus, held in conjunction with Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN. This event is organised by KiniEvents and Malaysia Institute for Debate and Public Speaking (MIDP) in collaboration with NAIO, MyDIGITAL Corporation, Google and Khazanah Research Institute. This platform empowers young Malaysians to critically discuss AI’s societal impact, preparing them to meaningfully shape ASEAN’s digital future.
小編點評：馬來西亞主辦 2025 年東協 AI 高峰會，使其躍升為區域人工智慧重鎮，吸引全球關注、投資與合作。若要真正放大成效，馬來西亞必須加快培育 AI 人才、深化公私部門合作，並在制定 AI 倫理標準方面發揮領導力。然而，法規分散、數位落差與社會對 AI 的信任問題，若未及時解決，恐將拖慢進展。
Website: https://asean.org/malaysia-to-host-inaugural-asean-ai-malaysia-summit-2025/
Gobind: Generative AI could unlock RM479b for Malaysia’s economy, but must be a ‘force for good’
哥賓星：生成式 AI 有望為馬來西亞經濟創造 4,790 億令吉，但必須成為「善的力量」
KUALA LUMPUR, July 27 — Widespread adoption of AI by businesses and workers in Malaysia is set to accelerate the nation’s economic growth across various sectors, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. In a statement today, Gobind said that Generative AI alone is projected to unlock up to USD113.4 billion in productive capacity for the country.
Speaking at the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2025 in Shanghai, China, yesterday, he underscored the shared responsibility of countries worldwide to ensure that AI continues to be a force for good. Gobind said Malaysia welcomes the outcome document of the Global AI Governance Action Plan, and highlighted domestic efforts, including the establishment of the National AI Office (NAIO) last December to coordinate and drive the country’s AI agenda.
The Network, according to Gobind, will act as ASEAN’s regional platform for AI safety, facilitating best practice exchanges, research collaboration, standards development and responsible AI adoption. Gobind also said Malaysia will host two major global events this year, the inaugural ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit in August and the Smart Cities World Expo Kuala Lumpur in September, aimed at bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and academics to discuss AI, innovation and digital transformation.
小編點評：生成式 AI 有潛力為馬來西亞經濟注入高達 4,790 億令吉的價值，推動各產業生產力與創新。為善用這一契機，政府正投入資源於 AI 倫理治理、人才培育及區域領導角色，例如成立國家人工智慧辦公室與推動東協 AI 安全網絡。然而，AI 濫用、資安風險與數位落差等問題，若未妥善處理，將削弱 AI 作為「善的力量」的發展潛能。
No hawker or small trader licences for foreigners, says Nga Kor Ming
倪可敏：外國人不得申請小販或小商販執照
KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 — Local authorities (PBT) have never allowed foreign nationals to apply for or hold hawker licences, small trader permits, or business premises licences, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said today. Speaking during Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Nga stressed that this long-standing policy is in line with existing regulations under the hawkers by-laws as well as the trade, business, and industrial by-laws.
He was responding to Hulu Selangor MP Mohd Hasnizan Harun, who had asked about the current policy regarding foreign nationals operating businesses in Malaysia, particularly in the retail sector. He said the government is committed to supporting Malaysians by providing business opportunities at subsidised rental rates, which made it imperative to prevent misuse by foreigners.
Nga added a Malay proverb to emphasise the government’s stance: “The government will never allow a situation where, as the saying goes, kera di hutan disusukan, anak di rumah mati kelaparan.” The proverb tells of misplaced priorities in which kindness is shown to outsiders to the extent of neglecting one’s own family or responsibilities. He issued a stern warning to all licence holders, stating that local authorities will not compromise on any breach of licensing conditions.
小編點評：馬來西亞禁止外國人持有小販與小商販執照，旨在保障本地民眾生計並確保公共商業空間的公平使用。此舉有助於強化國人經商機會，但也可能限制文化多元性與外國創業者的參與。未來，政府可透過數位化執法、提升本地商販技能及建立更透明的政策機制來優化制度。不過，執法一致性、灰色就業地帶及社會觀感仍是主要挑戰。