NSTDA Unveils Top 10 Future Technologies at Thailand Tech Show 2024
NSTDA 於 2024 年泰國科技展揭曉十大未來技術
At the Thailand Tech Show 2024, the National Science Technology and Development Agency (NSTDA) spotlighted ten emerging technologies set to impact the next decade. Among these are artificial muscles, engineered human gut microbes, AI-augmented software development, and AI wearable technology. NSTDA President Sukit Limpijumnong emphasized the dominance of AI in these advancements, which also include Digital Twin platforms in healthcare, Privacy-Enhancing Technologies (PETs), security robots, direct battery recycling, hydrogen mobility, and the next generation of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). These innovations, showcased at the MHESI Fair 2024, underscore Thailand’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology across various sectors.
Key highlights include the potential of artificial muscles in medical and industrial automation, engineered microbes for disease treatment, and AI-augmented software development projected to boost productivity by up to 45%. Additionally, AI wearables developed by NSTDA aim to enhance elderly care, while PETs like Cyblion secure data on IoT platforms. Security robots, expected to grow significantly in the Asia-Pacific region, and direct battery recycling promise sustainability in the tech landscape. Meanwhile, hydrogen energy and advanced RAS technology aim to revolutionize automotive energy sources and aquaculture in Thailand.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2834668/nstda-reveals-crucial-future-technologies
編者按： 在 2024 年泰國科技展上，國家科學科技發展局（NSTDA）揭曉了十項開創性技術，重點展示了人造肌肉、工程腸道微生物及 AI 增強軟體開發等進展 。這些創新技術包括用於老年照護的 AI 穿戴設備以及電池直接回收，反映了泰國致力於將尖端技術整合於各個領域，以打造一個永續且高效的未來 。
Thailand Urges Chinese EV Makers to Boost Local Parts Sourcing
泰國促請中國電動車製造商提升在地零件採購比例
The Industry Ministry of Thailand has urged Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers to incorporate at least 40% locally sourced parts in their assembly processes to bolster the country’s automotive supply chain. This initiative follows discussions with GAC Aion New Energy Automobile and other Chinese EV firms, aiming to support Thai auto parts makers and facilitate technology transfer to advance the local automotive industry. Industry Minister Pimphattra Wichaikul emphasized the need for local suppliers to adapt to the shift from internal combustion engines to electric mobility technology.
The Board of Investment (BoI) has also engaged with Chinese EV manufacturers, who largely agreed to the government’s request. Notably, Changan Automobile plans to start with 60% local content, aiming for 90% in the future, while Neta and Great Wall Motor have committed to substantial local parts usage. This push aligns with the BoI’s strategy to promote EV industry growth through investment incentives, ensuring the continued support for traditional internal combustion engine vehicle manufacturers and hybrid EV producers in Thailand.
編者按： 泰國工業部已要求中國電動車（EV）製造商在生產過程中使用至少 40% 的在地採購零件，以強化本土汽車供應鏈 。在與廣汽埃安（GAC Aion）等公司討論後，投資委員會（BoI）已看到長安汽車等公司的積極承諾，該公司計畫初始在地化比例達 60%，最終達到 90% 。此舉旨在支持泰國汽車零件製造商並促進技術轉移，同時推動國內傳統汽車與電動車產業的成長 。
IEAT Promotes Clean Energy for Industrial Estates in Rayong
泰國工業區管理局（IEAT）推動羅勇府工業園區使用綠色能源
The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) announced plans to transition the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate and its deep-sea port in Rayong to renewable energy sources, addressing the growing demand among companies for carbon dioxide reduction. Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the IEAT board, highlighted the use of various clean energy sources, including biomass, biogas, solar, wind, and small modular reactors (SMRs), which are a type of nuclear reactor with up to 300 megawatts capacity. This initiative aims to ensure that new investors can operate with 100% clean energy, reducing their carbon footprint and avoiding issues like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
In addition to Map Ta Phut, the IEAT is partnering with the Eastern Economic Corridor Office to develop a 5,000-rai “circular industrial estate” in Chon Buri, focusing on industries such as electric vehicles and battery recycling. This project aligns with the government’s bio, circular, and green model, promoting manufacturing techniques that enhance product value while minimizing environmental impact. This strategic move not only supports Thailand’s commitment to clean energy but also caters to investor needs for sustainable business operations.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2834032/ieat-touts-clean-energy-estates
編者按： 泰國工業區管理局（IEAT）正將羅勇府的馬普塔普（Map Ta Phut）工業園區轉向再生能源，包括生物質能、太陽能及小型模組化反應爐，以滿足減碳需求並吸引綠能投資者 。此外，IEAT 正於春武里府開發「循環經濟工業園區」，專注於電動車與電池回收，符合泰國推動永續製造實踐的「生物、循環及綠色（BCG）」模式 。
Cabinet to Approve Thai ESG Fund, Expected to Boost SET Trading by 50 Billion Baht
內閣將批准泰國 ESG 基金，預計帶動證交所 500 億泰銖成交量
The Thai cabinet is set to approve the new Thai ESG Fund on Tuesday, with revised conditions aimed at enhancing trading on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) by 40-50 billion baht annually. The fund, which now has a shorter holding period of five years compared to the original eight, is designed to attract investments into Thai stocks with sustainable growth potential. Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) anticipates that the fund will draw significant inflows, particularly into stocks with cheap valuations, as it allows investors to deduct up to 300,000 baht from their taxable income, up from the previous 100,000-baht limit.
The introduction of the Thai ESG Fund is expected to reverse the net selling trend among institutional investors, potentially boosting the SET Index in the short term. Analysts predict that local institutions will favor equity investments in ESG stocks over bonds, which currently face default issues. With the SET enhancing its ESG ratings methodology to align with global practices, top-rated ESG stocks such as CP All, Airports of Thailand, and Delta Electronics are likely to benefit from increased institutional buying. The SET’s collaboration with a leading global assessor since 2022 aims to promote transparency and sustainability among listed firms.
編者按： 泰國內閣準備批准新的泰國 ESG 基金，由於修訂後縮短為五年的持股期以及提高的稅收抵免上限，預計每年將帶動泰國證券交易所（SET）400 億至 500 億泰銖的交易量 。亞太證券（ASPS）預測該基金將吸引大量投資進入估值較低且具備永續成長潛力的股票，可能扭轉機構投資者的淨賣出趨勢，並使股權投資優於債券 。泰國證交所強化的 ESG 評級方法及與全球評估機構的合作，旨在提升透明度並吸引機構買盤，使 CP All 和台達電（Delta Electronics）等高評級 ESG 股票受益 。
AI Fund and KXVC Join Forces to Boost Thai AI Startups
AI 基金與 KXVC 聯手助力泰國 AI 新創公司
Global AI pioneer AI Fund has partnered with KX Venture Capital (KXVC) to foster AI startups and train young talent in Thailand, aiming to enhance the nation’s competitiveness. This collaboration, involving Kasikorn Business-Technology Group’s venture capital arm, will focus on building new companies and connecting their ecosystems. AI Fund’s managing general partner, Andrew Ng, emphasized the transformative potential of AI, likening it to electricity’s impact a century ago. The partnership aims to capitalize on generative AI’s capabilities, particularly in tourism, healthcare, and agriculture, while pushing for increased AI education and a robust startup ecosystem in Thailand.
KXVC chairman Ruangroj Poonpol highlighted the pivotal role AI will play by 2030, predicting significant economic contributions and productivity boosts. The strategic alliance with AI Fund will leverage their combined expertise to identify industry challenges, develop market-ready AI solutions, and rapidly scale new startups within six months. Additionally, KBTG has signed an MoU with AI Fund and the Equitable Education Fund to explore AI solutions for mental health and education equality. Ng noted the future trend of “Agentic AI,” enhancing efficiency and creativity in AI applications through dynamic collaboration.
編者按： AI 基金與 KX 創投（KXVC）合作推動泰國 AI 新創公司並加強 AI 教育，利用雙方專長驅動觀光、醫療及農業等領域的創新 。此合作旨在快速規模化新興事業並解決產業挑戰，重點關注具變革性的 AI 技術及增加對本土新創生態系的投資 。
Hermes and US Firm to Conduct Feasibility Study for Green Hydrogen Power Plant in Thailand
Hermes 與美國公司將針對泰國綠氫發電廠進行可行性研究
Hermes Cooperation Co, an industrial estate developer and subsidiary of auto parts manufacturer SNC Former Plc, is set to collaborate with a US company on a feasibility study for a green hydrogen-derived electricity project in Chon Buri. The initiative aims to attract tech companies investing in data centers and cloud services to Hermes’ new 1,231-rai industrial estate. The green hydrogen project, which utilizes reverse osmosis-treated water to produce hydrogen, will initially aim to generate 200 megawatts of electricity, requiring an estimated investment of 1 billion baht per megawatt.
This venture follows Hermes’ previous announcement of a 2.8-billion-baht industrial complex development with the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand, targeting S-curve industries. Hermes’ chairman, Somchai Thaisa-nguanvorakul, highlighted the strategic importance of clean energy to support tech firms like Google and Microsoft, which are expanding in Thailand and committed to carbon neutrality. The Board of Investment has approved 37 projects related to data centers and cloud services, with a combined investment value of 98.6 billion baht, underscoring the growing demand for renewable energy in the tech sector.
編者按： Hermes Cooperation Co. 正與一家美國公司合作，在春武里府進行綠氫發電廠的可行性研究，目標發電量為 200 兆瓦（MW），以吸引科技公司進駐其新工業園區 。該項目每兆瓦投資額約為 1 億泰銖，支持泰國推動潔淨能源，並與 Google 及微軟等大型科技公司的擴張計畫一致 。
Thailand Aims for Top Five Global PCB Manufacturing Status by 2029
泰國目標於 2029 年擠身全球前五大 PCB 製造國
Thailand is on track to solidify its position as ASEAN’s leading printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing hub, with aspirations to rank among the world’s top five in the next five years, according to Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). Speaking at the inaugural Thailand Electronics Circuit Asia 2024 (THECA) event at BITEC, Narit highlighted the significant progress and investment in Thailand’s PCB sector, driven by its strategic importance in advancing industries such as electric vehicles, smart electronics, and medical devices. From January 2023 to June 2024, investment promotion applications for PCBs exceeded 140 billion baht, marking a substantial increase from previous years.
The success of THECA 2024, which drew 200 exhibitors and 3,000 pre-registered attendees, underscores Thailand’s growing potential in the electronics industry. The event also emphasizes Thailand’s strategic advantages, including its central ASEAN location, modern infrastructure, and robust digital network, making it an ideal destination for MICE events and business operations. The World Electronic Circuits Council’s announcement that Thailand will host the 17th World Electronic Circuits Convention in 2027 further highlights the country’s readiness to lead in the global electronics industry. The convention is expected to generate up to 20 billion baht in trade value and create over 80,000 jobs in the electronics sector over the next two years.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40039966
編者按： 泰國目標在 2029 年成為全球前五大印刷電路板（PCB）製造中心，利用 2024 年泰國電子電路展（THECA）所強調的大規模投資與戰略優勢 。去年泰國已有超過 1,400 億泰銖的 PCB 相關投資申請，並準備藉由舉辦 2027 年第 17 屆世界電子電路大會受益，預計將創造 200 億泰銖的貿易價值並提供超過 8 萬個職位 。泰國位於東協中心的地理位置、現代化基建及強大的數位網絡，使其成為電子產業與會展產業（MICE）的理想目的地 。
Study Reveals Widespread AI Usage Among Thai Population for Convenience and Efficiency
研究顯示泰國民眾為求便利與效率廣泛使用人工智慧
A recent study by creative agency BBDO Bangkok reveals that over 70% of Thai people utilize artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily lives for its convenience, time-saving benefits, and operational efficiency. The research, which surveyed respondents in Bangkok and other major cities, found that 73.84% of participants regularly use AI, with the majority trusting it to aid in their work (48.23%), save time (40.60%), and boost efficiency (37.92%). Additionally, 73% support further AI development, and 72.37% believe technology will play a crucial role in daily life over the next five years.
Despite widespread adoption, some respondents expressed concerns about AI, including personal data safety (36.79%), high costs (30.77%), and job displacement (29.10%). The study also highlighted demographic variations in AI usage, with higher-income individuals more likely to use AI, and generational differences in applications. Generation Z and Y primarily use AI for work, while Generation X focuses on safety and medical benefits. Top recognized AI brands include Google, ChatGPT, and Samsung, with the majority of consumers expecting AI adoption in mobile, computer, medical, home appliance, automotive, and finance sectors.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40039969
編者按： BBDO Bangkok 最近的一項研究顯示，超過 70% 的泰國人因便利與效率而使用人工智慧，大多數人依賴 AI 輔助工作並節省時間 。雖然民眾強烈支持 AI 發展，但對數據安全、成本及工作取代的擔憂依然存在，且不同世代的使用者在 AI 應用上存在差異 。
Vietnamese Startup VinCSS Unveils Advanced Automobile Security Solution at Global Seminar
越南新創公司 VinCSS 於全球研討會展示先進汽車安全解決方案
VinCSS, a Vietnamese cybersecurity startup, has introduced an innovative solution aimed at protecting smart car software and data from phishing attacks and unauthorized changes. Presented at the FIDO Munich Seminar 2024 in Berlin, Germany, VinCSS’s vehicle security solution utilizes the FIDO Device Onboarding (FDO) Protocol developed by the FIDO Alliance. This protocol ensures secure communication between authenticated entities and IoT devices integrated into smart automobiles, effectively creating a protective barrier against malware and unauthorized access.
The introduction of VinCSS’s solution comes at a critical time as the number of smart vehicles is projected to surpass 470 million by 2025, heightening global cybersecurity concerns. Since 2016, automotive-related cyber incidents have surged by 605%, with this year’s attacks expected to cause $505 billion in financial damage. VinCSS has a proven track record of deploying FDO-based solutions, including smart parking systems and smart cameras, across various international markets, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in the cybersecurity domain.
編者按： 越南資安新創公司 VinCSS 在 2024 年 FIDO 慕尼黑研討會上展示了尖端的車輛安全解決方案，旨在利用 FIDO 設備引導（FDO）協定保護智慧汽車的軟體與數據 。這項進展解決了在智慧車輛預計激增以及自 2016 年以來汽車網路事件增長 605% 的背景下，日益嚴峻的資安隱憂 。
Vietnam Proposes Tax Exemptions for Green Bonds and Carbon Credits
越南提議豁免綠色債券與碳權之稅賦
The Ministry of Finance in Vietnam has proposed amendments to the country’s Law on Corporate Income Tax, aiming to exempt corporate taxes on income derived from green bond interest and carbon credits. This initiative is in line with global trends of using tax incentives to promote environmentally sustainable practices and development. The tax exemptions are designed to encourage investment in green bonds and the trading of carbon credits, both of which are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable practices. Vietnam’s 2020 Law on Environmental Protection, effective from January 1, 2022, supports these activities by providing a legal framework for the exchange and transfer of carbon credits and the issuance of green bonds.
The Ministry of Finance has assessed the potential impact of these proposed tax exemptions, estimating that if green bonds capture 0.17%–0.5% of the bond market, the corporate income tax exemption could range from $4 million to $12 million (VND 100 billion to VND 300 billion). This move is part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to enhance environmental sustainability and attract investments in green projects. By leveraging commitments and expertise in implementing nature-based solutions, Vietnam aims to create a robust carbon market and boost environmental protection efforts.
https://www.green.earth/news/vietnam-proposes-tax-exemptions-for-green-bond-and-carbon-credit-income
編者按： 越南財政部提議修訂法律，豁免企業綠色債券利息與碳權交易所得之稅賦，旨在推動對永續實踐的投資 。此倡議與全球趨勢一致，並透過建立碳權交易與綠色債券發行的法律框架，支持該國 2020 年的《環境保護法》 。這項稅賦豁免可能減少 400 萬至 1,200 萬美元的企業所得稅收入，視綠色債券的市場接納程度而定，這是越南加強環境永續性及吸引綠色投資整體戰略的一環 。
Indonesian Government to Offer Incentives for Hybrid Cars Amid Electric Vehicle Push
印尼政府在推廣電動車之際將為混合動力車提供激勵措施
The Indonesian government is set to introduce incentives for hybrid cars as part of its broader strategy to promote electric vehicles (EVs). Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, announced at the 2024 GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) that incentive programs are being prepared. Currently, hybrid cars face a luxury goods sales tax (PPnBM) of 6-12%, unlike fully electric vehicles (BEVs) which enjoy various incentives, including zero PPnBM. The government also offers a 10% VAT exemption for electric cars with a minimum domestic component level of 40%.
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita revealed that the Ministry of Industry will propose incentives for hybrid vehicles to the Ministry of Finance. Kartasasmita emphasized the effectiveness of fiscal incentives in boosting car sales, citing a 113% increase in domestic vehicle sales from March to December 2021 and an additional 95,000 units sold from January to May 2022. The proposed incentives will focus on vehicles meeting local content requirements and promoting low-carbon emission models. The government also considers support measures to control interest rates, aiming to address the stagnation in annual domestic car sales, which have remained around 1 million units over the past decade.
編者按： 印尼政府計畫為混合動力車推出激勵措施，作為推廣電動車整體戰略的一環；目前混合動力車面臨 6-12% 的奢侈稅，而全電動車則享有零稅率 。工業部長 Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita 強調，這項旨在增加銷量並支持低碳排放車型的提案將提交給財政部 。此舉延續了政府先前成功提升 113% 國內車輛銷量的財政措施，旨在透過推廣具備在地化零件與低排放的車輛，解決年銷量停滯的問題 。
Indonesia Launches Golden Visa Program to Attract Foreign Investment
印尼啟動「黃金簽證」計畫以吸引外國投資
President Joko Widodo announced the launch of Indonesia’s Golden Visa program on July 25, 2024, aiming to attract foreign nationals to invest and work in the country. Speaking at The Ritz-Carlton Mega Kuningan in South Jakarta, President Widodo highlighted Indonesia’s potential as an investment destination due to its strong economic growth, political stability, demographic advantages, and natural resources. The Golden Visa is designed to offer significant benefits, such as extended stay periods, priority immigration service lanes, and exemptions from limited stay permit requirements. With 300 applications already received, the initiative seeks to boost capital gains, job opportunities, technology transfer, and human resource quality.
Minister of Law and Human Rights Yasonna H. Laoly emphasized the Golden Visa’s role in fostering community welfare development and creating opportunities for international investors and global talents. The program includes various categories such as Individual Investors, Corporate Investors, and Global Talent, requiring applicants to commit to direct investments in Indonesia. Investment thresholds range from US$350,000 to US$50,000,000, depending on the visa type and duration. The digital system for Golden Visa applications, integrated with banking services, aims to streamline the process and enhance public service efficiency, reinforcing Indonesia’s attractiveness as a business and investment hub.
編者按： 佐科威總統宣布啟動印尼「黃金簽證」計畫，旨在透過提供延長居留期限、優先移民服務及免除有限居留許可，來吸引外國投資與人才 。該計畫已收到 300 份申請，目標是透過個人與企業投資者等多種類別來帶動資本流入、創造就業及技術轉移，投資門檻介於 35 萬美元至 5,000 萬美元之間 。法律與人權部長 Yasonna H. Laoly 強調，該倡議有潛力增進社會福利，並透過與銀行服務整合的數位系統簡化申請流程 。