Taiwan Expo 2024 Showcases Smart Innovations in Bangkok
Taiwan Expo 2024, organized by the International Trade Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs (TITA), and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), opened on November 21 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. Under the theme “Advancing Smart New Southbound,” the expo features 170 Taiwanese companies across 10 pavilions and six exhibit areas, spotlighting innovations in smart manufacturing, healthcare, lifestyle, circular economy, and cultural tourism. Key highlights include interactive cultural activities such as Taiwanese zodiac lantern-making and natural dye workshops, alongside industry forums, seminars, and business matchmaking events.
The event underscores Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Thailand, focusing on collaboration in technology, green solutions, and industrial transformation. Ms. Cynthia Kiang of TITA emphasized Taiwan’s alignment with Thailand’s goals for industrial upgrades, while TAITRA Chairman James Huang highlighted Taiwan’s expertise in smart manufacturing and recycling technologies as pivotal to Thailand’s net-zero aspirations. Running until November 23, Taiwan Expo 2024 invites attendees to explore Taiwan’s technological and cultural innovations free of charge, paving the way for deeper economic and cultural connections.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2906265/taiwan-expo-brings-smart-innovation-to-thailand-
Thailand to Host 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics in 2025
Thailand will host the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI from June 24-27, 2025, in Bangkok, marking the first such event in the Asia-Pacific region. Organized in partnership with UNESCO and Thai government agencies, including the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), and Ministry of Education (MOE), the forum will bring together over 800 participants from 194 UNESCO member countries. Under the theme “Ethical Governance of AI in Motion,” the event will emphasize Thailand’s alignment with the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment framework, reflecting its commitment to responsible and equitable AI adoption.
Keynote speakers, including Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Prasert Jantararuangtong, highlighted Thailand’s progress in AI governance, supported by national frameworks and guidelines such as the “AI Governance Guideline for Executives.” The forum will showcase Thailand’s leadership in fostering ethical AI practices, enhancing global trust in AI technologies, and addressing challenges like the digital divide. With strong collaboration between UNESCO and Thai agencies, the event aims to position Thailand as a regional hub for ethical AI innovation, driving global dialogue and sustainable development in the AI era.
https://www.etda.or.th/th/pr-news/ai_etda_unesco_EN.aspx
Editor’s Note: Thailand will host the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics from June 24-27, 2025, in Bangkok, marking the first such event in the Asia-Pacific region. The forum, organized in partnership with UNESCO and Thai government agencies, will focus on “Ethical Governance of AI in Motion,” highlighting Thailand’s commitment to responsible AI adoption and positioning the country as a regional hub for ethical AI innovation.
Thailand Issues Asia’s First Sovereign Sustainability-Linked Bond
Thailand has achieved a significant milestone in climate financing with the issuance of Asia’s first sovereign sustainability-linked bond (SLB) on November 25, 2024, raising 30 billion baht ($880 million). Backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the 15-year bond ties financial terms to ambitious sustainability targets, including a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the deployment of 440,000 zero-emission vehicles by 2030. Oversubscribed by more than 2.7 times, the bond reflects strong investor confidence and highlights the critical role of innovative financial tools in advancing Thailand’s climate goals and net-zero transition.
The SLB underscores Thailand’s leadership in sustainable economic development and the potential of capital markets to attract both public and private investments for climate action. ADB provided technical assistance through initiatives like the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility, showcasing the bond as a model for regional collaboration on green infrastructure and local currency bond market development. This issuance solidifies Thailand’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065, positioning the nation as a trailblazer in sustainable financing across Asia.
Editor’s Note: On November 25, 2024, Thailand issued Asia’s first sovereign sustainability-linked bond, raising 30 billion baht ($880 million) to fund its climate goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% and deploying 440,000 zero-emission vehicles by 2030. The oversubscribed bond, backed by the Asian Development Bank, highlights Thailand’s leadership in sustainable financing and its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Thai PM Scraps VAT Hike Amid Public Backlash
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has scrapped a controversial proposal to raise Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 15% following strong public opposition. Announcing the decision on X, formerly Twitter, Ms. Paetongtarn stated, “No VAT adjustment to 15%,” after discussions with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and her advisory team. The proposal, floated earlier in the week by Mr. Pichai, drew widespread criticism for its potential impact on the public, prompting the government to reconsider. While the VAT hike has been shelved, the Finance Ministry continues to explore tax reforms aimed at reducing social inequality and enhancing Thailand’s economic competitiveness.
Thailand’s VAT has remained at 7% since 1992, making it a major source of government revenue, comprising 25% of total tax collection in 2022. The tax-to-GDP ratio has stagnated around 17%, lower than the Asia-Pacific average of 19% and far below the OECD average of 34%. Despite shelving the VAT hike, the government is considering other tax adjustments, including lowering corporate income tax to 15% and personal income tax to attract skilled workers and align with global competition. Critics, including opposition MPs and coalition partners, have called for clearer tax reform plans to address inequality without burdening low-income citizens.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2915171/paetongtarn-dumps-15-vat-plan
Editor’s Note: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has abandoned a controversial proposal to raise Thailand’s VAT from 7% to 15% following strong public backlash. While shelving the VAT hike, the government is still exploring other tax reforms, such as lowering corporate and personal income taxes, to improve economic competitiveness and address social inequality.
Solar D Unveils Thailand’s First Solar Panel Installation Robot
Solar D Corporation Ltd has launched Thailand’s first solar panel installation robot, setting a new benchmark for speed and efficiency in the renewable energy sector. The robot, designed for industrial and commercial projects, can install 1 megawatt of solar panels in just six days—10 times faster than the two months typically required by human workers. According to CEO Sumrit Sitthiwaranuwong, the innovation not only halves workforce needs but also improves safety, reduces waste, and minimizes roof damage, even operating effectively in unfavorable weather conditions.
With over 300 megawatts of solar panels installed to date, Solar D is a leader in Thailand’s renewable energy sector, offering services from consulting to installation. The company, which became Thailand’s first certified installer of Tesla Powerwall in 2021, has seen rising demand for solar energy amid government incentives and corporate sustainability goals. Major clients like LG Electronics and Honda are already benefiting from the robot’s efficiency. Looking ahead, Solar D plans to expand its reach and list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand by 2026, positioning itself for further growth in the renewable energy market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40044017
Editor’s Note: Solar D Corporation has launched Thailand’s first solar panel installation robot, capable of installing 1 megawatt of panels in just six days, dramatically improving speed, safety, and efficiency. The company, a leader in Thailand’s renewable energy sector, aims to expand further and list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand by 2026, leveraging the growing demand for solar energy.
Foxsemicon to Invest 10.5 Billion Baht in Semiconductor Factories in Thailand
Taiwanese semiconductor company Foxsemicon Integrated Technology Inc (FITI), a subsidiary of Foxconn, has announced plans to establish two new factories in Thailand with a 10.5-billion-baht investment. The factories, located in Amata City industrial estates in Chonburi and Rayong, will mark FITI’s fourth and fifth facilities globally, following operations in China, Taiwan, and the US. The project, approved by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), is expected to generate over 1,400 jobs and contribute to the country’s growing semiconductor industry by producing high-precision machinery for wafer fabrication, a vital component of semiconductor manufacturing.
The factories aim to export products worth 6 billion baht annually, with 25% of raw materials sourced locally, a figure set to grow in the future. BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi highlighted FITI’s expertise in precision manufacturing and its role in bolstering Thailand’s semiconductor ecosystem. The investment follows BOI’s recent efforts to attract global semiconductor players like Analog Devices and Hana Microelectronics, supported by the newly established National Semiconductor Board, which provides strategic roadmaps and incentives for the sector’s development.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/investment/40044043
Editor’s Note: Foxsemicon Integrated Technology (FITI), a subsidiary of Foxconn, will invest 10.5 billion baht to establish two semiconductor factories in Thailand, generating over 1,400 jobs. The new facilities, approved by Thailand’s Board of Investment, will bolster the country’s semiconductor industry by producing high-precision machinery for wafer fabrication and exporting products worth 6 billion baht annually.
Murata Electronics to Invest 62 Billion Baht in New Capacitor Factory in Thailand
Murata Electronics (Thailand) Co Ltd, a subsidiary of Japan’s Murata Manufacturing, has announced plans to build a new advanced capacitor factory in Lamphun province with a total investment of 62 billion baht by 2028. Initially, 3 billion baht will be spent to construct the facility on a 65-rai (10.4-hectare) plot, with future expansions increasing the site to 200 rai (32 hectares). The factory will specialize in producing multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), essential components in smartphones, telecom devices, and vehicle electronic controls.
The decision to increase investment underscores Murata’s confidence in Thailand’s electronics industry. Murata first established operations in Thailand in 1988 with a factory in the Northern Industrial Estate in Lamphun, which has since expanded to 450 rai (72 hectares). Acting IEAT Governor Sumet Tangprasert highlighted Murata’s role in advancing high-quality electronic component manufacturing, positioning Thailand as a key hub in the global electronics supply chain.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/investment/40043770
Editor’s Note: Murata Electronics (Thailand) will invest 62 billion baht to build an advanced capacitor factory in Lamphun, specializing in multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) for smartphones, telecom devices, and vehicle electronics. The investment reflects Murata’s confidence in Thailand’s electronics industry and strengthens the country’s role in the global electronics supply chain.
Nvidia Partners with Vietnam to Establish AI R&D and Data Centres
Nvidia has signed an agreement with the Vietnamese government to establish an artificial intelligence research and development centre and an AI data centre in Vietnam. The deal, signed in Hanoi on Thursday in the presence of Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, marks a significant step in advancing Vietnam’s AI capabilities. While financial details were not disclosed, the initiative aligns with Vietnam’s goal of harnessing AI for economic growth and clean energy development.
As part of its expansion in Vietnam, Nvidia announced the acquisition of healthcare startup VinBrain, a subsidiary of Vingroup, though the deal’s value was not revealed. Nvidia’s collaboration with Vietnamese tech firms, including FPT’s planned $200 million AI factory, highlights the country’s growing role in AI and digital infrastructure. Prime Minister Chinh emphasized Vietnam’s ambitions to lead in AI while also pursuing advancements in space, ocean exploration, and renewable energy.
Editor’s Note: Nvidia has partnered with the Vietnamese government to establish an AI research and development centre and an AI data centre, boosting Vietnam’s AI capabilities. The collaboration also includes Nvidia’s acquisition of healthcare startup VinBrain, further solidifying the country’s growing role in AI and digital infrastructure.
Vietnam Establishes Ethical AI Committee to Shape Responsible AI Development
Vietnam has launched the Ethical AI Committee under the Vietnam Software & IT Services Association (VINASA) to guide the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. Announced during the “AI Safety – Shaping Responsible Innovation” conference in Hanoi, the initiative brings together policymakers, global AI experts, and industry leaders, including Professor Yoshua Bengio, known as a “Godfather of AI.” Spearheaded by FPT Corporation, the committee will focus on creating ethical frameworks, risk assessment standards, and promoting responsible AI practices to align with global standards while fostering Vietnam’s AI ecosystem.
The committee aims to position Vietnam as a leader in ethical AI by ensuring innovation benefits society without compromising values like transparency, accountability, and privacy. With over 1,500 AI engineers and partnerships with global tech leaders like NVIDIA and Mila, FPT Corporation is driving Vietnam’s AI ambitions. Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, emphasized the importance of aligning innovation with ethical governance to maximize AI’s potential while mitigating risks. The initiative reflects Vietnam’s broader strategy to leverage AI for economic growth and sustainable development on the global stage.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam has established the Ethical AI Committee under VINASA to promote responsible AI development, focusing on ethical frameworks, risk assessments, and global standards. Led by FPT Corporation, the initiative aims to position Vietnam as a leader in ethical AI, ensuring innovation aligns with values like transparency and privacy while fostering economic growth.
Indonesia Balances AI Innovation with Regulation for Safer Adoption
The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is implementing policies to balance the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, Deputy Minister Nezar Patria announced during a discussion on “National AI Strategy: A Pro-Innovation Approach” in Jakarta. With nearly 80% internet penetration and 97% connectivity in residential areas, Indonesia is well-positioned to embrace AI development. To guide this effort, the government issued Circular Number 9 of 2023 on Artificial Intelligence Ethics, emphasizing security, ethical usage, and risk mitigation in critical sectors like finance.
Patria highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering a dynamic regulatory environment that supports innovation while addressing challenges such as data errors and financial risks. He stressed the importance of cultivating digital talent and adhering to global AI developments, aiming to position Indonesia not just as a consumer but as a significant player in the AI ecosystem. The policies are part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to ensure AI contributes to national progress while safeguarding societal values.
https://en.antaranews.com/news/337017/indonesia-seeks-to-balance-ai-use-regulation-to-minimize-risks
Editor’s Note: Indonesia is implementing policies to balance AI innovation with regulation, focusing on security, ethics, and risk mitigation in sectors like finance, as part of its National AI Strategy. With strong internet penetration and a commitment to developing digital talent, the government aims to position Indonesia as a key player in the global AI ecosystem while safeguarding societal values.
Indonesia Seeks Stronger US Partnership to Drive Digital Vision 2045
Indonesia aims to strengthen its trade and investment cooperation with the United States to support its 2045 Digital Vision, focusing on advancing the digital economy, government, and society. Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid outlined the nation’s goals to address digital challenges and enhance development in these key areas during a meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC). Deputy Minister Nezar Patria highlighted the importance of their shared vision for economic growth and digital transformation, with a focus on digital trade, payments, and entrepreneurship.
The partnership between Indonesia and the US, especially in digital sectors such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI), is central to the nation’s strategy for becoming a competitive global digital power. Patria noted Indonesia’s involvement in negotiating the trade pillar of the Indo-Pacific Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) and emphasized the role of AI collaboration, particularly through the ASEAN Responsible AI Roadmap Workshop, as critical to shaping a future-ready, inclusive digital economy.
https://en.antaranews.com/news/337029/indonesia-partners-with-us-to-achieve-digital-vision-2045
Editor’s Note: Indonesia is seeking to strengthen its partnership with the United States to support its Digital Vision 2045, focusing on digital economy, governance, and societal development. Key areas of collaboration include digital trade, AI, and cybersecurity, with a shared goal of positioning Indonesia as a competitive global digital power.