Thailand to Bring Online Sales Platforms into Tax System, VAT Registration Mandated
泰國將線上銷售平台納入稅收系統，強制登記增值稅
The Thai Ministry of Finance is moving to bring online sales platforms into the country’s tax system, following a cabinet resolution requiring platforms to register for value-added tax (VAT). According to a ministry source, the Revenue Department will amend the Revenue Code to enforce this requirement, which may also subject online platforms to personal and corporate income tax. This move aims to give the Revenue Department access to transaction data from these platforms, improving tax compliance. The cabinet also revoked VAT exemptions for imported goods valued under 1,500 baht, effective from July 5, in a bid to level the playing field for domestically produced goods and imported items.
This decision builds on the 2021 e-service tax law, which requires foreign online platforms offering services in Thailand, such as e-commerce, online advertising, and streaming services, to register for VAT if they earn more than 1.8 million baht annually. The government aims to ensure fair tax competition between local and foreign service providers. Additionally, the cabinet has ordered intensified measures to curb illegal sales of foreign goods, which include enforcing customs duties, corporate income tax, VAT, and safeguard measures to protect against rising imports.
小編點評: 泰國正在針對線上銷售平台實施新的稅收法規，要求它們註冊增值稅 (VAT)，並可能需要繳納個人和企業所得稅。該舉措是加強稅收合規性和公平本地與外國企業之間競爭環境的更廣泛努力的一部分，其中包括取消價值低於 1,500 泰銖的進口商品的增值稅豁免。此外，政府正在對非法外國商品銷售和關稅實施更嚴格的措施，以保護國內產業。
Depa Launches 2025 Digital Workforce Plan to Boost Thailand’s Tech Future
Depa 推出 2025 年數位化勞動力計劃，推動泰國科技未來發展
The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa) has unveiled its 2025 plan, “Perform Better, Think Faster, and Live Better,” aimed at enhancing the digital workforce and improving the quality of life in Thailand through technology. Depa president Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin emphasized the focus on upskilling students and graduates, particularly in coding, through long-term initiatives like Coding Thailand and ‘Coding for Better Life.’ The plan also includes scholarships in digital technology and short-term programs like the Connexion project to strengthen e-commerce skills for entrepreneurs.
In addition to workforce development, Depa’s strategy aims to promote advancements in AI, blockchain, and quantum computing, and foster Thailand’s growing e-sports ecosystem. The agency has supported 1,560 projects over the past eight years with an investment of 1.93 billion baht, resulting in an economic impact of over 24.3 billion baht. These initiatives are expected to prepare Thailand for future digital demands and expand the country’s technological capabilities.
https://thaitimes.com/depa-unveils-2025-digital-workforce-enhancement-plan
小編點評: 數位經濟促進局(Depa) 啟動了2025 年計畫“表現更好、思考更快、生活更好”，旨在透過重點提高編碼技能和支持Coding Thai 和Connexion 等舉措來增強泰國的數位勞動力。該計劃還旨在以 Depa 先前支持的 1,560 個具有重大經濟影響的項目為基礎，推動人工智慧、區塊鏈和電子競技的發展。
NIA Targets Global Expansion for Thai Startups with Strategic Partnerships
NIA 透過策略合作夥伴關係幫助泰國新創企業實現全球擴張
The National Innovation Agency (NIA), in collaboration with the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), the Board of Investment (BoI), and international partners, is launching initiatives to propel Thai startups into the global market. With over 3,133 projects supported in the past 15 years, the NIA aims to grow domestic demand through government procurement and attract foreign investment, targeting three unicorn startups within three years. Its corporate co-funding scheme offers investments up to 10 million baht for early-stage startups, and the FTI’s Innovation One Fund provides 20-30 million baht per deal, further strengthening local startup capital.
The NIA is also forming international alliances to open markets in Southeast Asia, the Nordic countries, and China. Partnerships with Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea offer local startups opportunities for collaboration, feasibility testing, and funding in sectors such as health, climate, and agricultural technologies. This global focus, paired with targeted investments and acceleration programs, is designed to position Thailand as an “innovation nation” in the years ahead.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2858292/nia-targets-startups-for-global-expansion
小編點評: 國家創新局 (NIA) 與泰國工業聯合會和投資委員會合作，正在發起在全球擴張泰國新創企業的舉措，目標是在三年內培育出三個獨角獸。 NIA 支持超過 3,133 個項目，聯合資助金額高達 3,000 萬泰銖，正在增強當地啟動資金，同時在東南亞、北歐國家和中國建立國際聯盟。這些努力旨在透過利用關鍵領域的策略性投資和全球夥伴關係，將泰國定位為領先的「創新國家」。
Thailand’s Renewable Energy Shift to Generate B190bn in Revenue for Power Companies
國的再生能源轉型將為電力公司帶來 1,900 億泰銖的收入
Thailand’s transition towards renewable energy is set to deliver a windfall of 190 billion baht in additional revenue for power companies from electricity sales to the government between 2024 and 2037, according to Krungthai Compass, the research unit of Krungthai Bank. This surge in revenue comes as the state plans to increase the share of renewable energy in the total electricity supply from 20% to 51% by 2037, as outlined in the new power development plan (PDP), which awaits government approval. The renewable energy sector’s annual growth is projected at 7.9%, with total revenue expected to rise from 100 billion baht in 2023 to 290 billion baht in 2037.
Key investments in solar, wind, and biomass power facilities are anticipated to reach 1.7 trillion baht over the next 13 years, generating an estimated 39.6 gigawatts of power. Solar farms, primarily in the North, will account for most of the new capacity, followed by wind farms in the Northeast. Biomass plants are expected to be developed nationwide, utilizing agricultural waste as fuel. The shift to renewable energy is also projected to lower power tariffs to below 4 baht per unit, reducing both costs for consumers and carbon emissions by 27.5 million tonnes.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2856862/b190bn-windfall-from-renewable-shift
小編點評: 由於再生能源在電力供應中的份額從 20% 增加到 51%，泰國向再生能源的轉變預計將在 2024 年至 2037 年間為電力公司帶來 1,900 億泰銖的額外收入。太陽能、風能和生質能發電設施的投資總額將達到1.7兆泰銖，從而增加年收入並有可能降低電價，同時大幅減少碳排放。
Paetongtarn Shinawatra Expected to Lead Economic Management in New Government
Paetongtarn Shinawatra可望領導新政府的經濟管理
As the new Cabinet formation nears completion, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is expected to take charge of overall economic management, building on policies from the previous Srettha Thavisin administration. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra confirmed her role leading the economic team, with a focus on teamwork and collaboration with external experts. Key policies, such as the 10,000-baht digital handout initiative, are set for immediate implementation, while broader economic strategies will address debt resolution, credit issues, and interest rate policies.
The government’s economic approach will also require coordination with coalition partners, as various ministries, like Labour and Energy, are overseen by different parties. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is expected to closely monitor key economic committees and ensure a structured mechanism for policy implementation and follow-up, distinguishing his administration from its predecessor. Effective communication of policies, particularly economic measures, will be crucial to maintain public understanding and confidence.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/economy/40041107
小編點評：Paetongtarn Shinawatra 將領導新政府的經濟管理，重點關注 10,000 泰銖數位施捨等關鍵政策，同時與外部專家合作解決債務、信貸和利率問題。總理斯雷塔·塔維辛將監督聯盟夥伴和各部會這些政策的實施和協調，旨在確保有效溝通和公眾信心。
Thailand to Revise Tax Rates and Offer Incentives to Attract Foreign Investors
泰國將修改稅率並提供激勵措施以吸引外國投資者
The Ministry of Finance is accelerating plans to revise tax rates and introduce a range of incentives to position Thailand as a competitive investment destination, Deputy Finance Minister Phaophum Rojanasakul announced at Thailand Focus 2024. The government aims to attract investments in key industries, including tourism, medical and health, food, aviation, and digital sectors, by offering both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. With a 64% increase in investment promotion applications in the first half of this year, the Board of Investment’s report highlights growing interest in electronics, automotive, and data centre industries.
As part of its vision to establish Thailand as a financial hub, the government is exploring measures such as income and corporate tax reductions, along with non-tax incentives like visa benefits and streamlined labour entry processes. The Ministry of Finance is working on both adjusting tax rates and improving the financial ecosystem to attract foreign investment, with new financial legislation expected to be drafted within two months. The initiative aims to make Thailand more competitive compared to other financial hubs in the region.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/economy/40041022
小編點評: 泰國將修改稅率並推出新的獎勵措施以吸引外國投資者，針對旅遊、醫療和數位產業等關鍵產業。財政部副部長 Phaophum Rojanasakul 在 2024 年泰國焦點峰會上宣布了這些變化，旨在透過提供財政和非財政福利來提高該國作為金融中心的吸引力。隨著投資申請的大幅增加，政府計劃實施所得稅和企業稅減免，以及加強簽證和勞工流程，以增強泰國在該地區的競爭力。
Rusal Advances Carbon-Neutral Aluminium for Cable and EV Battery Industries
俄羅斯鋁業公司為電纜和電動汽車電池產業開發碳中性鋁
Rusal has developed ALLOW INERTA, a breakthrough extra-low carbon aluminium produced using innovative technology that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions during the electrolysis process. This cutting-edge method lowers CO2 emissions to just 0.01 tons per ton of aluminium, far below the industry average of 11.4 tons, as per 2022 estimates from the International Aluminium Institute. The production process uses non-consumable materials, such as ceramics or metal alloys, in the anodes, dramatically cutting emissions. ALLOW INERTA aluminium is currently produced at Rusal’s Krasnoyarsk Aluminium Plant and has been successfully integrated into packaging, energy, automotive, and electronics industries.
Recently, Rusal’s low-carbon aluminium has been adopted by international cable and electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturers. A major cable producer has confirmed the high quality and environmental benefits of the aluminium wire rod made with ALLOW INERTA, citing its improved electrical conductivity and lower project costs in renewable energy applications. Additionally, EV battery manufacturers in China are preparing to use this aluminium in the production of foil for electric vehicle batteries, marking a significant step in reducing the carbon footprint of the industry and aligning with global decarbonization efforts.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40040820
小編點評: 俄羅斯鋁業公司的創新 ALLOW INERTA 鋁採用突破性技術生產，可將二氧化碳排放量減少至每噸僅 0.01 噸，正在電纜和電動汽車電池行業獲得關注。這種超低碳鋁因其高品質、環境效益和成本效益而被國際製造商採用，以支持全球脫碳努力。
Vietnamese Farm Produce Gains EU Market Access Through ESG Practices
越南農產品透過 ESG 實踐獲得歐盟市場准入
Vietnamese agricultural enterprises are increasingly adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards to secure access to international markets, particularly in the European Union (EU). Phuc Sinh Corporation became the first agricultural firm in Vietnam to secure a $25-million loan from the Dutch investment fund, SAIL Investments, thanks to its ESG commitments. According to Phan Minh Thong, the company’s chairman, ESG reporting has become essential for demonstrating sustainability and social responsibility to investors, with the EU market now prioritizing ESG-certified products for import. Thong noted that ESG compliance not only increases profitability but also broadens market opportunities.
As the EU strengthens its focus on sustainability, Vietnamese farm producers must adapt to the evolving standards in food safety and green agriculture. Despite Vietnam’s agricultural potential, over 80% of the country’s exports to the EU remain unbranded. Experts like Dang Bui Khue, sustainability director at TUV NORD Vietnam, emphasize the competitive edge ESG-certified products hold in global markets, though obtaining certification is a financial and logistical challenge. Nevertheless, firms that invest in ESG are well-positioned to succeed in the competitive EU market, which imports approximately $290 billion worth of agro-forestry-fishery products annually.
小編點評: 越南農業企業越來越多地採用 ESG 標準來進入歐盟市場，Phuc Sinh Corporation 由於其 ESG 承諾而從 SAIL Investments 獲得了 2500 萬美元的貸款。由於歐盟優先考慮 ESG 認證產品，越南生產商必須適應這些標準，以增加市場機會和獲利能力，儘管獲得認證面臨財務和物流方面的挑戰。
Vietnam Moves Toward Mandatory Green Building Standards Amid Rise of Eco-Friendly Materials
隨著環保材料的興起，越南邁向強制性綠建築標準邁進
Vietnam is on the path to making green building practices mandatory, driven by increased demand for eco-friendly construction materials and sustainable development. Companies like Fico Tay Ninh Cement and SCG Concrete Roof are at the forefront, introducing low-carbon products that significantly reduce carbon emissions. These materials, including green-labeled cement and sustainable roof tiles, are helping developers meet the growing demand for environmentally conscious construction in high-rises, warehouses, and industrial parks.
The trend is gaining momentum as Vietnam commits to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Developers are increasingly seeking green certifications like LEED and Green Mark to enhance their projects’ sustainability. Green building projects, particularly in industrial parks, are leading the way, with 55% of such developments meeting green standards. While initial costs for green buildings are higher, experts predict that the investment will pay off through long-term operational savings, improved occupant health, and enhanced market competitiveness.
小編點評: 由於對低碳水泥和永續屋頂瓦等環保材料的需求激增，越南正朝著強制性綠色建築標準邁進。隨著中國的目標是到 2050 年實現淨零排放，開發商越來越多地採用綠色認證，儘管初始成本較高，但 55% 的新工業園區項目符合這些標準。
Taiwan (China) Boosts Investment in Vietnam’s High-Tech Sector Amid Geopolitical Shifts
地緣政治變遷之際，中國台灣加大對越南高科技領域的投資
Taiwanese investment in Vietnam’s high-tech industry is surging, driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics and a need for resilient supply chains. The US-China trade war and the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated Taiwanese firms’ expansion into Vietnam, with major players like Foxconn and Pegatron increasing their presence. In 2023, Taiwanese investment quadrupled to $2.2 billion, and Taiwan (China) now ranks as the fourth-largest foreign investor in Vietnam, with nearly 3,200 projects and $39.5 billion in registered capital.
Vietnam has emerged as a key destination for Taiwanese technology companies, benefiting from its strategic location, skilled workforce, and favorable trade agreements. The country’s semiconductor industry, projected to reach $20-30 billion by 2030, is attracting significant Taiwanese investment, including $250 million from Tripod Technology. With a robust economic recovery and favorable conditions for high-tech investments, Vietnam is set to strengthen its role in the global electronics and semiconductor supply chains.
小編點評: 隨著地緣政治變化和供應鏈需求推動擴張，台灣對越南高科技領域的投資正在迅速增加，2023 年的數據顯示，該投資將翻兩番，達到 22 億美元。富士康和和碩等台灣主要企業正在加強其影響力，將台灣（中國）定位為越南第四大外國投資者，擁有近 3,200 個項目和 395 億美元的註冊資本。越南的戰略位置、熟練的勞動力和有利的貿易協定正在增強其吸引力，特別是在半導體行業，預計該行業將吸引大量投資，到 2030 年將增長到 200-300 億美元。
Indonesian Transportation Minister Urges Citizens to Adopt Electric Vehicles for a Greener Future
印尼交通部長敦促公民採用電動車，共創綠色未來
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi is urging Indonesians to embrace electric vehicles (EVs) as the nation pushes to boost e-mobility adoption. While acknowledging the current high cost of EVs, Budi stressed the importance of promoting green transport early on to familiarize the public with the technology, which will benefit future generations. He made the remarks following a meeting with B-Universe Media Holdings in Jakarta, emphasizing that the shift from petrol vehicles to EVs is vital for reducing emissions and combating climate change.
Indonesia aims to reach net zero emissions by 2060, with a target of having 2 million electric cars and 13 million electric two-wheelers on its roads by 2030. As of May 2024, the country recorded 144,547 units of EVs, signaling early progress in the transition. Budi remains hopeful that the rise of the EV lifestyle will contribute to Indonesia’s environmental goals, despite the current financial challenges.
https://jakartaglobe.id/business/minister-wants-people-to-embrace-the-ev-lifestyle
小編點評：儘管目前電動車的成本很高，但印尼交通部長 Budi Karya Sumadi 仍在倡導採用電動車 (EV)，以推進該國的綠色交通目標並減少排放。印尼的目標是到2030 年擁有200 萬輛電動車和1300 萬輛電動兩輪車，該國已取得初步進展，截至2024 年5 月電動車保有量達到144,547 輛，併計劃到2060 年實現淨零排放。
AI Cannot Replace Journalists in the Field, Says Minister
通訊和數位部長法赫米法齊爾 (Fahmi Fadzil) 表示人工智慧無法取代現場記者
Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has stated that artificial intelligence (AI) cannot replace journalists who do field reporting. Speaking at the Asia Media Summit, Fahmi acknowledged AI’s rising significance in improving journalism methods while emphasising that the human element is still indispensable, notably in news gathering, verification, and ethical standards.
Fahmi emphasised that, while AI can help with activities such as data analysis and content generation, the profession’s core—telling tales, recognising context, and deciphering nuances—still requires human experience. He also cautioned against over-reliance on AI, emphasising the need for human control when utilising technology in the media.
小編點評：Fahmi 的評論凸顯了關於人工智慧在新聞業中的地位的持續爭論。雖然人工智慧可以成為改善新聞創作的有效工具，但人類的判斷和批判性思維是無價的，特別是在需要道德關注和基於情境的決策的領域。
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/13/fahmi-ai-cannot-replace-journalists-in-the-field
Malaysia’s E&E Industry Anticipates Strong Growth in 2024
馬來西亞電子電氣產業預計 2024 年將強勁成長
Malaysia’s electrical and electronics (E&E) industry is expected to increase significantly in 2024, backed by strong worldwide demand and the country’s vital position in the global supply chain. According to the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), the sector is predicted to grow further as Malaysia exploits its competitive advantage in advanced manufacturing and innovation.
According to MITI, investments in semiconductor technology, 5G infrastructure, and green technologies would boost Malaysia’s E&E business, which continues to be a crucial component of economic growth. The government is also committed to creating a favourable business environment and offering incentives to encourage greater foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the sector.
小編點評：馬來西亞的電子電氣業務預計將發展，這對該國經濟來說是個好兆頭。隨著全球電子產品需求的成長，馬來西亞的戰略目標和投資激勵措施對於保持其在全球市場的重要參與者的地位至關重要。
https://www.bernama.com/en/business/news.php?id=2331192
42 Malaysia and MyDigital Collaborate to Bridge Tech Talent Gap
42 馬來西亞和 MyDigital 合作縮小技術人才差距
42 Malaysia, an innovative coding school, has partnered with MyDigital Corporation to solve Malaysia’s tech talent shortfall. The collaboration intends to improve digital skills among Malaysian youth and professionals, in line with the country’s MyDigital strategy for becoming a regional leader in the digital economy.
The alliance will focus on creating a tech-savvy workforce through specialised training programs and digital literacy efforts. 42 Malaysia’s peer-to-peer learning paradigm, which is project-based and tuition-free, compliments MyDigital’s attempts to establish a robust digital ecosystem. The initiative is designed to give possibilities for skill development in programming, cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence.
小編點評：42 馬來西亞和 MyDigital 建立了合作關係，以滿足該國對數位專業知識日益增長的需求。該聯盟旨在透過利用創新的教育方法和政府支持，培養一支更具競爭力的勞動力隊伍，準備好應對數位時代的挑戰。
Private 5G Network Deployed at Petronas LNG Complex in Bintulu to Accelerate Digital Transformation
馬來西亞砂拉越州民都魯省油液化天然氣綜合設施部署專用 5G 網絡，加速數位轉型
A private 5G network has been successfully built at the Petronas LNG complex in Bintulu, Sarawak, marking an important milestone in the company’s digital transformation. The deployment, in conjunction with Telekom Malaysia (TM) and Huawei, aims to improve operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability by utilising modern digital solutions.
The private 5G network will enable real-time data analytics, remote monitoring, and process automation across the complex. This deployment is projected to improve plant operations, minimise downtime, and enable predictive maintenance, resulting in higher overall productivity. Petronas intends to expand its 5G network installation to additional sites in the near future, in line with its overall goal of becoming a more data-driven organisation.
小編點評：馬來西亞國家石油公司液化天然氣設施安裝專用 5G 網路體現了尖端技術如何推動產業向前發展。該舉措預計將為其他尋求使用 5G 提高營運效率和永續性的企業開創先例。
AI Deepfake Tricks Fans into Believing Khairul Aming Needs Money for Warehouse Repairs
AI Deepfake 誘騙粉絲相信 Khairul Aming 需要錢修理倉庫
Fans of popular Malaysian content producer Khairul Aming were recently targeted in a deepfake scam in which AI-generated films impersonated him and demanded money to cover warehouse maintenance costs. The hoax took advantage of Khairul Aming’s trusted online persona, prompting many followers, including his own mother, to initially believe the phoney request.
The incident highlighted rising concerns about AI deepfake technology, which may generate very realistic but fake audio and video content. Khairul Aming used social media to clarify the matter, advising his followers to remain watchful and verify any questionable requests. He also voiced dissatisfaction with how readily people may be duped and cautioned against the hazards of unregulated AI technology.
小編點評：涉及 Khairul Aming 的 Deepfake 騙局發人深省地提醒人們人工智慧技術可能被濫用。隨著人工智慧生成的材料變得越來越複雜，人們必須謹慎行事，尤其是在涉及個人和財務資訊時。這起事件凸顯了提高意識和採取更嚴厲措施打擊數位假冒的重要性。