SET creates a plan for family enterprises and overseas companies
SET 泰國證券交易所計畫吸引更多海外公司及家族企業促進泰國資本市場
The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) has developed a strategic business plan to attract foreign industries with operations in Thailand as well as family businesses to list on the Thai bourse, aiming to bolster market capitalisation. SET executives noted significant shifts in investment trends post-pandemic, driven by the rise of technology stocks, while traditional businesses strive to adapt to the digital age. To address trust and confidence issues with small-cap stocks and significant fund outflows, the SET implemented stringent measures against naked short selling, program trading, and high-frequency trading (HFT) to ensure trading transparency and equitable growth among investors. New rules to boost investor confidence, particularly in program trading, are set for implementation in the third quarter, coinciding with the expected return of foreign investors as the economy improves and tourism recovers.
SET president Pakorn Peetathawatchai acknowledged the reduced size of the Thai stock market but highlighted positive signs from foreign investors, who showed sustained interest in Thailand during a recent SET roadshow in Hong Kong. He emphasized that the Thai market offers diverse fund mobilisation options for large firms, small enterprises, and startups. Manpong Senanarong, senior executive vice-president of the SET, added that the bourse aims to attract foreign companies, especially those considering relocation and already operating in Thailand, with a focus on sectors such as clean energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and government-promoted S-curve industries. The SET also targets family businesses, many of which are large and interested in listing on the Thai bourse.
小編點評: 泰國證券交易所（SET）制定了一項戰略計劃，旨在吸引在泰國經營的海外公司和家族企業在泰國證券交易所上市，以提升市場市值。通過實施措施提高交易透明度和投資者信心，SET 希望解決小市值股票的相關問題，並在疫情後經濟復甦的情況下吸引外國投資者。
Carbon levy is planned for 2025
泰國稅務局計劃於 2025 年實施碳排放稅
The Excise Department plans to impose a carbon tax by 2025, which will be linked to the Global Warming Act. Department director-general Ekniti Nitithanprapas assured that the overall oil tax burden would remain the same, minimizing public impact. The carbon tax will follow global standards, taxing emissions at the source, similar to how vehicle taxes are now based on carbon dioxide emissions rather than engine displacement. For example, vehicles emitting over 200 grammes of carbon per kilometre will have a 35% tax rate, while those emitting less than 150g per km will face a 25% levy. Initially starting with oil, the carbon tax will be integrated into the existing diesel excise tax, converting part of the oil tax into a carbon tax without additional legislation. This approach aligns Thailand’s carbon tax rate with Singapore’s, making Thailand the second ASEAN country to implement such a tax. The aim is to provide immediate benefits, especially as Europe begins its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2026, helping Thai export-oriented businesses remain competitive.
To promote environmentally friendly practices, the department supports measures to boost electric vehicle (EV) usage, which saw a 685% sales increase in 2024. This led to a reduction in excise tax from 8% to 2% for EVs, cutting the excise tax collected but also reducing carbon emissions by over 240,000 tonnes. The government’s incentives have attracted 22 EV companies to invest over 80 billion baht in Thailand. Additionally, the department is reviewing battery tax rates, currently set at 8%, to encourage recycling and environmentally friendly practices by reducing the tax for recycled batteries. With Europe fully implementing CBAM in 2026, the department is preparing mandatory mechanisms through excise tax law to help Thai businesses stay competitive and mitigate environmental impacts.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2805285/carbon-levy-slated-for-2025
小編點評：泰國稅務局計劃於 2025 年引入碳稅，與全球標準和《全球變暖法》接軌。此稅將整合到現有的柴油消費稅中，旨在減少碳排放，並在歐洲碳邊境調整機制將於 2026 年生效的背景下保持泰國企業的競爭力。同時，電動汽車的激勵措施和電池稅率的審查，強調了政府推動環保和可持續經濟增長的承諾。
Cabinet approves a change in VAT to limit cheap imports.
泰國政府內閣批准修改增值稅以限制廉價進口
The cabinet has approved a Ministry of Finance proposal to collect value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued at over one baht, aiming to curb the influx of cheap imports, particularly from China. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke stated that this new threshold will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette and will remain in force until December 31. The government will then assess the policy’s impact before deciding on any extensions. Currently, only imported goods valued over 1,500 baht are subject to VAT, a regime in place since 2018.
This measure is part of the government’s effort to create a level playing field between importers and local producers, following complaints from local businesses, especially online sellers, about the adverse impact of cheap imported products on their incomes. In the long term, the government plans to amend the Revenue Code to address these issues permanently. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to protecting domestic businesses and ensuring fair competition in the market.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2805046/cabinet-okays-vat-change-to-curb-cheap-imports
小編點評：泰國稅務局計劃於 2025 年引入碳稅，與全球標準和《全球變暖法》接軌。此稅將整合到現有的柴油消費稅中，旨在減少碳排放，並在歐洲碳邊境調整機制將於 2026 年生效的背景下保持泰國企業的競爭力。同時，電動汽車的激勵措施和電池稅率的審查，強調了政府推動環保和可持續經濟增長的承諾。
OneWeb prepares for broadband internet service
OneWeb 準備提供互聯網衛星服務
OneWeb’s broadband internet services, offered via low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, are expected to launch locally by the fourth quarter of this year through a partnership with state telecom enterprise National Telecom (NT). NT provides gateway station facilities for OneWeb’s LEO satellite operations under a landing rights licence approved by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The partnership allows NT to earn fees from the gateway and facility services provided to OneWeb and to share revenue from wholesaling OneWeb’s satellite broadband capacity in the local market. Col Sanphachai Huvanandana, president of NT, noted that while OneWeb’s service won’t threaten the existing fibre broadband market, it may impact broadband services provided by geostationary satellites.
The service launch was delayed by four months from the original timeline, following NT’s proposal submission to the NBTC for necessary licences under the new licensing system covering landing rights, gateways, and services. NT aims to leverage its ground station facilities in Thailand for regional service deployment, positioning itself as a hub for OneWeb’s LEO satellite services in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. The gateway station for OneWeb’s connectivity is located at NT’s facility in Ubon Ratchathani province, where NT is responsible for developing, equipping, and operating the ground station facilities. The infrastructure and services provided by NT enable OneWeb to deploy commercial broadband services via LEO satellites in Thailand and the surrounding region.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2804629/oneweb-preps-broadband-internet-service
Need for SMEs to get ready for the green economy
泰國中小企業需要為綠色經濟做好準備
As Thailand anticipates record-breaking heat and a cooling economy, the green economy offers vital opportunities for SMEs. The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) mandates emissions reporting for carbon-intensive industries, affecting Thai exports. By 2026, a border carbon tax will be implemented, impacting SMEs’ roles in global supply chains. Simultaneously, consumer demand for sustainability is rising in tourism, transport, and construction, prompting SMEs to embrace sustainable practices to stay competitive.
Additionally, Thailand is positioning itself as an EV manufacturing hub, with prominent Chinese brands establishing local plants and national goals for zero-emission vehicle production. The green real estate sector is also growing, highlighted by projects like One Bangkok achieving platinum LEED certification. Regulatory trends, including Thailand’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the proposed climate change bill, will require companies to report emissions and adopt green initiatives. SMEs must adapt to these changes to thrive in the evolving market.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2804764/why-smes-must-prepare-for-the-green-economy
小編點評：隨著泰國在高溫和經濟挑戰下向綠色經濟邁進，中小企業面臨著越來越大的壓力，需採取可持續發展的做法以保持競爭力。隨著歐盟碳邊境調整機制和泰國推動電動汽車製造和綠色房地產等計劃的推進，中小企業必須適應監管趨勢和消費者對可持續性的需求，才能在不斷變化的市場環境中茁壯成長。
Leaders applaud the ESG business plan
《曼谷郵報》舉辦的會議上，領導人讚揚了 ESG 商業計劃
The Bangkok Post’s annual conference, “Greening The Future: ESG Leadership in the Sustainability Revolution,” highlighted the influence of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors on the global economy. Business leaders discussed the importance of setting a unified carbon credit standard in ASEAN, termed “Asean-VER,” to enhance Thailand’s negotiating power with the EU and support international carbon reduction campaigns. Chaiwat Kovavisarach, vice-chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), emphasized the need for this standard to promote business sustainability in Thailand’s industrial sector, a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
The FTI is advancing carbon credit trading among companies through a dedicated platform and encouraging the adoption of bio-, circular, and green (BCG) economic strategies to minimize environmental impacts. An example of BCG application is the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from agricultural waste and used cooking oil, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. This approach underscores the importance of integrating new technologies and eco-friendly practices in business operations to support sustainability goals.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2802538/leaders-laud-esg-business-strategy
小編點評：在《曼谷郵報》舉辦的會議上，領導人讚揚了 ESG 商業計劃，強調了環境、社會和治理因素在全球經濟中的重要性。建立統一的東盟碳信用標準和推動生物、循環和綠色經濟策略等舉措，突顯了泰國工業部門對可持續性和創新的承諾。
Providing Capital for Green Growth in Vietnam: The Role of Credit Institutions and the ESG Initiative
為越南綠色成長提供資金：信貸機構的作用和 ESG 倡議
Vietnam’s ESG Initiative supports the Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030, fostering sustainable practices to enhance global supply chain competitiveness. At the Vietnam Business Forum 2024, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized green growth as a core element for economic restructuring and sustainable development. The State Bank of Vietnam (SVB) reported a significant rise in green credit, with outstanding balances reaching VND 636.964 trillion (US$25.02 billion) by March 2024, primarily in renewable energy and green agriculture.
Credit institutions are increasingly integrating environmental and social risk management, supported by international collaborations. At the Vietnam ESG Forum, Deputy Governor of SBV Dao Minh Tu highlighted the development of green credit programs tailored to business needs. Nam A Bank, for instance, focuses on digitalization and greening strategies, offering green credit products for electric cars, renewable energy, and piloting carbon neutrality goals. This shift is vital for Vietnam’s green transition and sustainable economic growth.
小編點評：越南的 ESG 計劃與該國的綠色成長戰略一致，強調可持續實踐以保持全球競爭力。越南國家銀行報告的綠色信貸顯著增加，以及信貸機構環境風險管理的加強，顯示出越南在推進綠色轉型和促進可持續經濟發展方面的進展。
Đà Nẵng City and the World Bank will foster collaboration in digital database management
峴港市和世界銀行將加強在數位資料庫管理的合作
The central city of Đà Nẵng and the World Bank (WB) are poised to intensify their collaboration in developing digital database management, marking a crucial step towards comprehensive digitalization and the realization of a ‘smart’ city. Vice Chairman Hồ Kỳ Minh, representing the city’s People’s Committee, has urged WB support for leveraging digital database solutions to benefit both communities and businesses. With 1,200 open data sources already operational, Đà Nẵng plans to introduce smart applications and platforms accessible to all city users, recognizing the pivotal role of data centrality in the digitalization process across government, economy, and society, as articulated by Minh.
In recent years, Đà Nẵng has made significant strides in its digital journey, including the implementation of an e-Government system in 2014, enabling smart connections in critical sectors such as air control, water management, and public services. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning legal frameworks, policy constraints, and human resource shortages. These hurdles underscore the need for support and expertise from the WB. Kim Leng Tan, a WB expert, highlights the transformative potential of robust digital data management, emphasizing its role in enhancing efficiency, control, and system safety while ensuring compliance with legal regulations. As Đà Nẵng collaborates with partners like Viettel and FPT in a comprehensive digital transformation across various sectors, its ambition to join the ranks of ASEAN smart cities by 2030 signals a steadfast commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development. Notably, the WB’s ongoing investment in key infrastructure projects, including a recent $100 million allocation to Đà Nẵng University, underscores its dedication to supporting the city’s digital aspirations.
小編點評：峴港市和世界銀行將加強在數數位資料庫方面的合作，這是實現“智慧”城市願景的重要一步。通過利用數位解決方案來惠及社區和企業，峴港市旨在提高各行各業的效率和連接性，並得到世界銀行的專業知識和投資的支持。
MITI: Malaysia and Brazil to work together to grow semiconductor sector
MITI：馬來西亞和巴西將合作發展半導體行業
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) has announced that Malaysia and Brazil have agreed to strengthen collaboration in the semiconductor sector. The agreement was reached following discussions with Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during MITI’s Trade & Investment Mission to Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, held from May 19 to May 23, 2024.
Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry headed the MITI delegation to Brazil. “Both nations will utilise their respective industrial development plans, namely the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030) and Nova Industria Brazil 2033, to enhance cooperation in the semiconductor industry,” it said.
小編點評：馬來西亞投資、貿易和工業部宣布加強馬來西亞和巴西在半導體行業的合作，這標誌著雙方邁向互惠經濟增長和發展的重要一步。通過利用雙方的工業發展計劃，如《2030年國家投資大計》（NIMP 2030）和《巴西新工業計劃2033》（Nova Industria Brazil 2033），這一夥伴關係有望推動技術創新和促進經濟韌性。財政支持的計劃分配和即將舉行的雙邊會議進一步強調了深化經濟聯繫和抓住共同繁榮機遇的承諾。
Govt targets RM500bil investments for National Semiconductor Strategy
馬來西亞政府目標:為國家半導體策略投資5000億令吉
KUALA LUMPUR: The government aims to attract at least RM500 billion in investments for Phase 1 of the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) which is spearheaded by the International, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI). In his keynote address at the launch of Semicon Southeast Asia 2024, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the investments were among the five targets from NSS that was launched in April, this year.
He also said that Phase 1 of NSS would involve domestic direct investment (DDI) focusing on Integrated Circuit (IC) design, advanced packaging and manufacturing equipment and foreign direct investment (FDI) focusing on wafer fabs and manufacturing equipment. “For the second target, we want to establish at least 10 local companies in the design and advanced packaging with revenues between RM1 billion to RM4.7 billion, and at least 100 semiconductor-related companies with revenues close to RM1 billion, creating higher wages for Malaysian workers by Phase 2,” he said.
小編點評：首相拿督斯里安華·易卜拉欣概述的國家半導體戰略，提出了一個雄心勃勃的計劃，旨在將馬來西亞定位為全球半導體行業的領導者。該戰略設定了吸引大量投資、發展本地企業和將馬來西亞建設為研發中心的目標，這標誌著向技術進步和經濟增長邁出的重要一步。通過強調技能提升、創新和合作，馬來西亞旨在利用半導體技術為社會帶來利益，承諾為國家的半導體行業帶來變革性的未來。
五家新的智慧電動車經銷商在馬來西亞半島任命，2024年擴展至東馬來西亞
The official importer and distributor of Smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand, Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET) has appointed five new dealerships to be in charge of Smart electric vehicles (EV) in Peninsular Malaysia. Stationed across the Peninsular in strategic areas such as Bangsar, Ipoh, Penang, Kedah, and Melaka, the appointed dealerships include Smart Mobility, GB Auto, Eleganz Lifestyle, Lee Motors, and Sigma Energy.
The Smart Mobility dealership will be located in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, and is set to target a diverse spectrum of customers. This includes expatriates and high-profile corporate individuals.
小編點評：PRO-NET在馬來西亞半島任命了五家新的Smart電動車經銷商，標誌著該地區電動車市場的戰略擴展。這些經銷商分別位於邦沙、怡保、檳城、吉打和馬六甲等關鍵地區，旨在迎合不同的客戶群體並提高可及性。此舉突顯了推動可持續移動解決方案的承諾，並反映了汽車行業在創新和客戶滿意度方面的積極態度。