Equinix to Invest $500 Million in Thailand to Meet Rising Digital Demand
Equinix 將在泰國投資 5 億美元以滿足不斷增長的數位需求
Equinix has announced plans to invest $500 million in Thailand over the next decade, responding to the growing demand for digital services driven by Thailand’s “Cloud First” policy. This strategic investment includes a recent $34 million land acquisition in Bangkok’s Bangna area, where the company will establish two International Business Exchange (IBX) data centers, offering over 3,375 cabinets upon full completion. Located near Bangkok’s existing interconnection ecosystem and key transport routes, this location is positioned to enhance digital connectivity across Thailand and neighboring CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam).
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary general of the Thailand Board of Investment, highlighted the strategic appeal of Thailand as a major hub for digital and cloud services in the region. Equinix’s Asia-Pacific vice president, Cyrus Adaggra, emphasized the company’s dedication to creating a robust digital ecosystem that integrates leading cloud providers and businesses. This expansion marks Equinix’s ongoing efforts to extend its Asia-Pacific footprint, with existing facilities across key metros in Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, and more.
https://www.frontier-enterprise.com/equinix-to-invest-500-mn-in-thailand-as-demand-for-digital-servicesrises/#:~:text=Equinix%20intends%20to%20invest%20%24500,Bangkok%20for%20US%2434%20million
Equinix在未來十年內將在泰國投資5億美元，以滿足該國“ Cloud First”政策驅動的日益增長的數字服務需求。這項投資包括在曼谷進行的3400萬美元收購土地，其中兩個新的數據中心將增強泰國和鄰近CLMV國家的數字連通性。
Thai Government to Amend Trade Laws, Address Economic Hurdles
泰國政府將修改貿易法，解決經濟障礙
Thailand’s government has committed to amending laws that hinder trade following a private sector proposal highlighting economic barriers. Spokesman Jirayu Houngsub stated that legal obstacles are costing the economy an estimated 100 billion baht annually. In response, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra tasked Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira with coordinating solutions with businesses, focusing on economic stimulus, support for SMEs, water management, and competitiveness. Additionally, the Public Sector Development Commission Office has been asked to streamline procedural steps and address delays in licensing, which have affected the nation’s growth.
The prime minister also directed officials to counter the influx of low-cost Chinese products in the domestic market by requiring online importers to register and adhere to Thai tax and certification standards. This move comes as the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) projects Thai economic growth to reach 2.3-2.8% in 2024, driven by tourism, increased consumption, and a gradual export recovery. However, the NESDC noted that political stability, swift budget disbursement, and climate change monitoring are essential for sustaining this growth.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2892558/premier-requests-adjustment-of-laws-that-hamper-trade
根據私營部門的提議，據報導，泰國政府將修改貿易法每年損失1000億泰銖的貿易法。總理Paetongtarn Shinawatra責任財政部長Pichai Chunhavajira協調了改善經濟刺激，對中小企業的支持並減少許可程序延遲的努力。此外，政府計劃通過要求在線進口商遵守泰國稅收和認證標準來遏制低成本中國產品的湧入，旨在提高競爭力並支持可持續增長。
Thailand to Leverage AI for Competitive Edge in Free Trade Areas
泰國將利用人工智慧在自由貿易區提升競爭優勢
Thailand is set to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance trade competitiveness and optimize free trade area predictions, according to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan. At the Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2024, Pichai highlighted Thailand’s position as a leader in AI and AI-based data center investments, with over 160 billion baht invested in data centers this year alone. The country aims to leverage AI for trend analysis and to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to improve product quality and marketing efficiency with minimal costs. The Board of Investment recently reported significant investments, including Equinix’s 16.5 billion baht commitment to Thai data centers, as well as expanded manufacturing bases from global companies like HP Inc.
Pichai emphasized that AI could drive ASEAN integration by streamlining cross-border trade standards and reducing barriers. With AI-powered tools for analyzing market trends, trade flows, and investment risks, Southeast Asia has a unique opportunity to enhance productivity and leapfrog traditional development stages. According to a Google and Temasek report, AI could add up to US$1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030. By equipping businesses and policymakers with advanced data insights, AI is expected to improve strategic decision-making, fostering growth across the region.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2892443/country-to-utilise-ai-to-monitor-free-trade-areas
泰國計劃利用人工智能（AI）提高貿易競爭力並優化自由貿易領域的預測，並在AI驅動的數據中心進行了大量投資。商務部長Pichai Naripthaphan強調，AI將支持中小企業，簡化跨境貿易並增強東盟一體化，可能在2030年到達東南亞的GDP高達1萬億美元。
Thai Government Launches Digital and Green Funds to Boost SME Competitiveness
泰國政府推出數位和綠色基金以提升中小企業競爭力
The Industry Ministry of Thailand has allocated over 10 million baht to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in embracing digital technology and eco-friendly practices, with an eye on enhancing their competitiveness amid economic challenges. Assistant permanent secretary Nirada Visutthichardtada announced that 200 SMEs would be chosen to benefit from two new funds: the 5-million-baht Digital Transformation Fund, aimed at helping SMEs adopt appropriate digital tools, and the Sustainable Productivity Fund, also worth 5 million baht, to promote environmentally friendly operations. Targeted sectors include farm produce processing, fashion, and lifestyle businesses, with an expected economic boost of over 54 million baht from the digital fund alone.
The Sustainable Productivity Fund will focus on helping SMEs implement energy-saving and eco-friendly practices, aligning with Thailand’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Through better energy management, participating SMEs will not only cut operational costs but also contribute to reducing the country’s carbon footprint. Nirada emphasized the critical role of SMEs, which account for 35% of Thailand’s GDP, noting that these funds will support their adaptation to green and digital practices essential for future growth and market competitiveness.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2891822/new-fund-to-encourage-smes-to-go-digitally-green
泰國政府已經推出了兩項新資金，總計1000萬泰銖，以幫助中小型企業採用數字技術和可持續實踐。數字化轉型基金和可持續生產力基金旨在支持農產品加工和時尚等部門的中小企業，預期的經濟增長超過5400萬泰銖。通過促進節能措施和環保運營，這些舉措與泰國的碳中立性目標保持一致，並幫助中小企業在不斷變化的市場中保持競爭力。
Thailand Emerges as Key Hub for PCB Manufacturing with Mektec’s $920 Million Investment
Mektec 投資 9.2 億美元，泰國成為 PCB 製造的主要中心
The Board of Investment (BoI) is optimistic about the growth of Thailand’s printed circuit board (PCB) industry, as Mektec Manufacturing Corporation, a subsidiary of Japan’s NOK Corporation, recently invested 920 million baht to expand operations in the country. This makes Mektec the largest PCB manufacturer in Southeast Asia. Thailand, now among the world’s top five PCB manufacturing hubs, has attracted new investors and seen existing companies increase their local investments. The BoI has supported this growth by offering incentives to companies like Mektec, which specializes in flexible PCBs (FPCBs) for products such as electric vehicles (EVs), telecom, medical devices, and complex electronics.
Somchai Asawarungsaengkul, managing director of Mektec Thailand, stated that the company’s expanded production will meet rising demand, particularly in the EV industry. Mektec’s factory in Ayutthaya’s Bang Pa-in Industrial Estate, which employs 3,000 workers, sources 2.5 billion baht annually in local raw materials. The expansion aligns with Mektec’s vision to establish a smart factory and reinforce Thailand’s position in the global electronics supply chain, driven by advances in 5G, IoT, and artificial intelligence.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2891266/boi-upbeat-on-outlook-for-pcb-sector
Mektec Manufacturing Corporation已投資了9.2億泰銖，以擴大其在泰國的運營，將該國定位為印刷電路板（PCB）製造業的關鍵樞紐。隨著這一擴展，MEKTEC成為東南亞最大的PCB製造商，滿足了不斷增長的需求，尤其是在電動汽車（EV）行業中。在投資委員會的支持下，Mektec在Ayutthaya的智能工廠在5G，IoT和AI的創新驅動的驅動下，增強了泰國在全球電子供應鏈中的作用。
Thailand Targets Digital Growth with Infrastructure Upgrades Announced at Bitkub Summit
泰國在 Bitkub 峰會上宣布透過基礎設施升級實現數位成長
Thailand is accelerating its push toward a digital-driven economy, with a major focus on upgrading its digital infrastructure. At the Bitkub Summit 2024, held in Bangkok on October 19-20, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantararuangthong, outlined the government’s plans to enhance the nation’s digital tools and infrastructure, strengthen data security regulations, and prioritize initiatives like the “cloud first” policy and e-government services. Prasert emphasized that these efforts aim to boost Thailand’s global competitiveness and support economic growth through a robust digital economy.
Echoing the government’s vision, Topp Jirayut Srupsrisopa, founder of the cryptocurrency exchange Bitkub, highlighted the digital economy’s role in helping Thailand overcome the middle-income trap, noting examples from China and Vietnam. Jirayut expressed hopes for the Bitkub Summit to become Thailand’s premier tech event, fostering public awareness and knowledge-sharing. This year’s summit featured over 20 global speakers and encouraged a sustainable approach to digital transformation, showcasing a collaborative effort between government initiatives and private-sector innovation as central to shaping Thailand’s economic future.
Digital economy minister seeks digital infrastructure upgrade
在2024年Bitkub峰會上，泰國政府概述了升級其數字基礎設施，增強數據安全的計劃，並優先考慮諸如“雲第一”政策之類的倡議，以促進經濟增長和全球競爭力。副總理Prasert Chantaruangthong和Bitkub創始人TOPP Jirayut Srupsrisopa強調了數字經濟在克服中等收入陷阱並將泰國定位為區域技術領導者中的作用。
Thailand Rolls Out Biometric ID System at Major Airports for Streamlined Passenger Experience
泰國在主要機場推出生物辨識系統，以簡化旅客體驗
Airports of Thailand (AOT) is launching an automated biometric identification system to enhance boarding procedures at six major airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Muang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai. From November 1, domestic passengers can use facial recognition technology to verify their identity, while the system will be fully available to international travelers by December 1. Passengers opting into the system can clear checkpoints without presenting passports or boarding passes, making check-in smoother and quicker, as each registration will be valid for one journey only.
AOT President Kirati Kitmanawat noted that the new system aligns with AOT’s goal of offering world-class travel experiences, adding that the biometric technology will free up passengers’ time to explore airport amenities. The shift comes amid rising travel demand, with AOT expecting passenger numbers at the six airports to reach nearly 130 million between October 2024 and September 2025, an increase of 8.95% year-on-year. Flight numbers are projected to rise to 808,280, with major growth anticipated at Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports due to the influx of international travelers, particularly from China, India, South Korea, Russia, and Japan.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40042801
泰國機場（AOT）正在六個主要機場引入自動生物識別ID系統，使國內乘客可以從11月1日開始使用面部識別來更快地登機，國際旅行者在12月1日之前獲得訪問權限。新系統消除了需求。對於護照或登機通行證，請簡化辦理登機手續並增強乘客體驗。 AOT預計，由於國際旅行的增長，特別是來自中國，印度和其他主要市場，乘客人數將增加到2024 – 2025年的1.3億。
Nvidia Eyes Major Investment in Thailand, CEO Jensen Huang to Visit Bangkok in December
Nvidia 計劃在泰國進行重大投資，執行長黃仁勳將於 12 月訪問曼谷
Nvidia, a global leader in chip technology, is considering a significant investment in Thailand to promote the country as a regional hub for data centers and artificial intelligence (AI). According to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, the investment aligns with Thailand’s ambitions to attract top tech companies, joining the ranks of Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, which have already invested in the nation. The move is expected to strengthen Thailand’s digital ecosystem and position it as a strategic player in the region’s tech landscape.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is scheduled to visit Bangkok in December, where he is expected to announce further details about the company’s plans. While specifics regarding the investment amount and operational focus remain under wraps, the Commerce Minister noted that Nvidia’s entry could encourage other tech companies along the supply chain to invest in Thailand, further enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure and economic potential. More information about the venture is anticipated within the coming months.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40042592
NVIDIA正在考慮在泰國進行重大投資，以提高該國作為數據中心和人工智能的區域樞紐的地位，遵循亞馬遜，Google和Microsoft等科技巨頭的腳步。首席執行官詹森黃（Jensen Huang）將於12月訪問曼谷，以揭示更多細節，預計投資將增強泰國的數字生態系統並吸引更多的科技公司進入該地區。
Vietnamese Firms Struggle Against Low-Cost Chinese Products Flooding E-commerce Platforms
越南企業與低成本中國產品湧入電子商務平台抗爭
Vietnamese businesses are grappling with an influx of low-cost goods from Chinese e-commerce giants such as Temu, Taobao, and 1688, which are rapidly gaining popularity among local consumers. The availability of these affordable products, often with free delivery and competitive return policies, has made it difficult for Vietnamese companies to compete on price, as well as on quality and service. With Chinese products priced significantly lower than similar Vietnamese items, local companies are being forced to reduce their prices, eroding profit margins and market share. This trend has raised concerns about the long-term viability of Vietnamese enterprises in sectors such as household goods, fashion, and electronics.
Experts warn that, despite benefiting from low prices, Vietnamese consumers may face a weakened domestic market if local businesses cannot keep pace with their Chinese counterparts. The dominance of Chinese e-commerce platforms, which benefit from extensive logistics networks and subsidies, has fundamentally altered the Vietnamese retail landscape, spurring calls for improved infrastructure and government support for local firms. Industry leaders suggest that Vietnamese enterprises should focus on strengthening logistics, enhancing product quality, and exploring international markets to mitigate risks. Additionally, there are calls for a legal framework to protect Vietnam’s domestic market from foreign competition, as the presence of Chinese e-commerce platforms continues to grow.
https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20241018/vietnamese-firms-grapple-with-lowcost-products-from-chinese-ecommerce-platforms/82486.html
越南企業正在努力與低成本的中國產品氾濫的電子商務平台（如Temu，Taobao和1688）競爭，這些平台提供了較低的價格和有吸引力的交付政策。這導致了當地公司的利潤率縮小，並引起了人們對國內市場長期健康的擔憂，促使人們呼籲更好地基礎設施，政府支持和針對外國競爭的法律保護。
German Firm PNE AG Plans $4.6 Billion Offshore Wind Farm in Binh Dinh, Vietnam
德國公司 PNE AG 計劃在越南平定投資 46 億美元建設離岸風電場
Germany’s PNE AG is set to invest $4.6 billion in an offshore wind power project in Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam, with plans to develop a facility capable of generating 2,000 megawatts of electricity. The project, which is expected to be executed in three phases, will see over $1.5 billion allocated to each phase, with the aim of significantly boosting the province’s renewable energy capacity. Provincial leaders have been collaborating with PNE AG since 2019 and have gained insights into the company’s technology through visits to its projects in Germany.
Binh Dinh’s Secretary Ho Quoc Dung highlighted the province’s favorable conditions for renewable energy development, citing its 134-kilometer coastline as ideal for offshore wind power. Once operational, the project is anticipated to generate approximately 7.1 billion kWh of electricity annually, enhancing national power security and supporting economic growth in the region. Additionally, it is expected to contribute about VND1.6 trillion ($62.9 million) to the provincial budget each year, marking a significant step forward for both Binh Dinh and Vietnam’s energy landscape as PNE expands its operations in Asia.
https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20241023/german-firm-seeks-to-develop-46bn-offshore-wind-farm-in-southcentral-vietnam/82569.html
德國的PNE AG將投資46億美元，以越南比頓的一個海上風電場項目投資，旨在在三個階段發電2,000兆瓦。預計該項目將提高該省的可再生能源能力，每年為當地預算貢獻6290萬美元，並增強越南的國家權力安全。
Ho Chi Minh City Launches SoiHub: A New Innovation Ecosystem for Businesses
胡志明市推出 SoiHub：新的企業創新生態系統
Ho Chi Minh City has officially launched SoiHub, an innovative ecosystem designed to support businesses and foster high aspirations within Vietnam’s Startup and Innovation Ecosystem (S&I). Inaugurated at the Tech Valley building in Quang Trung Software City on October 25, 2024, SoiHub is the result of a 15-year partnership with Finland, aimed at addressing challenges in innovation, policy, and human resources for both domestic and international companies. The center will provide a unique talent incubation space and prototype technologies, emphasizing green growth initiatives that differentiate it from other hubs across the country.
Key features of SoiHub include its role as an international gateway connecting various stakeholders, such as government entities, tech startups, and educational institutions. With partnerships established with major corporations like Samsung and Qualcomm, as well as collaborations with 20 local governments and 75 universities, SoiHub aims to develop a talent sandbox for startups to engage with advanced technologies and innovative business models. The ecosystem will also facilitate favorable conditions for tech companies setting up in the Quang Trung Software City, including tax exemptions of up to 11 years, ensuring easy access to critical areas of the city and accelerating Vietnam’s development in key sectors.
https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20241026/ho-chi-minh-city-launches-new-innovation-ecosystem-for-businesses/82613.html
胡志明市已在Quang Trung Software City推出了Soihub，這是一個新的創新生態系統，旨在支持企業和促進綠色增長計劃。 Soihub通過與芬蘭建立了15年的合作夥伴關係，將初創企業，政府實體以及三星和高通公司等主要公司建立，提供人才孵化，高級技術和稅收優惠，以促進越南的技術發展。
MARC and Impac+ Forge Partnership to Enhance ESG Advisory and Sustainable Finance in Indonesia
MARC 與 Impac+ 建立合作夥伴關係，加強印尼的 ESG 諮詢和永續金融
Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad (MARC) and Indonesian sustainability consultancy Impac+ have signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) to strengthen their alliance in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) advisory services and sustainable finance solutions. The signing ceremony, held in Jakarta on October 18, 2024, signifies a pivotal step in addressing the increasing demand for innovative and localized sustainable finance initiatives in Indonesia. The partnership will focus on bespoke consulting services and upskilling initiatives, aimed at empowering businesses and industries to effectively integrate ESG principles into their operations.
Both Arshad Mohamed Ismail, Group CEO of MARC, and Rizky Wisnoentoro, CEO of Impac+, expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration. Ismail emphasized MARC’s commitment to promoting sustainability best practices and contributing to a holistic sustainability landscape in Indonesia, while Wisnoentoro highlighted the significance of combining resources to address the country’s unique sustainability challenges. This partnership reflects MARC’s dedication to expanding its influence in the regional ESG landscape, supporting the development of a robust ESG ecosystem through strategic collaborations that align with the growing emphasis on sustainable finance and responsible investment.
https://www.marc.com.my/latestmarc/marc-and-impac-collaborate-to-enhance-esg-and-sustainability-initiatives-in-indonesia/
Marc和Impac+已經建立了合作夥伴關係，以增強印度尼西亞的ESG諮詢服務和可持續融資，重點關注定制諮詢和提高技能計劃。該合作旨在使企業能夠將ESG原則納入其運營，並應對該國獨特的可持續發展挑戰。
Indonesia Bans iPhone 16 Over Unfulfilled Investment Commitments by Apple
印尼因蘋果未履行投資承諾而禁止 iPhone 16
Indonesia has officially banned the import and use of Apple’s iPhone 16, as announced by Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. The decision comes in light of Apple’s failure to meet its promised investments and requirements for locally produced components in the country. While Apple holds a leading position in the premium smartphone segment, the ban is indicative of the new government’s assertive stance on enforcing regulations and compliance, particularly as the country grapples with its evolving economic landscape.
Although the ban is not expected to significantly impact Apple’s overall revenues, it highlights Indonesia’s determination to bolster its domestic technology sector and ensure compliance with investment commitments from foreign companies. As the world’s fourth most populous nation, Indonesia is seeking to promote local production and sustainable growth, emphasizing the need for multinational corporations to align with national development goals. The recent political changes, with a new government in place, signal a shift toward a more assertive regulatory environment in the tech industry.
https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/27/asia_tech_news_in_brief/
由於該公司未能履行投資承諾和本地組件生產要求，印度尼西亞已禁止進口和使用Apple的iPhone 16。這一舉動反映了政府在執行法規和促進當地生產方面的強烈立場，尤其是在技術領域。儘管這可能不會顯著影響蘋果的全球收入，但該禁令強調了印度尼西亞在不斷發展的經濟格局中遵守國家發展目標的推動力。