Institute Unveils Action Plan to Tackle Shifts in Global Trade and Industry
泰國國際貿易與發展研究所宣布應對全球貿易和工業變化的行動計劃
The International Institute for Trade and Development is preparing to present a comprehensive action plan to cope with evolving global trade regulations and supply chain challenges. The plan, expected to be presented in November to Thailand’s Commerce Ministry, Thai Chamber of Commerce, and the Federation of Thai Industries, comes in response to rising production costs, labor shortages, outdated trade policies, and geopolitical tensions. Executive Director Suphakit Chareonkul highlighted the rapid changes in labor and environmental standards, technological advancements, and global conflicts as key factors complicating Thailand’s export policies and production patterns.
In a bid to boost collaboration between the public and private sectors, the institute recently concluded its Leadership Program on Trade and Development Strategy, which saw 81 executives from various industries developing innovative policy recommendations. The program focused on tourism, agriculture, food, automotive, logistics, and energy, with the aim of fostering growth and adaptability in these sectors. The institute also launched the Trade Intelligence Center to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in adapting to global trends, emphasizing green energy, alternative logistics solutions, and access to financial support for technology and innovation.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2876128/plan-to-help-firms-tackle-trade-barriers
小編點評：國際貿易與發展研究所將於 11 月公佈一項全面行動計劃，以應對全球貿易中不斷變化的挑戰，包括生產成本上升和地緣政治緊張局勢。該倡議旨在加強公共和私營部門之間的合作，促進關鍵產業的成長和適應性，同時支持微型、小型和中型企業引領全球趨勢並採用綠色能源解決方案。
Thailand to Establish SME-Focused Industrial Estate in Eastern Economic Corridor
泰國將在東部經濟走廊建立以中小企業為重點的工業園區
The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) is set to develop a new industrial estate in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) tailored specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Acting IEAT Governor Sumet Thangprasert revealed that part of an existing industrial estate owned by the authority would be dedicated to supporting SMEs, offering a more affordable solution for businesses with limited budgets. The initiative aligns with Industry Minister Akanat Promphan’s commitment to enhancing financial and technical support for SMEs, which play a vital role in Thailand’s economic growth.
This new industrial estate, set within Thailand’s high-tech industrial hub spanning Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao, will offer SMEs access to essential facilities under build-to-suit leases at reasonable costs. The government also aims to promote eco-friendly manufacturing and digital technology within the estate. In collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank), the IEAT plans to provide SMEs with improved financial access, offering them a valuable opportunity to grow and compete within Thailand’s key targeted industries, including next-generation automotive and smart electronics.
https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thailand-to-develop-sme-focused-industrial-estate-in-eec
小編點評：泰國工業園區管理局 (IEAT) 正在東部經濟走廊專門為中小企業 (SME) 開發一個新的工業園區，提供價格實惠的設施來支援預算有限的企業。該舉措是加強對中小企業的金融和技術支援的更廣泛承諾的一部分，旨在促進環保製造和數位技術，同時透過與泰國中小企業發展銀行的合作，促進改善融資管道。
Excise Department Proposes Carbon Tax to Curb Emissions in Thailand
泰國消費稅部門提議徵收碳稅以遏制排放
The Excise Department is set to introduce a carbon tax on refined oil, initially mirroring Singapore’s rate, with plans to charge 200 baht per tonne of carbon, according to Director-General Ekniti Nitithanprapas. The tax, awaiting cabinet approval, will not impact the general public’s oil usage, as the current excise tax on oil remains unchanged. The carbon tax aims to incentivize businesses to reduce emissions, aligning with Thailand’s commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30-40% by 2030, achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero emissions by 2065.
In line with environmental goals, the department also plans to propose a 0% tax rate on bioethylene to promote bioplastic production, and on modified passenger vans for disabled individuals. As an ESG-focused agency, the department previously implemented a sugar tax to reduce public health risks, successfully leading manufacturers to lower sugar levels in beverages. Over the first 11 months of fiscal 2024, the department reported 482 billion baht in revenue, with a target of 600 billion baht for fiscal 2025.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2875228/department-mulls-carbon-tax-collection
小編點評：泰國消費稅部門計劃對成品油徵收碳稅，最初與新加坡的稅率相匹配，每噸碳徵收 200 泰銖，尚待內閣批准。該稅收旨在激勵減排，以符合泰國的環境承諾，同時也提議對生物乙烯實施零稅率，以鼓勵生物塑膠生產並支持為殘疾人士改裝客車。
Siam Cement CEO Calls for Business-Government Collaboration on Green Economy
暹羅水泥執行長呼籲商界與政府合作發展綠色經濟
Thammasak Sethaudom, president and CEO of Siam Cement Group (SCG), urged for stronger collaboration between businesses and the government to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon society. Speaking at the Sustainability Expo 2024, Thammasak outlined SCG’s green initiatives and called for supportive legislation, clean energy accessibility, and household solar solutions to drive sustainability. He also recommended tax incentives, green financing, and the creation of a carbon registration agency to help businesses monitor and manage their emissions.
In addition, Thammasak emphasized the need for technological innovation and the development of green infrastructure to enhance circular energy systems, while advocating for skill development programs to support SMEs in the green transition. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong voiced the government’s commitment to considering and potentially implementing these recommendations to foster a unified effort toward achieving environmental sustainability.
小編點評：暹羅水泥集團執行長Thammasak Sethaudom 在2024 年永續發展博覽會上強調企業與政府之間需要加強合作，以促進向低碳社會轉型。和稅收優惠，而副總理 Prasert Jantararuangtong 表示政府致力於探索這些建議以增強環境永續性。
Thailand to Expand Solar Power Purchases from Households to Boost Clean Energy
泰國將擴大家庭太陽能採購規模以促進清潔能源發展
Thailand’s energy authorities are considering increasing the purchase of solar power from households as part of efforts to promote clean energy and expand rooftop solar panel installations. The National Energy Policy Administration Committee previously approved a plan to buy 90 megawatts (MW) of solar power from households by 2030, but recent calls from businesses and lawmakers have prompted a push to raise this limit. Under the new power development plan (PDP), which aims to increase renewable energy use to 51% by 2037, solar power will play a central role, with the target set at 24,412MW, up from 2,863MW earlier this year.
The Energy Ministry is also offering incentives, including a new tax reduction scheme for 90,000 households from 2024 to 2027, to encourage more solar installations. The plan allows homeowners to sell excess electricity to the state grid, with a tariff set at 2.2 baht per kilowatt-hour on average. Solar panel distributors, like New Energy Plus Solutions Co., have voiced support for these initiatives, viewing them as crucial tools to reduce carbon emissions and support Thailand’s green energy transition.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2874608/solar-power-push-for-household-rooftops
小編點評：泰國能源當局正在考慮增加家庭太陽能採購，以推廣清潔能源並擴大屋頂安裝，計劃到2030年將目前的目標提高到90兆瓦。稅務規劃家庭以及房主向電網出售多餘電力的能力，這被認為對於減少碳排放和推動泰國綠色能源轉型至關重要。
Thailand Climbs to 41st in Global Innovation Index, Boosted by Private Sector R&D
在私部門研發的推動下，泰國在全球創新指數中攀升至第 41 位
Thailand has advanced two spots to 41st in the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII), out of 133 economies, driven largely by private sector investment in research and development (R&D), according to the National Innovation Agency (NIA). The country improved in both innovation input and output rankings, reflecting effective use of its resources. Thailand has held the top spot for the share of GDP spent on R&D by businesses for five consecutive years, underscoring the private sector’s commitment to innovation. The nation is also revising its intellectual property laws and launching a fast-track registration process to meet international standards.
NIA executive director Krithpaka Boonfueng highlighted efforts to strengthen Thailand’s global brand in intellectual property rights, while experts like Sacha Wunsch-Vincent from the World Intellectual Property Organization (Wipo) urged Thailand to form a national task force to further promote innovation. Government agencies are also working to support startups and creative industries, with a focus on intellectual property, soft power, and human development. The Commerce Ministry aims to reduce the time needed for patent and trademark approvals, enhancing Thailand’s global competitiveness in innovation.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2873416/thailand-rises-in-global-innovation-index
小編點評：根據國家創新局的數據，泰國在 2024 年全球創新指數中攀升至第 41 位，這主要歸功於私部門對研發的投資增加。中國的研發支出佔國內生產毛額的比重繼續領先，同時也修訂了智慧財產權法並採取措施支持新創企業並增強其全球創新競爭力。
Thailand to Build First Silicon Carbide Chip Factory in Joint Venture
國將合資興建首家碳化矽晶片工廠
The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has approved an 11.5-billion-baht joint venture between Hana Microelectronics and PTT to build the country’s first silicon carbide (SiC) chip factory. Set to be operational by the first quarter of 2027, the factory will produce SiC wafers for use in power electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), data centers, and energy storage systems. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, BOI secretary general, stated that the plant, located in the Saha Group Industrial Park, Lamphun Province, will receive technology transfer from a leading South Korean chipmaker to produce 6-inch and 8-inch SiC wafers.
Narit emphasized the significance of the project in advancing Thailand’s semiconductor industry, citing the country’s low geopolitical risk, competitive costs, and strong infrastructure as key factors for its selection. The initiative is expected to boost Thailand’s position in the upstream semiconductor sector, create jobs, and foster collaboration with local universities to develop science and technology talent. The factory will also contribute to Thailand’s growing EV, energy storage, and data center industries, potentially attracting further investments from leading electronics manufacturers.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40041730
小編點評：泰國投資委員會已批准韓亞微電子公司與 PTT 投資 115 億泰銖建立泰國首家碳化矽 (SiC) 晶片工廠，計劃於 2027 年第一季開始運作。種應用的碳化矽晶圓，包括電力電子和電動車，同時也將透過與當地大學的合作增強泰國的半導體產業並創造就業機會。
Cabinet Approves 7.1 Billion Baht for EV3.0 Subsidies Amid Pending Reimbursements
泰國政府內閣批准 71 億泰銖的 EV3.0 補貼，但尚未償還
The Thai Cabinet has approved an additional 7.13 billion baht to support reimbursements for battery electric vehicle (BEV) manufacturers under the expired EV3.0 subsidy scheme, according to Jirayu Huangsap, the Prime Minister’s advisor for public relations. While the EV3.0 program has been replaced by the more modest EV3.5 package, manufacturers are still claiming subsidies for BEVs sold under the previous scheme. The Finance Ministry had initially estimated needing 11.92 billion baht in total but has so far paid out only 6.897 billion baht.
In addition to the pending 5.02 billion baht owed, the ministry will require a further 2.11 billion baht to cover subsidies for an additional 16,500 BEVs that manufacturers have indicated they are ready to produce under the EV3.0 scheme. This brings the total additional requirement to 7.13 billion baht, which the Cabinet has now approved.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/automobile/40041790
小編點評：泰國內閣已批准根據已過期的EV3.0 補貼計劃額外提供71.3 億泰銖補償純電動汽車(BEV) 製造商的費用，以解決儘管過渡到新的EV3.5 計劃但尚未解決的索賠問題。這筆資金將用於支付所欠的 50.2 億泰銖，以及製造商準備根據先前計劃生產的 16,500 輛純電動汽車的額外 21.1 億泰銖。
Vietnam Unveils Ambitious Semiconductor Development Strategy with Focus on Workforce Expansion
越南推出雄心勃勃的半導體發展策略，聚焦在勞動力擴張
The Prime Minister of Vietnam has approved a semiconductor development strategy aimed at transforming the country into a global electronics and semiconductor hub by 2050. The strategy, which will be implemented in three phases, focuses on selective foreign investment, workforce expansion, and infrastructure growth. By 2030, Vietnam aims to establish a network of 100 chip design firms, one semiconductor manufacturing factory, and 10 chip packaging and testing facilities, alongside training 50,000 engineers. The following phases, through 2040 and 2050, will see the country increase its engineering workforce to 100,000 and build two more semiconductor factories and 15 additional testing plants.
Human resource development is central to Vietnam’s semiconductor ambitions. The government plans to train 100,000 engineers by 2050, with universities already adapting their programs to meet the demands of the growing industry. Vo Xuan Hoai, deputy director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, emphasized the critical role of human resources in driving the sector’s future. Despite challenges in rapid workforce training, collaboration between educational institutions and industry is expected to be key in fostering the talent necessary to achieve Vietnam’s semiconductor goals.
小編點評：越南總理批准了一項雄心勃勃的半導體發展戰略，旨在到2050 年將該國定位為全球電子和半導體中心，計劃在2030 年建立100 家晶片設計公司和一家半導體製造工廠。措施的核心是勞動力政府的目標是到 2050 年培訓 10 萬名工程師，強調教育機構和工業界之間的合作，以滿足不斷增長的行業的需求。
SpaceX to Invest $1.5 Billion in Starlink Satellite Internet Expansion in Vietnam
SpaceX 將投資 15 億美元在越南擴大星鏈衛星互聯網
U.S.-based SpaceX, led by billionaire Elon Musk, plans to invest $1.5 billion to bring its Starlink satellite Internet services to Vietnam, as announced by Tim Hughes, SpaceX’s senior vice president for global business, during a meeting with Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam in New York. The investment aims to support Vietnam’s digital transformation efforts and provide universal Internet access, utilizing SpaceX’s 6,000 satellites in low earth orbit. Hughes emphasized Vietnam’s potential as a key market for Starlink’s global expansion and highlighted the company’s commitment to aiding the country’s development.
The Vietnamese leader expressed strong support for SpaceX’s initiative, underscoring the importance of digital transformation to Vietnam’s future. He also thanked SpaceX for its offer of assistance following the recent devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi in northern Vietnam. In a separate meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Hughes praised Vietnam’s favorable investment climate and highlighted Starlink’s potential to enhance education, training, and disaster prevention through improved Internet access, urging Vietnam to prepare the necessary infrastructure for the project.
小編點評：SpaceX 計畫投資 15 億美元擴大其在越南的 Starlink 衛星網路服務，旨在支持該國的數位轉型，並透過其近地軌道上的 6000 顆衛星提供普遍的網路存取。在與越南領導人的討論中，SpaceX 高級副總裁Tim Hughes 強調了越南作為關鍵市場的潛力，並強調了改善網路存取對教育、培訓和防災的重要性，同時對越南在颱風八木之後提供的支持表示感謝。
Bali Aims to Enhance Indonesia’s Semiconductor Ecosystem, Says Economic Minister
經濟部長表示，峇裡島旨在增強印尼的半導體生態系統
Indonesia’s Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone (KEK) is set to strengthen the nation’s digital semiconductor ecosystem, according to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. Speaking at the “Shaping the Future Economy: AI & Semiconductor” event in Denpasar, Airlangga emphasized the importance of evolving the semiconductor sector to improve Indonesia’s digital infrastructure. He highlighted the potential for significant growth in the digital economy, currently valued at approximately $82 billion, with projections to reach $300 billion by 2030.
In a bid to bolster this growth, Airlangga proposed that China’s Tsinghua University establish a youth center within the KEK to support the development of Indonesian youth in the semiconductor field. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration and innovation, further advancing Indonesia’s digital ecosystem. The success of this plan will depend on the effective implementation of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement by ASEAN nations, which is crucial for the region’s technological advancement.
https://www.techinasia.com/news/bali-strengthen-semiconductor-ecosystem-minister
小編點評：正如經濟事務協調部長 Airlangga Hartarto 最近在登巴薩舉行的一次活動中所強調的那樣，印度尼西亞庫拉庫拉巴厘島經濟特區 (KEK) 旨在增強國家的半導體生態系統。他提議中國清華大學在KEK內設立青年中心，支持本地半導體領域人才的發展，並強調這項措施的成功取決於東協國家在數位經濟框架協議下的有效合作。
Indonesia’s CarbonEthics Raises $2.1 Million to Advance Climate Solutions
印尼 CarbonEthics 籌集 210 萬美元以推進氣候解決方案
CarbonEthics, an Indonesia-based developer focused on natural climate solutions, has successfully secured $2.1 million in a seed funding round led by Intudo Ventures, with contributions from angel investors. This recent funding will enable the company to acquire additional carbon projects and expand its team of technical experts. By 2030, CarbonEthics aims to manage 8 million hectares of land, enhancing its impact on carbon reduction efforts.
Founded in May 2019, CarbonEthics specializes in blue carbon ecosystems while also addressing peatland and green ecosystems. The company is dedicated to restoring environments that assist businesses in lowering their carbon emissions. This latest financing follows a previous $220,000 pre-seed round completed earlier in 2023, backed by Spiral Ventures and Ecoxyztem. With pre-feasibility studies conducted across over 4.2 million hectares, CarbonEthics is poised to potentially yield more than 1 million tonnes of verified CO2e annually through its initiatives.
https://www.techinasia.com/news/indonesias-carbonethics-secures-21m-climate-solutions
小編點評：CarbonEthics 是一家總部位於印尼的自然氣候解決方案開發商，在 Intudo Ventures 領投的種子輪融資中籌集了 210 萬美元，用於收購更多碳項目並擴大其技術團隊。該公司計劃在2030年管理800萬公頃土地，專注於藍碳生態系統和環境恢復，幫助企業減少碳排放，潛在年產量超過100萬噸經驗證的CO2e。.