Travel

Burma to introduce Internet e-visa system

The e-visa system will be available from March and would allow international visitors to apply for a visa from anywhere via the Internet before visiting Burma. The liberalisation of visa procedures is likely to facilitate another jump in tourist arrivals in 2012. Total arrivals to Burma last year were 816,369.

Wassana Kasemchai
February 20, 2012

Rice Trade could fall 5% on weaker demand (FAO)

The international rice trade is forecast to fall by approximately 1 million tonnes, or 5 per cent, this year as improved harvest prospects in several major importing countries may reduce overall demand after achieving a worldwide record of 34.5 million tonnes (milled basis) in 2011, according to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Wassana Kasemchai
February 2, 2012

Markets

Key Stories on World Economy: Base Metals Outlook for 2012

Although a strong start to the year could be sustained in Q112, we expect base metals to experience a difficult and volatile year as macro headwinds continue to weigh on equities and metals. Below we outline our key views on the metals sector in 2012.

Wassana Kasemchai
January 27, 2012

Thai bourse seeks THB 120 billion ($4Bn) in IPO for 2012

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) announces its 2012 plan to increase the number of large-sized firms and securities on the exchange, expand the investor base with new products, launch new trading system, and continuously boost its capability and efficiency to increase competitiveness in the region.

Wassana Kasemchai
January 19, 2012

Myanmar

Is ASEAN Moving too Fast With Burma?

Association of Southeast Asian Nation leaders recently selected Burma to chair the organization in 2014. But has Burma truly done enough to be awarded such an honor, considering its very recent past? Even if ASEAN has prepared for the worst, the stakes are too high to give the regime what it wants considering the country’s horrendous human rights record and aversion to democracy.

Wassana Kasemchai
December 2, 2011

Bangkok governor orders evacuation for northern districts

Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra has ordered the evacuation of 200 households along…

Wassana Kasemchai
October 19, 2011

National

Assistance for Flood Victims Steps up

The Government and all sectors of Thai society have joined hands in easing the hardships of flood victims. Several countries, such as China, Japan, the United States, and New Zealand, have expressed intention to help flood victims in Thailand.