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Thailand to Negotiate Reciprocal Tariff with U.S., Finance Minister Says Transparency and Strategic Lobbying Are Key

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Thailand to Negotiate Reciprocal Tariff with U.S., Finance Minister Says Transparency and Strategic Lobbying Are Key Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira revealed that Thailand has secured a slot to negotiate the reciprocal tariff issue with the United States. He is scheduled to travel next week for discussions with 2–3 key stakeholders, although further details have not been disclosed at this stage. Minister Pichai also posted on social media about the cost of hiring professional lobbyists. He noted that in general, consultancy fees in the U.S. range from USD 20,000 to 300,000 per month, depending on the scope and complexity of the services. However, in the case of reciprocal tariffs—a highly complex and urgent matter involving substantial trade value—specialized firms with strong policy-level connections in the U.S. government may charge significantly higher fees. “I assure full transparency and accountability. In the U.S., such contracts must be publicly disclosed via the Department of Justice’s website. Without the right representatives, the right strategy, and a well-equipped team that understands the U.S. system, Thailand risks losing its market share, disrupting exports, and harming farmers and entrepreneurs,” said Pichai.

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Regional News

PM Distributes National ID Cards to Ethnic Groups in Chiang Rai, Emphasizing Equality and Dignity for All Thais

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PM Distributes National ID Cards to Ethnic Groups in Chiang Rai, Emphasizing Equality and Dignity for All Thais June 28, 2025 – Chiang Rai: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Mae Chan District in Chiang Rai today to personally hand out Thai national ID cards to local ethnic minority groups who have officially been granted Thai citizenship under a recent Cabinet resolution. At the event held at Maechan Wittayakom School, the Prime Minister was joined by Deputy Interior Minister Teerarat Samrejvanich (Acting Minister of Interior), Deputy Agriculture Ministers Akkara Promphao and Itthi Sirilatthayakorn, Interior Permanent Secretary Assisit Sapphantarat, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration Chaiyawat Chuntiraphong, and Chiang Rai Governor Charin Thongsuk. Government Spokesman Jirayu Houngsub reported that the Prime Minister received a briefing on progress in addressing the status of stateless persons and those without legal documentation. According to the Department of Provincial Administration, the government has prioritized resolving the legal status of two key groups: 340,101 people who migrated to Thailand before 1999 and 143,525 of their children. To be eligible, applicants must have previously undergone registration or been included in surveys conducted between 2005 and 2011, or be verifiably left out from that process. Criteria include living in Thailand for at least 15 years, holding no other nationality, having a valid 13-digit ID number, and demonstrating good conduct. Applicants in Bangkok must apply via the Security Affairs Bureau, while those in the provinces can file with their district chiefs, along with proof of residence and identification. The Prime Minister highlighted key developments, including an inter-agency meeting scheduled for early July 2024, a new streamlined process that reduced ID approval from 270 to just 5 days, and Cabinet’s recent authorization allowing district chiefs to grant citizenship directly. A ministerial announcement supporting these policies was signed on April 2,

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PEA Confirms: “No Suspension of Electricity Supply to Cambodia” – Zero Usage at All 8 Trade Points

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PEA Confirms: “No Suspension of Electricity Supply to Cambodia” – Zero Usage at All 8 Trade Points June 26, 2025 – 8:00 PM: In response to recent reports regarding tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) of Thailand clarified that it has not suspended electricity distribution to the Kingdom of Cambodia, despite having power purchase agreements at 8 official border trade points. According to the latest electricity usage data, Cambodia has recorded zero electricity consumption across all 8 points of purchase, as follows: 1. Ban Khlong Luek Municipality, Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo → Poipet District, Banteay Meanchey (Circuits 1 and 2) 2. Kap Choeng (Chong Chom), Surin → O’Smach, Oddar Meanchey 3. Ban Hat Lek, Khlong Yai, Trat → Ban Hat Sai Yao, Koh Kong 4. Ban Subtaree, Soi Dao, Chanthaburi → Phnom Proek, Battambang 5. Ban Suansom, Soi Dao, Chanthaburi → O’Lau, Kamrieng, Battambang 6. Ban Khao Din, Khlong Hat, Sa Kaeo → Sampov Loun, Battambang 7. Ban Laem, Pong Nam Ron, Chanthaburi → Kamrieng, Battambang 8. Ban Nong Prue, Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo → Malai, Banteay Meanchey Conditions for Suspension or Termination of Power Supply PEA stated that electricity supply may be suspended or terminated under the following circumstances: A formal request for contract termination is submitted by the Cambodian party (either the Cambodian government or embassy). The National Security Council of Thailand (NSC) issues an official directive to cease electricity supply and terminate the agreement. Contract violations occur, such as failure to pay electricity bills or insufficient security deposit. “As of now, no official instructions have been issued by the NSC, nor have there been any formal requests from Cambodia to cancel electricity supply agreements.” – PEA Statement This clarification comes amid heightened tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border. The PEA reiterated its commitment to honoring

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Top Stories World News

Thai PM Paetongtarn Visits Sa Kaeo Border Amid Cambodia’s Military Mobilization

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Thai PM Paetongtarn Visits Sa Kaeo Border Amid Cambodia’s Military Mobilization June 26, 2025 – The Thai-Cambodian border has once again drawn attention as Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Sa Kaeo province to assess the impact of recent border control measures. On the same day, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen posted images of himself visiting troops near the border in a show of military support. PM Paetongtarn Holds High-Level Talks on Cross-Border Impact At 10:15 a.m., the Prime Minister chaired a meeting at Aranyaprathet School’s Chalerm Phrakiat Building in Sa Kaeo. The discussion focused on the socio-economic consequences of the restricted border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia. She was joined by key officials, including Gen. Natthaphon Nakphanich (Deputy Minister of Defense), Wuttikrai Leewiraphan (Permanent Secretary for Commerce), Arsit Sampantarat (Permanent Secretary for Interior), the Governor of Sa Kaeo, and senior military commanders from Region 1. PM Paetongtarn thanked all departments for their hard work and urged them to continue helping affected citizens. She also emphasized the need for transparent communication to prevent misinformation in border communities. Hun Sen Mobilizes Support, Accepts Army Chief Role Coinciding with the Thai PM’s visit, Hun Sen, now President of Cambodia’s Senate, made his first public border inspection in recent years. Dressed in camouflage, he met with soldiers stationed in Samraong District, Oddar Meanchey Province, and listened to briefings from field commanders. “Hun Sen accepted a request to become Chief of the Armed Forces,” said Chea Thirith, his spokesperson, during a military gathering on June 26. “This reflects his full backing for the troops, especially in logistics and defense readiness.” Hun Sen’s Facebook page stated that the Cambodian military is on alert following the May 28 incident where Cambodian troops were allegedly fired upon by Thai forces. Military assets have reportedly been moved to

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World News

Cambodia – Government Lets Modern Slavery Thrive in Scam Compounds

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A shocking new report by Amnesty International reveals that the Cambodian government is turning a blind eye to horrific human rights violations taking place in at least 53 scamming compounds across the country, where victims are trafficked, enslaved, and tortured. “Slavery thrives when governments look away.”— Montse Ferrer, Regional Director, Amnesty International ⚠️ What’s Happening Inside Scam Compounds Victims are lured by fake job ads on Facebook/Instagram Recruits come from Thailand, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, etc. On arrival, they’re locked inside heavily guarded buildings Forced to run online scams (e.g., fake investments, love scams) Many were tortured, beaten, or sold to other compounds At least 9 children were among the victims; some deaths confirmed 🛑 Amnesty’s Accusations Cambodian authorities know and allow the abuses Some police collaborate or accept bribes from compound leaders Police “rescues” are mostly for show, not real enforcement Survivors were punished after seeking help Journalists and rights defenders have been arrested or silenced 📌 Amnesty Calls For Immediate shutdown of all scam compounds Criminal prosecution of all perpetrators Full identification and legal support for victims End of harassment against truth-tellers and the press 🌍 Nationalities Impacted China / Thailand / Vietnam / Indonesia / Malaysia / Bangladesh / Ethiopia / India / Philippines / Taiwan / Kenya / Nepal ที่มา : https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2025/06/cambodia-government-allows-slavery-torture-flourish-inside-scamming-compounds/

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Technology Top Stories

Royal Thai Police Launches “Transfer Fast, Scammers Smile” Campaign

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Inviting Thais to “Strike Back” Against Call Center Scams On June 26, 2025, the Royal Thai Police, led by Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Inspector General and Director of the Cybercrime Prevention Center, officially launched the Thai Cyber Ranger project along with the campaign “Transfer Fast, Scammers Smile” to encourage Thai citizens to “Strike Back” against online scams and call center fraud. Key Objectives Raise public awareness of digital threats Encourage safe behavior: ⚠️ Think before you click ⚠️ Question before you believe ⚠️ Judge before you transfer Reduce cybercrime cases, especially those under 1 million baht Strategic Collaborations With support from partners like Cyber Police, Ichitan, True, TrueMoney, CP Extra, BTS, 7-Eleven, Plan B Media, and Rangsit University 2 Campaign Channels Online: Videos, infographics, hashtag activities (#TransferFastScammersSmile) On-ground: LED screens on BTS/MRT, in-store ads at 7-Eleven, and community workshops Highlight Activities Cybersecurity panel discussions with government and private leaders Real stories from scam victims Live workshops simulating scam scenarios Campaign Goals Reach over 10 million people within 2 months Reduce cybercrime cases by at least 10% by the end of 2025 🚨 “Transfer Fast = Scammers Smile” reminds everyone to pause and think before falling into a scam.

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Lifestyle

Half-Half Thailand” 2025 Now Open for Registration via Amazing Thailand App

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“Half-Half Thailand” 2025 Now Open for Registration via Amazing Thailand App — Starts July 4 The “Half-Half Thailand” 2025 tourism campaign is now officially open for public registration via the Amazing Thailand mobile app, starting from July 1, 2025, at 08:00 AM. The travel benefits can be used from July 4, 2025 onwards. The government allocated a budget of 1.75 billion baht under the 157-billion-baht economic stimulus plan. A total of 500,000 travel subsidies will be available nationwide, covering both weekdays and holidays, with support of 40–50% per night stay. 📌 How to Register via Amazing Thailand App Download the “Amazing Thailand” app from Google Play or the App Store Open the app and select “Half-Half Thailand Project” Choose “General Public” > “New Participant” > Tap “Register” Agree to terms, enter your ID and address, and verify via the ThaID app Set up your account, create a PIN, confirm OTP, and confirm eligibility 🛏️ Project Benefits 500,000 travel packages available Each person can stay up to 5 nights Government co-pays up to 3,000 THB/night Receive 500 THB digital coupons per booking for use at food, souvenir, OTOP, and attraction shops 🎯 Government Subsidy Rates City Type Weekdays (Mon–Fri) Weekends & Holidays Main Cities 40% (60% self-pay) 40% (60% self-pay) Secondary Cities 50% (50% self-pay) 40% (60% self-pay) 📍 Tip: Secondary cities give more value! Perfect for budget travelers looking for new Thai destinations. Choose wisely to maximize benefits. 📈 Expected Outcomes Estimated revenue: 14.125 billion THB Estimated travelers: 2.67 million trips during the campaign 👉 Click here for full project details

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Analysis & Special Columns

In the Shadows of History: Why Can’t Cambodia Escape the Cycle of Conflict with Its Neighbors?

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If we compare Southeast Asia to a chessboard, Cambodia might be seen as a pivotal piece—capable of many moves, but always at risk of being cornered. Contemporary Cambodian history is filled with scars, negotiations, and a deep-seated mistrust, both internal and external. The country’s ongoing disputes with its neighbors are not simply “border conflicts”—they are the product of a constant, cautious maneuvering in a geopolitical arena where power, interests, and national survival are always at stake. 1. Historical Wounds: The Legacy of Borders and the Fall of an Empire Cambodia was once the mighty “Khmer,” ruling over vast territories of what is now mainland Southeast Asia for centuries.But the decline of the Angkor Empire (Angkor Wat–Angkor Thom) brought not only a loss of territory and influence but also left a deep scar on the nation’s spirit and identity.The sense of having lost “old lands”—especially those now part of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam—remains a profound trauma in the Cambodian collective memory. As neighboring countries redrew borders during the colonial era, Cambodia was forced to accept terms it had little power to influence.This is the root of many unresolved territorial disputes that persist today. 2. Land as Dignity, Ethnicity as a Wound Conflicts between Cambodia and its neighbors—Thailand and Vietnam, for example—are not just about lines on a map.They are about national dignity and the collective emotions of entire societies.The case of “Preah Vihear Temple” is a clear example of how territory can become a symbol of identity struggles. Many Cambodians feel they have been “encroached upon” or “taken advantage of” time and again—while neighboring countries often view Cambodia’s claims as excessive or provocative.These feelings become a political force that the state can mobilize, rallying the people against “external enemies,”while simultaneously creating a smokescreen to distract from domestic problems. 3. Domestic Power,

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Analysis & Special Columns

“Cambodian Beggars in Thailand” – A Silent Urban Crisis, Transnational Crime, and Policy Dilemma

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1. Overview: Why Are Cambodian Beggars a Persistent Issue in Thailand? The phenomenon of Cambodian beggars in Thailand is not new, but has become more visible in the past decade, especially in major cities, busy intersections, tourist areas, and border towns. The root causes stem from both internal factors in Cambodia (poverty, rural economic disparity, lack of opportunity) and factors within Thailand (legal loopholes, urban wealth gap, demand for cheap labor and easy cash). 2. Syndicate Structure: How the Cycle Works Main targets: Children, women, the disabled, and the elderly from poor Cambodian provinces are recruited, deceived, or sometimes sent by their own families to beg in Thailand. Syndicate operations: Agents (middlemen) arrange the journey—using natural border crossings or bribing officials—and allocate strategic begging spots (major intersections, tourist hotspots). Organization: Beggars often live in groups in makeshift camps outside city centers, under the watch of a syndicate leader who collects a share of daily earnings, sometimes by force or threat. Illegal entry: Most enter via unofficial routes or through smuggling networks, sometimes even with quotas for high-traffic areas. 3. Multidimensional Impacts Urban/social impact: Public begging damages Thailand’s international image, causes discomfort for residents and tourists, and undermines trust in law enforcement. Human rights concerns: Many beggars—especially children and disabled people—are exploited, deprived of education, and subjected to neglect or even abuse. Health and safety: Beggars face poor living conditions, are exposed to health risks, and are vulnerable to other forms of crime or trafficking. Regional/policy tension: The issue strains Thai-Cambodian relations, raising questions on both countries’ commitment to child protection and human rights in international forums. 4. Legal Framework and State Response: Gaps and Challenges Thai law: The Beggar Control Act (2016) prohibits all forms of begging, regardless of nationality, with penalties of arrest and deportation. However, penalties are often

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Analysis & Special Columns

Analysis: “Hun” of the Khmer Rouge—Shadow over Cambodia’s Political History

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Analysis: “Hun” of the Khmer Rouge—Shadow over Cambodia’s Political History In the context of Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge, “Hun” refers most prominently to Hun Sen, the country’s former strongman who ruled for over 38 years (1985–2023) and played a pivotal role in Cambodia’s civil war, the fall of the Khmer Rouge, and the construction of modern Cambodian statehood. Origins and Role in the Khmer Rouge Hun Sen began his career as a Khmer Rouge cadre in the 1970s, rising to a military command post before the Cambodian genocide. Under Pol Pot, the Khmer Rouge were responsible for the deaths of 1.5–2 million Cambodians. Hun Sen later fled to Vietnam, returning with Vietnamese forces in 1979 to help oust the Khmer Rouge and establish the People’s Republic of Kampuchea (PRK). Path to Power and Contemporary Politics After the PRK era, Hun Sen became prime minister in 1985 and maintained control for nearly four decades through the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), relying on both compromise and forceful elimination of political rivals—including arrests and forced exile of opposition leaders. Throughout the 1990s–2010s, his reputation shifted from “stabilizer” to “modern autocrat,” marked by crackdowns on human rights, media, and interference with electoral processes. Legacy and Controversy Hun Sen is heavily criticized as a “shadow” of the Khmer Rouge past—due to his early affiliations, his hardline governance style, and the dynastic transfer of power (his son Hun Manet succeeded him in 2023). He is also accused of entanglement in national-scale corruption and crime. Still, he is regarded by some as a symbol of Cambodia’s postwar stability, especially compared to the brutal, lawless Khmer Rouge era. Key Observations Hun Sen exemplifies the “political survivor” who navigated dramatic regional changes and maintained power. Despite his break from the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia’s single-party political culture remains deeply

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