BANGKOK, Thailand – The weekly “Voices from Thai Kuh Fah” program, hosted by Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap on March 1, covered key updates on national security, economic policy, and government crackdowns on illegal activities. The program addressed e-cigarette smuggling, fisheries and agriculture policies, the upcoming Maha Songkran 2025, and efforts to strengthen border security against call center scams.
Authorities are tightening controls on illegal e-cigarette imports following an extensive investigation into distribution networks across Bangkok. Recent raids led to the seizure of over 2,000 products worth more than 2 million baht. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has given officials 30 days to dismantle the illicit trade, with law enforcement instructed to pursue full prosecution and prevent corruption. The Ministry of Finance and the Customs Department have been tasked with securing all border checkpoints to block smuggling routes.
The government is also focusing on supporting the fishing industry by balancing vessel numbers with marine biodiversity preservation. Compensation for affected fishermen is being expedited, while agricultural ministers have been directed to introduce relief measures for unstable crop prices. To boost tourism, the government is preparing for Maha Songkran 2025 as part of the Thailand Summer Festivals campaign, expecting 1.5 million visitors during the holiday period.
On economic policy, the government launched the “Jang Ut” (Industrial Watch) platform, allowing the public to report illegal factories, pollution, counterfeit goods, and unethical government practices via the Traffy Fondue app. The Ministry of Labor has also opened 3,000 legal job opportunities in South Korea, urging Thai workers to apply through official channels to avoid exploitation. Meanwhile, authorities continue targeting call center scams by cutting electricity, internet access, and fuel supplies to scam operations along border areas.
The prime minister has been actively engaging with global businesses to strengthen Thailand’s economic position. A recent meeting with TikTok executives focused on leveraging the platform to promote Thai products and support small businesses through TikTok Shop. Next week, Paetongtarn will travel to Germany for ITB Berlin 2025, where she will present Thailand’s year-round tourism strategy to international investors. (NNT)
