National

Department of Business Development Accelerates Franchise Sector Growth to Support 300 Billion Baht Market

Thailand's Department of Business Development is promoting franchise business development to capitalize on a 300 billion baht market growing at 15-20% annually. The department launched the DBD Franchise Standard program offering business training, financial support through SME D Bank with 200 million baht in credit, and special retail location benefits through Lotus to help franchises succeed. Currently, 571 businesses have achieved the quality management standard, with food and beverage franchises dominating at 65% of certified operations.

29 Apr Khaosod

The Department of Business Development is accelerating efforts to upgrade Thailand's franchise sector to support a growing 300 billion baht market. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce, stated that franchise business is a crucial mechanism for the nation's economy in creating employment, generating revenue, and distributing business opportunities to regional areas. Implementing systematic management standards in line with international benchmarks will build confidence between franchisors and franchisees and create a strong foundation for quality business growth.

The franchise sector is currently showing continuous growth with a combined market value exceeding 300 billion baht and an average annual expansion rate of 15-20%, reflecting the potential of a business model that expands systematically and generates income. On April 29, 2025, the department organized the "Elevating Business to DBD Franchise Standard" event under the concept of "Standard-Scale-Success" to upgrade Thai businesses through franchise systems as an efficient business expansion strategy. Expert franchisees were invited to share knowledge and development guidelines covering branch expansion and growth strategies, franchise model creation, franchise manual development, branding, finance and fee structures, online content creation, personnel development, and digital technology for franchises. A special panel discussion on "Standardize to Scale: Franchise Success Stories" was also held to inspire entrepreneurs to apply lessons to their own businesses.

The department also provided financial support through partnerships with financial institutions, including SME D Bank, which offered special credit privileges totaling 200 million baht to franchise businesses that passed the additional assessment from the DBD Franchise Standard program. An estimated 40 businesses are expected to pass the assessment this year. Additionally, the department partnered with Lotus to provide special commercial location privileges, with Lotus waiving initial fees for franchises selling products within their stores, enabling franchise businesses to start operations comprehensively.

Poonpong noted that franchise business plays an important role in the economy as a mechanism that creates jobs, generates income, and expands business opportunities. Franchising is therefore an investment option that reduces risk due to its proven management systems and business models. Elevating the potential of Thai franchise businesses to international standards will help them compete amid economic volatility. Combining business standards with access to capital will strengthen Thailand's franchise system and serve as a key driver for entrepreneurs to grow steadily in the long term.

Currently, 571 businesses have met the DBD Franchise Standard criteria, with food businesses comprising 257 establishments (45%), beverages 115 (20%), services 72 (13%), education 70 (12%), retail 33 (6%), and beauty and spa services 24 (4%).

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Police

Chadchart Orders Crackdown on Loopholes After Arrest of Thonburi District Official for Issuing Fake Birth Certificates

Bangkok Governor Chadchart has ordered a crackdown on document-issuance procedures after a Thonburi district official was arrested for issuing fake birth certificates to foreign nationals. An urgent audit of all districts is underway to ide

29 Apr Khaosod

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphan has ordered strict oversight and a comprehensive review of procedures and authority limits to close loopholes following the arrest of a Thonburi district official involved in issuing fake birth certificates to stateless persons. An urgent audit of document issuance across all districts is underway.

An Anti-Corruption Police operation, coordinated with the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Public Relations Department, and Special Cases Investigation Bureau, conducted raids on four locations and arrested one official from the Thonburi District Registry Office along with five others—six suspects total—for fraudulently issuing birth certificates to foreign nationals to falsely claim Thai citizenship.

On April 29, 2569, at the Asdang Development Building at City Hall 2 in Din Daeng, Governor Chadchart Sittiphan stated that the arrested registry officials were mid-level operational staff, not supervisors or district directors, and that the scheme involved multiple people colluding together.

Chadchart said procedures must be reviewed to identify vulnerabilities and assess whether excessive authority has been granted to individual officials in birth certificate verification processes.

Chadchart instructed Deputy Governor Chakraphan Phiwngam to investigate the volume of documents issued to foreign nationals and identify any districts with abnormally high numbers.

"We will also review procedures so that decisions are not made by a single person, but rather by a committee working together to prevent excessive power concentration in individual hands. I commend the police for their arrest. This is decisive action on the corruption that has surfaced," Chadchart said.

Four locations were raided, with six suspects arrested—state officials and accomplices—involved in the fake birth certificate scheme allowing foreigners to fraudulently claim Thai nationality.

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National

Thanadech Exposes Association President Falsely Claiming to be Advisor to Senate Committee, Profiting from Lottery Quota

A Bangkok parliamentarian exposed an association leader who falsely claimed to represent a Senate committee and illegally sold government lottery quotas for 2,000 baht per account, using a non-existent senator's name. The revelations prompted formal complaints to the Senate and Parliament leadership requesting investigation into the fraud. Verification confirmed no senator by the referenced name exists, establishing the scheme as a deliberate impersonation damaging Parliament's integrity.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2569 at Parliament, Lt. Thanadech Pengsuk, a Bangkok member of parliament for the People's Party, revealed a recording of an association discussion in which someone falsely claimed to be an advisor to the Senate's Special Committee for the Protection and Elevation of the Institution of the Monarchy. The individual claimed to possess lottery quotas and advertised for nominees willing to lend their names and accounts for 2,000 baht per person, with instructions to contact "Senator Bunyorod" via LINE. Thanadech stated that such fraudulent claims damage Parliament's credibility and the institution's dignity. He filed formal complaints with both the Senate President and Parliament Speaker urging urgent investigation. The audio recording identified the association president as someone named Den, who falsely represented himself as a committee advisor with access to online lottery quotas. Thanadech's verification found no senator named Bunyorod in the parliamentary registry, confirming the fraudulent impersonation that damages Parliament's reputation.

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National

CP All Receives MEA Energy Awards 2025

CP All's Eight Eleven branches earned MEA Energy Awards 2025 for meeting efficiency and air quality standards, marking the company's continued commitment to environmental sustainability since joining the program in 2021.

29 Apr Khaosod

CP All Public Company Limited, operator of Seven Eleven and Seven Delivery, has received the MEA Energy Awards 2025 from the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), reinforcing its commitment to efficient energy management and environmental protection.

Eight Seven Eleven branches have successfully met the criteria and earned STANDARD certification in the small retail/convenience store category. The award-winning branches are: Vibhavadi 62, Bangkok Boulevard Phase 2 Ratchapruk, Ramkhamhaeng 52/2 Point 2, The Mall Ngamwongwan, Suanphak Soi 7, Rom Yen Housing, LPN Onnuch Ladkrabang 2, and LPN Ladplakao.

The awards ceremony took place on April 27, 2026, with Natsaporn Chirnantakorn, department manager of CP All, accepting the award from Dichawat Chanee, Governor of the Metropolitan Electricity Authority. The MEA Energy Awards 2025 marks the eighth year of the MEA's program promoting energy efficiency improvements in buildings, conducted in partnership with King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi under the theme "Efficient Energy Use and Standard Air Quality."

The evaluation criteria focus on two main aspects: energy efficiency performance (MEA Index) and indoor air quality (IAQ). CP All's continuous recognition since joining the program in 2021 demonstrates its commitment to efficient energy use and indoor air quality management. The company operates under its "7 Go Green" philosophy, aiming for environmental and social sustainability by reducing energy and resource consumption, addressing climate change challenges, and systematically minimizing environmental impact throughout its value chain to support sustainable business growth.

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Community

Fresh from the Temple – Wat Arun Welcomes Luang Pho Chaeng for Songkran Water Blessing Ceremony

Wat Arun Rajwararama in Bangkok held a series of Songkran festival ceremonies featuring a replica of the revered Luang Pho Chaeng Buddha image, with traditional water blessing rituals and Lao Million Elephants musical performances. The ceremonies, held from April 13-15, 2026, were open to the public and aimed to promote cultural tourism, Buddhist heritage appreciation, and bring blessings as Thailand celebrated its traditional New Year.

29 Apr Khaosod

On Monday, April 13, 2026, Phra Phrom Vajramedhi (Somkiat Kovit), a member of the Maha Thersamakhom Council, advisor to the 9th Regional Ecclesiastical Authority, and abbot of Wat Arun Rajwararama, presided over the ceremony to enshrine a replica of Luang Pho Chaeng on the grounds before the Buddha Prangan at Wat Arun Rajwararama in Bangkok's Bang Kho district.

The ceremony included lighting incense and candles to honor Luang Pho Chaeng, followed by traditional water blessing rituals. Dhamma teachers performed worship ceremonies accompanied by classical Lao Million Elephants musical ensemble playing sacred music, reflecting the deep cultural and historical bonds between the two nations.

The replica Luang Pho Chaeng was then placed on a ceremonial palanquin decorated with elegant Lao Million Elephants ornaments and carried in procession to its installation site, allowing monks and Buddhist devotees to participate in the water blessing ceremony and seek blessings for auspiciousness during the Thai New Year celebration.

This ceremony represented a continuation of beautiful Thai traditions during Songkran, the ancient Thai New Year celebration signifying the purification of body, speech, and mind, while expressing gratitude to past Thai monarchs and revered ancestors.

Wat Arun opened the ceremony to the general public and tourists wishing to participate in the water blessing of the Prangan Buddha, an important relic of Bangkok, seeking blessings for their lives while promoting cultural tourism and Buddhist heritage education.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Phra Phrom Vajramedhi, along with Phra Phrom Senabodhee (Pim Yanaveero), a member of the Maha Thersamakhom Council and advisor to the 7th Regional Ecclesiastical Authority, and Phra Phrom Vajravimolmuni V. (Bounchit Yanasangvoro), a member of the Maha Thersamakhom Council and abbot of Wat Mahathat Yuvaraj Rangsridtee, presided over the ceremony to return the replica Luang Pho Chaeng to its shrine at Wat Arun, with many Buddhist devotees participating.

The atmosphere was filled with auspiciousness as Songkran Festival drew to a close and Thailand's new year commenced. The presiding clergy lit incense and candles to honor Luang Pho Chaeng, presenting elegant and valuable offerings in the traditional Lao Million Elephants manner. Musicians performed harmonious traditional melodies while dancers performed graceful movements as Buddhist offerings.

Following the water blessing of the replica and the presentation of robes, Luang Pho Chaeng was placed upon a ceremonial palanquin in a grand Lao Million Elephants procession, returning to the viharn accompanied by the resonant sounds of traditional musical instruments throughout the journey, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Upon arrival at the temple, all monks chanted auspicious blessings.

This ceremony marked the complete closing of Songkran Festival at Wat Arun Rajwararama while preserving beautiful Thai and Buddhist traditions for future generations. It brought auspiciousness to the nation and all Buddhist devotees, allowing them to welcome the Thai New Year with happiness, prosperity, and renewed faith in the Triple Gem.

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Community

Sacred Amulet News – First Edition Coin 2508 of Luang Pu Dul Atulo

This article chronicles the life and spiritual legacy of Luang Pu Dul Atulo (Phra Ratanakorn Visuthi), a highly revered forest tradition monk and Vipassana master from Surin Province in the Northeast. Born in 1887, he ordained at 22 and achieved profound meditative insight through intensive practice under the guidance of Luang Pu Man Bhuridatta, becoming known for his peaceful demeanor and spiritual teachings. The first edition commemorative coin was created in 1965 by his disciples to honor his contribution to Buddhism and community development.

29 Apr Khaosod

The ascetic tradition monks, or forest monastery lineage, are mostly disciples of Luang Pu Man Bhuridatta, the patriarch of the forest tradition. One of them is Phra Ratanakorn Visuthi, known as Luang Pu Dul Atulo of Wat Buppharam in Muang district, Surin Province, a highly revered Vipassana master from the Northeast. Originally named Dool Dee, he was born on October 4, 1887, in Prasat, the second of five siblings. As a child, he studied at the monastery where he learned basic literacy and moral conduct under the guidance of the resident monks. At age 22, he ordained at Wat Chumpol Sutthawat in Surin with Phra Khru Vimol Silprot as his preceptor, receiving the epithet "Atulo," meaning incomparable. In 1918, at age 30, he was elevated to the rank of Bhikkhu in the Thammayut order at Wat Sutthasan in Ubon Ratchathani. After his ordination, he practiced intensively under Luang Pu Aek at Wat Khor Kho near Surin, though without immediate results. He then traveled to Ubon to pursue formal Dhamma studies and successfully earned his first-level Dhamma certificate, becoming the first graduate of his province. When Luang Pu Man stayed at Wat Buppharam in Ubon, he regularly attended his sermons and was deeply inspired. After the retreat ended, he decided to follow Luang Pu Man on his forest wandering practice. Through intense practice and following his teacher's guidance, the light of Dhamma arose within him, granting clear insight into the nature of mind and defilement. He became known for his cool temperament, few words, and peaceful demeanor, serving as a true exemplar and field of merit for the world, benefiting others completely. He peacefully passed away at age 96, having completed 64 Buddhist Rains retreats. The votive objects he created, including statues, amulets, bells, and coins, were all made to support the temple's restoration and promote religious works within the community. His amulets have been highly sought after from the past to the present, with their value increasing over time. The first edition coin was created in 1965 by his disciples as a commemorative piece for the construction of the main pavilion.

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Community

Buddhist Amulet Circle - Luang Por Khleuap Coins Year 39 and Luang Pu Ruem Coins

This article provides an in-depth guide to collectible Buddhist amulets from renowned monks in Thailand, focusing on rare coin editions and closed-eye Buddha figurines with historical and monetary value. Featured amulets include coins from Luang Por Hom, Luang Por Khleuap, Luang Pu Ruem, and the historically significant pieces by Luang Pu Nak Chotiako, with details on their designs, materials, and market appreciation. The piece emphasizes the spiritual significance and collector's value of these religious artifacts created to support temple development and charitable causes.

29 Apr Khaosod

A detailed examination of rare and collectible Buddhist amulets with historical significance. The article discusses Luang Por Hom Ratinetdro, the respected meditation master and abbot of Wat Tri Kamvasi in Sakon Nakhon, who created an ancient cast coin series to fundraise for temple construction. The first edition features an oval design with a loop bail and Sanskrit characters reading "Ma Ru Ku Ru" at its core, with a meditative Buddha figure in the center. The back bears an inscription dated Buddhist Era 2537 (1994), with current market prices having doubled in value. The article also covers Luang Por Khleuap Sangworthamma's coins from August 1996, created by the Uthai Thani Lions Club to support impoverished communities, featuring colorful enamel work in red, blue, green, cyan, and purple. Additionally, it details Luang Pu Ruem Primo's first-edition coins from Buddhist Era 2516 (1973) made of alpaca, and the historically important closed-eye Buddha amulets by the renowned Luang Pu Nak Chotiako of Wat Huai Krachai in Nakhon Pathom, created between Buddhist Era 2432-2435 (1889-1892). The text notes that collectors favor three main styles of the closed-eye Buddhas: the flat-belly mold, bulging-belly mold, and rabbit-ear mold, with notable details about the craftsmanship and underwater inscription process traditional to their creation.

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Regional

Durian Vendors at Thai Market See Live-Selling Drama Differently—100 Baht Per Fruit Creates Divide

Online vendor Pimree Pie's promotion selling durians at 100 baht each has sparked divided reactions at Bangkok's Thai Market, with some traditional vendors reporting negative impacts on wholesale prices while others see online and retail customers as separate market segments. The controversy highlights broader concerns about fair pricing for orchard farmers and calls for government intervention beyond promotional tactics.

29 Apr Khaosod

Following online vendor Pimree Pie's promotional campaign to sell one million durians at 100 baht per fruit starting April 28, reporters visited Thai Market in Pathum Thani province and found golden pillow durians selling at 75-150 baht per kilogram, depending on size and grade.

Chao Tuk Tuk shop owner, who sells button durians at 100 baht each, explained they chose this price point because it's easy to sell. These durians are lower-grade in appearance—not in quality of flesh, just uneven shape. Regarding the live-selling at 100 baht per fruit, it depends on the grade being sold, but this vendor personally feels impacted because most traders buy by the kilogram. While they understand if the grade and characteristics are clearly specified, selling quality golden pillow durians at 100 baht each doesn't make sense when their wholesale cost runs 96-110 baht per kilogram. They worry the wholesale price will become volatile and would prefer this marketing practice to stop as it significantly affects small traders.

Chao Ja-Yu 895 shop also criticized the live-selling as unfair to orchard owners. Since they buy at higher costs, they cannot compete at those prices. Some fruits cost 100 baht or more to acquire wholesale, not counting employee wages, transportation, and weight loss during storage.

However, Jae Kan offered a different perspective, calling it part of the durian industry's evolution. While initially skeptical, she noted the results are manageable. Since she doesn't source directly from orchards, she's less impacted, though she acknowledges orchardists may be affected. She sees this as a normal strategy for large retailers to attract customers. Her shop isn't affected because customers clearly segment themselves—online shoppers go online, while those preferring in-person selection visit the shop.

Still, she suggests the government should provide better support. While Pimree Pie has successfully drawn attention to the durian industry, the government should conduct fieldwork with actual orchard farmers to understand real pricing issues and problems, rather than just addressing symptoms.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Breaking

Latest Update on Rothaang Jitmeungnon Before Facing Takeru in ONE Samurai 1 Headliner

Former ONE Championship flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rothaang Jitmeungnon is heading to Tokyo to face local favorite Takeru in the headlining bout of ONE Samurai 1 on April 29, 2025. The interim ONE Championship kickboxing flyweight title will be on the line in this high-stakes matchup at the Ariake Arena. His wife Bangju has shared updates and photos of Rothaang preparing for the fight at their hotel before departure.

29 Apr Khaosod

Rothaang Jitmeungnon, the former ONE Championship flyweight Muay Thai world champion, is preparing to take on local favorite "Takeru" in an upcoming match. His wife Bangju has shared the latest updates ahead of their trip to ONE Samurai 1 on April 29, 2025, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The headline bout will feature Rothaang facing Takeru with the interim ONE Championship kickboxing flyweight title (125-135 lbs) on the line. Bangju's social media page has posted recent photos of Rothaang at their hotel before departure to Tokyo, along with a message saying "Getting a massage to loosen up and prepare before the match.. Are you ready?"

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National

AIA Thailand Honors Outstanding Agents with Prestigious Awards for 2025

AIA Thailand held its Annual Agency Awards Presentation 2025, honoring 3,700 life insurance agents and unit managers for outstanding performance. The event saw participation from over 3,000 agents, with 3,576 qualifying for MDRT 2026 status, maintaining AIA's position as the company with the most MDRT members in Thailand and globally. AIA executives congratulated the award winners for their professionalism and commitment to delivering financial security and health protection to customers nationwide.

29 Apr Khaosod

AIA Thailand held the AIA Annual Agency Awards Presentation 2025 to recognize unit managers and life insurance agents who achieved exceptional results as "Outstanding Performers of 2025." The company honored 3,700 agents for their accomplishments under the theme "Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring Greatness," which reflects the strength of the awards and demonstrates how AIA representatives can achieve unlimited success through exceeding their potential and capabilities.

This year, over 3,000 managers and agents participated in the event, with 3,576 qualifying for MDRT 2026 status. AIA maintained its position as the number one company with the most MDRT members in Thailand and globally. This achievement showcases the professionalism and commitment of AIA representatives in delivering protection and creating security in physical health, mental health, and financial health for Thai people nationwide, supporting the company's promise of "Healthier, Longer, Better Lives."

The ceremony was graced by Chuchart Premoolpol, Secretary-General of the Insurance Commission, who presided over the event and congratulated the award-winning managers and agents. Li Yuan Zhong, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the AIA Group, also sent congratulations commending the capabilities of all representatives. AIA Group executives, including Tan Hak Leh, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nrongchai Akkasertseri, Independent Director of AIA Group and Board Advisor of AIA Thailand, and AIA Thailand management led by Nikhil Advani, Chief Executive Officer, Alisa Simaroeng, Head of Life Insurance Agents, and Prakitti Bunyagiati, Senior Advisor of Life Insurance Agents, presented the awards.

Nikhil Advani, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Thailand, stated: "On behalf of AIA Thailand, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all 3,700 outstanding agents who won awards this year. The dedication and commitment you demonstrated throughout the past year have brought today's success. You are part of the number one organization in the life insurance industry, and our agents have maintained the top position for over eight decades. Therefore, award recipients like you represent Thailand's best agents and are ready to step onto the world stage to further elevate the standards of Thai life insurance representatives. I thank you all for being vital cogs in driving organizational growth and helping AIA maintain its number one position across all metrics. You are also a great force in delivering life, health, and financial security to our customers, fulfilling AIA's mission to support billions of people across Asia."

No. 10 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Lucky and Unlucky Days – Which Zodiac Signs Will Receive Major Financial News and Gain Greater Authority?

This daily horoscope for April 30, 2025 provides luck forecasts for all twelve zodiac signs, with Taurus natives expecting major financial gains and Leo natives facing challenging prospects in agricultural ventures. The reading covers various life aspects including work, relationships, finances, and health, offering guidance to readers based on their astrological signs.

29 Apr Khaosod

Lucky and Unlucky Days

Thursday, April 30, 2025 By Buspon

Aries (Ram) Today you won't experience much success in work, regardless of planning. However, negotiations—especially business matters—will yield satisfactory results. Promotions remain possible. Communication with distant colleagues may encounter unexpected obstacles.

Taurus (Bull) Today brings great financial news with potential acquisition of multiple assets. Family members of varying ages and talkative types may create workplace confusion. You'll lack candid conversation with friends. Single natives may meet someone you've liked before or encountered previously, bringing additional fortune.

Gemini (Twins) Today you'll experience peace in daily life. Income will arrive from multiple sources. You may suffer minor illness from consumption or unsuitable items. Those in relationships may experience frustration as partners' attempts to please fall flat, or relationships feel incomplete.

Cancer (Crab) Today work proceeds unevenly. Elders seem reserved and thinking lacks clarity. Avoiding competition is wise. You'll reconnect with old friends or past romantic interests. Benefits and profits flow continuously, though people you respect may strangely interfere with your finances.

Leo (Lion) Today you're among changing crowds and environments. Daily life tends toward unexpected events without advance warning. However, fortune isn't favorable regarding agriculture or aquaculture. Heavy investment now won't be worthwhile. Partners or spouses don't listen to your opinions.

Virgo (Virgin) Today be extremely cautious about conflicts with partners or business associates, which may escalate to quarrels or separation. You may work serving large groups or the public. You'll enjoy socializing with distant friends or studying Western topics.

Libra (Balance) Today you may not receive debt repayment as scheduled. Partnership shares or joint investment returns may be delayed. Earning even modest gains requires overcoming significant obstacles. Family will invite you to various celebrations.

Scorpio (Scorpion) Today you'll try organizing income and expenses, but tighter financial control creates more stress and irritation. You may lose financial documents, requiring others' help to find them. Avoid verbal arguments or debates, as you'll lose and matters won't end.

Sagittarius (Archer) Today you'll restructure your finances and may change investment methods or banks. Watch for long-term issues with authorities. Land or agricultural income will suffice, but beware of property-related disputes that are difficult to resolve long-term.

Capricorn (Goat) Today whatever you do tends to draw criticism from employers or seniors. You may reluctantly accept blame for your boss. Distant family will send good news or gifts. Spending will be moderate with fewer expenses.

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