Thailand’s major fuel retailers cut diesel prices by THB1.20/litre to ease energy pressure, positioning prices mid-range in ASEAN, influenced by varying tax and subsidy structures across the region. Thy Land’s Diesel Price Reduction On April 21, Thailand’s major fuel retailers announced a diesel price cut of THB1.20 per litre, providing crucial relief to motorists amid […]
In 2026, ‘Chinamaxxing’ emerged on social media, where users embraced Chinese culture, reflecting China’s soft power rise and reshaping perceptions through playful cultural practices like hot water drinking and qigong. The Rise of ‘Chinamaxxing’ In early 2026, the trend ‘Chinamaxxing’ began to gain traction across Western social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Users embraced […]
In 2025, Thailand’s e-commerce surged 51.8% to $35.5 billion, dominated by Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada, signaling a regional shift toward profitability and content-driven transactions in Southeast Asia. Thailand’s E-Commerce Surge In 2025, Thailand stood out as Southeast Asia’s leading e-commerce market, boasting a remarkable 51.8% year-on-year increase in gross merchandise value (GMV), totaling $35.5 […]
Since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover, Afghanistan’s ambassador in Australia has continued consular services, advocating for Afghan rights, especially women’s rights, despite requests to close the embassy by the Taliban. Afghan Embassy in Australia: A Refuge for Rights Since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, Afghanistan’s ambassador in Australia, Wahidullah Waissi, has diligently provided consular services […]
The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 in Bangkok celebrates Thai culture with parades, performances, and water events. Free admission, running until April 15, recognized by UNESCO. Festival Overview The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026, taking place at Benchakitti Park in Bangkok, is set to immerse visitors in Thai culture from April 11 to […]
The UN faces a crisis as the U.S. withdraws funding from key agencies like the WTO amidst geopolitical tensions and climate issues, failing to effectively address these challenges. The UN’s Crisis of Funding The United Nations faces a significant crisis as the United States withdraws funding from essential agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) […]
Southeast Asia’s digital payment revolution is transforming economies through cashless transactions, with significant growth in interoperability. Developed by public initiatives, it promotes regional connectivity and strengthens economic sovereignty. ## The Digital Payment Revolution in Southeast Asia Southeast Asia is undergoing a significant transformation in its financial landscape, largely fueled by digital payment systems and fintech […]
Extreme poverty in the Asia-Pacific significantly fell from over 21% in 2000 to 2.6% in 2022, driven by growth, especially in China and Indonesia, but inequality persists, particularly in India and Timor-Leste. Decline in Extreme Poverty Extreme poverty in the Asia-Pacific region has significantly decreased over the past two decades. According to the OECD, the […]