AGP Executive Report
Last update: 7 hours agoTourism Rules Tighten: Thailand has started phasing out the 60-day visa-free stay for visitors from 90+ countries, including India and the UAE, cutting most eligible stays to 30 days and shifting some nationalities toward Visa on Arrival—aimed at curbing misuse, illegal work, and overstays. Trade Shock: Thailand’s trade deficit hit a record US$10 billion in April as imports jumped 45% while exports rose 23.1%, with energy costs and AI-driven demand keeping pressure on the baht. Labour Market Watch: Q1 employment grew 4.6% year-on-year, but unemployment edged up to 0.94% and underemployment rose, raising concerns if living costs stay high. Sports & Governance: Malaysia’s sepaktakraw federation filed a complaint with ISTAF over alleged conduct by senior Thai officials during the Malaysia-Thai men’s team final. Regional Security: Sri Lanka expanded an Interpol Red Notice hunt with 226 notices, linking arrests and deportations to major arms recoveries.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result.