Regional

Thai Rockstar Sek Loso Released on Parole

On 24 June, Thai rock musician Seksan “Sek” Sukpimay, known as Sek Loso, walked free from prison in Phetchaburi province after authorities granted him temporary parole.  The 52-year-old founder and lead singer of Loso, one of Thailand’s most successful rock bands, has long drawn attention for his colorful personal life.  Police...

Laos, Cambodia Launch New Trade Route to China for Fruits, Crops

On 22 June, Laos and Cambodia launched coordinated export and transit procedures for plants...

Laos, China Approve Seven New Development Projects Worth USD 3.31 Million

Laos has secured seven new development projects worth USD3.31 million under the Mekong–Lancang Special...

Lao Deputy PM Holds Talks in Myanmar to Deepen Bilateral Ties

Laos and Myanmar are moving to expand bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors following an...

Vietnam Rolls Out Digital Pre-Arrival System

Vietnam has launched the Pre-Arrival Information (PAI) system, replacing the paper arrival card that...

Bride Capture Custom Under Scrutiny in Vietnam

The Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has called for an end to the custom of bride kidnapping sometimes practiced by members of...

H&M Opens First Store in Cambodia

The first H&M clothing retailer opened in Phnom Penh last week with a celebration that featured celebrities and discounts. The Sweden-based franchise offers men’s,...

Myanmar-Thai Bridge Bombed, Interrupting Trade

A concrete bridge between Myanmar’s Myawaddy and Thailand’s Mae Sot was bombed on 11 March by an anti-junta group. The Nation Thailand reports that...

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand Open to Free, Independent Travel

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand have opened their countries to free, independent travel with a minimum of restrictions. Vietnam’s Ministry of Health announced this week that...

Rice Prices Rise in Asia Amid Stockpiling, Conflict

Global events including lockdowns and conflict have pushed rice prices upward across Asia. Rice prices in Asia rose this week on account of several situations,...

Myanmar to Accept Thai Baht as Currency Weakens

Myanmar is to accept the Thai Baht as currency for border trade amid fears over the strength of the US Dollar and the effect...