Power shortages

Bangkok (VNA) – Thailand is planning to ship 6 million tonnes of rice abroad in 2021, higher than the figure of 5.27 million tonnes last year. Of the targeted volume, white rice will make up 2 million tonnes, followed by Thai hom mali rice at 1.5 million tonnes and parboiled rice at 1.5 million tonnes. Meanwhile, Pathum Thani fragrant rice, provincial fragrant rice, and sticky rice would account for the remainder, said Keerati Rushchano, Director-General of the Foreign Trade Department under the Ministry of Commerce.  Local media quoted Keerati as saying that Thailand's rice exports still have to brave a spate of challenges, including a strong baht, container shortage or relatively higher prices than those of competitors. Weak purchasing power of rice-importing countries due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact will also affect rice purchase demand, he said, adding that natural disasters in rice exporting countries and importers, if they occurred, may trigger … [Read more...] about Thailand looks to export 6 million tonnes of rice this year

“I think the CPV had done a good job over the years. When it gave instructions about what to do when COVID-19 hit, people listened. They stayed at home, wore masks, and didn’t complain. And it has been controlled here so far. I think that’s a result of people’s faith in the party and that it knows what it’s doing,” he said. … [Read more...] about VIETNAM NEWS JANUARY 27

He cited the municipal Party Committee’s resolution as saying that the city aims to become a smart city by 2025. At the same time, it expects to become a modern industrial service city and remain the country’s economic hub and leader in innovation and quality of life as well as a driving force of the southern key economic zone and the country as a whole. Its GRDP per capita is expected to reach US$8,500. … [Read more...] about VIETNAM BUSINESS NEWS JANUARY 27