Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit, took delivery of its new electronic “E Tuk-Tuk”

Thailand is known as “The land of smiles” along with the never ending sight of tuk-tuk’s criss-crossing the roads and highways up and down the country. For every tourist it is a must do attraction with the inevitable selfie or video upload to their social media. Bangkok alone has over 9000+ petrol fueled tuk-tuk’s working day and night.

In 2018 the “Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO)“ launched a program for the first 20 applicants to apply for the first ever “E Tuk-Tuk” The program offered to replace your current petrol driven tuk-tuk with a new electric powered one. It is hoped that by 2025 Thailand will replace 20,000+ units with the new electric powered tuk-tuk’s.

Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit was one of the lucky 20 applicants to be allowed to trade in their old tuk-tuk and be given a 80% subsidy for the purchase of a new E tuk-tuk.

In the picture above General Manager Simon Ramsay and his team receive the new E tuk-tuk to work alongside its LPG driven shuttle van, continuing there program to be more environmentally responsible. The hotel offers its guest’s a complimentary drop off and pick up service in and around the local area visiting many shopping malls, tourist attractions and to the Skytrain stations.

Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit, joins Earth Hour worldwide in turning off its lights.

Starting as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour is now the world's largest grassroots movement for the environment, inspiring millions of people to take action for our planet and nature. As nature declines like never before, coupled with the ever-present challenge of climate change, Earth Hour 2019 will focus on raising awareness on why nature matters and inspiring global action on conserving nature.

This year once again the Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit joined the Earth Hour activity by turning off all outside, lobby, bar and restaurant lights along with encouraging our guests to dine by candlelight with a specially created menu for the evening. For 1 hour on the 30^th March from 20:30 – 21:30, guests were welcomed to its outlets and explained the importance of Earth Hour and why we care so much.

Tax Incentives for ROH, IHQ, and ITC Regimes Cancelled

The Thai Revenue Department previously confirmed that entities currently operating under the Regional Operating Headquarters (ROH), International Headquarters (IHQ), and International Trading Centre (ITC) regimes would, in principle, be allowed to continue to do so, and to receive incentives already granted, until they are set to expire, unless they decided to switch to the new regime known as an International Business Centre (IBC).

In our technical update for January 2019, we reported that several Royal Decrees were published in the Government Gazette on 28 December 2018. The gist of these Royal Decrees was that tax incentives and tax privileges would be provided to an IHQ, an ROH, and an ITC which had submitted an application and obtained approval from the Director-General by 10 October 2018.

However, without any advance notice from the government, the Thai Cabinet approved three Royal Decrees on 26 March 2019 cancelling all tax incentives provided under the ROH, IHQ, and ITC regimes, effective 1 June 2019 for corporate income tax incentives, and effective 1 January 2020 for personal income tax incentives. As a result of these decrees, the following tax incentives for ROH, IHQ, and ITC regimes will be cancelled:

Cancelled as of 1 June 2019

§  The reduction in the corporate income tax rate and the exemption from corporate tax for income from the provision of services to affiliated companies, as well as for interest, royalties, and dividends received from affiliated companies;

§  The exemption from corporate income tax for gains derived from the disposal of shares in affiliated companies;

§  The reduction in the corporate income tax rate and the exemption from corporate tax on income from trading activities and the provision of services related to international trade;

§  The exemption from withholding tax on interest paid by the Treasury Centre to the foreign affiliate; and

§  The exemption from withholding tax for dividends paid to foreign shareholders, except for dividends paid out of profits derived before 1 June 2019, provided that the dividends are paid by 31 December 2020.

Cancelled as of 1 January 2020

The reduction in the personal income tax rate applicable to foreigners working in ROH 2010, IHQ, or ITC entities.

Entities currently operating under the ROH, IHQ, or ITC regimes can switch to the new International Business Centre (IBC) regime if they meet the conditions. In our technical update for January 2019, we set out the tax privileges and conditions for the new IBC.

However, it is currently not possible to apply to become an IBC. The Revenue Department plans to open online applications for the new IBC regime sometime this month (April 2019), which leaves potential applicants a very short amount of time in which to prepare and submit their applications to transition to the new IBC regime before 1 June 2019. 

Although the government has announced that it will enact various laws and regulations clarifying issues related to the new IBC regime, the Ministry of Finance has not yet announced when that will occur.

While this sudden termination of all tax incentives comes as a surprise, it also shows quite clearly that the Thai government takes seriously the Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), which Thailand joined in 2017, and that Thailand is committed to implementing the minimum BEPS standards, including Action 5 on Harmful Tax Practices, and that Thailand is eager to avoid being labelled a tax haven and being blacklisted as a result.

In addition, as it appears that the Thai government is seeking to end harmful tax practices, the question arises: What approach will it take in regard to many other tax incentives still applicable, including those offered by the Board of Investment, which include an eight-year tax holiday?

We will continue to keep you informed of any further developments in regard to Thai tax issues.

For more information, please contact Damian Norris, Partner – Tax Practice at damian.norris@mazars.co.th or visit our website: www.mazars.co.th.

Top 5 Finalists from ICTE-UQ English Scholarship Contest

After Thai WAH Club and Beyond Study Center, an education agency in Thailand, have organized “ICTE-UQ English Scholarship Contest” to offer five-week English language course Scholarship at ICTE-University of Queensland. For those who had participated in this contest must create video answering ‘Why do we should study English in Brisbane and how will you share experiences about studying in ICTE-UQ through online channel?’.

After there are several contestants sent videos, we got top 5 finalists and one of these will win the awards:

1.        Five-week English language course Scholarship at ICTE-UQ

2.        Return flights from Bangkok – Brisbane provided by Thai AirAsia X

These are top 5 finalists’ videos:

1.        Thirathada Chinchapo (MARC) : https://www.facebook.com/348755064310/posts/10157676568569311?sfns=mo

2.        Intuon Yaipotong (GRACE) : https://www.facebook.com/348755064310/posts/10157676535159311?sfns=mo

3.        Pattaraporn Werasakwong (PLOY) : https://www.facebook.com/348755064310/posts/10157676523144311?sfns=mo

4.        Onpichar Cheowpisankij (BOOM) : https://www.facebook.com/348755064310/posts/10157676512404311?sfns=mo

5.        Maethapat Pararaman (ARM) : https://www.facebook.com/348755064310/posts/10157676496774311?sfns=mo

Thai WAH Club have shared these videos through official Facebook page, and we will bring the Like and Share of each post to calculate as a score as well. The winner will be announced on 18^th April, 2019 through Facebook Page ‘www.facebook.com/Thaiwahclub’. Stay tuned!

 

Best Western® Hotels & Resorts Says “Thank You” to Esteemed Partners with Glittering Evening Party in Bangkok

(Bangkok – March 28, 2019) Best Western Hotels & Resorts has said a huge “thank you” to its partners and associates in Asia by hosting a glittering party in Bangkok.

The “Best Western Thank You Party 2019” was held at Cocoona Lounge, on the 19th floor of the Gaysorn Urban Resort in Bangkok on Thursday 21st March 2019. The event gathered approximately 70 of the company’s closest partners, including travel agents, corporate clients, marketing partners and members of the media, for a fun-filled evening of networking, live music, fine food and cool drinks.

A prize draw was also held during the night, with fantastic prizes including stays at Best Western branded hotels and resorts across Asia.

Ms. Piyada Jakkham of Krungthai Card PLC. (KTC) was the lucky winner of the first prize - a two-night stay at Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Osaka Kitahama, Japan, including daily breakfast for two guests and a pair of return flights between Bangkok and Osaka!

Mr. Kevin Ng of Travel Weekly Asia won the second prize, a two-night stay at Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, Vietnam, including breakfast for two; while Mr. Evan Crosby of Travco was the lucky winner of the third prize, a two-night stay at Best Western Plus The Beachfront Phuket, Thailand, inclusive of breakfast for two. Finally, Mr. Patchrakorn Parnthong of HotelBeds won a Travel Card worth US$100, which can be redeemed at any Best Western branded hotel worldwide.

“We were honored to host the Best Western Thank You Party 2019, which allowed us to express our deep gratitude to all of our esteemed partners and clients,” said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director of International Operations - Asia. “Best Western is undergoing one of the most impressive periods of growth in our 73-year history, with a series of new brands, hotels and innovations all across the world. We understand, however, that none of this could be possible without the enduring support of our partners.”

“This event was our way of saying ‘thank you’ - a small gesture of our appreciation for the amazing hard work and dedication of all of our partners. We look forward to building even stronger and deeper relationships with our partners in future,” Olivier added.

The Best Western Thank You Party 2019 also allowed the company to update its guests on Best Western’s latest news and exciting developments. This included the recent acquisition of WorldHotels®, the renowned global collection of approximately 300 luxury hotels and resorts. As a result of this acquisition, Best Western now operates 16 distinct hotel brands in all sectors of the market, from economy to luxury.

Moving forward, Best Western will continue to develop its portfolio of hotels and resorts across Asia, whilst working with its trade, corporate, marketing and media partners to create world-class guest experiences for the benefit of the entire industry.

Bangkok’s New Spectrum Rooftop Bar Set to Open on March 20th

Award-winning Japanese architecture firm Super Potato tops off Hyatt Regency Bangkok

BANGKOK (March, 20, 2019) - As sprawling and glamorous as a luxury home, Bangkok’s newest rooftop bar opens its doors this week as a sparkling new gem in the crown of Bangkok’s top-shelf night spots.

Designed by the Japanese design firm Super Potato, the Hyatt Regency Bangkok’s new Spectrum Lounge & Bar is a multi-faceted venue that quickly parts company with expectation. On three different levels, the expansive lounge features a collection of cool, intimate spaces.

“The inspiration behind the new venue is a jet-setting couple, who have created an energizing, welcoming space to entertain guests,” explained Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit’s GM, Sammy Carolus. “This story is told through the design pieces on display, ranging from Thai art to musical instruments, and the variety of distinct areas within the venue, like you’d find in a penthouse.”

Spread over three levels the journey begins on the 29th floor. Handcrafted basket-weave doors lead into a plush gathering space with marble floors and an open kitchen, surrounded by earthy wooden walls. The Thai influence comes through with a scene of the Chao Phraya River decorating one wall and backlit panels with local patterns shedding light over the space. An intimate study room with a shared table features a flat screen TV for presentations, and at night it metamorphoses into a private dining facility with a floor-to-ceiling outlook on the city’s skyline.

The spacious living room entices guests to linger with deep, cushioned chairs and wooden tables spread out over a velvety blue carpet. Above intricate Thai patterns etched into gold panels are an ode to the iconic gold Thai Buddha’s hand. The nearby indoor bar creates an edgier vibe with a sleek, black marble countertop.

Sliding doors allow each room to be separated from the others or all can stay open in order to create a more flowing space. Spectrum’s varied spaces come together to evoke a cozy, residential atmosphere.

A spacious alfresco terrace spans level 30 and 31, the eclectic area features a large open deck with seats for two and alcoves framed by verdant trees with huge daybeds and private tables. There are pops of lime green in the seats, as well as nautical-themed chairs and tables, and seating for more intimate conversations.

Given the venue’s name, Spectrum, refers to a range of colours, lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the scene. The overall lighting is designed to create a warm and relaxing ambiance, a feeling of being at home, with the functionality to change to several scene settings depending on the occasion. The study and meeting room has its own individual stage control and the lobby space plays with a changing projection.

“Before Spectrum you could not get this type of ambiance in Bangkok,” said Super Potato’s vice president, Norihiko Shinya. “It’s hard to compare this with any other rooftop bars in the area as this is type of space is quite special to have in the middle of downtown.”

A selection of premium tapas such as smoked Scottish salmon & Russian caviar atop bagels, wagyu beef sliders, and crispy soft shell crab with tamarind sauce on a taro fritter, are available at the lounge & bar. Craft cocktails, wine, and a comprehensive beer selection make up the drink menu with concoctions such as Mad Mango, chili-infused vodka, mango puree, spicy mango, elderflower, lime, chili and salt; and Giant Pandan, a blend of vodka, Midori, grapefruit juice, pandan (a common plant in Southeast Asia), lime, egg white & bitters.

With a total space of 280 square meters (over 3,000 square feet) Spectrum can host 80 guests for indoor gatherings and 295 people when utilizing the indoor and outdoor spaces.

For more information Click Here!

As digital financial services grow, DeeMoney leads the way

Digital transactions in Thailand are rising significantly, data from the Bank of Thailand shows. Mobile and internet payments were up 83 percent in 2018 from 2016, while fund transfers through traditional channels - branches and ATMs - sank.

People are increasingly using their smart phones and tablets not only for payments, but for money transfers anywhere in the world. This growing “cashless society” is expected to continue in Thailand, as digital technologies and infrastructure evolve and more consumers make the switch for ease and convenience.

DeeMoney is at the forefront of this evolution in Thailand.

DeeMoney is an international money transfer service, operated by Thai-based international telecom provider SawasdeeShop. DeeMoney last year became the first non-bank provider in Thailand awarded special licences by the Bank of Thailand for cross-border money transfer, exchange and e-payment services. That means customers can make unlimited and instant transfers worldwide without restrictions traditionally imposed by banks, such as high fees and large amounts of documentation, bank account requirements and red tape.

DeeMoney charges a flat fee of 150 baht per transaction and requires only one form of valid ID for registration. Money can be sent to 180 countries including the Unites States, Australia, China, India and ASEAN countries such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and the Philippines. By collaborating with international partners, it has a strong and reliable distribution network globally, with more than 220,000 service points.

It also has four branches in Bangkok, offering transfer and 34 currency exchange services. But along with its shopfronts, it is firmly focused on digital innovation. Customers can transfer money and make payments from Thailand via the DeeMoney app available on Android and iOS.

“We are in the middle of a financial technology revolution, a move towards a more cashless society,” said Aswin Phlaphongphanich, Chief Executive Officer of SawasdeeShop.  

“Customers in Thailand increasingly want smart, convenient and reliable digital financial services. Not only Thai citizens, but the many international workers and their families living in Bangkok, who want to send money home quickly and easily. 

“We have been developing several innovative technologies and services that allow them to do this, like the DeeMoney app. We are working towards the next phase of this app which will include an e-wallet.” 

Such efficient services are critical in a country like Thailand, the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, with its thriving businesses and industries, and global workforce.

“We are meeting evolving customer needs in Thailand in an increasingly digital world,” Mr Phlaphongphanich said.

Xanadu Takes Home the Coveted 2018 Jimmy Watson Trophy

Best Western® Hotels & Resorts Brings Modern Midscale Hospitality to Downtown Angeles City in the Philippines

(Bangkok – March 15, 2019) Best Western Hotels & Resorts has celebrated the opening of its latest hotel in the Philippines: Best Western Hotel Metro Clark in downtown Angeles City.

This impressive new-build hotel welcomed its first guests on March 15, 2019, introducing a new era of international midscale hospitality to this popular destination. Integrated into the Saver’s Mall and surrounded by major attractions, including the PAGCOR casino, Best Western Hotel Metro Clark is perfectly suited to all types of traveler.

Guests are welcomed with a large and inviting lobby, featuring lounge seating and direct access to the mall. This sense of space and connectivity continues throughout the 85 guest rooms and suites. The rooms blend contemporary comfort with cutting-edge facilities, including glass-enclosed bathrooms with refreshing rain showers, large TVs with international channels, working desks with integrated power outlets, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Guests can cool off in the dramatic outdoor infinity pool, which overlooks the city, or workout in the fitness center. The hotel’s bright restaurant features large floor-to-ceiling windows and serves daily breakfast and an all-day à la carte menu, including local, Asian and international dishes. Business services are also available.

Best Western Hotel Metro Clark was developed by J.A.D. Saver’s Development Company, Inc., a leading Filipino real estate group.

“Angeles City is an exciting destination that is attracting a growing number of domestic and international travelers,” said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western’s Managing Director of International Operations - Asia. “Best Western Hotel Metro Clark will cater for this rising demand by providing world-class midscale accommodation and superb facilities in a perfect downtown location, directly adjoining the Saver's Mall on the main MacArthur Highway.”

“As a Special Economic Zone, the entire Clark Freeport area is experiencing a development boom, with exciting theme parks, shopping malls and attractions designed to suit all ages. This status is also attracting significant business investment. Best Western’s modern midscale concept and warm Filipino service will ensure all guests stay in comfort and style, at a very reasonable price point,” Olivier added.

With Clark International Airport less than 10km away, Angeles City is now directly connected to many of the world’s most dynamic cities, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, Shanghai, Taipei and even Dubai. Manila is also less than two hours’ drive from the hotel.

Visitors to Angeles City have many world-class family attractions to choose from, such as Aqua Planet, Zoocobia and Dinosaurs Island, which features a 7-D “Super Screen” cinema. Shoppers also have a wealth of retail opportunities including the Saver's Mall, SM City Clark and a series of duty-free centers, while golfers can tee-off on a choice of world-class courses, including the 36-hole Mimosa Golf & Country Club and spectacular Clark Sun Valley Country Club. Clark International Speedway offers adrenaline-fueled fun, while more relaxing activities can be enjoyed at the area’s spas and hot springs.

Best Western is already one of the leading international hotel groups in the Philippines, with hotels operating in a variety of vibrant business and leisure destinations, including Manila, Cebu City, Puerto Princesa, Subic Bay and San Fernando.

Opening 31 March 2019, Rosewood Bangkok will be located in the prime business and retail district of Ploenchit.

The ultra-luxury hotel will embrace a striking, contemporary architectural design and will be home to 159 guestrooms. Featuring the Rosewood brand’s A Sense of Place® philosophy, carefully curated interiors, dining and spa experiences will be an amalgam of contemporary sophistication and touchstones of Thailand’s heritage and customs. Four restaurants and lounges will be complemented by recreational facilities including Sense, A Rosewood Spa; a Fitness Studio; and indoor-outdoor saltwater swimming pool.

For more information or reservation, please call Tel. +66 2 080 0088 

bangkok.reservations@rosewoodhotels.com , https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/bangkok  or https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodBangkok