In The News

Pity the Giants

Kesa Nimrahong September 30, 2004
Despite strong international sanctions against the illegal trade, ivory products still flourish in Thailand, where ivory carving is a traditional art. Thailand finds itself at the epicenter of an international black market, ushering in large shipments of African ivory each year. Materials are smuggled through a complicated trail that sometimes passes through ports as far flung as Saudi Arabia and...

Bill Easing Travel Ban to Cuba Withdrawn

Pablo Bachelet September 16, 2004
Electoral politics continue to affect US policy toward Cuba. The focus of these policy debates are US restrictions on travel to the island nation. Republican Congressman Jeff Flake, citing election-year politics as a major obstacle, withdrew his initiative to ease such restrictions. "Unfortunately, the timing of this legislation this year does not lend itself to a reasoned and thoughtful...

Asean Body Steps in to Help Budget Airlines

Nande Khin September 1, 2004
Under the Asean Pioneer Project Scheme (APPS), which aims to establish an Asean Economic Community, the Asia-Pacific region will see more economic and social integration. Two projects in the pipeline for the Asean Business Advisory Council (BAC) will ensure that people, goods, and services will travel more quickly and cheaply. The organization is currently negotiating the landing rights for...

What Can We Expect from a Trade Deal with Japan?

Arjaree Sriratanaban August 26, 2004
The fourth round of negotiations for a bilateral free-trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and Japan is set for early September. Amidst debate over similar agreements, Arjaree Sriratanaban, of the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership (JTEP), highlights the benefits Thailand can expect. Sriratanaban says the agreement should increase business opportunities for Thai companies and provide greater...

Jakarta-Singapore Ties: Time Right for a Fresh Start

Hendropriyono August 26, 2004
In the past, Singapore and Indonesia have not always been the best of neighbors. However, it is time to face the common threat of maritime terrorism, says Indonesian intelligence official Hendropriyono. Despite recent diplomatic blunders and economic friction, the two countries have also enjoyed mutual support and cooperation. Singapore has been the fourth-largest investor in Indonesia for five...

Bill Punishes Cuba Travelers

Lesley Clark August 25, 2004
Competition continues in the effort to attract the coveted Cuban-American vote in November's US presidential election. Republican Congressman David Rivera has proposed a ''Travel and Commerce with Terrorist Nations Act,” which would cut off government aid to Florida residents traveling to Cuba. Rivera explained that his proposal is a result of the concerns of his Florida...

Tourism Make-Over for Pariah State

Marasri Boonroj August 4, 2004
Thai and Burmese travel officials are working together to promote Burma as a travel destination, despite its being considered a pariah state due to Rangoon’s military government and human rights abuses. Before the Burmese tourist industry can thrive, however, tourism experts say the country will have to develop its infrastructure, eliminate its two-tier exchange rate, and develop a two-part...