MFA / Thailand
Country to watch
Thailand ushered in the new year with eco-friendly fireworks. Here are more events lighting up 2021.
1.
Chart topping
Thailand’s stock exchange had a record-breaking 2020, cementing its position as the top location for ipos in Southeast Asia. The Bangkok-based bourse has a strong pipeline of ipos for 2021 and expects to add at least US$16.5bn (€13.6bn)to its market capitalisation.
2.
Looking good
Bangkok’s plush hospitals are facing some healthy competition with plans to transform the island of Phuket into an international medical-tourism hub. World-class healthcare plus some of the world’s finest beaches equals an unbeatable wellness package.
3.
Picture perfect
Film director to watch Nattawut Poonpiriya’s latest picture One for the Road premiered at this year’s Sundance film festival and features Chutimon “Aokbab” Chuengcharoensukying. Catch Thailand’s rising star in Happy Old Year, Thailand’s entry for this year’s Oscars.
4.
Nation building
Thailand’s new parliament building – more than a decade in the making – is due to be inaugurated this year. Inspired by Buddhist tenets, it houses the legislative chambers of the National Assembly, museums, a convention centre and riverside public space.
5.
Greener pastures
Sugar cane is among the sweeteners attracting foreign businesses to Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor. It’s being used to produce alternatives to polystyrene and silk. The government plans to make sustainable industries account for 25 per cent of gdp by 2025.