Thailand to use standardized labels on packaged products

As and when the regional agreement on the use of standardized labels for packaged products in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) becomes effective, Thailand will have the opportunity to export more pre-packaged products in the region and to other countries.

Speaking at a seminar on “The Use of Standard Marks for Packaged ASEAN Products,” Thailand’s Internal Trade Department director-general Yanyong Puangraj said that the regional grouping had reached agreement since 2004. Under this agreement, products will be packaged according to the same standard to facilitate the export of consumer products. This would undoubtedly benefit Thailand as Thailand is the regional group’s largest producer of consumer goods. This agreement would also help in the reduction of costs for producers and also help in the improvement of the standard of product packaging in Thailand, he said.

Bomb attack on rail track in Ruso district, Thailand

South Thailand, particularly, the three southernmost provinces - Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani - have been facing the curse of insurgency-related violence since early 2004 and this has already claimed more than 3,500 lives here.

Once again, insurgents launch a fresh attack with detonating a huge bomb along an important rail track in Thailand’s southernmost Ruso district this Saturday morning. This has caused the suspension of rail service in the entire south of the country.

The 10 kg bomb, wrapped inside a big iron box, was detonated by a mobile phone signal while six railway inspectors were checking facilities along the track at about 7 a.m., the Traffic Radio reported. One railway inspector was injured in the blast and was rushed to hospital, the radio said.

Experience the best of nature at Khao Lak

Khao Lak is famous for its spectacular natural surroundings which consist of a variety of landscapes. On one side of Khao Lak are the dazzling white sandy beaches of Andaman  and the famous Similan Islands, as well as abundant coral beds and wonderful marine life. On the other side are the rich and vibrant jungles, the home to the rare species of wildlife animals and plants.

Khao Lak offers a variety of activities and sightseeing opportunities for nature lovers. Here are some of the wonderful things to see and do there.

Large sandy beaches shaded by casuarinas and palm trees.

Offshore, coral forests are perfect for diving and snorkeling. You can reach here via long-tail boat, about 45 minutes from the shore.

Khao Lak National Park offers go trekking, swim in a waterfall, bird watch or have a picnic in the forest.

Located only one hour offshore from Khao Lak, there is an archipelago of nine islands called the Similan Islands.  Rated within the top ten dive spots in the world, it has to offer the reefs that surround the islands, which are home to giant sea turtles, manta rays as well as a huge variety of fish and sharks.  The islands are numbered Koh 1 - 9, with camping facilities and a restaurant on Koh 4.

There are a number of beautiful temples in Takua Pa, only 30 minutes drive north of Khao Lak.

Khao Lak is a diving heaven offering easy access to many outstanding diving spots in nearby marine parks such as Koh Surin and Koh Similan, two of the best diving spots in Thailand. Most dive companies offer ‘live-aboard’ trips (spending the night on the boat) and day trips.

The local bay is extremely sheltered, ideal for expeditions of sea canoes to explore the many fascinating caverns and hidden caves here, which are not possible to be explored through other boats.

You can also go trekking or elephant riding to discover the areas wild flora and fauna by trekking or riding on an elephant through the forest.