Fast-track entry for foreign investors

BoI secretary-general Satit Chanjavanakul said those investors winning BoI tax incentives could use the fast-track facility in the same way as holders of Apec and Elite cards. Those without a BoI stamp in their passports can inform the agency at least seven days in advance of their arrival to take advantage of the service.

"This fast-track facility demonstrates our determination to promote foreign investment during Thailand Investment Year 2008-09," he said.

EFG subsidiary

Swiss-based private banking firm EFG International has announced the opening of EFG Investment Advisory (Thailand) in Bangkok.

The subsidiary, managed by Thippa Praneeprachachonnit, is part of EFG International's ambitious plans to expand its onshore business in Thailand and sees the Bangkok office as a growth platform. This is also in keeping with the rapid expansion of its Asian business. Last year, revenue grew more than 50 per cent.

Suriyon a prize guy

Major Development president and CEO Suriyon Poolvoralaks has won the Young Generation of the Year 2008 Award in the Property Development category of Boss Request magazine.

He recently received the award from Privy Councillor Surayud Chulanont.

Tourism push

The Tourism and Sports Ministry has been allocated a budget of Bt11.2 billion for fiscal 2009.

Minister Weerasak Kowsurat said of the total, Bt4.4 billion was reserved for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Bt2.8 billion for the Sports Authority of Thailand, Bt2.1 billion for sports development and the rest for tourism development and other expenses.

He said large sums were being set aside to develop new tourism-related mega-projects, including marinas, theme parks and entertainment complexes. The TAT will also promote healthcare and medical services to attract tourists from Japan, South Korea, Scandinavia and the Middle East.