Thailand Roundup: Flooding hits 23 provinces, discovery of animal species, imported goods

Hockey match

Queen Suthida captained Thailand's ice hockey team in a friendly match against China, celebrating two significant anniversaries: the King's 72nd birthday and the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. The match, held at the Thailand International Ice Hockey Arena in Bangkok, ended in a draw after Thailand won the first set 6:2, China took the second set 4:3, and the final set culminated in a 6:6 tie, Nation Thailand News reported.

Flooding hits 23 provinces

In light of recent climate challenges, Thailand is facing significant flooding across 23 provinces, affecting more than 66,000 families in 1,647 villages. Currently, flood levels are declining in the northern provinces, but certain areas continue to experience rising waters. The Northeast sees seven inundated provinces with stable water levels, while five provinces in the Central Plains report increasing floods. The southern regions, notably Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla, are reporting descending flood levels. According to Bangkok Post, the adverse effects of this flooding have tragically resulted in 52 fatalities and 28 injuries since mid-August.

Imported goods

Addressing quality control in the market, Thailand's Industry Minister Akanat Promphan has announced enhanced screening procedures for imported goods to restrict the smuggling of inferior products. The closure of the EXEMPT 5 import channel, effective from October 1, aims to eliminate loopholes that allow low-quality imports into the country, Vietnam News explained. It is now mandated that all controlled goods enter through the National Single Window system, regardless of volume. Non-compliance may lead to harsh penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. Consumers are encouraged to verify product quality by seeking TISI logos and scanning QR codes.

The Fisheries project

To combat the ecological threat posed by invasive species, the Department of Fisheries in Thailand is repurposing blackchin tilapia into 'pla ra,' a traditional fermented fish sauce. According to Bangkok Post, this project targets the removal of 200,000 kilograms of this invasive species from local areas while fostering economic initiatives. Funding is allocated for local communities to acquire necessary production equipment. Currently, 20 communities have participated in this initiative, which not only aims to lessen ecological disruption but also bolster local economies through the development of marketable fish products.

Discovery of new animal species

In a notable discovery, researchers have identified a new species of frog, Microhyla peninsularis, or the Peninsular narrow-mouthed frog, in southern Thailand. Initially aiming to study Berdmore’s narrow-mouthed frog, scientists recognised this new species through distinct genetic and morphological traits, including its characteristic triangular body and muscular thighs, News Observer reported. These nocturnal frogs, measuring just over one inch in length, are predominantly grey-brown with lighter underbellies and are found in lowland forest ecosystems on the Thai-Malay peninsula.