HANOI, Vietnam – While Southeast Asia deals with trade friction and a shaky global outlook, Vietnam is strengthening its role as one of the region’s most important growth engines.

The post Vietnam Steps Up as a Leading Economic Force in Southeast Asia first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.

HANOI - Vietnam’s central bank has scrubbed 154 million bank accounts and flagged close to 300,000 customers for suspected fraud, stopping transactions worth 1.5 trillion Vietnamese dong ($56.9 million).

The post Vietnam’s Central Bank Blocks $56.9 Million USD in Suspicious Transactions first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.

CHIANG RAI - For years, Chiang Rai province thrived as Chinese and visitors from all over—families sampling khao soi, lone explorers walking to the White Temple—brought energy and variety to once-quiet streets.

The post Chinese Tourists Once Loyal to Thailand Now Choosing Vietnam in Growing Numbers first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.

In the immediate future, Vietnam and Thailand have agreed to expand market access, facilitate trade, and work towards a bilateral trade target of US$25 billion.

The post Thailand and Vietnam Strengthen Bilateral Ties with $25 Billion Trade Target first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.