News from November 3: Thailand is expected to approve on Tuesday an increase in the excise tax on certain imported electric vehicles, aimed at protecting the automotive manufacturing industry and encouraging local production. Government spokesman Ekaphong stated that the matter has been placed on the cabinet meeting agenda chaired by Prime Minister Anutin. According to the Bangkok Business News, the Ministry of Finance has proposed raising the excise tax on fully imported complete electric vehicles that contain no local components from 10% to at least 30%–40%; the Daily News reported that the proposed rate is 30%. Both media outlets indicated that the new tax rate will take effect on January 1.