Briefs

The promotion of organic products is expected to lead to a 10-per-cent expansion in the sector each year, as well as make Thailand an Asean centre of organic trading and consumption by 2020, thanks to rising health awareness, according to a Commerce Ministry report.
Commerce Minister General Chatchai Sarikalya yesterday said the ministry aimed to drive overseas sales of organic products as one of the Kingdom’s key export sectors, as such a move would help increase the country’s value-added income, while also promoting the well-being of farmers. Major products to be promoted are organic rice, organic fruits and vegetables, and by-products from nature such as natural soap, cosmetics, cotton, fabric and spa products. The ministry has drawn up a three-year strategy to promote the production and sale of organic products during 2015-2017.
Under the plan, it will promote the sector from upstream to downstream, that is, from farming through to manufacturing and marketing, said the minister.

GREEN LINE EXTENSION
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority is going full steam ahead with plans for construction of the Bt28.79-billion Mochit-Saphan Mai-Kukot Green Line extension.
Governor Peerayuth Singpatanakul yesterday said the MRTA had signed contracts with four companies winning the bidding for the rail project, which will connect Bangkok with Pathum Thani province. The 19-kilometre-long route will have 16 stations. Construction work will begin in June, with services expected to commence in 2020. The MRTA expects the Green Line will relieve traffic congestion in the Phaholyothin Road area.

‘ALLERGY-FREE AIRLINE’
Switzerland’s national carrier, Swiss, claims to be the world’s first to be certified an “allergy-friendly airline”. Swiss International Air Lines has earned the quality seal of approval from the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation, the airline said in a press release. “Swiss is committed to minimising the presence of allergens within its cabin and lounge environment, particularly in upholstery materials, air-conditioning or certain food items,” it said.