It has been reported that the Thai cabinet, on 19 December 2006, has approved the establishment of a special economic zone (SEZ) covering the five southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, Satun and Songkhla. The decision was made in an attempt to stimulate the economy in the insurgency affected south. Businesses which set up operations in these provinces will be eligible for certain tax incentives for three years, from 1 January 2007. Corporate taxes will be levied at 3% instead of the 30% standard rate, personal income tax will be reduced to 0.1% from a progressive rate of up to...