The Bangkok Podcast | Expat Life In Thailand Via Expats From Canada & America

Greg and Ed interview Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a Thai Member of Parliament known for his advocacy in liberalizing Thailand's craft beer industry. The conversation takes place shortly after the dissolution of the Thai government, a transition that finds Taopiphop technically unemployed but focused on the future of his party. A central theme of the interview is Taopiphop's unconventional decision not to seek re-election. He expresses a desire to set a new standard in Thai politics by stepping down after achieving his primary goals, such as the liberalization of alcohol production laws. He argues that "having power" is different from "being in power" and hopes to empower younger candidates within his party to finish the work he started. Though, it should be noted, soon after we recorded this interview, Khun Tao seemed to change his mind and head back into the political arena. The discussion also delves into the structural challenges of Thai governance, specifically the influence of the "civil servant party"—the