We are pleased to welcome a new sponsor for Expat News: Pacific Law Office & Business/Wildfire, haze, and PM2.5 pollution action plans/Prachuap Khiri Khan governor leaves/Giving a new life to a homeless animal/Hotel booze rules relaxed/Thailand may use Swedish pension scheme/Thailand enlists US influencers/ECONOMY: Will the Thai Baht Decline Further?/Thais over 60 to receive Bt10,000/Industry minister has big plans/Thailand Can Transform Shadow Economy/US Impact on Global and Thai Economies/Thailand Data Centers Surge/Thai rice prices surge/TOURISM: Hostels demand new regulations/Air India Faces Backlash/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Visit Phraya Nakhon Cave/7 Spices And Herbs/CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Mai krathong waste/Coffee industry promotes sustainability/Food-service industry shifts to cage-free eggs/Building Thailand’s climate defenses/Sweden Inspires Thailand’s e-Waste Future/Asia’s rice farmers are innovating/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
We are pleased to welcome a new sponsor for Expat News:
Pacific Law Office & Business
Pacific Law is a legal consultancy., providing a variety of legal services tailored for both local residents and expatriates.
The firm focuses on delivering professional legal assistance in a range of areas, ensuring clients receive expert guidance and support in navigating the complexities of Thai law.
Contact: LINE: 080-500-2222; Tel. 080-500-2222 (Thai language) or 080-500-2244 (English language); Email: lawyertrin@pcflawfirm.com; Website; office location.
Thai government launches wildfire, haze, and PM2.5 pollution action plans
Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong has chaired the first 2024 meeting of the Committee on Air Pollution Management, joined by the minister of Natural Resources and Environment and senior officials. The meeting focused on strategies to address wildfire, haze, and PM2.5 pollution, prioritizing public health and the restoration of air quality.
Key measures revolve around reducing wildfire hotspots in 14 forest and agricultural zones, discouraging crop-burning practices, and enhancing urban dust control with stricter vehicle emission checks and factory compliance with environmental standards. Provincial governors will lead local response efforts, supported by improved public communication to raise awareness and minimize public concern. Continued …
Prachuap Khiri Khan governor leaves for Pathum Thani
Giving a new life to a homeless animal in your loving home
Pets are amazing. Loving, playful and energetic, dogs especially can make you happier and healthier. Furry friends are good listeners who ask no questions and never criticize. They make great companions for people of all ages.
Some dogs help children with autism and special needs to improve their social skills. With proper care and specific training, they can assist people with visual impairments. Continued …
Hotel booze rules relaxed over New Year’s
Hotel guests will be allowed to order alcoholic drinks to their rooms from in-house bars and restaurants around the clock over the New Year, according to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. The new rule was approved by the board, chaired by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, when it met on Monday.
Normally, guests can only order alcohol to their rooms during the regular hours: until 10pm from an in-house restaurant, or until 2am from an in-house bar. Continued …
Thailand may use Swedish pension scheme as new model
The Labor Ministry will study Sweden’s pension system in a bid to improve the Social Security Office’s (SSO) scheme and better address the needs of social security subscribers in an aged society, according to Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.
Phiphat, who is leading a Thai delegation of labor officials to Stockholm, paid a visit to the Swedish Pension Agency (SPA) to gather information and exchange ideas aimed at improving the SSO’s pension program. Continued …
Thailand enlists US influencers to boost authentic Thai restaurants
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has sought help from 50 American influencers to promote Thai restaurants in the U.S. that have won certificates of authenticity from his ministry. Pichai presided over a ceremony in Hollywood, California, to award Sa Wad Dee Thai Select certificates to seven U.S.-based Thai restaurants.
The Commerce Ministry invited 50 U.S. influencers with a combined 10 million online followers to join the ceremony, which was broadcast live on their Facebook and other social media. Continued …
Will the Thai Baht Decline Further in 2024?
In the lead-up to the U.S. election, the baht rose steadily throughout 2024 but saw a significant shift at the end of September. It has since dropped by 7% and appears likely to continue depreciating. So, what happened?
While the U.S. election took place on Nov. 5, it became apparent in late September that Donald Trump was likely to win. It also emerged that his potential policies would include tariffs that could hurt exports from Thailand and many other countries. These policies, coupled with the uncertainty they create, led to a rush toward safer currencies, increasing the valuation of the USD. Continued …
Thais over 60 to receive Bt10,000 by Chinese New Year
Thais who are over 60 will be the next group to receive the 10,000-baht cash benefit under the “digital wallet”, payable before the Chinese New Year.
The policy committee on economic stimulation projects, chaired by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, agreed at its meeting yesterday to go ahead with the second phase of the digital wallet scheme by giving the 10,000 baht cash to about 4 million people in the 60-plus age group. This will cost taxpayers 40 billion baht. Continued …
New industry minister has big plans
First-time minister Akanat Prompan is already making his mark at the industry ministry. On his first day in office, he reportedly announced “industrial reform”.
The lofty goal focuses on three points of action. First, tackling industrial waste and polluting factories; second, raising the production capacity of local manufacturers, and third, supporting Thai industry to produce advanced and environmentally friendly products such as EV cars, semiconductors, bioplastics or even defense products. Continued …
Thailand Can Transform Shadow Economy with 3-Point Plan, Says Expert
Thailand’s informal economy has enormous value but is not included in the calculation of national income, leading to significant inaccuracies in GDP figures. This discrepancy hinders effective economic planning and calls for reform, say Thai economists.
As debates continue over innovative ways to expand the Thai economy, inadvertently creating avenues for the shadow economy to thrive, Dr. Anusorn Thammajai, dean of the Faculty of Economics and director of the Digital Economy, Investment and International Trade Research Center at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, recently published an analysis of the country’s unofficial economic activities. Continued …
Trump 2.0 and Its Impact on Global and Thai Economies
Donald Trump has secured a decisive win in the U.S. presidential election, becoming the 47th president. His victory over Vice President Kamala Harris and a Republican majority in Congress grants him significant power to implement sweeping changes.
Trump’s policies are anticipated to favor trade protectionism, emphasizing energy security and potentially escalating geopolitical tensions. Key proposals include raising import tariffs significantly, restricting immigration, and reducing defense support for allies. Continued …
Thailand Data Centers Surge as AI Meets Green Goals
Thailand’s data center sector is experiencing unprecedented growth amid surging demand for AI capabilities and cloud services across Southeast Asia. This transformation was highlighted during this week’s Thailand Cloud & Datacenter Convention 2024, where industry leaders gathered to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities in the region.
“We’re at a critical intersection of AI advancement and sustainability concerns,” notes Rich Farrell, Asia-Pacific regional director–digitalization and data Center business at Eaton, who visited Bangkok for the convention. Farrell, a 25-year veteran in technology and sustainability, sees two major forces reshaping the industry. “Everything is driven by artificial intelligence now, which requires massive computing power housed in data centers. Simultaneously, major cloud providers are pushing ambitious sustainability targets – creating a delicate balancing act.” Continued …
Thai rice prices surge in 2024 as demand outstrips supply
The Commerce Ministry has announced an increase in Thai rice prices for 2024, with both export prices and paddy prices on the rise. Jasmine rice has seen a significant price increase, with premium varieties fetching 16,000 baht per ton. Projections suggest exports could hit 9 million tons this year.
The price surge is being driven by rising demand coupled with falling mill stock levels, said ministry spokesperson Wittayakorn Maneenet. As a result, mills are offering higher purchase prices for paddy rice, especially in Suphan Buri, Kamphaeng Phet and Sukhothai. Continued …
Hostels demand new regulations for sector amid slump
Hostel operators are calling for a new accommodation regulation dedicated to them, as the Hotel Act is not feasible for small-scale businesses with a low budget, according to the Hostel Thailand Assn.
There are only 800 hostels offering 40,000 beds in Thailand, down significantly from 2019, when there were 1,200 hostels offering 60,000 beds, generating over 400 million baht revenue. Continued …
Air India Faces Backlash as Passengers Stranded in Thailand for Over 80 Hours
Over 100 passengers heading to New Delhi were stranded in Phuket for over 80 hours due to persistent technical issues with their flight. Frustration among travelers escalated, prompting many to voice their anger on social media.
The ordeal began on Nov. 16 when the flight was delayed for six hours due to a technical fault. Passengers boarded the plane only to be asked to deboard when the flight was ultimately canceled, leaving them in limbo. Continued …
Now is the best time to visit Phraya Nakhon Cave
7 Spices And Herbs That Make Thai Food Amazing
Chiang Mai krathong waste drops 25%
Twenty-five tons of krathong floats and garbage have been collected from the Ping River after Friday’s Loy Krathong festival, down from 33 tons last year.
Chiang Mai Deputy Gov. Tosapol Phuanudom on Tuesday presided over the launch of a campaign to collect krathong floats, garbage and debris from the river at the Pa Dad sluice gate in Muang district. About 90% of the collected floats were made from natural materials, while the rest were made from Styrofoam, bread and other materials. Continued …
Thai coffee industry promotes sustainability and improving production
Leaders in the Thai coffee industry recently came together to share their efforts in promoting sustainability and improving the country’s coffee production. The event introduced a new drip coffee collection created by 10 coffee experts, highlighting their commitment to eco-friendly practices from farming to brewing.
A key topic was how forest restoration can go hand in hand with supporting local farmers. By growing coffee in harmony with nature, farmers are improving their income while helping the environment. The initiative also provides them with tools and knowledge to grow high-quality coffee in a sustainable way. Continued …
Thailand food-service industry shifts to cage-free eggs and sustainability
The growing ethical awareness among the consumers has led the Thailand food-service industry to increasingly adopt sustainable practices. Many food-service operators are opting for cage-free eggs and restaurants are placing greater importance on animal welfare.
This shift not only addresses the evolving consumer expectations but also aligns with global food standards, reflecting the industry’s commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. Continued …
Building Thailand’s climate defenses
The world is heating up, and Thailand must adapt fast to this future or face harsh consequences. The Arctic is melting, seas are rising, and extreme weather is reshaping the planet. If we don’t act to protect ourselves in time, we’ll face catastrophic consequences.
We are entering an entirely new world, where once unimaginable things are becoming a reality. Take Japan’s Mount Fuji. For the first time in 130 years, its summit was snow-free in October, a stark symbol of global warming. What ensues, however, is not only environmental but also economic and political challenges. Continued …
Sweden Inspires Thailand’s e-Waste Future
Sweden stands as one of the world’s most efficient nations in waste management, driven by the principle that “there is no such thing as waste, only resources out of place.” This philosophy has been fully embraced through comprehensive policies, legislation, and collaboration across all sectors of society, transforming Sweden into a nation that is nearly free of waste.
In 1967, Sweden became the first country to pass an environmental protection act. Today, more than 60% of the electricity consumed in Sweden is generated from renewable energy sources. The nation has set an ambitious goal to become completely fossil fuel-free by 2045. Continued …
How Asia’s rice farmers are innovating against climate odds
As rising temperatures and devastating storms reshape the landscape, Asia’s rice farmers are embracing innovation like never before. By marrying traditional cultivation with advanced digital tools, they are striving to tackle the urgent challenges of climate change by transforming rice production into a sustainable and profitable venture.
From the boundless fields of India to the bustling paddies of Vietnam and Thailand, a revolution is brewing, driven by the pressing need to combat methane emissions and improve water management. Continued …
Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27
Thai Airasia has updated its daily flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai:
Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm
Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm
Special schedule for Loy Krathong holiday (Nov 15): departure from Hua Hin 2pm, arrival in Chiang Mai 3:15pm
Hua Hin train schedule
Van/minibus service at Market Village
Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:
- Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
- Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
- Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
- Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
- Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)
The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.
Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
Q3 GDP up 3% y/y, above forecast
US, China and India trade imbalances an opportunity for Thailand
Dog ‘adopter’ linked to Chiang Rai slaughterhouse shock
Most property developers expecting higher revenue and profit in 2024
China’s Runergy Halts Solar Panel, Cell Production at Some of Its Thai Plants
Thai Exports Continued to Grow in September
Thailand’s Café Amazon sustains robust outlet growth in third quarter
The best resorts in Thailand when luxury matters
The first thing to love about Hua Hin is location. It’s just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), with no flight schedule or tides to contend with; just an air-conditioned transfer and you are at the beach under a striped umbrella and sipping a pink Margarita. The Standard super fans won’t be surprised to hear the vibe here is more about buzz than quietude. Palm Springs mid-century cool permeates the 196 rooms, suites and villas. and the five eating and drinking venues. 
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