Hua Hin strengthens flood prevention/Surfing in Hua Hin?/Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up/Breath test refusal equals drink-driving/Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots/AI Technology Reads X-Rays/Isan sausage drying criticism/Man arrested for burning dog/A Pet-Friendly Nation- ECONOMY: Exporters warned of market tariff turmoil/Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks/US warns partners to honor tariff deals/Asian economies weigh tariff moves/Reassess ‘chronic economic illness’/B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
- TOURISM: ‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend/Third in taxi scam complaints/Pattaya bustles/Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences/Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s backpacking expiration date/Among world’s 20 most liveable countries
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Rai: A Sustainable Tourism Revival/Bangkok launches new electric water taxi
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin strengthens its flood prevention plan
A new flood prevention plan for Hua Hin moved forward on Friday as the deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province led a multi-agency inspection aimed at reducing long-standing flood risks in the city.
On Saturday, Prateep Boriboonrat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, together with Royol Chitradon, secretary-general of the Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) Foundation under Royal Patronage, and the provincial water resource management working group, met officials at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course to review measures designed to strengthen flood prevention in Hua Hin City Municipality. Continued …
Surfing in Hua Hin?
Huahin Surf Paradise 2026 created a lively atmosphere at Hua Don Beach over the weekend, as surf lovers from across Thailand gathered in Hua Hin for two days of competition, music, and community activities aimed at strengthening the country’s water sports scene.
The event marked the festival’s fifth consecutive year and coincided with the 20th anniversary of Rising Creation Co. The event was originally initiated by the Pineapple Surf Club team to highlight Hua Don–Hua Hin Beach as a viable surf destination capable of standing alongside more established locations. Continued …
Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up milestone
Trash Hero Hua Hin marked its 500th clean-up on Feb. 15, reaching a milestone for one of the town’s longest-running volunteer-led environmental initiatives.
The 500th clean-up took place at Khao Takiab, in front of the Phra Yuen area, where 22 volunteers spent one hour removing litter from the shoreline and surrounding public spaces. In total, they collected 66 kilograms of waste, including five kilograms of recyclable materials. Continued …
Breath test refusal equals drink-driving
Police have warned that a refusal to take a breathalyzer test will be treated as equivalent to drink-driving.
Deputy national police chief Samran Nualma said the directive follows the 2026 traffic discipline policy, which prioritizes the rigorous enforcement of traffic laws nationwide. He said drink-driving poses severe risks to public safety and must be addressed with transparency and consistency. Continued …
Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots, Half Are In Forest Areas
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Regional hotspot levels in neighboring countries remain significantly higher, raising the risk of cross-border haze depending on wind direction. Continued …
Siriraj AI Technology Reads X-Rays With 95% Accuracy
The Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) program to interpret lung and chest X-rays with accuracy above 95%, comparable to specialist radiologists. The system has already been used in more than 500,000 real patient cases. It can deliver results in under 10 seconds per case, significantly speeding up diagnosis.
The innovation was created by Siriraj’s Department of Radiology and was first developed during the Covid-19 pandemic to manage high patient volumes. Work on the system has continued beyond the pandemic, refining its performance and expanding its clinical use. Continued …
Isan sausage drying outside draws online criticism
One of Thailand’s most popular northeastern dishes, Isan sausage, has become the focus of an online debate after photos of a roadside vendor’s drying process circulated widely on social media.
Yesterday, a Facebook user shared images showing sausages being hung out to dry in the sun at a relatively low height above the ground. The post questioned hygiene standards, noting that the stall was located at an event where other vendors were unloading goods, raising concerns about dust, ground-level contamination, and air pollution. Continued …
Thai man arrested for beating and burning Siberian Husky in Songkhla
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
The two-year-old female Husky, Molly, escaped from her home in Songkhla, along with another dog, Betsy. Betsy was later returned home safely. Molly was found in critical condition after being beaten and burned, before escaping to a water pond where she remained until she was discovered. Molly was taken for treatment under royal patronage in Bangkok but died from her injuries on Friday. Continued …
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Thailand is quickly becoming a pet-friendly country, as more young couples and city residents now choose pets over children, as birth rates fall and lifestyles change.
This trend, often called “pet parenting,” is reshaping daily life. As a result, the pet economy is growing fast, and brands, property developers, and advocacy groups are adjusting to keep up. Continued …
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Exporters warned of market turmoil after Supreme Court scraps Trump tariffs
The Thai Trade Center, Los Angeles, under the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, has assessed that Thai businesses linked to exports to the United States will face major disruption after the US Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, ruled that President Donald Trump’s executive order invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose “reciprocal tariffs” was unconstitutional and beyond the executive branch’s authority.
The Thai Trade Center said the ruling will force US-bound exporters, US importers and retailers to make significant adjustments to business processes to align with a court-ordered shift in the trading system. Businesses must also prepare for new forms of import-tariff policy that are expected to follow in the near future. Continued …
Thai Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks
The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to accelerate trade negotiations with the United States after President Donald Trump announced an increase in the global import duty from 10% to 15%.
Chamber Chairman Poj Aramwattananont warned that the US “tariff game” is not over and said higher duties would raise costs, increase planning uncertainty, and heighten currency risks for Thai exporters. The chamber said tariffs are likely to remain a strategic policy tool with spillover effects on exporters and global supply chains, including Thailand. Continued …
US warns partners to honor tariff deals as Trump shifts tactics
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
Those agreements — reached with partners including China, the European Union, Japan and South Korea — remain in effect, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said yesterday. He tried to distinguish those deals from the 15% global tariff Trump announced on Saturday. Continued …
Asian economies weigh latest Trump tariff moves
US trading partners in Asia started weighing fresh uncertainties on Saturday after President Donald Trump vowed to impose a new tariff on imports, hours after the Supreme Court struck down many of the sweeping levies he used to launch a global trade war.
The court’s ruling invalidated a number of tariffs that the Trump administration had imposed on Asian export powerhouses from China and South Korea to Japan and Taiwan, the world’s largest chip maker and a key player in tech supply chains. Continued …
Government warned to reassess ‘chronic economic illness’
Being labeled the “sick man of Asia” has forced Thailand to reassess the long-standing problems causing its “chronic economic illness”. However, as the new government is expected to mirror the previous administration, the business sector doubts whether the repackaged leaders can rouse the country from its economic slumber, particularly regarding needed structural reforms.
Thailand actually risks becoming a “dead man” if the new government bases its selection of cabinet members on political quotas, said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Continued …
SRT Approves B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
The decision was made at a board meeting lastw eeek. The proposal will be submitted to the Ministry of Transport before further consideration by the National Economic and Social Development Council and the Cabinet. Continued …
‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend Goes Viral with Tourists
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
Many travellers use the videos to summarize their experiences in detail. They recount how many days they spent in Thailand, how many steps they walked, and how much money they used during their stay. Some also specify the number of tuk-tuk and Grab rides they took, visits to 7-Eleven, Thai massages received, and plates of pad Thai and mango sticky rice consumed. Continued …
Thailand ranks third in taxi scam complaints
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
The study found that travelers are most likely to report problems in Turkey, which generated 4,224 comments — nearly double the figure for India in second place with 2,301 comments. Thailand ranked third with 2,169 comments, followed by Vietnam (1,741), Egypt (1,715), Australia (1,598), Mexico (1,367), Morocco (1,329), the United States of America (1,283), and Canada (995). Continued …
Pattaya bustles as foreign arrivals hit 130,000 a day nationally
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, foreign arrivals to Thailand have continued to rise since late 2025, reaching around 100,000 visitors per day before climbing further to approximately 130,000 daily in recent weeks. The increase reflects the impact of proactive tourism promotion, targeted marketing tailored to different source markets, and enhanced safety measures aimed at restoring traveler confidence. Continued …
Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences in 2026
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) confirmed the island will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026, the InterPride General Meeting & World Conference 2026, and the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026. Continued …
Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens in Phetchaburi
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by his wife Thananon Niramit, Saturday presided over the opening of the 39th “Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet” festival at Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park in Phetchaburi.
The annual event, held through March 1 at Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as Khao Wang, aims to promote tourism and celebrate the province’s cultural heritage under the theme “Heavenly Palace of Phra Nakhon Khiri, Gem of Siam.” Continued …
Thailand’s backpacking era now has an expiration date
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
As per a recent report, Thailand has been carefully recalibrating its pitch to the traveling demographic. Lisa of Blackpink being announced as the “Amazing Thailand Ambassador” is arguably the best specimen of this, followed by the tourist-led economy’s doubling down on wellness circuits and mega-scale events. Continued …
Thailand named among world’s 20 most liveable countries
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Architectural Digest’s round-up of the “best countries to live in” for design lovers uses the latest US News & World Report “Best Countries in the World” ranking as a starting point, selecting 20 countries viewed as the strongest for design from that broader list. Continued …
Due to toxic pollution, Chiang Rai switching rivers for tourism
The landscape of northern Thailand has long been defined by its arterial waterways, but the story of Chiang Rai tourism is currently being rewritten out of necessity. Following a challenging period of environmental degradation and recurring natural disasters, the Mae Yao Subdistrict Administration is implementing a strategic shift in travel focus.
While the region has traditionally focused its aquatic festivities on the prominent Kok River, a shift to the Mae Yao River — a clean, untainted tributary — is now being promoted. This initiative was formalized at a recent community leaders and stakeholders meeting, with the primary goal of transforming a contamination crisis into a sustainable tourism opportunity. Continued …
Bangkok launches new electric water taxi with free trial rides
Step aboard Bangkok’s new electric water taxi and experience a cleaner, greener way to move through the city! Enjoy FREE trial rides until Feb. 28 via the MUVMI app and be among the first to try this fresh urban travel option.
Operating daily from 9 am–5 pm. Up to 6 passengers per boat. Route: Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem–Bang Lamphu. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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
Four people, including a two-year-old boy, were killed when a Toyota Fortuner driver lost control and struck a roadside electricity pole in Prachuap Khiri Khan province yesterday. The crash occurred at around 10.30 am on Phetkasem Road, inbound to Bangkok, in Bang Saphan district.
For many people, the day doesn’t begin until the kettle whistles or the coffee maker hums. After all, tea and coffee aren’t just beverages; they’re rituals, identities and even small acts of comfort. One offers a steady, almost meditative lift, while the other delivers a more immediate, higher-caffeine jolt that feels like flipping on a switch.
Authorities at Kaeng Krachan National Park have arrested a Thai man accused of illegally guiding tourists to fish inside the protected area without permission. The operation was led by park chief Mongkol Chaiphakdee yesterday, following complaints about unauthorized fishing trips promoted on social media.
The Fuel Fund Executive Committee decided today to freeze the retail price of diesel at 30 baht per liter by cutting refiners’ contributions to the fund by a further 15 satang per liter. Additionally, the committee agreed to provide a 30 satang per liter subsidy from the fund to maintain the domestic diesel price at 30 baht per liter.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts for today and tomorrow, the high-pressure system or cold air mass covering the northeast and the South China Sea will weaken.
Probe underway after 72 tigers die at Chiang Mai tiger parks
US Supreme court throws out Trump’s tariffs
U.S. President Donald Trump responded with fury to yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling that he did not have the power to unilaterally set tariffs on imports, denigrating individual justices as he vowed to wield a more restrictive law to continue his global trade war. 
The US Supreme Court ruling ordering the cancellation of President Donald Trump’s import-tariff increases has pushed the global trading system back into “confusion and turmoil”, as governments, businesses, and consumers race to find answers to two pressing questions: “How do we get tariff refunds?” and “What happens next?”
Following a surprise growth result for the fourth quarter of 2025 and an improved performance over the past year, Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) has upgraded its outlook for the Thai economy.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department has announced the allocation of additional relief funds to 140,000 households severely impacted by the recent floods. The financial aid aims to assist in securing essential supplies, such as food, clean water, and medical care, to help communities rebuild and recover.
How Thailand is Reforming the Seafood Industry to Prevent Exploitation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced yesterday the passenger service charge (PSC) on outbound international travelers will rise to 1,120 baht per person from 730 baht from June 20.
Thai hotel operators expect overall foreign tourist numbers in 2026 to remain flat compared with last year, particularly among three-star and below properties reliant on short-haul markets, excluding China. Anticipated growth in long-haul arrivals is expected to be offset by stagnation in short-haul demand.
While Thailand celebrates rising tourism numbers and record profits at major gateways, many businesses on the ground in Pattaya are asking a blunt question: where is the money— and who is it really for?
Authorities in Buriram say preparations are complete for the 2026 MotoGP season opener, with safety, traffic and tourism plans in place ahead of upcoming pre-season testing. The first shipment of racing equipment has arrived at the Chang International Circuit, where infrastructure installation is under way.
The “Thailand lost its edge” narrative has become common expat discourse in 2025 and 2026. Bangkok rents climbed 8% to 12% year-on-year, visa enforcement tightened significantly, and a remittance tax shock led 55% of expats to consider leaving, according to a survey.
Pasaya is a sustainable fabric brand and its factory in Ratchaburi is equipped with a wastewater treatment pond, a proper landfill-based waste management method, and a proper working environment with ventilation and growing trees.
Most Asian equities fell and oil prices rose yesterday after Donald Trump ratcheted up Middle East tensions by hinting at possible military strikes on Iran if it did not make a “meaningful deal” in nuclear talks. The remarks put the brakes on a rebound in markets following an AI-fueled sell-off earlier. 
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Thailand needs an economy that delivers better wages, secure jobs, and real competitiveness. But today’s trade and investment rules stand in the way. Without reform, the country risks falling behind in an increasingly cut-throat global economy.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 
The Hua Hin property market is emerging as a relative bright spot in Thailand’s challenging real estate sector, supported by sustained foreign demand that is helping to offset weak domestic purchasing power.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC), in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, visited a prison to investigate an Mpox outbreak following a reported fatality. Most recently, two additional close contacts tested positive.
A group of foreign residents in Pattaya has lodged a complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) after allegedly losing more than 300 million baht in a fraudulent gold-trading investment scheme branded “King Power Gold”.
Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index rose marginally to 88.7 in January, up from 88.2 in December, as the manufacturing sector returned to full swing following the New Year holiday and demand picked up ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thai hotel operators are forecasting stable foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, particularly from short-haul markets excluding China, while urging the government to strengthen safety measures and boost traveler confidence.
Thailand is steadily cementing its reputation as one of the leading global destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients each year with its high-quality healthcare services, affordability, and attractive recovery options.
Two listed firms, PTT Oil and Retail (OR) and Central Plaza Hotel (Centel), announced a joint venture that will run budget hotels at PTT petrol stations. OR, oil trade flagship of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, reported on Tuesday night that its board of directors approved the establishment of the joint venture.
Chiang Mai International Airport has recorded a new post-Covid high in passenger traffic, with daily numbers surpassing 36,000, as airlines added 69 extra and charter flights to accommodate Lunar New Year demand.
Puphaman National Park, located in Loei and Khon Kaen provinces, has called on the public to stop feeding wild elephants by leaving fruit and other edible items for them, warning that such well-intentioned acts could ultimately harm the animals and increase the risk of human-elephant conflict.
The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.
The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.
Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.
So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.
The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.
Prime Minister Mark Carney yesterday launched a multi-billion dollar plan to strengthen the Canadian military and rely less on the United States. Carney’s announcement of Canada’s first defense industrial strategy built on themes he has emphasized throughout his 11-month tenure as President Donald Trump rips through traditional US alliances. 
Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. 
Hua Hin City Municipality has announced temporary road closures on Naresdamri Road from Feb. 19 to March 1, as resurfacing and drainage repair works get under way.
Prachuap kayaking for eternal love was the focus of Valentine’s Day celebrations on Saturday, as 14 couples took part in a nature-based activity organized by Prachuap Town Municipality.
Thailand is sliding into another political crisis as questions intensify over the conduct of the Feb. 8 general election. The poll faces a mounting wave of legal challenges across a widening field of disputes. Foremost is the escalating row over barcodes and QR codes, now a serious threat to the already embattled Election Commission’s conduct of the poll.
Department unveils plan for Songkhla Lake bridge
Thailand’s Ministry of Industry has signaled its intent to conclude free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union by mid-2026, despite the current transition to a caretaker government.
Thailand is witnessing not deglobalization but “reglobalization” — a strategic realignment of trade, production, and finance — requiring the country to integrate its economic and foreign policies more closely than ever before, Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said yesterday.
Business operators along the Thai–Cambodian frontier in Trat province are bracing for a prolonged border shutdown, urging authorities to reopen checkpoints while rapidly pivoting toward domestic markets to survive.
Hotel operators say requesting land and building tax discounts on a yearly basis will not help the business sector reduce its fixed-cost burden in the long run, and urged the government to revise this tax structure to be based on revenue, similar to the previous property tax.
Redefining the future of food
Bangkok has introduced the “EV for Win Riders” initiative to transition motorcycle taxis to electric vehicles. Launched by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and supported by partners like Germany’s GIZ, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, and the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand, the project aims to reduce pollution and operational expenses for riders in the city.
The Department of Energy Business (DOEB) has moved to establish national standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen fuel infrastructure, aiming to streamline investment and ensure safety as Thailand accelerates its transition to clean energy.
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
Security has been raised to the highest level in Yala following a coordinated wave of seven bomb attacks in neighboring Narathiwat over the past 48 hours.
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
Elephants need space
Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has been awarded the R5 Guarantee Award under the “R5 Guarantee to Global” initiative, organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the Thai Food and Drug Administration. This accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to quality, safety, and internationally aligned health and wellness standards.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
The global average birth rate has halved since 1960 and is now just above the “replacement” rate of 2.1 children per woman. However, that is misleading, as averages often are. Only sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East still have the old, high birth rates. Everywhere else there is a rising panic about a future where the old will outnumber the young. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
The Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, starting at 4 pm, with Hua Hin City Municipality confirming a full program of traditional processions, performances, and cultural activities.
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan moved a step forward yesterday as city officials met with Shinawatra University to discuss EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
Traffic signs and road markings installed on Soi 78 to ease congestion
The economy is expected to expand by 1.51%–1.75% this year, says a public opinion survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president and chairman of the advisory board at the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey on public expectations of the new administration shows voters prioritize structural economic reform over short-term populist measures.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government’s plan to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists, on average, stay for less than a month.
The narrative surrounding Thailand’s tourism appeal has evolved. Visitors no longer come simply because the destination is affordable. Increasingly, travelers choose Thailand for its depth of experience, consistency, and a genuine sense of welcome that remains difficult to replicate elsewhere.
The “Disneyland Thailand” buzz has resurfaced after Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, deputy prime minister and minister of transport, floated the idea of moving ahead with a world-class theme park project in Chonburi under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) sales (passenger car and light duty vehicles) more than tripled year-on-year to over 44,000 units in January 2026, a record month for the country. Its penetration rate grew to 48%, another monthly record, surpassing its previous high of 37% set in December.
A record-breaking surge in wealthy people “relocating abroad” is reshaping the global balance of power. Countries are increasingly being treated like assets, while citizenship is becoming a tool for diversifying risk. In an era where state policy can change faster than economic fundamentals, capital moves first — and moves more aggressively than ever before.