Cha Am festival/WFFT celebrates 25 years/Kui Buri vehicle fee rises/Curbing Thai water woes/Doctors Remove Spear From Man’s Face
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran blockade could last months/Middle East conflict hits Thailand/Anutin government juggles economic tools/Thailand fuel prices climb/400-billion-baht loan decree/Ministry weighs airline debt extension/War threatens Asia’s food security/World rice supply under threat/When the tankers stop
- ECONOMY: Thailand marks Labor Day/Fed remarks push down baht/Dour view for Thai banks/Manufacturing index increases/Marine world heritage or land bridge?
- TOURISM: Thai trips slow over holiday/Airfare surge freezes MICE bookings/Airport fees up 53%
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Best Cities in Thailand for Remote Workers/Thailand’s Coastal Golf Routes/Thai iced tea/Exploring Koh Yao Noi/World’s 50 Best Beaches
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar power installations in schools/BGRIM Inks Floating Solar Deal/How Southeast Asia Can Safeguard Nature
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Cha Am festival set for May 8-10
The first SEA–ART–CRAFT festival will take place in Cha Am from May 8-10, bringing together music, art, food, and community products from four provinces in the lower central provinces cluster 2.
The event will be held at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint in Phetchaburi and is open to the public free of charge. A press conference was held yesterday on the beach in front of Long Beach Hotel in Cha Am to announce details of the event, which is part of the International Cultural, Artistic and Craft Project of Phetchamut-Kiri. Continued …
WFFT celebrates 25 years
This May, the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) marks 25 years of rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting wildlife in Thailand. What began as a “hobby” caring for a few primates by founder and Director Edwin Wiek has grown into one of the country’s leading wildlife rescue organizations, providing sanctuary and veterinary care to hundreds of animals each year.
Founded in 2001, just a short distance from Hua Hin, WFFT was created in response to the widespread exploitation of wildlife across Thailand – from elephants used in riding and logging, to primates and bears kept as pets, or used in entertainment. The foundation’s mission is to give animals kept in unnatural and abusive conditions, far removed from their natural environments, a second chance at life. Continued …
Kui Buri National Park safari vehicle fee rises to 1,200 baht
Kui Buri National Park has increased the wildlife viewing vehicle fee from 850 baht to 1,200 baht per vehicle, effective from today. The adjustment applies to the safari-style vehicles used to take visitors into the Huai Luek wildlife watching area, one of the best-known locations in Thailand for seeing wild elephants and gaurs in their natural habitat.
The park said it had been informed of the fee change by the Kui Buri Wildlife Ecotourism Club, the authorized provider of wildlife viewing vehicle services within the park. According to the club, the increase is needed because of rising operating costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, labor, and other related expenses. Continued …
‘Integrated approach’ needed to curb Thai water woes
The government is preparing an integrated approach to improve the management of local water resources, with the goal of tackling floods and drought across all 22 major river basins in the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri outlined the plan yesterday at Government House ahead of a 2027 budget meeting on water management. The measures were endorsed following discussions with the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) a day earlier. They focus on preparedness for both flooding and water shortages. Continued …
Doctors Remove 1-meter Spear From Man’s Face in Korat
A 21-year-old man survived a serious facial injury after doctors at Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital worked with rescue workers to remove a metal spear more than one meter long embedded in his face.
The incident occurred yesterday after the victim was hit with the projectile, with it entering above his upper lip. Upon arrival at the emergency department in Nakhon Ratchasima, doctors assessed his condition and requested assistance from the Hook 31 rescue foundation, which brought a plasma cutting tool to remove the exposed section of the metal spear. Continued …
Trump signals Iran blockade could last months as costs of war surge
President Donald Trump said the U.S. is currently in “what some people would call” a war with Iran, a new distinction from the president one day before the Trump administration prepares to cross the 60-day threshold to receive congressional approval for the war or withdraw troops from Iran.
“I don’t call it a war … I’d rather have ‘military operation,'” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office yesterday afternoon. “But despite the fact that we are in what some people would call a war, we just hit a new high today on the stock market.” Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, who was grilled by Senators on Capitol Hill, said the ceasefire in Iran “pauses” the 60-day deadline set by the War Powers Act. Continued …
Middle East conflict hits Thailand as factories shut and layoffs rise
Thailand’s economy is beginning to feel the full force of prolonged conflict in the Middle East, with rising energy costs, weakening demand, and global uncertainty combining to pressure businesses across multiple sectors.
The crisis, now stretching beyond two months since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, has disrupted global markets and pushed oil prices higher. The situation has been further exacerbated by the closure of key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery through which around 20%–25% of the world’s crude oil supply, or roughly 20–21 million barrels per day, passes. Continued …
Amid stagflation fears, fledgling Anutin government juggles economic tools
Faced with weak domestic demand, the Anutin Charnvirakul administration is considering numerous measures to deal with the fallout of the oil crisis caused by the Iran war.
The new government is busy preparing economic relief measures, as oil prices remain sky-high and there is no sign of an immediate end to the Middle East conflict that is triggering an oil crisis worldwide and threatening the global economy. Continued …
Thailand fuel prices climb
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Co. (OR) and Bangchak Corp. announced a 60 satang-per-liter increase for diesel B7 and diesel B20. Premium diesel prices were unchanged.
Petrol, Gasohol 95, Gasohol 91, E85 and E20 rose by 85 satang per liter. As a result, retail fuel prices in Bangkok today, excluding local maintenance tax, are as follows: Continued …
Finance Ministry to seek 400-billion-baht loan decree as Middle East risks mount
Thailand is moving to build a new fiscal buffer against rising global risks, with the Finance Ministry preparing to submit a draft emergency borrowing decree worth up to 400 billion baht to Cabinet on May 5.
The proposed decree is intended to give the government additional funding capacity to cushion the economy from the impact of fighting in the Middle East, while also supporting the Thai Helps Thai Plus program, a major cost-of-living and purchasing-power stimulus package expected to begin in June. Continued …
Thai Transport Ministry weighs airline debt extension, Jet A-1 tax cut
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn met Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of the Airlines Association of Thailand, Bangkok Airways executives, and executives from Thai AirAsia, Thai VietJet Air, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air, to hear and discuss the impact on flight operating costs from the conflict in the Middle East.
Phiphat said the meeting was held to discuss the impact of rising aviation fuel prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East, which had left airlines carrying a heavy cost burden. Continued …
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring. They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.
Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.
Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.
Iran war also threatens Asia’s food security
As planting season dawned across Southeast Asia’s rice fields, Suchart Piamsomboon, a 60-year-old farmer from Thailand’s Chachoengsao province, went to the local shop for fertilizers. But the fertiliser had not arrived.
He was told, it might not arrive. Even if it did, it would cost over 1,100 baht a sack – a jump from the 800-900 baht it cost just over a month ago. By the time Piamsomboon got home, word was already circulating that prices could even hit 1,200 baht. Continued …
World rice supply under threat
Rice supply is expected to fall this year as farmers cut planting acreage across Asia because of fertilizer shortages and soaring fuel costs from the Iran war, with an emerging El Nino also set to squeeze output of the world’s most consumed staple.
Rice is central to global food security, and even modest supply disruptions can ripple through countries, lifting prices and straining household budgets, particularly among price-sensitive consumers in Asia and Africa. Continued …
When the tankers stop, the tractors stop
For decades, the metric of success for the “Asian Miracle” has been the frantic movement of goods: the “just-in-time” supply chains, the burgeoning export volumes, and the rising GDP figures. But the war against Iran has stripped away these secondary layers of economic prestige.
We have learned that if a nation cannot power its factories or feed its people, its “miracle” is merely a borrowed illusion. In the present crisis, energy and food security are no longer just line items in a budget, they are the very definition of national sovereignty. Continued …
Thailand marks Labor Day
Thailand is marking Labor Day today, a date that underscores the importance of workers’ rights while also highlighting a long-standing distinction between private-sector employees and civil servants.
For most employees in the private sector, Labor Day is recognized as a statutory holiday under labor protection laws. Those required to work on the day are entitled to additional pay, reinforcing the principle that workers should either receive rest or fair compensation. Civil servants, however, do not receive the same entitlement, as May 1 is not classified as an official public holiday for government offices. Continued …
Hawkish Fed remarks push down baht
The baht is expected to weaken further, possibly testing 33.5 to the US dollar in the near term after the US Federal Reserve caused the dollar to rise by signaling that policy easing is unlikely this year, says Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
The Thai currency fell to a one-month low of 32.85 baht to the dollar in early morning trade yesterday, from Wednesday’s close of 32.69, after Fed chair Jerome Powell ended eight years as head of the US central bank with the benchmark interest rate on hold at 3.50%-3.75%. Continued …
Fitch has dour view for Thai banks
Fitch Ratings expects the sector outlook for Thai banks to deteriorate this year, despite solid earnings in the first quarter at the six domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs).
Profitability remains sound, but thinner net interest margins (NIMs), weaker economic prospects, and pressure on borrower repayment capacity are likely to weigh on earnings and asset quality over the rest of the year, noted Fitch. Continued …
External risks linger as manufacturing index increases
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) edged up 0.75% year-on-year to 108.69 points in March amid tensions in the Middle East affecting some industries and discouraging purchases of oil-powered cars, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The automotive and petroleum industries played a key role in driving the MPI, growing by 0.55% and 1.48%, respectively. Domestic car sales increased in March, attributed mainly to the Bangkok International Motor Show held from March 25 to April 5. Continued …
Marine world heritage or the land bridge: which would make Thailand richer?
The government is pushing ahead with the Chumphon-Ranong Land Bridge, a mega-project worth more than 1 trillion baht, and is preparing to submit it to the Cabinet, with construction targeted by 2030. But study findings cited in recent public debate suggest the project may not offer value for money, while civic groups are calling for a review over concerns about environmental damage and the impact on local ways of life.
Critics argue that the proposed Southern Special Economic Corridor law would pave the way for large-scale industrial development in the south. According to the article’s cited interpretation of the draft framework, the SEC committee would have wide powers to buy, lease, and expropriate land, while draft provisions are described as opening long leases of up to 99 years and exempting at least 30 laws intended to protect the environment. Continued …
Thai trips slow over Labor-Coronation holiday as costs rise
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said pressure from rising energy prices and living costs had made Thais more cautious about spending and led them to adjust their travel behavior, with a greater focus on budgets, especially after the travel and spending during the Songkran festival.
TAT therefore assessed that this year’s long holiday for National Labor Day and Coronation Day would see 2.83 million Thai visitor-trips, generate about B10.05 billion in circulating revenue, and record average accommodation occupancy of 64%, with Thai tourists accounting for 39% of average occupancy. Continued …
Airfare surge freezes new MICE bookings, threatening Thailand’s 163-billion-baht target
Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions industry is facing a sharp slowdown in new bookings as airfares surge by around 20% amid the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
Although confirmed events have not seen major cancellations, operators say new bookings for events in Thailand have largely failed to turn into signed contracts. The slowdown is starting to affect corporate travel decisions, large meetings, and seminar planning, while participant numbers are also showing signs of decline. Continued …
Airport fees up 53%
Airports of Thailand, or AOT, is preparing to raise the passenger service charge for outbound international travelers at six major airports by 53%, prompting the Thailand Development Research Institute to question the transparency of the move.
The new passenger service charge, or PSC, will rise from 730 baht to 1,120 baht for passengers departing Thailand on international flights from six AOT-operated airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai. The increase will take effect on June 20, and will be included in airfares. Continued …
Best Cities in Thailand for Expats and Remote Workers
Thailand has evolved into one of Asia’s most established hubs for expats and remote workers, supported by extensive fiber broadband, near-universal mobile coverage, and a growing ecosystem of coworking spaces.
Choosing the right city is critical, as local conditions around connectivity, work environments, air quality, and urban functionality vary significantly between locations. This briefing compares the main Thai cities and regional centers that consistently attract expats and remote professionals, with an emphasis on the practicalities of working productively and sustainably from each location. Continued …
Thailand’s Coastal Golf Routes
You may already know Thailand as a land of golden temples, vibrant street markets, and warm, welcoming people. But here is something that might surprise you: Thailand is also Asia’s undisputed number one golf destination, with over 250 world-class courses and year-round sunshine.
For golfers around the world, Thailand offers something truly rare: a quality golf holiday, the service exceeds every expectation, and the price makes it feel almost too good to be true. Continued …
Thai iced tea cracks world top 10
Thai iced tea has been named one of the world’s top 10 non-alcoholic beverages, with TasteAtlas ranking the Thai favorite ninth in its latest global list.
Known locally as cha yen, Thai iced tea was recognized alongside several well-known drinks from Colombia, Mexico, India, Cuba, Greece, and Japan. TasteAtlas’ ranking page, last updated on April 30, places Thai iced tea at No.9 with a 4.3 rating. Continued …
Exploring Koh Yao Noi, a relaxing alternative in Thailand
On Thailand’s many stunning islands, it’s easy to find thumping bars and full moon (and every other night of the month) parties with celebrating revelers. But what about clients who want a quiet, unspoiled island with the Goldilocks amount of tourist infrastructure?
Koh Yao Noi – the direct translation is “island long little” – is in the Andaman Sea’s Phang Nga Bay, about 30 minutes by boat from both Phuket and Krabi. Life here is tranquil and relaxed, without megaresorts and crowds. I first visited Koh Yao Noi 20 years ago and was pleasantly surprised on my recent return by its few changes. Continued …
Three Thai shores make the World’s 50 Best Beaches
Ever since “The Beach” turned Thailand’s coastline famous, the country’s never really left anyone’s travel bucket list. The pull’s still there. Soft sand, clear water, and that rhythm that somehow convinces you to stay longer than you planned.
The latest World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2026 has dropped, and Thailand has bagged three spots worth a mention. Donald Duck Bay stretches out in a long, pale curve with a properly laid-back mood. It’s tucked within a protected national park and only opens from November to May – monsoon closures keep it in good shape the rest of the year. Continued …
Thailand plans pilot solar power installations in schools
Education Minister Prasert Chandraruangthong has announced the government is preparing to pilot solar cell installations in schools, with priority given to institutions facing high electricity costs. The plan will be studied jointly by the ministries of education, interior, energy, and finance to develop a clear implementation framework.
The proposal was made in response to Cabinet approval of a 6-billion-baht budget framework under the Equitable Education Fund to expand scholarship support and reduce inequality. The allocation is about 1 billion baht higher than the previous framework and will support ongoing programs across the education sector. Continued …
BGRIM Inks Floating Solar Deal with Siam Toyota
Amata B.Grimm Power 5 has signed an 11.98 megawatt-peak (MWp) floating solar project contract with Siam Toyota Manufacturing Co. (STM).
Previously, STM expressed interest in clean energy and entered into a green energy purchase agreement with Amata B.Grimm Power 5 in 2025, to fulfill the factory’s green energy demand. However, with a commitment to maximize clean energy usage, STM decided to increase its power purchase from the Ffoating solar project to 11.98 MWp, formalizing this in an addendum signed on April 29. Commercial operation date (COD) of electricity trading is scheduled for May 5. Continued …
How Southeast Asia Can Safeguard Nature While Unlocking $2 Trillion Annually
A study by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) asserts that Southeast Asia could generate up to $2.19 trillion annually by investing in the protection of its biodiversity and natural infrastructure.
While the region’s ecosystems face unprecedented threats from habitat loss and extinction, the research demonstrates that conservation is not merely an environmental imperative but a significant economic opportunity. By prioritizing nature-positive initiatives, Southeast Asian nations can create jobs, boost local incomes, and establish the region as a global model for sustainable development. Continued …
- Israeli Gang Member Arrested on Koh Samui – Continued …
- Foreign Man Refuses to Pay Dental Bill in Pattaya Clinic – Continued …
- Three Chinese Arrested Over Fake Cosmetics in Samut Prakan – Continued …
- Chinese Duo Held in Chiang Mai for Bank Fraud Coercion – Continued …
Myanmar ex-leader Aung San Suu Kyi moved to house arrest
Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi is to be moved to house arrest, state media reported yesterday, more than five years after the military ousted the civilian government she led and jailed the Nobel laureate. Continued …
US first-quarter growth rebounds less than expected as inflation surges
US economic growth rebounded less than expected in the first quarter as consumer spending cooled, while inflation surged in March with fallout from the Middle East war beginning to bite, government data showed yesterday. 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
Plans for a Hua Hin Smart City development are moving forward, with proposals including free public WiFi, a pet registration platform, and smart drinking water dispensers currently under consideration by local authorities.
A mangrove restoration plan has been approved for the Sirinart Rajini Mangrove Forest, with officials proposing a 4.9-million-baht budget to address water system issues and support long-term ecological recovery.
Two decades after declaring an official war on air pollution, Thailand is losing the battle. Despite a flurry of committees and high-profile promises, crucial indicators show that the sources of the smog and its deadly health impacts are rising once again. What began as a seasonal nuisance in the northern highlands has metastasized into a year-round national health crisis that threatens the very fabric of Thai society.
The heat index in Bangkok today entered the “extreme danger” zone for the first time this season, with “feels like” temperatures higher than or equal to 52 degrees Celsius, City Hall has warned.
As the global order fractures and major powers like China, Russia, and the United States drift toward the precipice of open conflict, the very definition of “wealth” is undergoing a radical transformation.
For decades, the economic heartbeat of South Asia has been inextricably linked to the pulse of the Persian Gulf. From the crude oil that fuels its growing industries to the billions in remittances that prop up its foreign exchange reserves, the region has long been the primary beneficiary of Gulf stability.
The Thai Food Processors’ Assn. is calling on the government to reduce energy costs, pursue negotiations on free-trade agreements (FTAs), and explore new market opportunities. The association said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is pressuring logistics, raw materials, and packaging costs.
Nantapong Chiralerspong, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, disclosed the results of a February 2026 survey on the public’s debt burden and future trends, based on the opinions of 6,469 respondents.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), said that against the backdrop of global volatility and shifts in production bases, Thailand had continued to attract investor interest.
Known for its pungent aroma and rich, custard-like texture, the durian has recently become a focal point of Thai national discourse. However, the current debate centers not on its flavor, but on its role as a litmus test for the government’s ability to engineer sustainable solutions for the nation’s agricultural sector.
Hotels nationwide across all segments, including luxury, have reported a significant drop in bookings from May, with provinces dependent on European markets such as Phangnga facing a 50% decline, according to the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA).
Traveling the Road to Ordination on an Elephant
Chef Pam is putting Thai cuisine back into the global conversation
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) has approved a new electricity tariff structure that will help millions of Thai households save money, along with sweeping measures to unlock residential rooftop solar development.
Senior officials from Laos and Thailand met in Vientiane yesterday for consultations on cross-border smog, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to cleaner air and stronger pollution-control cooperation.
Viral posts of an Australian street dubbed the country’s “most beautiful” have enticed coachloads of visitors to a picturesque seaside town — and locals have had enough of it. Just a two-hour drive south of Sydney, Gerringong is much like many other photogenic hamlets along Australia’s east coast, with multi-million-dollar properties set against stunning views of the azure blue sea. 
Buckets of blooms adorn Yuvita Anggi Prinanda’s sidewalk flower stall in Bali, but their perfume can’t mask the stench of accumulating trash bespoiling parts of the resort island famed for its natural beauty. Bali’s largest landfill was declared off-limits for organic waste from the beginning of April, as the government moves to enforce a longstanding ban on open pits. 
Thai people are being advised to brace for a prolonged and possibly extreme drought, which may last for up to three years due to El Niño weather phenomenon, according to the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) and Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).
They die quietly, one by one, doing the forest officials’ job, rewarded with little more than praise that masks state hypocrisy. In early April, Boonma Phadaeng, 56, collapsed and died after days of fighting a forest fire in Mae Rim district, Chiang Mai province.
Critics have warned that the military-led approach to handling the conflict in Thailand’s southern border provinces may be prolonging unrest rather than resolving it. Since violence resumed in 2004, the conflict in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat remains entrenched, rooted in historical, identity, and religious differences involving separatist groups.
The Thai retail landscape has reached a historic tipping point, with e-commerce now established as the sector’s primary engine of growth. Recent data reveals the digital market has surpassed the 1 trillion baht ($30 billion) threshold, accounting for 30% of total national retail value.
Thailand’s Fiscal Policy Office has cut its 2026 economic growth forecast to 1.6%, down from the 2.0% projection made in January, citing rising pressure from geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
Economists have played down the impact of the long-awaited second phase of the government’s latest co-payment plus scheme in propping up the subdued economy, citing a limited budget, while goods prices are expected to rise substantially from the second quarter due to elevated oil prices.
Thailand is emerging as one of Asia’s new wealth hubs as the global capital landscape shifts and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) become increasingly mobile, creating fresh momentum for Thailand’s high-end property, investment, and luxury lifestyle sectors.
Number of Japanese restaurants in Thailand declines
The Thai Travel Agents Assn. (TTAA) strongly opposes the government’s plan to levy a 1,000-baht departure tax on Thai travelers, warning it will hamper two-way tourism and hurt the economy during a cost-of-living crisis.
Thai Airways International has issued an important announcement on revisions to its fuel surcharge rates for tickets on international routes. The move comes under pressure from a “fuel crisis”, with global aviation fuel prices volatile and rising far beyond forecasts.
LA Songkran Event Sets Guinness Record with Pad Thai Sales
Twenty-two Sri Lankan Buddhist monks who had just returned from Thailand were arrested on April 25 at an airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after customs officers allegedly found cannabis hidden in their luggage. The monks were detained after officers found 110 kilograms of cannabis concealed in secret compartments inside their suitcases. 
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed it will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance from May 1, ending more than five decades of membership and dealing a fresh blow to the producers’ group as the Iran war continues to disrupt global energy flows. 
If the ancestors of Donald Trump and King Charles could see them today, the US president mused yesterday, they “would surely be filled with awe and pride that the Anglo-American revolution in human freedom” had survived to the present day. The White House captioned a photo of the moment, “TWO KINGS”. 
Thailand is widely perceived as a relatively safe destination compared with many countries at similar income levels, yet risk profiles vary considerably between cities. For expats and digital nomads planning a medium to long-term stay, understanding which Thai cities offer the most predictable and manageable safety environment is critical.
The Ministry of Energy is pressing ahead with a major overhaul of the entire electricity tariff structure for the first time in more than 20 years. Its plan to introduce a new tiered tariff structure is creating ripples for households using more than 400 units a month and for the business sector.
The baht closed last week, on April 24, at a fresh two-week low of 32.51 baht per US dollar, as markets awaited the outcomes of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting and the US Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting.
The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has unveiled a nationwide contingency plan to mitigate the potential impact of a looming Super El Nino, warning that hotter temperatures and below-normal rainfall could threaten crops, water supplies, and rural incomes this year.
Dramatic developments unfolded in Islamabad on Saturday as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi landed, held talks, and departed without meeting a US delegation. Soon after, US President Donald Trump canceled a planned flight by his two envoys to the Pakistani capital.
International trade between Thailand and China remains brisk, but the overall picture points to structural fragility as the trade deficit continues to widen. A review of data from the Information and Communication Technology Center found that Thailand-China trade totaled B1.278 trillion in the first three months of 2026, up 18.% from the same period a year earlier.
Thailand’s automotive industry showed fresh signs of recovery in March, as total vehicle production rose to 133,413 units and domestic sales were boosted by strong demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.
The information center of LWS Wisdom and Solutions Co. has pointed to a new picture of the property market in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), saying it is moving from growth driven by investment and infrastructure stimulus toward a housing market powered by “real demand” from the workforce and industrial sector. This has significantly changed the equation for project development and property investment in the area.
The battle for Thailand’s skincare market is intensifying as local and international beauty brands race to capture consumers who are spending more on science-based, skin-health-focused products.
Thailand’s Public Health Ministry is advancing plans to integrate medical cannabis into the country’s health economy. This initiative aligns with recent changes in U.S. cannabis policy, as the U.S. eases restrictions on certain cannabis products.
Thailand is set to revert to its previous visa-free entry policy, reducing the number of eligible countries and territories from 93 to 57. This decision by the Tourism and Sports Ministry aims to improve visitor screening and promote high-value tourism.
Searches for short-haul travel destinations have risen sharply ahead of Thailand’s upcoming long weekend from April 30 to May 4, covering Labor Day and Coronation Day. The trend reflects growing demand for convenient, budget-conscious holidays, with Thai travelers showing stronger interest in both domestic destinations close to Bangkok and nearby international cities.
Call it a different kind of sticker shock. The Beijing Auto Show that opened to the public this week is a showcase for how hypercompetition in China has driven new car prices in the world’s largest car market to a fraction of the level of the next-largest market, the United States.
The industrial sector in Bangkok is seeing a noticeable shift as factories and warehouses begin turning their rooftops into productive financial assets through solar power installations. This change is being driven by rising electricity costs and supportive government policies, making solar energy an increasingly attractive option for businesses in Thailand’s capital and nearby areas.
Representatives of about 50 governments meet in Colombia today for the first international talks on phasing out planet-heating fossil fuels, against a backdrop of the Iran war and a global energy crunch.
Police have arrested two Chinese tourists accused of carrying out a gold shop robbery in Nakhon Ratchasima, stealing rings worth about 300,000 baht before fleeing. The suspects were detained later the same day in Bangkok after investigators traced their getaway vehicle. The stolen items were recovered and authorities are preparing legal proceedings. 
The man who authorities say tried to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with guns and knives was charged yesterday with the attempted assassination of US President Donald Trump, as federal authorities suggested an attack that disrupted one of Washington’s glitziest events had been planned for at least several weeks. 
Hua Hin is exploring the use of CCTV with AI-enabled facial recognition systems as part of plans to strengthen public safety and modernize urban management. The proposal was discussed during a meeting chaired by Nopporn Wutthikul on Friday at Hua Hin City Municipality.
Five stray dogs were found dead after suspected poisoning in a residential area of Cha Am municipality, Phetchaburi, on Friday, prompting concern among local residents and calls for authorities to investigate. The animals were discovered lying on the road and nearby grass, showing signs of severe distress, including foaming at the mouth, bleeding, and loss of bodily control.
The likelihood of a “super El Niño” poses a serious threat to Thailand’s agricultural sector, particularly rice production, potentially increasing food security risks.
A senior doctor has warned that eating raw shrimp can lead to serious parasitic infection, after a case highlighted the risks beyond common food poisoning. Yesterday, Dr. Jessada Bunyawongviroj, deputy director of Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, shared details of a patient who developed gnathostomiasis after consuming raw seafood. The condition caused swelling that moved across the body, as parasites migrated under the skin.
Thailand’s Ministry of Energy is preparing to propose a new electricity pricing scheme to the cabinet, aimed at reducing costs for households that use no more than 200 units per month. Under the plan, these users would pay less than 3 baht per unit, with lower consumption leading to progressively cheaper rates, potentially benefiting around 14 million people.
At least 80% of governments will deploy AI agents to automate routine decision-making, enhancing efficiency and service delivery by 2028, according to the business and technology insights company Gartner Inc.
Oil prices extended gains today, rising almost 2% as peace efforts between the United States and Iran lost momentum and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained constrained, tightening global supply.
Thailand’s economic outlook is under increasing strain as uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict continues, with authorities warning that a prolonged war could extend into 2027, dragging down growth and pushing inflation higher.
The US-Iran conflict, which erupted two months ago, has triggered an oil price shock, sharp rises in the cost of living, and widespread flight cancellations worldwide.
As temperatures climb across Thailand, households are feeling more than just the heat. This year’s hot season has brought a sharp rise in living costs, particularly fuel prices, tightening budgets and amplifying financial strain. In this environment, effective financial management has become essential to easing the burden.
Government Outlines B1.38-trillion Transport Plan
Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the government was pressing ahead with its economic plan to help households and businesses cope with global volatility, while also strengthening Thailand’s medium- and long-term competitiveness.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with the United States following talks with US Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill on Friday.
Quasar Medical, a manufacturer of interventional and minimally invasive devices, has opened its newest manufacturing facility in Chonburi, Thailand. This new facility adds to the company’s initial investment in Thailand, and is Quasar’s third site in the country.
Thailand’s famed massage industry is getting a reset. Last month, the government rolled out sweeping reforms to raise standards, improve training, and reshape its global image. In 2024, Thailand’s wellness tourism spending hit US$14 billion, up 36% from the previous year. This video looks at whether the changes will lift the sector or price it out of reach. 
The water has dried, the streets have cleared, and the music has faded, but for many long-term visitors in Pattaya, the aftermath of this year’s Songkran has left behind more frustration than fond memories.
The sights, sounds, and smells of Bangkok hit me immediately and simultaneously. The spiced aromas wafting from street food vendors mixed with the heavy traffic’s gasoline fumes. My head was constantly on a swivel, captured by the neon lights in Chinatown contrasting against the gold facades of the centuries-old wats (temples).
10 high-sodium Thai dishes that may quietly harm your kidneys
Thailand is preparing to extend its annual tax reduction for electric vehicles by another year, after a previous tax incentive helped push EV registrations far above expectations. A source at the Ministry of Transport said the Department of Land Transport has drafted a new royal decree to reduce the annual tax for electric-powered vehicles, following the expiry of the previous decree.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), together with strategic partners, successfully concluded the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026 in Phuket last week.
Phuket has been selected as the pilot province for a new nationwide push to transform Thailand’s hotel sector into a model of sustainable tourism, with the Bank of Thailand launching a major green financing initiative aimed at reshaping the industry. 
Expat healthcare in Thailand is a bit more nuanced than what initially meets the eye. The private hospital network is world-class, but most foreigners have no access to subsidized public care, medical inflation is running at over 14% a year, and private hospitals will ask for up to 800,000 baht upfront before major surgery begins.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has introduced a wellness-focused travel experience tailored to modern lifestyles through the “Run with the Rhythm” event. The event forms part of the “Central Rhythm – Fit Body, Relax Mind, Find Your New Life Rhythm in the Central Region” campaign and is presented as a mini-wellness festival.
Deputy Prime Minister Yodchanan Wongsawat says he has found the key to unlocking Thailand’s decades-long middle-income trap: human capital development. Yodchanan is now staking the country’s future on an ambitious education roadmap aimed at lifting Thailand into a high-value economy.
Rising living costs are intensifying pressure on families as education reforms ease school dress rules nationwide, yet household spending remains high.
For years, the pattern was always the same. Farmers would wake up to destroyed fields. Crops flattened overnight. Entire harvests gone in hours. The cause wasn’t a mystery.
The US-Iran conflict, which erupted two months ago, has triggered an oil price shock, sharp rises in the cost of living, and widespread flight cancellations worldwide. As the jet fuel crisis deepens, airlines, including those in Thailand, are continuing to cut flight capacity for the coming months.
Dr. Paiboon Eksaengsri, president of the Private Hospital Assn., said the private hospital business, as it enters the second quarter, still needs to remain cautious about the impact of the war in the Middle East.
Thailand’s exports to the United States surged 41.8% in the first quarter of 2026, as US importers accelerated orders following a court ruling that voided retaliatory tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump’s policy.
Reports indicate that Thailand is beginning to face a problem of oil storage tanks nearing capacity, with limited space left, as refineries continue operating at full production. Some refineries are said to be running at more than 100% of capacity, as high as 110%, in order to produce enough fuel to meet public demand in line with government policy.
Hotel operators in the south are bracing for losses during the low season, mainly attributed to war in the Middle East causing sluggish demand and flight cancellations.
‘Super dull and boring’: Foreign visitor’s take on Suvarnabhumi
Andaman coastal provinces can expect rain to linger longer this year due to an El Nino impact on the monsoon season, a weather forecaster said yesterday. The moonsoon season along the Andaman Coast from Ranong to Satun is generally from May to October each year.
Westerners in Thailand notice unique street food, vibrant markets, beautiful temples, friendly locals, chaotic traffic, respectful gestures, and cultural practices, all contributing to a richly immersive experience within 30 days.
The Transport Ministry is preparing an action plan to boost EV adoption by 300,000 vehicles, supported by tax incentives and a car trade-in scheme. Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat outlined two key measures following discussions with the Department of Land Transport (DLT), aimed at accelerating the shift from petrol-powered vehicles.
Venice, the historic city of canals, is facing a deepening crisis from climate change that is putting it at growing risk of permanent submersion, as sea levels rise faster than expected and the city’s flood defensce system may no longer be able to cope indefinitely. 
Tomorrow is the 40th anniversary of the accident at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, one of the largest man-made disasters in human history. The catastrophe that unfolded in 1986 was the result of a reactor experiment carried out under Moscow’s orders, in blatant violation of basic safety protocols. 
When we talk about retiring abroad, we hear endless stories about bitter expats fighting the exchange rate or guys trying to live like billionaires on a tap-water budget. Let’s celebrate the perfect antidote to all that noise: The Contented Elder.
The Comptroller-General’s Department, in collaboration with relevant agencies, is exploring guidelines to increase the starting income of newly appointed civil servants as it looks to ease the burden of medical care expenditure.
Thailand’s plastics industry is facing a crisis on several fronts, as the cost of key resin raw materials has surged by nearly 100% in a short period, adding pressure to consumer goods and packaging prices through cost-push inflation.
In almost every industry in Thailand, parasitic nominee businesses are being used to bypass foreign ownership laws, creating revenue leaks across multiple industries like tourism and hospitality.
See how these structures work, where they persist, and what it means for Thailand’s economy. 
Thailand’s Industry Ministry is planning a B100-billion Industrial Transformation Fund to modernize industry and support smaller businesses, with the scheme set to be rolled out in phases. The fund aims to attract private-sector co-investment and is expected to help SMEs upgrade machinery and shift toward future industries.
On Wednesday, Thailand’s newly installed Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, made clear the kingdom will tighten screening of foreign tourists before arrival. He confirmed visa-on-arrival access for 124 countries, including 93 now granted 60-day visa waivers, is under review.
Southern tourism operators are calling for more government support and incentives for the green transition, as Phuket recently hosted an international sustainable tourism conference in a bid to create global recognition in this sector.
Unusual Funeral in Ron Phibun with Coyote Dancers Draws Crowds
Thailand’s Environmental Law Reform Wave
European leaders celebrated the long-awaited approval of the release of a 90-billion-euro (34 trillion baht) loan for Ukraine yesterday, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly pushed the debate back to his country’s EU accession. After months of wrangling with Hungary, the final sign-off for the loan and a new package of EU sanctions on Russia boosted Zelensky. 
When we talk about foreigners moving abroad, the loudest voices and the biggest egos usually grab all the attention. But today, let’s talk about the absolute pinnacle of expat achievement: The Seamless Neighbor.
New research is looking at the positive effects of coffee on the gut-brain connection. In the small study, published Tuesday in Nature Communications, researchers found regularly drinking coffee − both caffeinated and decaffeinated versions − can affect the gut microbiome, influencing mood and stress.
Thailand is facing another burst of summer-storm weather, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning that the north and northeast will bear the brunt first, bringing thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and isolated heavy rain. Some areas may also see lightning as the latest system moves in.
The Smart Water Operation Center (SWOC) of the Royal Irrigation Department recently outlined Thailand’s water situation and outlook for 2026, saying the country is likely to enter an El Niño period in the middle of the year, which could bring below-normal rainfall.
Thailand’s property sector is being hit by overlapping pressures, from soaring construction costs to weakening purchasing power, prompting developers to slow new project launches and switch into “liquidity first” mode, with survival taking priority over growth.
Thailand’s Commerce Ministry has advised exporters to coordinate closely with their US trade partners after US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) opened a new system for requesting refunds of import duties collected under President Donald Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Restaurant-related associations have collaborated to tackle surging energy costs, fluctuations in raw material prices, and digital transformation. A memorandum of understanding was signed by representatives from the Restaurant Assn., the Night Restaurant Business Trade Assn., the Digital Technology Entrepreneur Trade Assn., the Thai Fresh Market Assn., and the Federation of Thai Chefs.
According to the latest analysis by Future Market Insights (FMI), the medical tourism industry in Thailand is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from a cost-driven destination for elective procedures into a premium global healthcare hub focused on complex and high-acuity treatments.
Places to Avoid in Thailand
Heavy rains lure frogs out of hiding and villagers out of homes
Asia’s Clean Energy Boom Reshapes the Global Power Sector
There’s a certain rhythm to life in Hua Hin that’s hard to ignore. Mornings start a little slower, the sea is never far away, and the pace feels more manageable than in larger cities.
Kaeng Krachan forest fire burns 5,000 rai in Phetchaburi
Erawan National Park closes due to forest fires, PM2.5 spike
Thailand has coordinated with Iran and Oman to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for three Thai vessels carrying oil and petrochemical cargoes. The breakthrough has helped reduce the risk of energy and petrochemical feedstock shortages in Thailand amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Thailand’s housing market is showing signs of a structural shift, with would-be buyers pulling back and more people turning to renting instead. The latest data from DDproperty shows that nationwide demand to buy residential property fell 6% in the first quarter of 2026, while rental demand rose 4%. In Bangkok, rental demand climbed even faster, jumping 9%.
Thailand’s commercial banking sector delivered a resilient performance in the first quarter of 2026, with all 11 major lenders reporting combined net profits of 68.68 billion baht, a modest 0.62% increase from the same period last year and a sharp 20.13% rise from the previous quarter.
The government has firmly denied reports suggesting a planned hike in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%, describing the claims as misinformation and reiterating its commitment to easing the cost of living for the general public.
Thailand’s cultural triumph
Blackpink’s Lisa brings Thai fashion to tourism
The gunman who killed a Canadian tourist and wounded 13 others at Mexico’s famed Teotihuacan pyramids had planned the attack days in advance, officials said yesterday, as evidence pointed to him being inspired by a US massacre. 
Workers load tons of rare earth minerals into bags ready for shipping at a refinery in eastern Malaysia, fueling the global pushback against China’s grip on the critical sector. Rare earths are a key ingredient in products ranging from smartphones to fighter jets, electric cars, and wind turbines – and increasingly for hardware powering the artificial intelligence boom. 
The Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair and Red Cross Festival will return to Prachuap Khiri Khan from April 24 to May 4, with organizers preparing a wide-ranging program of exhibitions, performances, and charity activities.
Middle East Turmoil Drives Prolonged Natural Gas Surge, High Electricity Costs for 2+ Years
Global aviation faces geopolitical turbulence
The outlook for the retail and wholesale sector looks grim, as consumer spending power is expected to decline in the coming months, alongside anticipated rising goods prices, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.
Thailand’s Senate committee has proposed a tax reform plan to tackle the country’s fiscal deficit, suggesting an increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. If approved, the proposals will be submitted to the Cabinet for potential implementation.
The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.
Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026 ended on Sunday with huge crowds packing Pattaya Beach from North Pattaya to South Pattaya for the final day of celebrations.
Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images
Natural gas continues to play a pivotal role in global energy systems, even as the world accelerates its transition toward cleaner alternatives. While solar, wind, and biomass are increasingly in the spotlight as part of international efforts to curb rising temperatures, natural gas is still considered a relatively cleaner fossil fuel and a key driver of economic growth.
The Thai government is introducing low-interest loan packages through four state financial institutions to support households and businesses in adopting clean energy and reducing the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs. These measures seek to address the energy crisis by improving energy efficiency and enhancing long-term energy security and sustainability.
Humanity has spent more than a century pushing life expectancy steadily upward, lifting the global average from just 32 years in 1900 to around 73 years today, thanks largely to vaccines, medical advances, and stronger public health systems. But that long-running achievement is now being shaken by the intensifying effects of global heating.