- Hospitality Classic to support Hua Hin Heroes/Thailand is still an expat favorite/Parliament elects Anutin Prime Minister/Thai gold tumbles 3,400 baht/Netherlands Embassy to Relocate/Embassy sites and Bangkok’s property market
- THE IRAN WAR: Baht may fall to 35 per dollar/Consumer goods prices to rise soon/Time to rethink what needs to be done/Allies vow to protect Hormuz shipping/US, Israel seek to ease concerns/Fuel shortages continue/Energy woes dent Songkran/Penalties for gas gouging/Impacts of Iran war on Southeast Asia
- TOURISM: 6 reasons you can be denied entry/War, oil and the future of tourism/Foreigner Criticizes Thai Tourism
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand Cat Lovers Fair/Red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Hat Yai’s floods are a warning/EV boom erases oil need/Electric boat taxi service
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hospitality Classic tees off at Royal Lakeside June 12 to support Hua Hin Heroes
Fore Management Group has announced the inaugural Misthos Group Hospitality Classic, a one-day charity golf tournament to be held at Royal Lakeside Golf Club on June 12, with proceeds supporting Hua Hin Heroes Foundation.
The event will be played in a four-man team Texas Scramble format and is expected to attract more than 120 expat golfers living in Thailand, including individual players and corporate teams. Fore Management Group said 100% of funds raised on the day will be donated to Hua Hin Heroes. Continued …
Thailand is still an expat favorite, only if you play by the new rules
Thailand ranked fourth in the InterNations Expat Insider survey in 2025, its best result ever, thus reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most appealing places for foreigners to live. But in the same period, the cost of living here rose, the tax rules changed, and informal visa workarounds have become far harder to rely on.
Thailand hasn’t become a worse place to live, it merely has become a more selective one. The country that housed many long-term expats, living through a patchwork of gray-area arrangements, has made a deliberate shift toward formal pathways, targeted incentives, and stricter enforcement. Continued …
Parliament elects Anutin as Thailand’s 32nd Prime Minister
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul was elected Thailand’s 32nd prime minister (PM) during a Parliamentary vote held yesterday. Anutin previously served as PM after former PM Partongtar Shinawatra was removed from office over a leaked phone conversation with Hun Sen.
He later announced the dissolution of Parliament on Dec. 11 last year, leading to the General Election on Febr. 8 this year. Anutin and Bhumjaithai Party secured victory in the election. Ahead of today’s prime ministerial vote, Bhumjaithai Party announced the formation of a coalition government with 16 other political parties, including the Pheu Thai Party. Continued …
Thai gold tumbles 3,400 baht
Thailand’s gold market came under heavy pressure yesterday, with the Gold Traders Assn. revising prices 53 times during the day before bullion closed sharply lower, reflecting a steep global sell-off in the precious metal.
By the close, local gold prices had dropped by 3,400 baht from the previous day. Gold bullion was quoted at 72,900 baht per baht-weight for buying and 73,100 baht for selling, while gold ornaments were quoted at 71,449.08 baht for buying and 73,900 baht for selling. Spot gold was last reported at US$4,707 an ounce. Continued …
Netherlands Embassy in Thailand to Relocate to Dusit Central Park in August
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand will relocate to Dusit Central Park in Bangkok in August, without disrupting consular services for Dutch citizens and businesses across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
The announcement was made by Ambassador Remco Johannes van Wijngaarden, ensuring that emergency consular assistance will remain available during the move. The new location is within Bangkok’s central business district and will provide convenient access through private and public transportation. Continued …
How former embassy sites helped reshape Bangkok’s prime property market
Embassy land in Thailand has become a prime target for investors, not only because many plots are located in high-potential central business districts, but also because they carry a historical legacy for future generations to remember. In recent years, several embassy land sales in Thailand have significantly boosted the value of surrounding areas.
Surachet Kongcheep, head of research and consultancy at Cushman & Wakefield Thailand, said that looking back at embassy sites that have already been sold and redeveloped into major projects in the city center, the trend began in 2007. Continued …
Baht may fall to 35 per dollar if war persists
The baht is expected to weaken to 34-35 to the US dollar if the Middle East conflict drags on for two months, pushing oil prices above US$100 per barrel, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
K-Research views a prolonged two-month conflict as the most likely scenario. Under this outlook, global crude oil prices would rise beyond $100 per barrel, putting downward pressure on the baht and increasing currency volatility, said Burin Adulwattana, the center’s chief economist. Continued …
Consumer goods prices to rise soon as production costs soar
Major consumer product manufacturers and distributors are warning customers of possible price increases in April due to the Middle East war disrupting the oil supply chain.
In letters to customers, companies cited the war’s impact on the oil-related supply chain, resulting in difficulty sourcing raw materials, decreased packaging availability, and rising prices, higher transport costs, and delivery delays. Continued …
As the war against Iran is felt economically in Thailand, it’s time to rethink what needs to be done
The psychological irony of telling the public not to worry about Thailand running out of petrol and other forms of energy — due to the ongoing, unjust war by Israel and the United States against Iran — is that people feel even more uncertain and panicked by the “reassurance”. By simply following the news, they can conclude that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively choking global fuel supplies due to the conflict and, by extension, the world econom.
Whether you like it or not, and regardless of which side you root for in the Middle East, the global economic impact is undeniable and increasingly reverberating around the world. This includes Thailand, where several provinces report long queues at petrol stations and acute fuel shortages. Continued …
Allies vow to protect Hormuz shipping, urge Iran to halt attacks
The leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, and Canada have declared their readiness to support appropriate efforts to ensure the safe passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while urging Iran to halt attacks on vessels and energy infrastructure.
The leaders condemned what they described as recent Iranian attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces. Continued …
Oil declines as US, Israel seek to ease concerns over Iran war
Oil dropped from its highest close since July 2022, as the leaders of the United States and Israel sought to reassure investors rattled by damage to major Persian Gulf energy facilities.
Brent crude fell toward $107 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate for May was around $94. President Donald Trump told reporters he’s “not putting troops anywhere” after being asked about the possibility of deploying US ground forces, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would refrain from more attacks on Iranian energy facilities. Continued …
Fuel shortages continue despite adequate reserves
Fuel remains scarce at many service stations across Thailand, even though reserves are more than adequate, amid continuing problems with delivery and unusually high demand, officials said yesterday.
The Ministry of Energy surveyed 2,649 service stations from Sunday to Tuesday and found that 1,912 had completely or nearly run out of some kinds of fuel. The survey found 241 stations were temporarily closed, while 496 remained fully open. Continued …
Energy woes dent Songkran travel sentiment
Tourism operators are increasingly concerned about declining energy confidence, fearing it could dampen their high expectations for the upcoming Songkran holiday.
Wasuchet Sophonsathien, adviser to the Thai Transportation Operators Assn., said that in the short term rising fuel prices could affect next month’s Songkran holiday. Some tourists have already booked cross-provincial trips, but many have yet to decide, as they are monitoring fuel prices until they feel more confident. Continued …
Penalties vowed for gas gouging
Caretaker energy minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon has vowed to take action against petrol station operators who charge prices that exceed government-regulated, subsidized levels, while pledging to intensify efforts to ensure smooth oil distribution nationwide.
He told the public yesterday they will be able to buy oil at affordable prices, and the nation will have sufficient fuel for transport and business. “Officials found oil retailers in some areas sell fuel at high prices, claiming they do not receive subsidies from the government,” said Auttapol. Continued …
Impacts of Iran war on Southeast Asia
For the most part, Southeast Asia as a region has taken a neutral stance toward the joint attack between the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Even the Philippines and Thailand, two formal US treaty allies, have distanced themselves, calling for restraint and de-escalation.
As Southeast Asia is trade- and export-dependent, the war will have severe repercussions for the region as oil prices rise and international commerce is disrupted. The longer the war goes on, the more regional economies will suffer. Continued …
6 reasons you can be denied entry into Thailand
Thailand has significantly tightened its border controls since 2024, and what used to be casual entry procedures have become strict enforcement checkpoints. While most travelers enter without issues, understanding what can get you denied entry into Thailand and detained at the airport is essential for anyone planning a trip to the kingdom.
The legal framework comes from the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), specifically Section 12, which lists 11 grounds for refusing entry. Immigration officers have broad discretion to deny entry if they believe you fall under any prohibited category. Here are the six most common reasons travelers face denial, detention, and deportation. Continued …
Shockwaves in Asia: War, oil and the future of tourism
Global power shifts do not remain confined to geopolitics. They travel quickly, and often invisibly, through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences of the Gulf War are immediate. The most direct transmission channel is energy.
Any sustained disruption in Middle Eastern supply routes pushes oil prices higher. This feeds directly into aviation fuel costs, which in turn drives airfares upward. The result is predictable. Long-haul travel demand weakens, particularly from Europe, where consumers are already sensitive to economic uncertainty. Continued …
Foreign Tourist Criticizes Thai Tourism as Overrated
A foreign tourist has publicly criticized Thai tourism in a video, labeling the country “overrated” and pointing to high accommodation costs, poor food hygiene, crowded attractions, and unfriendly locals. The video highlights her two-week experience in Thailand, which she felt was unlike positive reviews she had read before her visit.
She compared Thailand unfavorably with other Asian destinations, noting that even the cheapest hostel was priced at 600 baht per night, which she found expensive for a backpacker. She was also critical of Thai food, citing instances where her friends suffered from food poisoning. She expressed dissatisfaction with the food, describing it as sweet, oily, and causing her to feel bloated. Continued …
Thailand Cat Lovers Fair is back at Muang Thong Thani
A troupe of Thailand’s ancient cat breeds will take center stage during Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2026, which will kick off on March 27 and run daily from 10 am to 8 pm until March 29. The venue is Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Hall 5, Muang Thong Thani.
The fair will transform over 5,000m² space into a “Meow Land” where visitors will be amazed by the beauty of legendary and rarely-seen ancient Thai cats, namely the lotus petal-colored cat – an auspicious and extremely rare-colored breed that will make its first appearance in Thailand at the event. Continued …
Dry season turns profitable as red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
Villagers in Ban Don Tat Ruea, Non Daeng district, are turning to harvesting red ant eggs as a source of food and income during the dry season, when farming activities have slowed.
Residents in Non Daeng subdistrict said they have been collecting the eggs from nests built by red ants on roadside trees, particularly along the route linking Ban Don Tat Ruea and Ban Don Udom in Don Yai subdistrict. The seasonal activity has drawn many villagers seeking both household consumption and supplementary earnings. Continued …
Hat Yai’s floods are a warning for cities built against nature
Every year, Chinese New Year festivals in southern Thailand’s Hat Yai attract tourists, mostly from neighboring Malaysia, generating a significant proportion of annual income for a city dependent on tourism. But not this year.
Three months after the November 2025 flood disaster, the new year is being celebrated with continuing cleaning, scrubbing mud from people’s homes and shops, and clearing away piles of water-damaged vehicles, furniture and rotting rubbish. More than 40% of hotels, shops, and restaurants remain shut. Some might not reopen at all. Continued …
EV boom replaces millions of oil barrels
In 2025, electric vehicles displaced between 1.7 million barrels per day (Ember estimate) and 2.3 million barrels per day (BloombergNEF scenario) of oil demand, a volume close to 70% of Iran’s daily exports through the Strait of Hormuz.
This marks a sharp rise from 2024’s 1.3 million barrels per day displacement, driven by expanding charging networks, falling battery costs, and cumulative policy incentives. The oil savings are now visible in refinery balances and fuel-tax receipts across multiple economies. Continued …
Electric boat taxi service launches on Bangkok’s historic canals
TTA Mariner Co. (TMC) and MuvMi have introduced a new electric boat taxi service for commuting within Bangkok’s old town waterways. Operating daily from 9 am to 5 pm, the current fleet consists of eight electric boats. Each vessel accommodates up to six passengers and travels at an average speed of 12 kilometres per hour.
Following a free trial run that will conclude in mid-April, standard fares will start at 35 baht (US$1.07) per passenger. Prices increase in a tiered structure based on passenger volume and travel distance, with bookings made through the MuvMi application. Continued …
- Seven Chinese Arrested in Thai Immigration Sweep – Continued …
- Chinese Fugitive Arrested in Bangkok for Fraud, Overstay – Continued …
- Taiwanese Fugitive Arrested in Chon Buri Over Drug Charges – Continued …
- French fugitive nabbed by Immigration Bureau in Phuket – 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
Most petrol stations in Hua Hin have introduced temporary refueling limits as fuel demand continues to rise across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging motorists not to panic buy despite stable national supply levels.
So-called “smart poles” are being installed at key locations across Hua Hin as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and support the development of smart infrastructure. The initiative forms part of the Hua Hin Smart City Phase 1 project, under which Hua Hin City Municipality has installed no fewer than 30 CCTV cameras, along with related equipment throughout the municipal area.
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will conclude on Saturday at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 is being held today and tomorrow, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
Thailand Riviera tourist road to improve access to Hua Hin
NH Hua Hin Hotel has appointed Nartsupak Thaweewong as general manager. Nartsupak brings more than 20 years of hospitality experience in Thailand and Singapore to the role.
Airin Phanrit, deputy spokeswoman for the prime minister’s office, said yesterday that this year’s heat index is expected to be more severe than last year’s, with levels in April and May likely to rise into the “very dangerous” range of more than 52°C.
Brent crude rose sharply above US$110 a barrel in early trading today, as fresh attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East heightened fears of broader supply disruption.
Whether Bangchak and PTT service stations are selling fuel at higher or lower prices than those in other ASEAN countries remains a matter of continuing public interest and frequent scrutiny. This is especially the case at present, amid the Middle East war following the attacks launched by the United States and Israel on Iran.
Thailand’s heavy industries are coming under renewed pressure from high oil prices, with production costs rising sharply and supply-chain strains raising the risk of shortages in plastic bags and packaging materials, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The Airline Association of Thailand (AAT) is seeking government intervention for relief measures, as the aviation industry faces escalating cost pressures. In a recent meeting with executives from its member airlines, including Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia, the AAT discussed challenges posed by global economic conditions and external factors, particularly the geopolitical tensions affecting fuel prices.
Saha Pathanapibul and BJC, two major consumer goods companies, have warned retailers of the impact of unrest in the Middle East, which has driven up raw material, packaging, and transport costs and may affect product availability and deliveries.
The Land Transport Federation of Thailand has issued five demands for the government to address the energy crisis, warning it may escalate to a nationwide transport shutdown if no action is taken.
Thailand’s existing stocks of necessary drugs and life-saving medical supplies are enough for three months’ use, the Ministry of Public Health said yesterday.
Thai fishermen staying ashore as fuel prices bite
Thais say their top concern is rising living costs and they are urging the new government to take swift action on the issue, according to a National Statistical Office (NSO) survey.
Despite declines in new launches and inventory in Bangkok, condo developers are likely to delay new supply this year, as sales remain sluggish and absorption rates continue to fall, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).
Bangkok’s Chatuchak Named the Best Night Market in the World
Small businesses and households are being urged to reduce their reliance on the state electricity grid and adopt solar power solutions, as global energy price volatility threatens to drive up costs, despite Thailand’s capped power tariffs, according to solar firms.
Swedish solar technology company Midsummer has expanded its operations into Thailand, bringing advanced renewable energy solutions to the Southeast Asian region. As part of this expansion, the company has opened a new regional office in Bangkok to strengthen its presence and respond to the growing demand for clean energy in the country.
Thwaites Glacier in west Antarctica, covering more than 192,000 square kilometers, has been dubbed the “Doomsday Glacier” because it acts as the final barrier preventing the west Antarctic ice sheet from flowing into the ocean. But the glacier is now melting rapidly, raising fears that many coastal cities around the world could eventually be submerged.
Education officials are considering banning mobile phone use in all Thai classrooms, following a new initiative announced in Bangkok aimed at improving learning conditions. The proposed measures seek to reduce distractions and limit the health and behavioral impacts linked to excessive screen time. If adopted, changes would begin in the 2026 academic year.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is collaborating with GrabTaxi (Thailand) to explore the development of drone delivery services. This collaboration aims to enhance transport and logistics, emphasizing the importance of regulatory oversight to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Five officers were injured in a 
Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon said after a meeting of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East that the government had been closely monitoring global energy prices and found that continued increases had made it necessary to adjust domestic oil prices after they had been capped for a full 15 days, effective today.
Global Airlines Hike Fares, Cut Routes As Fuel Costs Balloon
Global airlines sounded the alarm yesterday over soaring jet fuel prices triggered by the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, warning of hundreds of millions of extra costs, higher fares, and cuts to some routes.
Lack of diesel brought garbage collection to a halt in Kanchanaburi municipality yesterday morning, with the trucks not beginning their rounds until fuel was available in the afternoon.
Every US$10 increase in the oil price per barrel is expected to reduce Thai GDP by 0.2 percentage points, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
The energy crisis is likely to spark a cost-of-living crisis, with impacts expected in the next one to three months, the Thailand Consumer Council (TCC) said.
As soaring ocean freight rates put pressure on exporters, Thai wooden furniture manufacturer Deesawat is urging exporters to explore closer markets amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The tripartite wage committee has unanimously agreed that now is not the right time to consider a minimum wage increase, citing uncertainty over the economic fallout from the war in the Middle East and the need to closely monitor energy prices.
Ranong Port: Gateway To BIMSTEC Economy Worth US$3.5 Trillion
Rise of the cat economy: Thai cat population exceeds 4 million
Hotel operators in Thailand consider high energy prices more troubling than mass cancellations, as only one month remains in the high tourism season, resulting in requests for the government to promote domestic travel during the Songkran holiday to help maintain occupancy rates.
Eco-Friendly Adventures Await in Thailand’s Phang Nga
Asian utilities are boosting coal-fired power generation to cut costs and safeguard ?energy supply, industry executives say, as the US-Israeli war on Iran chokes liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments and soaring prices threaten to suppress LNG demand.
The Office of the Cane and Sugar Board (OCSB) expects purchases of sugar cane leaves to more than double this year as Thailand reduces its reliance on liquefied natural gas imports, shipments of which have been disrupted by war in the Middle East.
Last week, Chakkaphan Phewngam, deputy governor of Bangkok, led a high-level site inspection at the On Nut Refuse Disposal Center in Prawet District to evaluate the progress of the city’s landmark waste-to-energy incineration plant. Spanning 30 rai, this 1,000-ton-per-day facility represents a core component of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) strategic shift away from traditional landfilling toward sustainable, high-tech waste management.
Wind power and photovoltaic energy are reshaping the energy landscape. However, early-generation wind and solar equipment, designed to last 20 to 25 years, is now entering a phase of large-scale decommissioning.
Joe Kent, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, announced his resignation yesterday, citing his concerns about the justification for military strikes in Iran and saying he “cannot in good conscience” back the Trump administration’s war. 
Long queues formed at petrol stations across the Laotian capital Vientiane on Monday as fuel shortages deepened, with the ripples of the Middle East conflict reverberating across landlocked Laos. The Southeast Asian nation is dependent on neighboring Thailand for fuel supplies, which initially announced it was suspending exports to conserve its holdings, but has assured Vientiane that fuel is on its way. 
After prices of liquefied natural gas surged to record highs after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, millions of people in Pakistan were repeatedly left without electricity. But people soon started to realize there was an alternative. The falling costs of solar panels and generous government incentives to feed excess power back to the grid made rooftop solar an attractive option. 
Indonesia plans to fast-track the development of renewable energy, aiming to build 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity within the next two years as part of efforts to advance energy transition and strengthen national energy security. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto said the government has instructed a special task force on renewable energy and energy conservation to fast-track the large-scale solar program. 
Thailand is set to receive a new shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from overseas, ensuring adequate fuel for power generation as electricity demand surges during the hot season, according to an energy official who requested anonymity.
Anan Phonimdang, deputy governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and acting SRT governor, said the rise in fuel prices has had a direct impact on the railway operator.
The Thai Board of Investment (BOI) has warned the business sector to prepare for the impact of rising global conflicts and wars, saying they are becoming part of a new world economic order.
A transformative shift in the labor market is taking place as Thailand approaches “super-aged society” status by 2030, according to Jobsdb by SEEK, a leading online job platform.
The Thai banking industry is entering a transition period in which banks can no longer rely on strong interest income or generate the high levels of return on equity (ROE) as seen in the past, according to the chief executive of TMBThanachart Bank (ttb).
Thailand’s healthcare system is facing six major pressures that are beginning to affect services, with some hospitals now at risk of having to reduce the number of beds they operate.
Thailand is losing nearly B30 billion in tax revenue each year as the illegal tobacco market expands, with illicit products now accounting for around a quarter of total tobacco consumption. A new policy report highlights the growing scale of illicit trade and its impact on government income, lawful businesses and consumer safety.
Venice is drowning – not just in rising waters but also in tourists. The city is charging a day-tripper fee and has banned large tour groups and loudspeakers in an effort to curb the crush. Barcelona residents march with squirt guns and “Tourists go home” signs to protest rising rents and crowds. Amsterdam is moving to cap and eventually ban ocean-going cruise ships to reduce pollution and visitor pressure.
Thailand’s former National Intelligence Agency deputy director, Nantiwat Samart, has urged the government to prioritize national security and public safety over boosting tourist numbers. Concerns have grown on social media, with calls to revoke the existing visa-free entry policy due to issues allegedly linked to Israeli tourists.
European tourists are increasingly favoring eastern Thailand’s attractions over the traditionally popular southern areas, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This shift is linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has notably decreased southern Thailand’s appeal.
For the past decade, Whitney Spielfogel’s family has taken an annual multi-generational trip over the holiday season and New Year’s with her parents. Hawaii, Costa Rica, Cabo, Tulum, Turks and Caicos. They had done them all together, her parents and her husband, Ross, and eventually her children, Sienna and Slade.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
The Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon 2026 has been officially launched, with organizers aiming to strengthen the town’s reputation as a sports tourism destination while inviting runners to sign up for the endurance event.
The Thailand Professional Golf Assn. (TPGA) announced its partnership with the Asian Tour to organize an Asian Development Tour (ADT)-level event — the Singha-SAT ADT Hua Hin Championship 2026 — between April 23-26 at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a policy restricting the use of mobile phones and electronic devices during lessons at 437 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
Thailand is facing a burgeoning literacy crisis, with approximately 65% of 15-year-olds unable to comprehend or analyze the content they read, despite being technically literate.
Thai health officials are sounding the alarm over a growing trend of adopting American dietary habits, warning that the latest “Upside-Down Pyramid” model from the United States may be ill-suited to the Thai physique and could lead to chronic health issues.
The Ministry of Commerce held a meeting last week to draw up Thailand’s 2026 proactive international trade promotion plan, chaired by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun together with directors of Thailand’s overseas trade promotion offices — commercial attachés in 58 offices across 43 economic areas worldwide — to take an in-depth look at global trade and set strategies to drive Thai exports.
Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a wall of negative sentiment this year, as geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and tighter access to loans weigh on the sector, raising questions about how businesses can navigate these tumultuous times.
The egg farmers’ cooperative network has raised the farm-gate price of mixed chicken eggs from 3.20 baht to 3.40 baht per egg, or six baht more per tray, effective today.
Chinese automaker BYD has denied allegations from the United States that its manufacturing facility in Thailand is being used to bypass American trade tariffs. The company said its Rayong plant is focused on domestic demand and exports to other regions, confirming that no vehicles from the site have been shipped to the United States.
Thailand has strengthened its position as a leading global destination for medical tourism, with new data showing the country is now among the top three worldwide for international patients seeking treatment abroad. The surge has been driven largely by Russian travelers, who are increasingly choosing Thailand for elective procedures, preventative care, and wellness treatments.
Middle East conflict hits tourism in Phangnga
This abandoned floating hotel in Thailand is straight out of a horror film
Activists in the Mekong region have called on governments and agencies to take urgent action to protect the river from worsening environmental damage caused by hydropower dams and mining activities.
The “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on March 29 at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.
After a trial at 10 schools showed controling use of digital devices improved student concentration and increased parental satisfaction, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is gearing up to expand the clampdown at all its schools from the next academic year.
A worst-case scenario for the Middle East conflict, which is war dragging on without a clear end, would reduce Thai GDP by 2.31 percentage points, according to the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
Cambodia is bracing for fuel supply disruptions, with plans to temporarily close around 2,000 of its 6,300 petrol stations amid an energy shortage linked to ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts, commerce minister Cham Nimol announced yesterday.
Thailand’s condominium sector is facing a potential liquidity crisis, as nearly 150-billion-baht worth of new units are scheduled for transfer in 2026, coinciding with more than 180 billion baht in corporate bonds that property developers must repay within the same year.
Thailand could face a period of stagflation if energy prices surge sharply amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to an economist at Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center (EIC).
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is joining forces with the private sector to set up a war room to manage the impact of the Middle East crisis, while also preparing to propose the revival of a buy-one-get-one campaign to stimulate foreign arrivals.
Luxury travel has evolved, and Thailand’s “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign invites you to experience the country in a way that nurtures your soul and spirit. Through its new Thailand Co-Creator initiative, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) presents five carefully curated travel routes, each designed to rejuvenate, heal, and connect visitors with authentic experiences across the kingdom.
Ayutthaya marks Thai Elephant Day with feast for 70 elephants
Chiang Mai Zoo marks Thai National Elephant Day with feast and parade
The ITB Berlin 2026 event recognized community-based environmental achievements of Thailand, which created new attractions for eco-friendly travelers to discover Thailand’s three destinations of Ko Lanta, Chiang Khan, and Uthai Thani.
Thailand marks National Elephant Day amid a crisis of coexistence
Bangkok Ranked 8th Best City in the World for 2026
For the second time in four years, energy markets in Asia dependent on imported fossil fuels find themselves at the mercy of global commodity markets. Although each country’s immediate exposure to the Iran conflict varies, all face the indirect threat of higher costs driven by tighter fossil fuel markets and elevated geopolitical risk premiums.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has confirmed that the government is prepared to challenge a looming US investigation into “unfair trade practices.” Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, the Thai government has developed a robust strategic framework to address the Section 301 probe initiated by the Trump administration.
The foundation of modern employment – study hard, secure a job, build a stable life – is eroding fast. Technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, is breaking down the old economic model that tied individual effort to secure, long-term work.
Medical tourism has gained attention as a growing segment within the travel market, with high potential for expansion. According to the Medical Tourism Assn. (MTA), it is estimated that over 14 million people travel abroad for medical services annually.
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
At a sanctuary in Thailand, hundreds of rescued creatures are given a second chance after suffering from illegal trade, neglect, or captivity. But saving wildlife is never easy. A sun bear must be darted for treatment, a monkey terrorizing a school must be captured safely, and a fragile falcon fights to survive after a serious head injury leaves him blind in one eye. Each rescue is a reminder of how fragile wildlife truly is. 
Wellness tourism has become one of the most dynamic sectors within global travel. Many travelers now prefer holidays that combine relaxation, nature, and wellbeing experiences. The Global Spa Awards 2026 recognized exceptional spa resorts, wellness retreats, and spa hotels across different regions of the world.
Thailand attracts a wide spectrum of potential relocators, from long-stay retirees to remote workers and corporate transferees. However, the country’s structural realities around environment, governance, infrastructure, and social norms mean it is far better suited to some profiles than others.
Signs of higher prices in 2026 are emerging, with Thai Beverage (ThaiBev) notifying retailers — particularly agents who play a key role in distribution — of beer price adjustments.
As geopolitical tensions continue to drive up oil prices and push the country’s energy costs higher, Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched measures to reduce electricity consumption in government agencies and encourage households to save power, as the country prepares for further volatility linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Economist warns Thailand could encounter stagflation
MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) plans to invest 4 billion baht this year, aiming to open 210 new stores and build an automated warehouse to support its expansion.
The government has reaffirmed that no new Cambodian migrant workers will be allowed into the country due to security concerns, despite pressure from the private sector. Labor Minister Treenuch Thienthong said the government understands the concerns raised by businesses over labor shortages.
Thailand’s tourism industry is struggling with the sudden impact from the Middle East conflict on long-haul travel, with weekly arrivals down 13% due to flight disruptions. In light of emerging trends, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) says arrivals to Thailand from long-haul source markets could fall by as much as 50% this year.
Solar power is Thailand’s master key in the fight against global warming. It is cheap, popular, and even promoted by the state. But beneath the success story lies a big question: What happens when millions of panels begin to die? Without proper measures, Thailand’s clean energy rush risks dumping a toxic legacy for the next generation.
Thai customs authorities have confiscated 284 tons of electronic waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri, and are preparing to send the illegal shipment back to the United States where it originated.
Wind Energy Holding has announced a five-year investment budget of 20-billion baht for the period 2026–2030, advancing three strategic workstreams aimed at expanding its renewable energy portfolio to 2,000 megawatts.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin presided over a signing ceremony establishing a cooperation framework to address marine waste and support the sustainable management of Thailand’s marine resources. The effort aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14, which promotes the protection and sustainable use of oceans and marine ecosystems.
Yesterday, Phailin Kongpan, deputy mayor of Hua Hin Municipality, together with Cheep Suksri, president of the Municipal Council, and Nuengruethai Sukchan, deputy municipal clerk, brought Rungroj Nooklib, a former lecturer from Wang Klai Kangwon Vocational College in Hua Hin, to repair the solar power system at the Khao Takiab Blue Swimming Crab Bank.
The number of online-scam complaints rose again over the past week, with investment fraud causing the most damage, according to police.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. is calling on the government to support the restaurant industry amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Thailand’s smartphone market is likely to contract amid economic uncertainty, the Middle East conflict, and rising memory component costs, according to Thai Samsung Electronics Co.
Cloud service provider Amazon Web Services (AWS) Thailand has positioned its local cloud region as a future artificial intelligence (AI) hub, targeting enterprises’ rising demand for highly complex, independent “frontier AI agents”. This signals an enterprise shift from basic AI tools toward more advanced, enterprise-grade automation.
Outbound passengers at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport can now opt to use automated passport screening machines installed at immigration checkpoints around the clock.
Foreign tourists in Thailand are closely monitoring the recent weakening of the Thai baht against the US dollar, a trend fueled by global financial uncertainties. As the baht opened at 31.77 per dollar, down from 31.60, many visitors are keenly aware of how this affects their purchasing power in areas like hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Exploring the many charms behind Bangkok’s rise to Asia’s best city
What will become the Dubai chocolate of 2026? As food and drink trends are running wild in Bangkok, 14 industry professionals were asked to determine exactly which ingredients are most likely to end up on your plate, or in your glass, in 2026.
Discover Thailand Through Taste: A Complete Guide to Asia’s Hottest Foodie Travel Destination