- Power disruption for Hua Hin/Thailand Struggles with Scorching Heat
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran rejects ceasefire/A belligerent fool/Worldwide energy policy shift/Saudi Arabia hikes Asia oil price/PM unveils relief measures/Iran’s water weapon/Can alliances with the US be replaced?
- ECONOMY: Five Pillars to Drive Thai Economy/US trade report flags Thailand/Thai CEOs’ revenue confidence/February Export Growth Slows/Motor Show bookings hit record high
- TOURISM: Thai Travelers Cut Songkran Trips/Thai airlines trim routes/AirAsia X raises fares/SRT Opens Charter Trains/Phuket Hotels Push for Flights/
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The region’s disappearing recipes/Thailand’s vanishing summer classics
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Power disruption for Hua Hin areas tomorrow
The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), Hua Hin Branch has announced there will be temporary power outage in some areas of Hua Hin on 8 April 2026.
Work areas and schedule: 10 am–11 am, Hua Hin Soi 7; 11 am–noon, Hua Hin Soi 9; 1 pm–2 pm, Hua Hin Soi 9/1; and 2 pm–4 pmm Hua Hin Soi 19. Continued …
Thailand Struggles with Scorching Heat and Thick Pollution Haze
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a heat warning from today until Thursday. Many areas in Thailand could see temperatures exceed 42°C, along with hazy skies during the day.
The combination of record-level heat, poor air quality from haze, and unpredictable storms poses significant health and safety risks across Thailand, as the country moves deeper into its hot season. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, while deteriorating air quality contributes to respiratory issues, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Continued …
Iran rejects ceasefire as Trump issues stark ultimatum over war
Iran has rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal and insisted that any agreement must bring a permanent end to the war, as tensions escalate following a stark ultimatum from US President Donald Trump.
According to Iran’s official IRNA news agency, Tehran responded to a proposal delivered through Pakistan by outlining 10 key conditions. These include a complete end to regional hostilities, guarantees for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, the lifting of sanctions and commitments to post-war reconstruction. Iran also pushed back firmly against pressure to reopen the strategic waterway immediately, signaling that it still sees control of Hormuz as a critical source of leverage. Continued …
Fanatics, an obsessive, and a belligerent fool
We don’t have to look very far to find a useful historical analogy for the current crisis in the Middle East. In 1967, Egypt closed the Strait of Tiran to Israeli ships, and Israel replied with a surprise air attack that destroyed almost the entire Egyptian air force on the ground.
Israel followed up with a ground offensive that reached the Suez Canal – which then remained closed for the next eight years. Could something like this happen at the Strait of Hormuz now? Of course it could. In fact, at this point in the confrontation in the Gulf it will require a great deal of forbearance on both sides to avoid it. Continued …
Middle East conflict drives a worldwide energy policy shift
The conflict in the Middle East that erupted on Feb. 28 has sent the biggest shock through global energy markets in history. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries more than 20 million barrels a day of crude oil and oil products, or around 20% of global oil consumption, has almost ground to a halt.
As a result, crude oil prices have surged above US$100 per barrel, while refined products, diesel, jet fuel, and LPG have risen even more sharply. Global LNG supply has also fallen by around 20% as a result of the crisis. Continued …
Saudi Arabia hikes Asia oil price by US$17 as Thailand faces fresh fuel pressure
Saudi Arabia has sharply raised the official selling price of its Arab Light crude for Asian buyers for May delivery, adding fresh pressure to oil-importing economies such as Thailand as the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt energy markets.
The latest adjustment lifted the price by US$17 a barrel from the previous month, pushing the premium over the Oman-Dubai average to a record US$19.50 a barrel. The move reflects how severely the regional oil market has been shaken by the prolonged conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining at the center of global supply concerns. Continued …
PM unveils relief measures as energy crisis intensifies
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the outcome of the special Cabinet meeting held yesterday at Government House, saying that the fighting in the Middle East, a key global source of oil and natural gas, has caused the prices of oil and natural gas, as well as by-products of oil and gas production such as fertilizer and plastic pellets, to rise rapidly on world markets.
The impact is being felt worldwide, including in Thailand, which imports around 50% of its energy from the Middle East. Even if the conflict ends in the future, the infrastructure used to produce oil and natural gas in the Middle East will still need time to recover before normal output can resume. Continued …
Iran’s water weapon against Gulf
The oil-rich monarchies of the Persian Gulf are often described as petrostates. But the US-Israeli war with Iran has highlighted that they are also saltwater kingdoms, societies whose survival depends on desalination, or converting seawater into potable water at industrial scale.
Life in the Gulf relies on the “black magic” of turning oil and oil revenue into water. This technological prowess has fueled the region’s dynamic growth, but now it looms as its greatest vulnerability. Continued …
Can alliances with the US be replaced?
The increasingly loud debate over the future of alliances – after reports that the US could scale back or even withdraw from NATO – is nerve-racking. It has caused alarm across Europe and in Southeast Asia, another node of the US alliance network.
Even without any official decision, remarks by US President Donald Trump on social media were enough to shake already fragile US alliances. The question now frequently asked by Thai policymakers is: What comes next if alliances weaken? Continued …
Government Unveils Five Pillars to Drive Thai Economy
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul convened a special cabinet meeting yesterday to approve the government’s policy statement for Parliament. The statement focuses on using five main pillars to strengthen the economy, address rising energy prices due to the Middle East conflict, and restructure society. The policy will be presented to Parliament today.
The administration plans to implement a “Strategic Cluster Integration System,” uniting public and private sectors. The government will shift its role to supporter and facilitator, while accelerating digital development in public administration. The five strategic clusters are: macroeconomics, investment and future industries; production, trade and services; infrastructure, natural resources and environment; social welfare; and foreign affairs and security. Continued …
US trade report flags Thailand over market distortions, tariff barriers
Thailand has come under renewed trade scrutiny from the United States after the Office of the United States Trade Representative released its 2026 National Trade Estimate Report, a wide-ranging annual review of foreign trade barriers affecting US exports and investment. The report forms part of the Trump administration’s broader push to challenge what it describes as unfair trade practices and expand reciprocal market access.
In the Thailand section, the report said the US goods trade deficit with Thailand widened to US$71.9 billion in 2025, up 58% from 2024. It said US goods exports to Thailand totaled US$19.5 billion, while US imports from Thailand reached US$91.3 billion, taking total goods trade between the two countries to about US$110.8 billion. Continued …
Thai CEOs’ revenue confidence at 3-year low
Confidence among Thai business leaders has fallen sharply, with only 24% of chief executives expressing strong confidence in their organizations’ revenue growth this year, down from 47% in 2023 and the lowest level in three years.
Findings from PwC Thailand’s 29th Global CEO Survey “Thailand: Leading through Uncertainty in the Age of AI”, show that confidence is being eroded by a convergence of pressures, including economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, cyber risks, and the accelerating pace of technological change. Continued …
February 2026 Export Growth Slows as Imports Reach 50-Month Peak
Thai exports in February slowed to a growth of 9.9% year-on-year (YOY), with a total export value of US$29.4 billion. This was a significant deceleration from January’s 24.4% YOY surge and below forecasts.
The export slowdown was coupled with a sharp 11.1% month-on-month seasonal adjustment contraction. Electronics led exports, expanding over 56.8% YOY due to global demand and investment in related industries, especially to the US, where exports rose 40.5%. Gold exports grew moderately by 18.2%, affected by falling global prices. Continued …
Motor Show bookings hit record high, reaching 21% of annual target
The 47th Bangkok International Motor Show closed on a high note after generating a record 132,951 car bookings, with BYD leading the pack and Toyota coming in second, underscoring the event’s strong role in driving Thailand’s automotive market despite a fragile economic backdrop.
The show, organized by Grand Prix International, also recorded 2,056 motorcycle bookings and drew a total of 1,798,312 visitors during the event. Continued …
Thai Travelers Cut Songkran Trips as Fuel Prices Surge
Rising fuel prices, fears of shortages, and the ongoing war in the Middle East are dampening travel sentiment in Thailand ahead of the Songkran festival, with operators warning domestic demand may be weaker or flat compared with last year. Higher costs are discouraging long-distance trips, prompting many people to stay closer to home.
The conflict in the Middle East has driven up global fuel prices and sharply increased international airfares. Some European routes have doubled in price, as flights requiring Middle East stopovers have fallen by around 50%. Continued …
Thai airlines trim routes as jet fuel surge bites
Thai airlines are starting to cut routes and adjust schedules, as soaring fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict begin to bite, with Thai Lion Air and Nok Air joining Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X in temporarily suspending selected services under the summer 2026 timetable.
The latest moves come as aviation fuel prices have jumped sharply in the wake of the war in the Middle East, forcing carriers to tighten cost controls, especially on medium- and long-haul routes where fuel accounts for a large share of operating expenses. Some domestic services are also beginning to feel the strain. Continued …
AirAsia X raises fares by up to 40% as Iran war drives fuel costs higher
AirAsia X is raising fares by as much as 40% and adding about 20% to its fuel surcharge as the Iran war drives jet fuel prices sharply higher, putting fresh pressure on the Malaysian low-cost carrier.
AirAsia X said yesterday that jet fuel prices had jumped to an average of US$200 per barrel from around US$90, creating a major challenge for the airline. The surge is hitting the carrier particularly hard because its business model depends on low fares, while also exposing the fragile state of its finances. Continued …
SRT Opens Charter Trains to Boost Tourism Around Thailand
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has launched chartered tourist and luxury train services aimed at increasing revenue and promoting domestic travel. The initiative allows organizations and travelers to hire entire trains or individual carriages for tourism, leisure, or business purposes.
SRT is seeking to enhance the image of rail travel by offering modern, flexible services tailored to evolving lifestyles. According to Maetapat Soonthonwaraphas, director of the Public Relations Centre at SRT, rail tourism has steadily gained popularity due to its unique experience and relaxed atmosphere. Continued …
Phuket Hotels Push for Increased Direct Europe Flight Connections
The Thai Hotels Association’s southern chapter is urging authorities to boost direct flights from Europe to Phuket in response to tourism disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The ongoing war has led to abrupt halts in flights, as several airlines suspended operations. This has caused a decrease in European tourist arrivals at Phuket International Airport by 4% in late March.
The reliance on Middle East transit routes, accounting for 25%–30% of flights, has exacerbated the situation. However, the Asian market, especially China, has remained robust, showing a 47% increase in arrivals. Despite stable overall hotel occupancy, the expansion of hotel supply in Phuket outpaces demand, putting pressure on occupancy rates. Continued …
Tastes of Nostalgia: The region’s disappearing recipes
Southeast Asia is often considered the center of exciting culinary experiences. The region’s rich legacy of cooking traditions and food preparation techniques is a treasure trove that is always worth discovering. However, for a number of reasons, some of these dishes are now disappearing from tables and becoming rare finds.
There are various reasons for these changes in diet. Food and culinary traditions form an integral part of society. A wide and diverse territory, Southeast Asia boasts a rich compilation of flavors, techniques, and rituals that mirror each country’s history, geography, and heritage. Continued …
The art of the chill: Thailand’s vanishing summer classics
While modern air conditioning offers a temporary escape, the true secret to surviving a Thai summer lies on the plate and on the palate. Here, we explore six time-honored delicacies — from royal palace staples to street-side favorites — designed to cool the body and delight the senses.
When the mercury rises, most Thais seek comfort in air-conditioned spaces, dropping ice into every conceivable drink to blunt the heat. While ice cubes are a summer staple today, they were a luxury introduced only during the reign of King Rama V. Long before modern refrigeration, however, ingenious Thais mastered the art of “eating to cool down.” 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
The government has added bottled drinking water and seasoning sauces to its price-control list, along with plastic pellets, in order to prevent undue price increases in light of cost pressures arising from the Middle East war.
The Fuel Fund Board has approved an increase in diesel prices, with the retail price of B7 diesel rising to 50.54 baht per liter and B20 diesel to 45.54 baht per liter, effective yesterday. The decision follows a reduction in subsidy rates aimed at easing the financial burden on the state Oil Fuel Fund. The adjustment will have an immediate impact on transport costs and the wider economy.
The Energy Policy and Planning Office has announced updated petrol prices effective from yesterday. This report details current prices at five major service stations: PTT, Bangchak, PT, Caltex, and Shell, providing an overview of costs per liter for various fuel types.
The 15th edition of the Princess Pa’s Cup InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo Hua Hin took place on Saturday, bringing a blend of sport, society, and seaside elegance to the beachfront of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Hazardous levels of ultrafine dust covered Bangkok and 58 of Thailand’s 76 provinces yesterday afternoon, with air quality reaching levels considered harmful to health.
Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Phayao have been declared emergency disaster zones, as persistent hazardous air quality continues to grip northern Thailand, unlocking emergency funds for provincial governors to deploy relief efforts.
Thailand is set to experience widespread hot to extremely hot conditions through April 11, with temperatures in some areas expected to exceed 42°C, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.
Inspectors from the Department of Internal Trade (DIT), under the Commerce Ministry, have been conducting random inspections of outlets selling LPG cooking gas and gas-filling facilities to ensure they are not cheating customers by selling less gas than the tanks’ stated capacity.
The palm-fringed beaches of Phuket and the neon-lit streets of Bangkok feel worlds away from the geopolitical tremors of the Middle East. However, in our interconnected world, a shadow cast in Tehran is quickly felt in Thailand.
The war in the Middle East, now dragging on for more than a month, is casting a shadow over travel during the Songkran festival, a global event for Thailand. Hotel, retail, and event operators largely see Songkran tourism in 2026 as either weaker or flat compared with last year, even as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates domestic spending at 30.35 billion baht, up 6%.
Oil prices opened higher today as the US-Israeli war with Iran continued to disrupt global supply, reinforcing concerns over one of the most severe energy shocks in years, according to Reuters.
The war in the Middle East, now in its second month, is hitting global trade, as shipping costs climb in line with higher oil prices, while freight rates have also risen sharply.
Thailand’s rising cost of living is becoming increasingly hard for households to bear, with a new survey showing that most people are already feeling the strain as Songkran approaches.
Restaurants are bracing for less vibrant sales during the Songkran holiday this year, which runs from April 11-15, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn. With the Middle East war driving up the cost of living and reducing consumer purchasing power, Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said food is often the first thing people cut from their budgets.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told shoppers while inspecting prices of goods on sale at a shopping mall in Bangkapi area of Bangkok Saturday that a round of 50:50 co-payment scheme will be implemented after April 30.
Thai manufacturers have been further hit with a double whammy as a severe shortage of microchips has thrown this market into turmoil, while prices of all types of steel products are initially rising by 10%-15% this month.
As Thailand moves to adjust fuel policies and households continue to feel cost-of-living pressures, discussions in online forums have once again highlighted a broader issue: how inflation and inconsistent pricing are impacting both locals and foreign tourists. For visitors arriving in Thailand, the effect of rising costs is increasingly visible across multiple parts of the travel experience.
Thailand is pushing for regulations that would require international tourists to obtain accident insurance before entering the country, as rising unpaid medical bills and accident risks place a mounting strain on public healthcare.
Tourist numbers along Jomtien Beach have dropped noticeably in recent days, leaving normally busy beachfront areas unusually quiet and raising concerns among local operators. A survey of the area found a clear decline in visitors, with long stretches of beach appearing sparse compared to the typically lively atmosphere Pattaya is known for.
Thailand’s aviation sector is starting to show clearer signs of strain from the worsening oil crisis, with Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X suspending selected routes during the 2026 summer schedule as surging fuel costs weigh more heavily on operations. The move comes as energy tensions linked to the Middle East conflict continue to push up aviation costs globally.
On the right track along Bangkok’s rail lines
The MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) sector includes business activities at event venues, as well as the entire supply chain, including catering companies, organizers, and transport providers.
Organic farming becomes a new pillar in the global food trade
Grab Thailand is accelerating its Grab EV program in response to the ongoing energy crisis by announcing strategic partnerships with nine new partners, including EV manufacturers and distributors, as well as taxi cooperatives.
For the first time in more than half a century, astronauts will fly around the Moon today, marking the high point of the Artemis 2’s lunar mission. The flyby will last around seven hours, starting today around 2:45 p.m. eastern US time (1845 GMT) and ending around 9:20 p.m. (0120 GMT). 
The Thai Meteorological Department has warned that much of Thailand will experience hot to extremely hot conditions today to April 9, with maximum temperatures expected to exceed 42°C in some areas, alongside hazy skies during the daytime.
Taxi drivers in Phuket have announced a one-day strike on Monday, citing rising fuel costs and falling fares due to competition from ride-hailing applications. The action is expected to disrupt transport services across the island, with more than 4,000 drivers from taxi, van and green-plate hire services involved.
Thailand is grappling with its most severe energy crisis on record, with the government moving to seize “windfall profits” from refineries to prevent a total collapse of the country’s fuel subsidy mechanism.
Construction Crisis: Industry Leaders Warn of Mass Project Abandonment as Costs Spiral
Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said Thailand is a net oil importer, relying on crude imports for around 86% of domestic consumption. He added that energy imports account for about 6.5% of GDP, leaving the economy highly exposed when oil prices surge.
One of two ferry operators in Surat Thani yesterday announced a fourth fare hike for its service to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan since the oil crisis erupted with the outbreak of US and Israel’s war on Iran on Feb. 28.
The economic fallout from the war in the Middle East is widening well beyond the battlefield, with the International Monetary Fund warning that the shock is likely to mean higher prices, weaker growth, and tougher policy choices for countries already burdened by record debt. The IMF says the impact is highly uneven, with major energy importers, poorer economies, and countries with limited reserves facing the greatest risks.
“This is the new normal” is how spokesperson for the Center for Monitoring the Situation in the Middle East, Nuttaa Mahattana, has characterized Thailand’s current struggle with soaring fuel and commodities prices triggered by the war in the Middle East.
Thailand’s proposed “landing fee”, often described as a tourist tax, has resurfaced once again, as authorities prepare to revive a plan to charge foreign visitors 300 baht per person. The concept is straightforward: a government collects a fee from incoming visitors and channels the money into tourism-related needs, such as infrastructure upgrades, environmental management, visitor safety, and welfare support.
Vacation blues is normal, but is it real or just a tourism hype in the case of Thailand? A drop in dopamine levels when transitioning from a vibrant, carefree, friendly, and affordable lifestyle to dull routines and familiar gloom is common.
Ancient history and wild nature go together in Thailand like coconut and lime, all wrapped in an emerging deluxe tourism scene with sustainability baked in.
Happy (almost) birthday, Bangkok. The capital is turning 244, and instead of a quiet nod to history, the city is going all out with ‘The 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin.’ It is Bangkok, after all; extravagance is expected. Here’s a guide to the upcoming event.
Calls are mounting for the government to back the Clean Air Bill, as persistent PM2.5 pollution continues to threaten communities across northern Thailand and beyond.
An increasing number of Thai households are installing rooftop solar PV to generate their own power and reduce bills. According to official sources, rooftop solar for residential and commercial use grew from 2 MW in 2019 to 3.3 GW in 2024 – a 1,650-fold increase.
Hua Hin Songkran schedule
Hua Hin City Municipality has begun discussions on new public transport routes as part of efforts to improve mobility and meet rising demand in the growing coastal city. Hua Hin has seen steady growth in recent years, driven by tourism, economic activity, and urban expansion. This has led to increased demand for more efficient and accessible public transport routes to support both residents and visitors.
Soero rolls back the years at Black Mountain Championship
Thailand Energy Minister Akanat Promphan announced plans to maintain electricity prices at 3.88 baht/unit from May through August, countering the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) suggestion to increase it to 3.95 baht/unit. This decision leverages a surplus of about 9 billion baht and a claw-back mechanism designed to stabilize prices amid rising fuel costs.
Transport Company has announced its readiness to handle a 10% rise in passenger numbers during Thailand’s Songkran holiday from April 9-19. Despite rising fuel costs, the company will maintain current bus fares to ease travel for passengers.
Police have arrested a husband and wife accused of operating a child begging network that allegedly exploited minors for up to nine years, forcing them to wear school uniforms, meet daily cash targets or risk abuse.
In a leafy Tehran park yesterday, Iranians gathered for picnics on the final day of the Persian new year holidays, shrugging off US President Donald Trump’s threats to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Ages”.
Surapol Suksupaet, an 82-year-old rice farmer in Pathum Thani province, warns that rising fuel costs and stagnant rice prices are pushing smallholders to the brink.
Thailand’s fishing industry has warned that soaring oil prices could force 70% of fishing boats to stop operating after Songkran, threatening domestic seafood supplies and affecting around 50,000 workers.
Thailand’s household debt climbed to 16.44 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2025, pushing the debt-to-GDP ratio up to 86.7% and reinforcing concerns that financial fragility in the household sector remains a serious drag on the broader economy.
Thailand’s retail sector is sending a clear signal that consumer spending power is under extreme strain, with shoppers increasingly thinking before they spend, and prioritizing value over brand loyalty, marking the end of broad-based growth across the board.
Passengers using Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok during the Songkran holiday are advised to arrive at least two to three hours before their scheduled departures, with the peak travel day expected to be April 11.
Phuket ferry and speedboat fares for routes to Koh Phi Phi, along with boat tour prices, are set to increase from April 5 after operators received approval to raise charges in response to higher fuel costs.
Women driving Thailand’s travel economy
“Promoting a low-carbon society by announcing that Thailand will achieve the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (2050) to cope with international trade and climate change by promoting and supporting the use of clean energy such as solar energy in communities and government agencies, the use of electric vehicles and public transportation, as well as increasing energy efficiency, especially in the industrial sector.” (The prime minister delivers the Cabinet’s policy statement (Sept. 29, 2025 at the National Assembly)
The Kasikorn Research Center estimates that Thailand’s solar industry is facing mounting cost pressure after China scrapped value-added tax (VAT) export rebates for photovoltaic (PV) products, including solar panels, from April 1.
Immigration office closures during Songkran and other April public holidays are set to affect Hua Hin, Cha Am and the rest of Thailand, with foreigners being advised to plan ahead for visa extensions, 90-day reporting, and other services.
Eight police officers in Pathum Thani have been removed following allegations they extorted a valuable gold necklace from a local couple. The woman, who runs a snooker club, reported that the incident occurred at her home on March 25. Officers allegedly demanded 200,000 baht, ultimately taking a gold necklace valued at nearly 150,000 baht.
The cancellation of the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims with Cambodia, popularly known as MoU 44, will be included in the government’s policy statement to parliament, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said yesterday.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has assessed the latest situation and made clear that risks are now spreading from energy prices to the real economy as a whole, while cutting its 2026 outlook for Thailand again amid mounting inflationary pressure and clearer signs of stagflation.
Thailand Post plans to impose a fuel surcharge of 3 baht per item on domestic Express Mail Service (EMS) and e-CoPost services from April 16, citing higher fuel costs.
While the rationale for US President Donald Trump’s Iran war is difficult to decipher, its main beneficiary is far easier to identify: Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In February, Thailand’s economy softened, with declines in exports, tourism, and private consumption, despite growth in private investment and government spending. Headline inflation decreased, while core inflation remained stable. Key issues include geopolitical events and energy policy impacts.
Thailand’s banking sector is moving deeper into crisis-response mode as prolonged global uncertainty and rising energy prices place fresh pressure on businesses, prompting lenders to shift their role from straightforward credit providers to active supporters helping customers stay afloat.
Corruption remains a structural problem undermining Thailand’s economy and significantly pushing up business costs, according to a new nationwide survey of industry leaders.
The Ministry of Public Health has begun a full transition to ensuring cannabis use in Thailand will be for medicinal purposes only, allowing dispensaries a three-year timeframe to convert into medical clinics in order to continue operating.
Amid global volatility and surging energy prices, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced a major strategic adjustment to respond to signs of a slowdown among long-haul visitors, shifting greater attention to the domestic market and short-haul travelers through an approach centered on value and world-class experiences.
Thailand’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) market is expected to gain significant momentum this year, with sales projected to surpass 120,000 units partially due to soaring oil prices, says the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).
Banks and car buyers are increasingly shifting toward battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as surging oil prices, fueled by Middle East tensions, reshape Thailand’s auto market, says Ford Thailand. The trend reflects both consumer anxiety over fuel shortages and financial institutions’ growing confidence in electric mobility.
Motorists across the Asia-Pacific region are switching to electric vehicles at a rapid pace, as rising fuel costs due to the Middle East war force consumers and companies to reconsider their reliance on petrol and diesel vehicles.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched a system trial of the On Nut waste-to-energy plant to help tackle the city’s waste problem and provide a new source of sustainable power.
NASA launched four astronauts from Florida yesterday aboard Artemis II, sending them on a high-stakes, nearly 10-day journey around the moon and back in the United States’ boldest move yet toward returning humans to the lunar surface later this decade, ahead of China’s first planned crewed landing. 
Wild elephants were spotted gathering at the Pa La-U reservoir in Kaeng Krachan National Park yesterday, with officials counting at least 32 animals at the water’s edge and in the surrounding area.
Chiang Mai has declared wildfire disaster zones in two districts, as worsening forest fires and haze continue to impact northern areas, prompting authorities to accelerate emergency assistance and recovery efforts.
Satellite data shows a record surge in hotspots across Thailand, with 4,750 detected in a single day, most in forested areas, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported yesterday.
Thai food exports fell by 10.5% in the first two months of 2026, with further declines expected as the Middle East war begins to disrupt global trade routes from March. Exports were valued at B202.1 billion, reflecting weak global demand, rising costs and growing trade restrictions.
Thailand is stepping up efforts to become a regional artificial intelligence hub, after Microsoft pledged a $1 billion investment over the next two years to strengthen digital infrastructure and skills development.
Home improvement is one of the most – if not the most – cyclical of all retail categories, and the one most susceptible to weak consumer confidence. So, it is hardly surprising that, as Thailand’s DIY market, the biggest in Southeast Asia, struggles with weak consumer confidence, household debt, rising energy costs, and an otherwise choppy macroeconomic backdrop, retailers are getting less productivity out of their giant warehouses.
The Bangkok International Motor Show still knows how to stage desire. This year’s edition, running from March 25 to April 5 at IMPACT Challenger, has all the familiar pleasures intact: polished bodywork under hard lights, crowds drifting from stand to stand, and the quiet thrill of being close to machines designed to look smoother, sharper, and more complete than everyday life usually allows.
Three major road projects will be submitted to the new cabinet for consideration, with a combined investment exceeding 100 billion baht, according to the Department of Highways (DoH).
Thailand has introduced specific guidelines for alcohol vendors to assess customer intoxication before serving more drinks. This follows a regulation that prohibits the sale of alcohol to already intoxicated customers, as per Section 29 of the Alcohol Control Act.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s critical energy infrastructure, including oil fields, power plants, and Kharg Island, if Tehran does not immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reach a peace agreement quickly.
Thai Manufacturers Absorb 20% Fuel Spike to Shield Consumers from Price Hikes
Parkorn Kosiyabong, chef at GOAT, which holds one Michelin star, said yesterday the oil price crisis and higher transport costs following the war in the Middle East had not only increased restaurant costs but had also affected bookings. During the first and second weeks of the war, the restaurant business was hit hard, with cancellations reaching as high as 70%.
The Middle East war has led to prices of fertilizers rising in Thailand, with the situation exacerbated by a shortage of urea, and this leading to farmers stockpiling as they fear further price hikes.
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of commerce, has instructed officials to inspect the readiness of modern trade retailers participating in the “Thai Help Thai” project, which is intended to help the public by easing the impact of higher living costs resulting from rising energy costs.
The rapid growth of large-scale data centers in Thailand is coming under closer scrutiny, amid questions over whether they could become more than just critical infrastructure for the digital economy and instead turn into a potential loophole for call center gangs, scammers, and gray capital to use as an operating base.
Thailand’s visa-free stay program has been a popular gateway for travelers, letting citizens from 93 countries enjoy up to 60 days in the country without a visa, with an optional 30-day extension. Originally introduced to fuel the tourism sector revival, the scheme has brought a surge of visitors. But government officials are now raising concerns that the policy may be too lenient, and some foreign nationals may be using it for purposes beyond sightseeing.
Relocating a family with two children to Thailand can significantly reduce day-to-day expenses compared with many Western countries, but actual costs vary widely by city, schooling choices, and lifestyle expectations. This briefing summarizes current evidence on typical monthly spending for a family of four, with a focus on the major expenditure categories that drive the cost of living in Thailand in 2026.
Civil society groups have warned that heavy metals – particularly arsenic – are gradually accumulating in sections of the Mekong River in northeastern Thailand.
Korean Air will enter emergency management mode from April as rising oil prices driven by the war in the Middle East weigh on costs, a source with knowledge of the matter said today. The airline said that if high oil prices persist, itexpects significant disruption to its annual businesstargets, and will shift to an emergency operating system from April. 
Thailand is getting older, and quietly, a new kind of property boom is taking shape. First-time buyers or speculative investors do not drive it. It is being fueled by something far more predictable. Demographics.
The Hua Hin Model is being positioned as a blueprint to transform the city into a health innovation hub, following the signing of a multi-agency agreement aimed at integrating lifestyle medicine into schools.
More than 1,200 runners took part in Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026 at Khao Tao Reservoir in Hua Hin yesterday, with organizers saying the event was held to promote exercise, support tourism and raise funds for local sports development.
Business leaders are calling for the government to study long-term energy security strategies to reduce reliance on imported energy and expand access to renewable sources in the wake of the ongoing crisis stemming from war in the Middle East. The crisis also serves as a wake-up call for some businesses to explore alternative energy options for the long run.
The ongoing energy crisis has underscored the need for Thailand to accelerate the development of a broader mix of energy sources to strengthen its self-reliance, according to an analyst.
Thailand could face a diesel shortage within two months, according to global energy expert Panurach Dumrongthai, who warned that confirmed crude oil deliveries for April and May fall 27 million barrels short of national demand.
Three swine organizations have announced another increase in recommended live pig farm-gate prices, raising the guidance level by B2 per kilogram with effect today.
Thai banks are raising concerns over a potential rise in non-performing loans (NPLs) as prolonged geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to drive up global oil prices, increasing cost pressures across the economy.
Imported parcels delivered directly to recipients in Thailand have decreased in volume, while their prices have increased as a result of Customs Department measures.
Songkran festival expected to boost Thailand’s economy with 30 billion baht
A tourist in southern Thailand was left shaken after a cobra slithered across their neck while they were resting in a hotel room in Krabi province. The incident occurred Friday when the guest, staying on the second floor, reported feeling something cold moving across their neck before discovering it was a cobra.
The Immigration Bureau has warned foreign travelers against fraudulent websites offering Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) services for a fee, stressing that registration, while mandatory, is free and available only through official channels.
Where to eat in Chiang Mai, from markets to coffee houses
Embark on a vibrant food tour through Chiang Mai. Discover the best places to eat for local northern Thai food, from charming cafes serving iced coffee and Thai iced tea to bustling street stalls offering classics like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and roti.
In August 2025, Malaysian campaigner Wong Pui Yi stood outside the UN headquarters in Geneva and made an appeal to Global North nations: “Stop treating the Global South as the rubbish bin for plastic waste you cannot handle.”
Local authorities in Khon Kaen have launched a pilot initiative to convert plastic waste into fuel, aiming to help communities reduce fuel expenses amid soaring petrol prices. The aim is to help reduce fuel cost and also help reduce waste in the communities.
Caretaker transport minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is stepping up efforts to switch all diesel-powered interprovincial buses in Bangkok to electric buses during the Anutin Charnvirakul administration to save on oil expenses.
Thousands of anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ events take place across the US
Officials have discussed plans for a potential new international air route linking Hua Hin with Singapore, as part of efforts to strengthen the town’s tourism sector and improve accessibility for overseas visitors. The proposal, which includes a direct connection to Singapore’s Changi Airport, was raised during a meeting of the Hua Hin Airport Service Development Committee yesterday.
Dusit Thani Hua Hin is set to welcome guests for a lively celebration of the Thai New Year with its ‘Local Feast’ Songkran Carnival. Scheduled for April 12-13, from 5:30 pm to 10 pm, the event will take place at the Lagoon Lawn, offering a family-friendly atmosphere filled with local flavours and cultural traditions.
Rooted in ancient traditions of cleansing and respect, the Songkran Thai New Year marks a natural pause for both physical and emotional recalibration. As the Kingdom prepares to welcome the new season, Chiva-Som Hua Hin invites guests to experience Songkran as more than a celebration, reframing it as a meaningful journey of renewal, reflection, and holistic wellbeing.
U-Tapao airport construction set to start April 3 after long delay
One year on from deadly Bangkok quake collapse, accountability still buried
The Federation of Land Transport of Thailand has resolved to roll out phased increases in its charges of up to 30%, starting on April 1, to offset rising operating costs driven by a 6 baht-per-liter increase in diesel prices.
Thanadet Traiyot waited in line for hours at his local gas station, armed with containers and desperately hoping to secure much-needed diesel for his rice fields in Ayutthaya, central Thailand. He was third in the queue when the shop announced their supplies had run dry. That was five days ago; he still hasn’t managed to restock to his normal levels.
Over 350 ships reportedly await Iran’s clearance to transit Strait of Hormuz
The government plans to launch the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme to help ease the rising cost of living, with rollout expected after it delivers its policy statement to parliament.
In February, Thai exports grew by 9.9% year-on-year, reaching US$29.43 billion (912.56 billion baht). This marked the 20th consecutive month of expansion, primarily driven by the electronics and electrical appliances sectors, which have benefited from the global AI boom.
The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok announced yesterday that the U.S. Department of State has paused immigrant visa issuances to nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand. This suspension, effective Jan. 21, 2026, aims to prevent immigrants from draining U.S. welfare resources.
Fuel fears and price surge dampen Songkran travel mood
A group of mostly elderly travelers, later identified as lay judges, filed a complaint on Thursday with The Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) after allegedly being abandoned at Suvarnabhumi Airport by a tour company.
If you’re stuck on where to go this Songkran in the Land of Smiles, consider consulting the cosmos. Explained here is a slightly cosmic, very opinionated guide to where you should travel in Thailand this Songkran, based on your zodiac sign. Think personality traits, travel styles, and the kind of chaos (or calm) each sign secretly thrives in.
The “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on Sunday at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.
A network of e-cigarette users has urged Thailand’s new government to review the country’s e-cigarette ban, citing official data showing use has risen sharply despite more than a decade of prohibition.
A historic surge in oil prices is exposing the fragility of import-dependent Thailand, compounding pressure on an already weakening currency and raising the risk of capital flight, analysts say.
Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares Due to Rise in Diesel Prices
A surge in diesel prices triggered by the US-Israeli war on Iran is pushing Thailand’s multibillion-dollar fishing industry toward a standstill, with fishermen warning that their boats could be idled within days unless the government steps in.
The Ministry of Public Health plans to limit certain treatments, expand telemedicine, and tighten pharmaceutical management to cope with mounting resource pressures, as the Middle East war threatens global medical supply chains, permanent secretary Dr. Somruek Chungsaman said.
Embark on a delicious adventure through Bangkok’s vibrant food scene. From famous street food at Jodd Fairs Market to budget-friendly plates at Bib Gourmand favorites like Je-Oh and Polo Fried Chicken, this comprehensive food tour uncovers both classic Thai flavors and modern cuisine.
Anthony Bygraves MSyI, chief executive of the London-founded sustainable property developer The Zero, has set out an ambitious vision for the future of eco-conscious living on Thailand’s most celebrated island.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has invited residents and organizations across the capital to switch off non-essential lights for one hour tomorrow as part of the “60+ Earth Hour 2026” campaign to cut energy use and help tackle global warming.