- Gas price hike/Thailand Raises Diesel Price/Government eyes fuel tax reduction/Thailand braces for blistering/Cambodia is stockpiling weapons
- THE IRAN WAR: Crackdown on fuel and goods prices/Bracing for price rises/20 items added to price controls/To keep food prices unchanged/Thai crude oil tanker clears Strait of Hormuz/Oil prices expected to stay high/Conflict delays auto exports/Conflict threatens rice exports/Cambodia hit by LPG shock/Philippines first to declare energy emergency/Gold Just Had Its Worst Week
- ECONOMY: Rules to Curb Foreign Nominee Firms/Shipments rise in February/Man behind Thailand’s first beer
- TOURISM: 2.97% Arrival Decline/Visa-free stay cut will not affect tourism/Fed up with visa-free tourists/Phuket Faces Water Crisis/Thailand lands Tomorrowland and EDC
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Rookie Mistakes To Avoid/Thailand’s Erawan National Park/Wellness Tourism Surge
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Villagers Win Against Gold Mine/ASEAN could meet new power needs with solar
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Gas price hike to push up Thai power bills
The new government is bracing for a surge in electricity bills, as liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices climb in the wake of conflict in the Middle East, according to an energy official who requested anonymity.
The official said subsidies similar to those used to cap oil prices are unlikely, given the heavy financial burdens carried over from the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. Continued …
Thailand Raises Diesel Price to 33 Baht Per Liter
Thailand has raised the retail price of diesel to 33 baht per liter, as authorities seek to ease mounting pressure on the state Oil Fuel Fund. The move follows a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee to reduce diesel price subsidies.
The adjustment is expected to have an immediate impact on transport costs and fuel expenses nationwide. The decision comes amid a sharp rise in global energy prices, driven in part by escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following attacks involving Iran. Continued …
Government eyes fuel tax reduction
The government may be forced to implement fuel tax reductions if the Oil Fuel Fund proves insufficient to stabilize domestic prices, Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has warned.
Ekniti, who also serves as the finance minister, said the Finance Ministry has already prepared contingency plans for a reduction in fuel taxes should the situation deteriorate. However, he stressed that any final decision would rest with the incoming government. “If the fund is no longer able to maintain price stability, tax measures will become necessary,” he said. Continued …
Thailand braces for blistering heat as temperatures top 40C in North and Central regions
Thailand will continue to experience generally hot weather through March 30, with very hot conditions expected in parts of the north and central regions where temperatures may exceed 40C, according to the Meteorological Department.
The department said upper Thailand would remain hot overall, with some areas facing extreme heat and hazy conditions during the day. Isolated thunderstorms are also expected in some provinces as a heat-induced low-pressure system continues to cover upper Thailand. Continued …
Army intelligence warns Cambodia is stockpiling weapons
The Thai army intelligence chief has warned that the border conflict with Cambodia could reignite, pointing out that Phnom Penh has placed large orders for weaponary. Lt. Gen. Teeranan Nandhakwang said tensions along the border with Cambodia currently appear to be easing, with a shift from military combat to international legal and diplomatic manoeuvring.
However, risks remained. Cambodia has bought a large quanitiy of armaments from countries in eastern Europe, in the lead-up to a general election in 2027. This could trigger another round of border conflict. Continued …
Interior Ministry orders nationwide crackdown on fuel and goods prices
The Interior Ministry has ordered provincial authorities nationwide to intensify controls over fuel and consumer goods prices, warning that those who hoard supplies, manipulate prices, or violate emergency measures could face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to B100,000.
The Department of Provincial Administration has raised its response level as part of a broader effort to contain the impact of the energy and consumer goods crisis. Under the directive, provinces have been told to integrate the work of four main agencies to strengthen oversight in all areas. Provincial commerce offices will inspect the prices of goods and services, while provincial energy offices will supervise petrol stations. Continued …
Transport, airlines, restaurants and e-commerce brace for price rises
The surge in global oil prices triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East is rippling through Thailand’s economy, raising costs across water transport, road transport, and aviation, and pushing up input and logistics expenses for food businesses and retailers — from small operators to major e-commerce platforms.
Charoenporn Charoentham, managing director of Chao Phraya Express Boat Ltd (CPX), said the operator has been hit by higher fuel costs and uncertainty over future supply volumes. He warned that sustained high diesel prices could force CPX to reduce services or even suspend operations. Continued …
Commerce ministry adds 20 items to price control list
The Commerce Ministry is adding 20 more items to the list of controlled products to help cushion the impact of the current oil crisis on consumers, as the war in the Middle East drags on.
The controlled items include: Pork; chicken; eggs; rice; paddy; wheat; garlic; fresh coconut; oil palm seeds; latex; dried food and seasoning; canned fish; instant noodles; palm oil; sugar; salt; fresh milk and powdered milk; fertilizer; pesticides; animal feeds; farm machinery; uel; LPGf; cement; iron rods, sheets and structural iron; electrical cables; PVC pipes, floor and wall tiles; sanitary ware; tissue paper; printing and writing paper; detergent; soap; shampoo; sanitary towels; diapers; face masks; hand sanitizers; medicines and medical services; rubber gloves; antigen test kits. Continued …
CPF vows to keep food prices unchanged
Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), a leading integrated agro-industrial and food conglomerate, says it will keep its meat and food prices unchanged for at least two months, as the company uses local sources for most of its raw materials.
The company is reinforcing its position as “Kitchen of the World” by transforming from a traditional meat exporter into a global leader in innovative ready-to-eat food, after becoming the world’s seventh-largest meat producer with exports worth 600 billion baht in 2025. Continued …
Bangchak says crude oil tanker safely clears Strait of Hormuz
Bangchak Corp. said that its crude oil tanker from the Middle East, which had been anchored in the Persian Gulf since March 11, recently passed safely through the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel is currently traveling across the Indian Ocean and is scheduled to deliver crude oil to Thailand in early April.
The company thanked the Thai government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for discussions and coordination with relevant agencies, as well as the governments of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Sultanate of Oman, to facilitate the vessel’s passage under international law. Continued …
Oil prices expected to stay high after Middle East energy attacks
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), in his capacity as secretary of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East, said the situation in the Middle East remained highly uncertain and global oil prices were likely to stay at elevated levels for some time.
As a result, any assessment of where the diesel price cap should be set would have to track world market prices, as the global market was now highly volatile. Refined diesel prices in Singapore were currently above US$200 a barrel, compared with a peak of about US$135 a barrel during the Russia-Ukraine war, when many countries had to manage prices similarly. Continued …
Middle East conflict delays auto exports to key market
Thailand’s automotive industry is facing mounting pressure as the Israel-US war on Iran disrupts shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, delaying vehicle exports to the Middle East, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The situation is forcing a review of the FTI’s car manufacturing projections for this year. The Middle East is Thailand’s third-largest export market for vehicles, after Asia and Australia, with strong demand for pickup trucks. Continued …
Middle East conflict threatens Thailand’s rice export target
Tensions in the Middle East have pushed up transport costs, energy costs, oil prices, freight charges and insurance premiums. Freight rates for March 15-30 have been raised by more than 40%, with shipping lines citing special surcharges and higher fuel costs.
The situation has also affected shipping routes and delivery times, prompting some importers to delay orders while they assess the situation. The situation has affected Thai rice exports to key markets, especially the Middle East, which is Thailand’s third-largest market. Continued …
Cambodia hit by LPG shock as major supplier halts sales
Cambodia is facing fresh energy turmoil after Sokimex, one of the country’s largest fuel suppliers, announced that it would temporarily suspend LPG sales from April 1 after failing to import the fuel since the beginning of March, citing transport disruption linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Sokimex operates about 500 service stations nationwide, making the move a significant blow to fuel confidence in a country that depends almost entirely on imports for its energy needs.
The disruption marks a new phase in Cambodia’s energy crisis. After sharp increases in petrol and diesel prices, pressure is now spreading to LPG, a fuel widely used for cooking in urban households and for vehicles such as tuk-tuks and taxis. Continued …
Philippines first to declare energy emergency over oil crisis
The Philippines has formally declared a national energy emergency, becoming the first country to take such action in response to the escalating global energy crisis triggered by conflict in the Middle East.
The decision follows reports that more than 400 petrol stations across the country have suspended operations due to the sustained rise in fuel prices, underscoring the severity of the situation. Continued …
Gold Just Had Its Worst Week Since 1983
Gold has long been the asset investors reach for when the world feels dangerous. Wars, economic shocks, political chaos — historically, any of these tends to send the price of bullion climbing. So why, in the middle of an active and intensifying Middle East conflict, has gold just suffered its worst week in over 40 years?
Gold dropped roughly 11% last week, posting its biggest weekly loss since 1983. The metal is now down more than 14% since the war began. As of today, the spot price sits at approximately $4,357 per ounce — a sharp reversal from the record highs above $5,500 that defined the early weeks of 2026. Continued …
Thailand Tightens Rules to Curb Foreign Nominee Firms
Thailand’s Department of Business Development (DBD) will enforce stricter company registration rules from April 1, requiring Thai shareholders in foreign-linked businesses to certify that their investments are genuine.
The move aims to clamp down on the long-standing issue of “nominee” arrangements, where Thai nationals act as proxies for foreign investors. Authorities warn that non-compliance could lead to criminal penalties and deeper investigations. Continued …
Shipments rise in February on industrial demand
Exports surged by 9.9% year-on-year to US$29.4 billion in February, driven by strong industrial goods shipments, while imports jumped by 31.8% to $32.3 billion, mainly due to machinery and gold purchases, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The trade deficit was $2.83 billion for the month.
For the first two months, exports increased by 17% to $61.0 billion and imports surged by 30.5% to $67.2 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $6.14 billion. Continued …
The man behind Thailand’s first beer and a B100-billion empire
The Bhirombhakdi family heirs recently held a merit-making ceremony on March 23, 2026, to mark the anniversary of the death of Phraya Bhirombhakdi, the man behind the legend of Thailand’s first beer and the founder of Thai food and beverage giant Boon Rawd Brewery.
The family business empire, now worth more than 100 billion baht, has been passed down through generations and has stood firm in Thailand for more than 90 years. Continued …
Thailand Sees 8.5M Tourists Amid 2.97% Arrival Decline
Thailand has welcomed 8.54 million foreign tourists from Jan. 1 to March 22, generating approximately 417.216 billion baht in revenue. However, the total arrivals reflect a 2.97% decrease compared to the same period last year. Despite the decline, short-haul markets have shown significant improvement, enhancing inbound tourism numbers recently.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported cumulative foreign arrivals at 8,544,484, with China as the top source of tourists at 1,377,750 visitors. Malaysia follows with 854,438 visitors, Russia with 668,479, India with 566,337, and South Korea with 391,040. Continued …
Visa-free stay cut will not affect tourism, Thai foreign minister says
Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew said yesterday a proposal to cut the visa-free stay for tourists from 60 days to 30 days will not affect tourism, saying the change is intended to address misuse of the visa-free period.
Sihasak said the previous government approved a 60-day visa-free stay for tourism. He said the current situation has seen some foreign nationals using the visa-free period for other purposes, prompting the Foreign Ministry to propose reducing the stay. Continued …
Why Thais are fed up with visa-free tourists
Sitting in a Nimman cafe in Chiang Mai, a Thai local notices a good-looking foreigner working on a laptop next to them for hours. Having ordered just one cup of coffee, this person is clearly not a tourist, nor are they here to relax. They sit quietly, working as if the cafe were their own personal office.
You might start wondering how they entered the country. If they hold a work visa, or if they pay taxes to Thailand. The sad answer is they entered for free, hold no work visa, paying absolutely no taxes. Continued …
Phuket Faces Water Crisis, Awaits Rainy Season Relief
Phuket is on the brink of a water shortage if the anticipated rainy season is delayed and doesn’t bring substantial rainfall within three months. The island currently possesses 12 million cubic meters of raw water across its reservoirs, only slightly over half their full capacity.
According to Gov. Nirat Pongsitthaworn, this amount should suffice until the end of June, with hopes that the upcoming rains will replenish the reservoirs. The Southern Meteorological Center on the Andaman Coast forecasts that this year’s rainy season in the south should begin around April 20 or by early May at the latest. Continued …
Thailand lands Tomorrowland and EDC for five years
Thailand is positioning itself as a major global hub for EDM festivals, after securing full-scale, multi-year plans for Tomorrowland and Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) — two of the world’s biggest electronic music brands.
The country is being billed as the first and only destination to host both mega-festivals in the same year, with organizers planning five consecutive years of full-scale events. Backers say Thailand’s strengths go beyond accessibility as an Asian gateway, highlighting its soft power appeal — from food, attractions, and culture to Thai hospitality — supported by a strong hotel and service sector. Continued …
Rookie Mistakes To Avoid When Visiting Thailand
From temple-dotted cities to island-fringed seas and night markets that hum well past midnight, Thailand offers the sort of allure that makes sticking to your plan to explore somewhere entirely new surprisingly difficult.
It’s why that internet saying “the one where you’re supposed to be exploring the world but somehow find yourself back in Thailand for the nth time”, lands a little too close to home. But what’s even more relatable is those first-visit jitters and the head-scratching moments that come with it, especially when local customs and everyday travel norms aren’t immediately obvious. Continued …
Thailand’s Erawan National Park — Where Green and Growth Combine
March 21 marked the International Day of Forests, established by the United Nations to call upon nations worldwide to protect and sustainably manage forest resources. The theme for 2026 is “Forests and Economies,” emphasizing that the value of forests extends far beyond the trees themselves — it is deeply intertwined with economic development, employment opportunities, sustainable practices, and ecotourism.
In Thailand, Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi Province offers a vivid illustration of this theme through its meticulous and steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship. Established in 1975 as Thailand’s 12th national park, Erawan spans approximately 550 square kilometers, renowned for its lush mountain forests, striking karst landscapes, and a stunning seven-tiered waterfall. Continued …
Wellness Tourism Surge: Discover the Hidden Treasures of Thailand
Thailand is experiencing a significant transformation in its travel landscape with the launch of the “Healing Journey Thailand” wellness campaign by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in January. This initiative aims to attract high-value, wellness-seeking travelers and highlights the country’s natural beauty intertwined with rich cultural experiences.
The campaign emphasizes the concept that “Healing is the New Luxury”, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in traditional Thai healing practices and explore tranquil settings. Targeting those searching for a purposeful travel experience, it offers a blend of relaxation, self-reflection, and cultural immersion across various scenic locations. Continued …
Villagers Win Court Battle Against Gold Mine
A civil court has ruled in favor of villagers in Phichit and Phetchabun provinces, ordering Akara Resources to pay compensation to 382 people affected by contamination linked to its gold mining operations. The judgement, delivered yesterday at the Civil Court’s Environmental Division, mandates payments for health impacts, mental distress, and loss of livelihood, as well as environmental rehabilitation.
The case, filed in 2016 as a class action by Suekanya Theerachatdamrong and three others representing local residents, alleged that the company’s Chatree gold mine caused the spread of toxic heavy metals. Villagers claimed exposure to substances including cyanide, arsenic, manganese, and iron through air, water, and agricultural resources over a period of more than 20 years. Continued …
ASEAN could meet new power needs with solar at US$67 billion savings
Solar power could help Southeast Asian nations avoid a costly gamble on imported gas, as the Gulf crisis sends shockwaves through global energy markets, a new analysis has found.
Replacing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN)’s planned gas power expansion with solar could save the region up to US$67 billion at today’s and projected liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices, according to London-based energy think tank Ember. Continued …
Stolen dogs trek 17km along motorway to return home
A remarkable story of loyalty and resilience has captured hearts online. Seven stolen dogs reportedly traveled more than 17 kilometers along a motorway in finding their way back home, in northeastern China. The incident occurred in Changchun, in Jilin province, where footage emerged showing the pack of dogs walking together along the Changchun–Shuangyang Expressway, and the video quickly went viral. Continued …
Vietnam to build first nuclear plant with Russia
Vietnam and Russia have agreed to build Vietnam’s first nuclear power plant, as Hanoi seeks to strengthen energy security amid global fuel disruptions. The deal was signed during Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s visit to Russia, though no timeline for construction was announced. 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 “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on Sunday, March 29, at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.
A scandal has erupted on Koh Samui involving the island’s local government and municipal authority. The probe has already led to the suspension of a clerical officer linked to forged building permits and documents. These forgeries involve at least 10 luxury villa developments, where demand is high from wealthy international tourists.
Last month, a prominent Buddhist abbot in Thailand was defrocked after a video of two women physically fighting over him outside his temple went viral. Soon after, investigators divulged that the abbot of the ancient Wat Bua Kwan temple near Bangkok had maintained long-term relationships with at least six women, regularly sending them explicit messages and spending lavishly on them – for example, paying for their expensive plastic surgeries. Officials are now investigating whether those funds were stolen from his temple.
A rise in global oil prices poses a growing risk to Thailand’s economic outlook, with Tisco Financial Group warning that a 10% increase in crude from a baseline of US$72 per barrel could trim GDP growth by 0.3-0.4 percentage points, while lifting inflation by about 0.8%.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is set to review electricity tariffs for the May–August billing period amid a sharp rise in liquefied natural gas (LNG) costs driven by Middle East tensions.
The oil crisis has so badly hit the fishing industry that leaders of this sector in Samut Sakhon province, better known as Mahachai,yesterday warned that fishing boats may cease operation nationwide at the end of this month, leading to hundreds of thousands of job losses unless the government reins in soaring oil prices.
The government has decided to lower the proportion of oil reserves to 1% in a bid to ease fuel shortages, while expressing confidence that the fuel situation will stabilize within a week.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is significantly affecting global supply chains. Shipments of crude oil and petrochemicals through the Strait of Hormuz have been disrupted, leading to halted operations at some plants and a surge in crude prices. Notably, SCC’s Rayong Olefins (ROC) plant in Thailand has suspended operations due to naphtha and propane shortages.
The United States and Israeli military operations against Iran are disrupting global supply chains, hitting semiconductor manufacturing hard and reverberating through chip-dependent industries, particularly the automotive sector, which is watching developments closely.
Thailand’s tightening energy supply and rising oil prices are beginning to ripple through everyday life, pushing up the cost of basic necessities – including something as simple as bottled drinking water.
Thailand’s Public Health Ministry is rolling out a three-phase plan to manage medicine supplies and healthcare services as the conflict in the Middle East shows signs of dragging on, with officials warning that drug prices are likely to rise.
Still not four full weeks into the war, and already Donald Trump’s “short-term excursion” – decapitate the Iranian regime with a surprise attack and impose harsh terms on the defeated survivors – has morphed into a global economic crisis and a region-wide war that could destroy the wealth of all the countries on both sides of the Gulf. At the very least.
A social media post has sparked debate in Phuket after highlighting complaints by hotel and restaurant workers about tourists from three nationalities, with immediate attention drawn to alleged problematic behavior in the province’s hospitality sector.
Concerned by a nosedive in European arrivals and low confidence due to fuel shortages among local travelers, hotel operators have started to offer discounts of 20%-40% to attract tourists during the upcoming Songkran holiday.
Bangkok, Chaing Mai make ‘Best cities in Asia to Live in’ list
Got 3 days? Chiang Rai is worth every one of them
Anutin Charnvirakul has formally taken office for a second term as prime minister and is now moving into the process of forming a new cabinet under a Bhumjaithai Party-led administration.
A growing scandal over forged construction permits in Koh Samui has triggered widespread concern, particularly regarding the safety of luxury villas owned by foreign nationals. Local officials have confirmed that fake documents bearing forged signatures were issued, with allegations that bribes of around 100,000 baht per permit were taken.
Thailand’s world No. 39 Thepchaiya Un-Nooh staged a remarkable comeback to beat seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan 10-7 in the World Open 2026 final in Yushan, China, yesterday.
The Thai baht has weakened 6% since the war with Iran broke out on Feb. 28 and is forecast to fall to B35 against the US dollar if the conflict continues. A Friday briefing by the Kasikorn Research Center and the Bank of Thailand made clear that if fighting lasts another month or two, Thailand’s 2026 GDP growth could drop well below 1%, possibly as low as 0.5%.
The Thai baht is expected to weaken further as the escalating Middle East war and delayed US interest rate cuts put pressure on the currency. On March 20, the baht had already fallen to just above 32.80 per US dollar, its weakest level in five months. Analysts forecast the currency will remain in a range of 32.60 to 33.10 against the dollar over the next month.
Packaging may be the next industry to bear the brunt of petrochemical supply disruptions if the Israel-US war on Iran does not abate, says Veera Kwanloetchit, a director of the Public Private Partnership for Sustainable Plastic and Waste Management.
A nationwide poll has revealed growing concern among Thais over the country’s oil reserves and the potential impact on Songkran travel, with many expressing doubts about supply security. The findings suggest that uncertainty over fuel availability could disrupt domestic travel plans during one of the year’s busiest holiday periods. Some respondents indicated they would cancel or adjust trips if the situation persists.
Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched daily local fuel station updates through the Provincial Energy Office network on Facebook, aiming to help motorists plan refueling and travel as some areas face tighter supplies. The ministry says the system is being expanded nationwide, with some provinces also developing additional apps to improve access to information.
Thai consumers are being squeezed by rising living costs, with fresh food prices climbing sharply, particularly for pork, chicken, and eggs.
The Office of the Board of Investment (BOI) said investment promotion applications had surged by nearly 70%, reflecting continued confidence among foreign investors, who have kept flowing into Thailand without pause.
The domestic oil crisis seems to be affecting Songkran travel plans, with a NIDA opinion poll showing that over 50% of the respondents had not made advance plans to travel during this period.
The global power shifts currently underway do not remain confined to geopolitics. They move quickly — often invisibly – through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences are both immediate and tangible.
Culture Ministry rolls out Songkran celebrations in 76 provinces
Sustainability Dominates Asian Travel, Over 75% of Tourists Now Choose Eco-Friendly Options
Thailand Plans Mega Cruise Ports to Boost Tourism
The trio of Advanced Info Service (AIS), Central Group, and Japan Airlines have strengthened their collaboration on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) missions to ensure an improved and sustainable future.
A major electric vehicle (EV) dealer in Korat says tensions in the Middle East and surging global oil prices are driving a sharp rise in EV demand, with bookings increasing significantly.
Since it stopped building vehicles powered solely by internal combustion engines (ICEs) in 2022, BYD has become the world’s largest EV maker. The Chinese automaker ranked sixth in global sales in 2025, surpassing Ford for the first time, with over 4.6 million electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for the country to shift entirely to electric, solar-powered vehicles across personal, public, and commercial transport, as part of a broader plan to revive domestic industry and cut reliance on imports. 
Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, has warned that a possible “super El Niño” could trigger severe climate disruption across Thailand and the wider ASEAN region, bringing heightened risks of drought, food insecurity, soaring agricultural prices and a worsening PM2.5 crisis.
The Thai baht is set to weaken further as the Middle East war is intensifying and dragging on, while the US Federal Reserve also may not be in a rush to cut interest rates.
The Bank of Thailand is warning the war in the Middle East could weigh on Thailand’s economy across multiple fronts, potentially dragging GDP growth below its 2% forecast for this year.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered the restart of two decommissioned units at the Mae Moh coal-fired power plant in a bid to contain rising electricity bills.
A fuel shortage is severely disrupting taxi services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, with large SUV taxis gradually suspending operations and only about 2,500 vehicles currently in active service, out of a fleet estimated at more than 5,000, operators say.
Three major hospitals have adjusted outpatient drug dispensing as a precaution to prevent potential shortages amid energy-related disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis, while the Ministry of Public Health says national stocks remain sufficient.
Five major consumer goods manufacturers are signaling possible price increases from April, as the global energy crisis drives up costs across supply chains and puts fresh pressure on the retail market.
The Finance Ministry is preparing tax reduction measures for large businesses that help bring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into their supply chains, in a bid to help upgrade local SMEs.
European companies are increasingly favoring Vietnam over Thailand for future investments in Southeast Asia, according to Chris Humphrey, executive director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council.
The Philippines and Thailand’s wellness economies have each surged in value in recent years, according to the latest data published by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).
Singapore Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport for 2026 by Skytrax, extending its long-running dominance, while Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport climbed to 36th place in the latest global rankings. The annual list highlights continued strong performance by leading Asian hubs and steady improvement in Thailand’s main international gateway.
Finland has ranked as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report 2026, while Thailand dropped from 49th to 52nd place. The report, released by the Wellbeing Research Center at the University of Oxford on Thursday, highlighted that the top three countries were Finland, Iceland, and Denmark. Costa Rica saw significant improvement, climbing to fourth place, the highest among Latin American nations.
The ocean has always felt like home to Claire Narida Charanachitta. Long before she spoke at international forums or produced award-winning documentaries, the Thai teenager spent her childhood exploring forests, coastlines, and environmental camps that introduced her to the delicate balance of nature.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tourism operators are increasingly concerned about declining energy confidence, fearing it could dampen their high expectations for the upcoming Songkran holiday.
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.
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.
Dry season turns profitable as red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
Hat Yai’s floods are a warning for cities built against nature
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.
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.
Thai fishermen staying ashore as fuel prices bite
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 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.
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
Eco-Friendly Adventures Await in Thailand’s Phang Nga
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.