- Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi flights/Hua Hin half marathon/Tourism road to Sam Roi Yot/Lao Cave Search Ends/Woman Dies After Centipede Bite/Thailand Consumers Council sues Facebook
- THE IRAN WAR: Airlines face insolvency, mergers/Iranian missiles over Israel
- ECONOMY: Thai Baht Slides/B14 billion spent in co-payment scheme/Thailand Airports Rail Project Delayed/Thailand’s 100-billion-baht shrimp sector/Thai industrial estate land demand/Opportunities in Russia
- TOURISM: Foreigners Challenge Local Traditions/Tourism Growth Challenges/Thailand Tests THIM App/Dead cubs found at tiger temple/Khon Kaen Airport Upgrade
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Where street food shapes the region/7 things illegal in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Data center demand pressures power capacity
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi small plane flights in the works
Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi flights could begin soon after EZY Airlines posted a short update about the proposed route on its official Facebook page. The airline said the “gateway to the beach is opening soon”, referring to a planned Suvarnabhumi-Hua Hin service.
As of Saturday, EZY Airlines had not announced further details about the planned service, including ticket prices, flight times, frequency, booking channels, or an exact launch date. Continued …
Hua Hin half marathon registration opens for July event
Registration has opened for the Hua Hin International Half Marathon 2026, with runners invited to sign up for the event, which will take place on Sunday. July 19.
The race will start at Market Village Hua Hin and will include three distances: a 21km half marathon, a 10km mini marathon and a 5km walk and run. Early Bird registration rates are available through June 16, offering discounted entry fees during the initial registration period. Continued …
Tourism road to Sam Roi Yot discussed
The first public consultation on the Bueng Bua tourism route has been held in Sam Roi Yot, as officials begin a feasibility study and environmental impact assessment for a proposed road linking Bueng Bua with Sam Roi Yot beach.
Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, chaired the meeting on Friday at the Sam Roi Yot District Office auditorium in Sala Lai subdistrict. The meeting served as the project orientation for the study, which will examine the feasibility of the proposed tourism road and prepare an environmental impact-assessment report. Continued …
Lao Cave Search for Two Men Ends
International rescue teams have ended their search for two men still missing inside a partially flooded cave in Laos after more than two weeks of operations, citing growing safety concerns and an increasing risk of collapse.
The decision was announced on Saturday after rescuers concluded that the cave’s structure had become unstable and that the chances of finding the two men alive were rapidly diminishing. The men were among seven villagers trapped in a cave in Xaisomboun Province in central Laos after a flash flood blocked the entrance on May 20. Continued …
Woman Dies After Centipede Bite in Si Racha
A 42-year-old former factory worker died after being bitten by a centipede in Si Racha, Chon Buri, with her partner claiming they could not afford treatment after discovering her social security coverage had expired.
Last Thursday, rescue volunteers from the Pure Yiang Tai Foundation in Si Racha were alerted to a death at a rented room. Police from Bo Win Police Station attended the scene and found the body of Mrs. Uthai, 42, a traditional Thai massage therapist who had previously worked in a factory. Continued …
Thailand Consumers Council sues Facebook over scam adverts
The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) today filed a lawsuit against Meta, the owner of Facebook, covering both its Thailand office and headquarters. The council accused the platform of allowing scam advertisements and online fraud to spread continuously, despite discussions and repeated calls for stronger preventive measures over more than a year.
The move followed a press conference titled “Why sue Facebook?” on June 4, when the TCC said it had received 6,164 complaints about online purchases of goods and services from 2024 to March 2026. Continued …
Airlines face insolvency, mergers as fuel and fares surge
More airlines could face insolvency or be taken over by stronger rivals as jet fuel prices rise because of the conflict in the Middle East, Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Assn. said on Saturday.
Airlines worldwide are facing higher costs after the US and Israel’s war with Iran squeezed jet fuel supplies and disrupted major air routes, forcing carriers to take expensive detours. Continued …
Iranian missiles streak across sky over Israel
Iranian rockets and Israeli interceptors streaked through the night sky after Tehran yesterday fired volleys of missiles in what it said was retaliation for recent Israeli attacks on a Beirut suburb. Video …
Thai Baht Slides as Record April Trade Deficit Hits USD 10 Billion
Commerzbank’s FX analysts note that the USD/THB exchange rate experienced a decline to 32.55, primarily attributed to portfolio inflows. This movement occurred despite Thailand’s April trade deficit widening significantly to a record USD10.0 billion.
This substantial deficit, considerably exceeding the Bloomberg consensus of USD5.3 billion, represents the seventh consecutive monthly deficit and marks the largest on record. The widening gap between imports and exports is a key concern for the Thai currency’s stability in the coming period. Continued …
B14 billion spent in first week of 4-month co-payment scheme
About 14 billion baht was spent in the first week of the government’s Thais Help Thais Plus co-payment scheme, which began on June 1, according to a government spokeswoman.
Deputy spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana said yesterday 26.04 million people registered for the scheme and 21.85 million, 84%, had already benefitted from it. Continued …
Funding Dispute Delays Thailand Airports Rail Project
Thailand’s 224.5-billion-baht high-speed railway linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports remains stalled, as disagreements over financing and risk-sharing continue between the government and private concessionaire Asia Era One.
Despite the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) clearing a draft contract amendment, key policy differences remain unresolved, delaying one of the flagship projects within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Continued …
Government urged to restore Thailand’s 100-billion-baht shrimp sector
The Thai Shrimp Assn. has urged the government to revive Thailand’s shrimp industry in a bid to restore export earnings that once exceeded 100 billion baht a year, calling for urgent action on shrimp disease and wider export access to China and the European Union.
The association has also asked the government to resolve the closure of shrimp export routes to neighboring Malaysia and stimulate domestic consumption through measures such as the “Thais Help Thais Plus” program. Continued …
Three factors drive Thai industrial estate land demand to five-quarter high
Thailand’s industrial estate market showed strong signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2026 despite global economic volatility and geopolitical uncertainty, according to the latest report from Colliers Thailand.
The market absorbed a total of 1,914 rai of industrial land, up 16.7% from the same period last year, marking the highest level in five quarters. The occupancy rate also rose to 82.5%. Continued …
Thai businesses eye opportunities in Russia despite sanctions
Thai businesses are increasingly exploring opportunities in Russia despite concerns over sanctions, payment restrictions, and potential repercussions for companies with links to Western markets, as Thai delegates attended the St. Petersburg International Economic (SPIEF).
While Russia’s economy remains under extensive Western sanctions following the Ukraine conflict, some Thai executives view the departure of many Western firms as creating openings for new opportunities. However, uncertainty surrounding financial transactions and so-called “secondary sanctions” continues to weigh on investment decisions. Continued …
Foreigners Challenge Local Traditions on Koh Phangan
Local residents on Koh Phangan have voiced frustration over what they describe as increasing pressure from some foreign residents to restrict traditional community activities, including religious festivals, weddings, and ordination ceremonies.
The complaints center on objections to noise from legally permitted events, with some organizers claiming activities have been forced to end early, causing disruption and financial losses. Continued …
Thailand, Vietnam Face Tourism Growth Challenges
Thailand and Vietnam are pursuing different tourism strategies, as both countries respond to changing travel trends and economic pressures, according to Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) and former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
Thailand’s tourism sector entered a difficult adjustment phase after strong growth in 2024. International arrivals reached 35.54 million visitors that year, up 26.% from the previous year. However, in 2025, arrivals fell to 32,974,321, a decline of 7.2%, while total spending by foreign tourists dropped 4.7% to B1.53 trillion, largely due to fewer Chinese visitors. Continued …
Thailand Tests THIM App for Foreign Arrivals
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau is testing a new mobile application called THIM (Thailand Immigration Management) that will allow foreign nationals to register their arrival information before traveling to the country. The system is designed to streamline entry procedures, reduce congestion at airports, and improve access to immigration services.
The app is currently available for trial download on both iOS and Android devices, with full implementation scheduled for August. Users can submit passport details and travel plans through the platform to generate a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a process expected to take less than three minutes. Continued …
Dozens of dead cubs found at Thai tiger temple
Thai wildlife officials have discovered dozens of dead cubs inside a freezer at a controversial “tiger temple” that has been locked in a long-running dispute with authorities and animal rights groups. The tiger cubs were found during a continuing operation to remove dozens of adult cats from the Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua temple in the western province of Kanchanaburi.
“We found 40 tiger cubs today. They were aged about one or two days when they died but we don’t quite know yet how long they have been dead,” police Col. Bandith Meungsukhum, a local officer, said. Continued …
Khon Kaen Airport Upgrade Moves Forward
The Thai government has accelerated plans to upgrade Khon Kaen Airport to international standards by moving ahead with the installation of an instrument landing system/distance measuring equipment (ILS/DME), a project aimed at improving aviation safety.
The ILS/DME navigation system enables aircraft to land and take off with greater accuracy and safety, particularly during fog, heavy rain, or low-visibility conditions. The system is also expected to reduce flight delays and minimize aircraft holding patterns before landing. Continued …
Where street food shapes the region’s top culinary cities
Southeast Asia is shedding its reputation as just a budget holiday stop to emerge as the world’s culinary hub for 2026. The Michelin Guide’s official recognition validates what locals have long known: the region’s vibrant street food ecosystem rivals European fine dining.
Cities like Bangkok, Penang, and Manila prove that traditional, pavement-served recipes meet the highest technical standards and command global attention. Southeast Asia’s culinary rise isn’t born from critics’ curation or corporate strategy; it grew organically from community kitchens. Continued …
7 things illegal in Thailand: What tourists should know before visiting
Thailand welcomes millions of visitors every year, but some laws in the country can surprise foreign tourists. Activities that may seem harmless or legal elsewhere can carry serious penalties in Thailand.
Before planning your trip to Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, or Chiang Mai, it is important to understand local laws and cultural sensitivities to avoid legal trouble and ensure a smooth holiday. Continued …
Rising data center demand pressures power capacity
Energy authorities are preparing to expand Thailand’s electricity generation capacity amid mounting concerns that rising demand from resource-intensive businesses, particularly data centers, could strain the national grid.
An energy official who requested anonymity said Thailand’s current installed capacity is 46,191 megawatts, excluding renewable sources. Peak demand during the hot season reached 36,758MW, leaving a reserve margin of less than 30%. Continued …
Doctor Dies After Brit Rider Crash on Phangan
Associate Professor Dr. Theerasak Kaewamatwong has died after suffering critical injuries in a road collision on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani province. The respiratory and critical care specialist was struck while walking along a roadside by a motorcycle ridden by British national Duncan Wilcock, 51, who police said tested positive for cocaine after being located. Continued …
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Inspection finds shady Chinese nominee activity in Bangkok – Continued …
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Pai operation exposes foreign nominee business scheme – Continued …
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Japanese Call Center Gang Leader Arrested in Bangkok – Continued …
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Chinese Suspects Arrested While Fleeing to Hat Yai – Continued …
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Iranian Man Arrested in Phuket Home Invasion Case – Continued …
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Russian Woman Accused of Running Illegal Phuket Cosmetic Clinic – Continued …
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6 Illegal Foreign Workers Found in Chinese Restaurant Raids – Continued …
Major quake off Philippines triggers tsunami warnings
A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines this morning, killing at least one person, collapsing buildings, and sparking tsunami warnings across the region. Authorities in the Philippines and Indonesia urged residents in affected coastal regions to move to higher ground immediately. Continued …
Ukraine targets St. Petersburg again after Putin rejects talks offer
Residents of St. Petersburg were told not to leave their homes after a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack targeted Russia’s second-largest city Saturday morning, underscoring Kyiv’s growing ability to hit deep inside Russia. The attack came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin refused an offer to meet his Ukrainian counterpart. Continued …
Trump storms out of NBC interview after repeating election claims
U.S. President Donald Trump stormed out of an interview with NBC airing yesterday after a heated exchange during “Meet the Press with Kristen Welker”. The interview ended abruptly when Trump – after repeating unsubstantiated claims that U.S. elections are “rigged”- walked out after calling Welker, her show, and other U.S. TV networks “crooked.” Video …
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
UK Pensions Minister Torsten Bell has updated MPs on the impact of the frozen state pension policy on British retirees living overseas, including thousands based in Thailand. The policy affects nearly half a million UK pensioners who live in countries where annual state pension increases under the triple lock do not apply.
Fuel prices fell across major petrol, gasohol, and diesel products today, after PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. announced a fresh round of retail price cuts.
The Federation Internationale de Football Assn. has so far declined to meet Thailand’s persistent call for a substantial cut in price of the broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026, whereas Vietnam, a fellow ASEAN member country, has been reportedly offered a relatively low price.
Thailand is facing widespread rain and possible flash floods, as a relatively strong southwest monsoon continues to cover the Andaman Sea, the country, and the Gulf of Thailand, while a low-pressure cell remains over upper Myanmar.
The recent crackdown on alleged nominee structures linked to foreign land ownership on Koh Phangan has reignited debate over long-standing concerns in Thailand’s property sector, particularly in resort destinations popular with overseas buyers.
Thailand’s inflation rose again in May, as high domestic fuel prices, transport fares, and prepared food costs continued to feed into household expenses, while the Commerce Ministry said the government’s “Thais Help Thais Plus” measure had not created significant price pressure.
Thailand’s export engine is running hot — powered by electronics, AI-related demand, and a rebound in agriculture. But imports are running even hotter, especially in energy and electronic components, pushing the trade deficit to unprecedented levels.
Thailand’s flagship land bridge project has suffered a significant setback after an expert review committee ordered fresh Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) studies for planned deep-sea ports in Ranong and Chumphon. The ports are key components of the proposed transport corridor linking the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.
The Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has reported the success of Thailand’s film incentive measures for foreign productions. Since 2017, a total of 100 foreign film productions from 12 countries and special administrative regions around the world have joined Thailand’s cash rebate scheme.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with François Corbin, vice president of the Mouvement des Entreprises de France (MEDEF) International and chairman of the France–Thailand Business Forum (FTBF), along with French Ambassador to Thailand HE Jean-Claude Poimboeuf and representatives from 16 French companies on Thursday.
TAT launches ‘Wild Awake Journey’ to promote green-season conservation travel
Thai Airways International (THAI) has confirmed it will resume direct Bangkok-Amsterdam flights from July 1, expanding its international network as the carrier works to strengthen links between Thailand and Europe.
Shining beacon or failed city? Next four years could reveal Bangkok’s fate
Thailand pushes climate action at World Environment Day
As the war in the Strait of Hormuz continues to create havoc, Asia remains the worst hit by the global energy crisis. Whether it’s a large economy like Japan or China, or a struggling economy like Sri Lanka or Pakistan, the same fate holds.
CP ALL is inviting consumers across Thailand to take part in its environmental campaign, “Heal the World, Heal the Heart 24 Hours at 7-Eleven,” running from now until the end of 2026. The initiative encourages customers to adopt simple eco-friendly habits, such as reducing plastic consumption, in exchange for special rewards and loyalty points at 7-Eleven stores nationwide.
Authorities launched a multi-agency operation in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, targeting suspected foreign nominee business networks accused of concealing ownership structures and depriving local residents of business opportunities. The operation resulted in the arrest of three foreign nationals and searches at five locations linked to suspected illegal business activities. 
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a US$518-million emergency action plan to control the Ebola outbreak in Africa over the next six months, amid concerns that the outbreak is spreading rapidly and has become the fourth-largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded. 
This year’s fair will help raise money for disaster relief, support for low-income residents, people with disabilities, disadvantaged groups, and other public charity activities. Funds raised will be used to provide assistance, including consumer goods, survival bags, kitchen equipment, bedding, mosquito nets, medicine, home repairs for low-income residents, support for bedridden patients, and wheelchair donations. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that upper Thailand would see more rain over the next 24 hours, with heavy rain in some areas. Very heavy rain is expected in parts of the north, the western side of the central region, the east, and the west coast of the south, as a fairly strong south-westerly monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.
A new US tariff could pose a severe threat to Thai exports in the latter half of this year, causing fresh trade uncertainties, say economists and businesses.
Global businesses are moving away from the old model of anchoring headquarters, factories, or innovation centers in a single major city, as rising geopolitical, economic, and climate risks force companies to rethink how they manage location strategy.
Second-hand homes have become more popular among Thai homebuyers since the pandemic, with their share of both transaction volume and value increasing as new home transfers declined, reflecting weaker purchasing power amid a slowing economy.
Thailand’s tourism industry faces a fresh setback after the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) cut its 2026 forecast for Chinese visitor arrivals from 9 million to 7 million. The downgrade reflects growing safety concerns among Chinese travelers, alongside rising travel costs linked to higher oil prices caused by conflict in the Middle East.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, yesterday said it would suspend operations to six international destinations, including Krabi, citing higher operating costs and broader pressure from continued airspace restrictions. The move comes a week after IndiGo reported a fourth-quarter loss, largely due to higher jet fuel costs.
Fuel prices in Thailand rose today after PTT Oil and Retail Business, or OR, and Bangchak Corp. adjusted retail prices across petrol, gasohol and diesel products. The increases apply to Bangkok retail prices, excluding local maintenance tax.
We often think of cancer as just bad luck or purely genetic, something inevitable. But what if the way we live is actually the biggest factor?
A national park in Thailand has not one but three reasons to celebrate after confirming a rare Bengal tiger is raising a trio of cubs in the protected area. Park rangers first spotted a single cub with its mother on a camera trap last year in Kaeng Krachan National Park, around 130 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of Bangkok.
The Gulf crisis deepened yesterday after attacks linked to Iran damaged Kuwait International Airport and injured dozens, while the United States launched fresh strikes near the Strait of Hormuz amid stalled efforts to end the war.
Thailand could face an additional 12.5% tariff on exports to the United States under a new proposal from the administration of US President Donald Trump, which targets imports from 60 countries over concerns about forced labor in global supply chains.
Industry analysts say while the asset sales by Electricity Generating (EGCO), Banpu Power and BCPG, the power-generation arm of Bangchak Corp., may superficially resemble a withdrawal of Thai capital from Western markets, each transaction is underpinned by distinct strategic, corporate, and legal motivations aimed at optimizing portfolios for a low-carbon future or higher renewable exposure.
The Finance Ministry has backed away from the old-car trade-in plan after running into problems over the management of end-of-life vehicles and old batteries, amid concerns that the scheme may not work in practice.
A Thai massage training program has opened in Hua Hin as part of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s push to develop wellness-related services, including alternative medicine, spa treatments, and Thai massage.
The first week of June is off to a somewhat unproductive start. Unless you are a self-motivating powerhouse with productivity bursting out at the seams, starting the week on Monday, June 1, with a public holiday (a substitute for Visakha Bucha), makes it a bit harder to assess your Google calendar and plan for deep work. It’s even harder when today is also a public holiday to celebrate Queen Suthida’s birthday.
Thai Airways International marked a historic milestone yesterday when a female pilot operated a commercial flight for the national carrier for the first time in its 66-year history.
The property markets on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are entering a major turning point, shifting from tourism destinations into Thailand’s new “investment hub” after receiving continuous support from foreign investment and rising purchasing power among international investors.
The Thai real estate sector is facing a quiet but catastrophic crisis, described by industry experts as a “slow-motion tsunami” driven by chronic economic stagnation and an aging population.
The Ministry of Commerce has been ordered to accelerate negotiations with the United States on trade and tariff issues, aiming to reach a conclusion swiftly to safeguard Thailand’s export sector.
Ask a senior Thai official which country Thailand considers its most important strategic partner, and you will receive a carefully constructed non-answer — a fluent recitation of Thailand’s commitment to balanced relationships, multilateral frameworks, and ASEAN solidarity.
In economics, few indicators of food security are as simple – and as powerful – as the price of eggs. Affordable, accessible, and nutritious, eggs should be the most democratic source of protein in any society. Yet in Thailand, a single egg tells a far more complex story – one of market power, distorted incentives, and a system that may no longer serve the public interest.
Pride celebrations have evolved from simple parades to major economic drivers through tourism. For example, the NYC Pride March attracts millions, boosting local tourism, though as an open-access event, spending per attendee is limited.
The Industry Ministry plans to announce an industrial standard for solar rooftop panels and related equipment within three months. Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said at Government House yesterday he would accelerate the introduction of an industrial standard to ensure the safety of the increasing number of households switching to home solar power.
Thailand has set a target for electric vehicles (EVs) to account for 50% of total car production by 2035, as officials warn that more than 110,000 workers could face disruption from the industry transition.
As the world pursues decarbonization, the concept of a “just transition” has become ubiquitous, particularly when describing the shift away from fossil fuels in emerging and developing economies.
Russian drones and missiles pounded Ukrainian cities such as Kyiv and Dnipro early yesterday, killing at least 10 people and wounding about 100, authorities said, following days of warnings about Moscow’s plans for a major assault. 
The World Meteorological Organization has warned that El Niño conditions are likely to develop in the coming months, raising concerns that global weather patterns could become more extreme at a time when the planet is already under pressure from human-driven climate change. 
Hua Hin Airport Upgrade Targets International Flights
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has recommended restructuring the alcoholic beverage tax system to help reduce consumption.
The Thai Meteorological Department has warned of continued rain across Thailand today, with heavy downpours in several areas and isolated very heavy rain expected along the south’s west coast.
Thai police have blocked 717,425 gambling-related URLs and social media channels across Thailand as part of an intensified crackdown on online betting, particularly ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Factories across Southeast Asia are beginning to close and cut jobs as war-driven increases in raw-material, energy, and shipping costs squeeze manufacturers, exposing a widening divide between booming electronics exporters and struggling industries such as furniture, footwear, plastics, and local manufacturing.
Thailand’s economy may be growing faster than expected, but Commerce Minister Supajee Suthamphan has warned that the recovery is increasingly turning its back on small business concerns. Behind soaring exports, rising investment and stronger GDP growth lies a widening divide, with large corporations capturing up to 90% of export growth while many SMEs struggle for finance, technology and market access.
The government should accelerate infrastructure development to strengthen Thailand’s position as a leading destination for foreign investment in advanced industries, particularly those involving artificial intelligence (AI), says WHA Corp., which operates industrial estates, logistics, utilities, and power businesses.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is now growing rapidly, forcing the accelerated construction of enormous data centers, large-scale facilities for processing and storing vast volumes of data, around the world.
ST Telemedia Global Data Centers (STT GDC) urged the government to secure sufficient electricity supply, explore the establishment of small modular nuclearreactors, and keep power prices competitive for the artificial intelligence (AI)-driven economy.
Malaysia has begun enforcing new social media rules banning children under 16 from having accounts on major online platforms, as the government steps up efforts to protect young users from digital risks. The measure, which took effect yesterday, covers millions of children and teenagers across the country. 
The pavements of Hanoi’s wide boulevards and narrow lanes have long been clogged with bustling food stalls, weaving scooters, and crowds of coffee and beer drinkers sitting on low plastic stools. But the spontaneity that charmed tourists and supported street vendors in Vietnam’s capital has subsided in recent months as authorities clamp down on illegal use of footpaths. 
The head of the World Health Organization has ended his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo after briefing President Felix Tshisekedi on the response to the Ebola outbreak, as an aid agency warned that the true scale of the crisis is likely far larger than official figures suggest. The outbreak, already the third-largest on record, went undetected for several weeks, according to health officials. 
Smoking is linked to at least 15 types of cancer, while e-cigarettes are no safe alternative, a Chiang Mai cancer specialist warned on World No Tobacco Day yesterday. Dr. Thanika Ketpueak of Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine said many people still mistakenly associate smoking primarily with lung cancer.
Thailand is considering a Nicotine-free generation law that would prevent children and young people born after a specified year, or within a specified age group when the law takes effect, from ever legally buying cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or nicotine products, as the government seeks to cut off new smokers at the source.
Thailand’s restaurant industry is facing a difficult year, as rising costs, weaker consumer purchasing power, and fierce price competition put pressure on both major chains and smaller operators. Several large restaurant groups reported weaker first-quarter earnings, with net profits falling sharply despite their strong brand positions.
Taste alone no longer sells food in Asia. That is the central takeaway from the Top F&B Trends in Asia 2026 report by Netherlands-based research firm Innova Market Insights, unveiled at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026, the continent’s premier food and beverage trade forum.
Thailand’s seafood export market has been shaken after Malaysia announced strict new measures from today, affecting Thai sea bass and five shrimp species and raising the risk of domestic oversupply.
Australia, Belgium, and Norway are using THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2026, one of Asia’s largest food trade shows, as a key platform to promote their premium and quality food and beverage exports in Bangkok, strategically positioning Thailand as one of Southeast Asia’s competitive markets.
Phuket Airport denied rumors of money being extorted from passengers to quickly get them through Immigration when the arrival terminal is packed with tourists waiting to enter the popular resort island.
Every country has its landmarks. Thailand, according to some travelers on social media, has one that is a little less glamorous than most: the “Depresscalator.” The nickname refers to the long moving staircase that carries departing passengers from the international check-in area toward security screening at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
50-Year-Old Bangkok Stall Perfectly Preps the Most Iconic Thai Comfort Food
Chiang Mai has earned a place among the world’s top eight destinations for digital nomads and creators, after Forbes magazine included the northern Thai city in its 2026 ranking. The city joins Medellín, Cape Town, Lisbon, Bali, Mexico City, Tokyo, and Berlin on the list.
Thailand is accelerating its transition toward cleaner transport, with commercial electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as a centerpiece of the country’s sustainability drive.
A Lao worker trapped inside a gold mine cave in Laos has been rescued after a major international operation involving Thai and Finnish cave diving experts. Rescue teams successfully brought one of five survivors out of the flooded tunnel at 8:40 pm yesterday, according to the Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page.
A Koh Samui taxi mafia crackdown in Surat Thani began Thursday, as officials moved to dismantle taxi queue groups accused of occupying public areas and stopping other legal taxis from picking up passengers.
House rejects land bridge study panel
On a stretch of fine sand, facing south reveals the slow-moving Mekong River. Turn left at dawn or right at dusk, and the same sun slowly rises above — and later slips behind — the mountains and water. This is Ban Tamui, a small community in Khong Chiam district of Ubon Ratchathani province.
Innovative technology powers more sustainable aquaculture in Thailand
Constant Energy, a leading renewable energy developer in Southeast Asia, announced the successful inauguration of a 5.26 MW solar rooftop installation at the manufacturing facilities of Meyer Industries and Meyer Aluminium (Thailand) Co. in Laem Chabang.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates electric vehicle (EV) sales – including not only EVs but also plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and extended-range EVs (EREVs) – will hit 23 million this year, and account for around 28% of all new cars sold. In a report, the IEA used recent trends and sales data from the first quarter of this year, and forecast EV sales to rise from 20 million last year.
Japan’s parliament yesterday passed an immigration control law revision to raise the maximum fee for residence status applications by foreigners and introduce an online pre-entry travel authorisation system for overseas arrivals. Once the fee changes are implemented later this fiscal year, the upper limit will be set at 100,000 yen (20,450 baht) for visa renewals and 300,000 yen for permanent residency applications. Continued … https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3262808/japan-passes-bill-to-raise-visa-fees-introduce-online-preentry-screening
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has introduced a new mobile application aimed at reducing arrival processing times for international visitors, while maintaining security checks at the country’s borders. The new system, known as the Thailand Immigration Management System (THIM), allows foreign travellers to complete arrival card information digitally before reaching Thailand.
Tourism leaders in Prachuap Khiri Khan are pushing for more Hua Hin flights to connect the city with Chiang Mai, Isaan, and southern Thailand, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen the role of Hua Hin Airport.
Thailand will enforce a nationwide alcohol ban on Sunday, as the country observes Visakha Bucha Day, one of the most important dates in the Buddhist calendar.
The Energy Policy Management Committee decided yesterday to maintain the ex-refinery price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at 20.9179 baht/kg for two more months, from June 1 to July 31, so that the retail price will be kept at 423 baht a 15Kg cylinder.
A foundation advocating for sex workers has put forward a draft bill in parliament to decriminalize sex work and extend labor protections to those in the industry. Submitted by the Empower Foundation yesterday, tthis move aims to replace the outdated 1996 Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, which criminalizes voluntary sex workers.
Thailand’s app-based drivers have become part of everyday life. But as ride-hailing and delivery platforms continue to grow, so does the conflict with traditional taxi operators.
Several officials at Ban Huad subdistrict office in Lampang experienced stomach pain, diarrhea, and dizziness after consuming insects collected from a tree outside the office. The incident, which prompted a public warning, led to several individuals requiring hospital treatment.
Thailand’s foreign condominium market is entering a new phase, with Chinese buyers pulling back sharply while Russian demand rises and keeps the luxury segment in key tourism destinations alive.
Factory output in Thailand remains weak, with the manufacturing production index in April falling 0.36% from a year earlier, the Ministry of Industry said yesterday.
Thailand’s banking sector maintained strong resilience in the first quarter of 2026, supported by robust capital buffers, ample liquidity, and high loan-loss provisions, according to the Bank of Thailand’s latest Banking Sector Quarterly Brief .
The Anutin Charnvirakul government’s decision last week to cancel the extended visa-free entry scheme, which allowed stays of up to 60 days instead of 30, was based on the belief that it would strengthen national security, combat transnational crime, and prevent foreigners from exploiting the policy to work illegally, engage in business without permits, or behave unruly.
Thailand has emerged as one of the most considered relocation destinations for Americans seeking safety, quality of life, and financial freedom. New data from cultural-intelligence platform Country Navigator ranks Thailand among the 10 most-searched relocation destinations for U.S. citizens, with roughly 30,560 annual searches recorded between March 2025 and February 2026 — clear evidence that Thailand is no longer just a holiday memory, but a credible long-term home.
It has been 87 days since the energy crisis began on Feb. 28, following the sudden escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Even though the US and Iran extended a tentative ceasefire on April 21, the shockwaves have already fundamentally destabilized global energy markets.
Back in 2022, spotting an electric vehicle on the streets of Jakarta or Bali was a relatively rare occurrence. Heavily subsidized fuel, under-developed charging infrastructure, and an existing industrial ecosystem anchored by the production of gasoline-powered cars (mostly Japanese brands) made Indonesia an unlikely candidate for an EV boom.
If you have spent any time researching weight loss camp in Thailand, you have probably noticed that the options range widely. Some are fitness retreats with Muay Thai and green smoothies. Others are medical programs with clinical staff and blood tests every week. A few are somewhere in between.
Thailand is set for more unsettled weather over the next 24 hours, with heavier rain expected in parts of the north, east, and south as the southwest monsoon strengthens over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand.
Rescuers say they are elated to have found survivors who have been trapped in a flooded cave in Laos for a week but caution that it will be difficult to extract them. Five people were found alive yesterday afternoon and rescuers are searching for two others who remain missing.
Iranian state television reported that it had received an unofficial draft preliminary framework of understanding between Iran and the United States aimed at ending the continuing conflict, with one key element being the restoration of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within one month.
An affordability crisis is approaching due to rising costs, says Vice Minister of Finance Santitarn Sathirathai, while urging all sectors to adapt to the challenges ahead.
Thai pig farmers are facing mounting losses as farm-gate prices continue to fall below production costs despite a recovery in pork consumption, prompting the National Swine Raisers Assn. to warn of possible market distortion from aggressive pork-shop competition and suspected external supply.
Over recent years, the idea of being a “digital nomad”, or a worker able to work from anywhere in the world, has moved from a niche lifestyle into a widely popular way of life, especially after remote work became normal in many industries around the world. But 2026 has reflected a significant shift in digital nomad culture.
Phuket’s Banana Beach Breaks Into the World’s Top 10
Britain was thrown into meteorological confusion Tuesday after temperatures reached 35 degrees Celsius, a temperature Thai people traditionally describe as “the walk from 7-Eleven to the motorbike.” The reading, recorded at London’s Kew Gardens and Heathrow Airport, broke a century-old spring temperature record for the second time in 24 hours.