- Bottled drinking water on price-control list/Diesel to 50.54 Baht/Thailand petrol prices updated/Beach polo returns/Hazardous Smog Across 58 Provinces/Northern Thailand declared emergency disaster zone/Thailand swelters/Underfilled gas tanks
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran Conflict is Reshaping Thailand’s Tourism/Making Tourists Cancel Their Thailand Trips/Confidence for Songkran trips down/Trump gives Iran until tomorrow night/Oil rises as war disruption deepens/Worldwide energy policy shift/Global tensions hit home/War hits Thai food exports
- ECONOMY: PM to unveil economic strategy/Rising prices hard to bear/Dining sector poised for downturn/Co-payment scheme to be implemented/Severe shortage of microchips
- TOURISM: Rising prices affecting foreign tourists/Mandatory accident insurance for foreign visitors/Jomtien Beach falls quiet/Fuel shock grounds Thai AirAsia routes
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: On the right track/Loei’s Tha Sawan Waterfall
- CLIMATE THAILAND: MICE sector goes green/Organic farming becomes a new pillar/Grab Thailand Ramps Up EV Push
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Bottled drinking water placed on price-control list
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 controls will be in effect for one year, according to the announcement from the Central Committee on the Prices of Goods and Services, signed by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun and published in the Royal Gazette on Saturday. Continued …
Thailand Hikes Diesel to 50.54 Baht as Fuel Crisis Deepens
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 board agreed to cut the subsidy for B7 diesel by 2.61 baht per liter, reducing it from 20.71 baht to 18.10 baht per liter. Subsidies for B20 diesel were also reduced by 2.61 baht per liter, from 22.22 baht to 19.61 baht per liter. These measures are intended to reduce the fund’s daily outflow from 1,708.75 million baht to 1,496.72 million baht. Continued …
Thailand petrol prices updated: details from five major stations
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.
At PTT stations as of Saturday, gasohol 95 is priced at 43.95 baht per liter, gasohol E20 at 38.95 baht, gasohol E85 at 34.89 baht, and gasohol 91 at 43.58 baht. Premium gasohol 95 is available at 53.04 baht, benzine 95 at 52.54 baht, regular diesel at 50.54 baht, diesel B20 at 45.54 baht, and premium diesel at 70.44 baht. Continued …
Beach polo returns to Intercontinental
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.
Organized by B.Grimm in collaboration with Proud Group, InterContinental Hua Hin Resort and Bluport Hua Hin, the annual event has become a fixture on Thailand’s lifestyle and sporting calendar. Held under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, the tournament continues to support the Kamlangjai Project, which focuses on rehabilitation, vocational training, and reintegration opportunities for inmates. Continued …
Thailand Reports Hazardous Smog Across 58 Provinces
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.
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported that particulate matter (PM2.5) ranged from 38.2 to 96.2 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3), exceeding the government’s safe threshold of 37.5µg/m3. Ten provinces in the north and northeast recorded red-level pollution, indicating conditions that are seriously harmful. Continued …
Northern Thailand declared emergency disaster zone over air quality
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.
The announcement was made on Saturday by the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Unsit Sampuntharat, as he provided an update on wildfires, haze, and fine-dust pollution affecting 17 provinces across the region. Continued …
Thailand swelters as temperatures soar past 42°C
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.
The department said upper Thailand will face intense heat combined with hazy daytime skies, driven by a low-pressure system caused by heat covering the region. At the same time, weak southerly and westerly winds are prevailing, contributing to unstable weather conditions. Continued …
Crackdown uncovers underfilled gas tanks nationwide
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 inspectors visited several outlets in Nonthaburi yesterday and discovered that the amount of cooking gas in some tanks did not match the quantity shown on the tags. Continued …
Iran Conflict is Reshaping Thailand’s 2026 Tourism Outlook
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.
As the conflict involving Iran fluctuates, the Thai tourism industry — the lifeblood of the national economy — is finding itself at a critical crossroads. For decades, Thailand has been a sanctuary for travelers seeking sun, culture, and affordability. But as 2026 unfolds, the “Land of Smiles” is navigating a complex landscape where rising fuel costs, rerouted flight paths, and shifting traveler demographics are rewriting the rules of the game. Continued …
Iran-Israel War And Viral Videos Making Tourists Cancel Their Thailand Trips
For decades, the neon-lit streets of Bangkok’s Nana district have been a sanctuary for Middle Eastern travelers. But today, the bustling hotel lobbies and fragrant Arabic restaurants stand eerily quiet.
The escalating conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which intensified in late February, has sent a shockwave through Thailand’s vital tourism sector — an industry that contributes 12% to the nation’s GDP. The impact has been swift and severe. What began as a regional skirmish has transformed into a geopolitical crisis that is “hollowing out” one of the world’s most resilient travel destinations. Continued …
Expensive fuel and war fears hit Thai confidence for Songkran trips
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%.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), said that after more than a month of turmoil in the Middle East, the association expected Thai travel during the long Songkran holiday to be affected by high fuel prices, a factor beyond operators’ control. Continued …
Trump gives Iran until tomorrow night to reopen Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has said Iran has until tomorrow night to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on key infrastructure, according to an interview with The Wall Street Journal published yesterday.
“If they don’t do something by Tuesday evening, they won’t have any power plants and they won’t have any bridges standing,” Trump told the newspaper. Later yesterday, Trump posted on social media: “Tuesday, 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time!” without mentioning Iran or giving further details. White House representatives could not immediately be reached for comment on the post. Continued …
Oil rises as war disruption deepens and OPEC+ move offers little relief
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.
Brent crude rose US$2.40, or 2.2%, to US$111.43 a barrel in early trade, while US West Texas Intermediate gained US$3, or 2.7%, to US$114.57 a barrel, as markets reacted to ongoing supply constraints and geopolitical tensions. 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 …
Global tensions hit home
With the US-Israel battle against Iran entering its sixth week, the global economy continues to feel the effects stemming from the closure of a key oil shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz.Production costs are poised to rise further due to constraints in procuring certain materials.
The International Energy Agency warned the energy crisis could persist until late April, which is expected to be the worst period due to a twofold reduction in oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. Continued …
Middle East war hits Thai food exports, with market at risk of 50% slump
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.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Friday that the global food price index rose in March, driven mainly by higher energy prices and increased transport costs linked to the war in the Middle East. Continued …
PM to unveil Thailand’s economic strategy as energy turmoil grows
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is scheduled to deliver the government’s policy statement to Parliament before assuming full authority to administer the country in accordance with constitutional procedures, on April 9-10.
In recent months, the government has administered the country amid uncertainty on multiple fronts, including the economy, society, politics, international relations and global geopolitics. Continued …
Most Thais say rising prices are becoming hard to bear
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.
An opinion poll by Suan Dusit University, or Suan Dusit Poll, found that many Thais are struggling with higher prices for essential goods in the wake of the oil crisis. The survey was conducted among 1,272 respondents nationwide, both online and in the field, from March 31 to April 3. The findings were released yesterday. Continued …
Dining sector poised for downturn
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.
She said she expects this year’s Songkran to be less festive than last year. Although many Thais will still travel during this period, they may opt for more budget-friendly places to eat. Continued …
Co-payment scheme to be implemented after April 30
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.
The co-payment, in which the government will subsidize up to 50% of the costs of certain food and consumer goods purchased by qualified Thai citizens, would cover more areas but the amount of money would be the same, that is 2,000 baht each. However the government might be able to run it multiple times, he said. Continued …
Severe shortage of microchips, while steel prices rise
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.
Nawa Chantanasurakorn, vice president of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) and honorary chairman of the Steel Industry Group, said since steel is not an upstream industry, with there being limited domestic iron ore supply, production requires importing scrap metal from abroad for smelting and shaping. The end product is reinforced steel bars, wire rods, steel sheets, structural steel, and other types of steel used in both construction and automotive industries. Continued …
Rising prices are affecting foreign tourists across hotels, transport, food, and nightlife
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.
In the hotel sector, room rates in major destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai have generally increased compared to previous years, particularly during high season and major holidays like Songkran. Budget accommodation remains available, but mid-range and beachfront properties are seeing stronger pricing driven by demand and higher operating costs. Continued …
Thailand plans mandatory accident insurance for foreign visitors
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.
“Each year, we absorb about 10 million baht in treatment costs for foreign patients without insurance,” the director of Vachira Phuket Hospital said. He pointed to inexperienced motorcycle use and consumption of alcohol and drugs. “Many visitors come to Phuket and try riding motorcycles for the first time, which increases accident risks.” Continued …
Jomtien Beach falls quiet as tourist numbers drop, Pattaya businesses hit by economic slowdown
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.
Beach vendors, including umbrella and chair operators, as well as seaside shops, say their incomes have been steadily falling due to the slowdown. Many report that fewer tourists are spending time at the beach, impacting daily earnings across the board. Continued …
Fuel shock grounds Thai AirAsia routes as costs surge
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.
Thai AirAsia temporarily suspends: Suvarnabhumi–Narathiwat (FD4252/4253), April 21–Oct. 24; Don Mueang–Xi’an (FD588/589), May 11–Oct. 23; Hong Kong–Okinawa (FD518/519), May 7–Oct. 24; Phuket–Chennai (FD192/193), April 13–Oct. 24; Phuket–Kochi (FD196/197), April 17–Oct. 23. Continued …
On the right track along Bangkok’s rail lines
At a time when travel feels uncertain — the result of conflicts in West Asia and rising fuel costs — Bangkok’s rail lines offer a quiet kind of freedom.
You don’t have to go far to enjoy a travel experience. A short ride can carry you from the city’s outer edges to narrow canal networks, or from a modern art museum to neighborhoods alive with a vibrant ambience and promising tastes. Continued …
Discover the ‘Unseen’ Beauty of Loei’s Tha Sawan Waterfall
As Thailand enters a blistering April, with temperatures set to soar well above the seasonal average, holidaymakers are desperately seeking sanctuary from the “boiling” heat. One destination currently topping the charts for those “in the know” is the Tha Sawan Waterfall (also known locally as Tad Tone) in the Na Duang district of Loei.
With the 2026 Songkran Festival (13–15 April) fast approaching, this “unseen” natural wonder is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors drawn by its reputation for icy-clear waters and its serene, primeval atmosphere. Continued …
MICE sector goes green
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.
According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), this sector has a significant impact on the environment and local communities, and it is growing annually. MICE operators and customers are now more aware of sustainable travel trends, planning events aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals. Continued …
Organic farming becomes a new pillar in the global food trade
“Organic agriculture” is moving beyond its status as a niche product to become a “core structure” of the modern global food system, reflecting data from Thailand’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) under the Ministry of Commerce, which points to continued growth in the organic market despite volatility in the global economy.
Nantapong Chiralerspong, director general of the TPSO, said the global organic food and drink market had reached a new record of 145 billion euros, or around US$157 billion, while global organic farming area had expanded to about 619 million rai, accounting for 2.1% of total agricultural land. The number of organic producers worldwide had risen to 4.84 million, with Asia accounting for around 56% of the global total. Continued …
Grab Thailand Ramps Up EV Push Amid Rising Fuel Costs
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.
These partnerships aim to expand access to electric vehicles for drivers and riders on the platform through “End-to-End EV Rental” and “Drive-to-Own” models, supporting long-term fleet solutions and lowering drivers’ operating costs. Continued …
- Chinese Student Kills Thai Girlfriend, Jumps to Death in Pathum Thani – Continued …
- Rhino Horn Smuggling Bust at Suvarnabhumi Airport – Continued …
- Brit Arrested For Heroin Smuggling on Flight From Thailand – Continued …
- Russian Man Arrested For Illegal Tour Guiding in Phuket – Continued …
- Foreign Run Illegal Daycares Raided on Koh Phangan – Continued ….
- Chinese Network Raided Over Zombie Vape Chemicals in Samut Prakan – Continued …
What to know about the Artemis 2 mission’s Moon flyby
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). 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 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.
Geopolitical tensions and rising energy costs are impacting Asian financial markets amid Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closures. Countries like Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and Indonesia focus on energy security and cost mitigation, with major indices declining.
“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 finds itself once again in the crosshairs of the Trump administration even before the uncertainties caused by US tariff policies have been ironed out. On March 11, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced new trade investigations under Section 301 of the US Trade Act.
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.
Cha Am Municipality is asking for cooperation from all agencies and the public to help save energy, in order to prepare for future situations and ensure resources are used efficiently.
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.
Confidence among Thai business leaders has fallen sharply, with only 24% of CEOs expressing strong confidence in their organizations’ revenue growth this year, down from 47% in 2023 and the lowest level in three years.
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.
Passengers faced heavy congestion at immigration checkpoints at Phuket International Airport after a temporary system failure, officials confirmed yesterday. The Immigration Bureau 2 (IB2) said the disruption caused delays during a peak departure period but denied claims that travelers were charged to access special lanes.
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
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that a heat low-pressure system is covering upper Thailand, bringing hot conditions nationwide and very hot weather in some areas of the north, northeast and central regions.
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.
Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair set for April 24-May 4
Thailand fuel prices were updated for today in a daily report from the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) under the Ministry of Energy, covering five major service station brands, including PTT, Bangchak, PT, Caltex, and Shell.
Long queues continue for even pricier fuel
Thai motorists rushed to refuel their vehicles last night, ahead of a steep 6 baht/liter price hike, which took effect today, triggering heavy congestion at service stations nationwide. In many areas, queues stretched for kilometers, with some outlets forced to close earlier than usual as they ran out of fuel.
In a dramatic turn in the current energy crisis, Lerpong Sayed, president of the Thai-Iranian Alumni Assn., said Tehran had sent a message to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul offering to help Thailand by selling crude oil at a special price below global market rate to help alleviate the hardship of the Thai people.
Thailand’s Commerce Ministry is preparing to expand its controlled goods list to 71 items, and tighten rules on price increases for a wider range of everyday products, according to Nantapong Jiralertpong, director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy and the ministry’s spokesperson.
Thailand is poised to capitalize on supply chain diversification as global tensions mount. With disruptions impacting traditional supply routes, Thailand’s geographical advantages and robust manufacturing base present significant opportunities for businesses seeking alternative sourcing locations.
Thailand’s energy crisis in 2026 is not the first time the country has been forced to grapple with fuel prices rising beyond what ordinary people can bear. Each time such a crisis has erupted, Thai governments have turned to the Oil Fuel Fund as an emergency tool to contain the damage. But the price of that decision has often been a mountain of debt, eventually passed on to the public in the long run.
Khon Kaen tourism, meetings take a hit
Global air quality worsened significantly in 2025, with only 14% of cities meeting the World Health Organization’s PM2.5 guideline, as reported by IQAir’s World Air Quality Report. This marked a decline from the previous year when 17% of cities met the standard. Severe weather events like wildfires and dust storms, exacerbated by climate change, were major contributors to the decline.
Southeast Asia faces a critical $150-billion annual shortfall in clean energy investment required to meet its 2050 climate commitments amid rising economic growth and energy demand. To bridge this gap and reduce reliance on costly fossil fuel imports, the region must implement strategic reforms to enhance financial transparency, leverage blended finance through development institutions, and mitigate currency risks for private investors.
The global push for environmental responsibility has transformed the packaging industry from a linear “take-make-waste” model into a high-tech frontier of circularity. As plastic pollution remains a critical global challenge, both multinational corporations and agile startups are racing to develop sustainable packaging solutions that protect products without harming the planet.
The discovery of the oldest-ever dog DNA suggests they have been our best friends for nearly 16,000 years — 5,000 years earlier than had previously been thought, new research said yesterday. Despite being ubiquitous in the homes, backyards, and hearts of people across the world, surprisingly little is known about where dogs come from. 
A Los Angeles jury yesterday found Meta and YouTube liable for harming a young woman through the addictive design of their social media platforms, ordering the companies to pay $3 million in damages and opening the door to potentially far larger punitive awards.