- Sam Roi Yot Run/Krabi Land Nominee Crackdown/140 accountants in nominee crackdown/Sharp drop in crime rates/Households paying for street lighting/New cannabis penalty rules
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump says ‘I will do what I have to do’ /Israelis anxious over Iran deal/Fertilizer prices set to fall
- ECONOMY: Thai Baht Buckles/Exports post double-digit growth/Thailand to become high-income country/Projects change hands in weak market/Five major infrastructure projects approved
- TOURISM: Foreign tourist arrivals top 15 million/Global Tensions Ripple Through Tourism Economy/Thailand a top-five destination/Luxury hotels draw global investors/Clip of deserted Koh Phi Phi/AirAsia X to keep lowering fares
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thai heritage arts take global stage/Thai third-class train a Chinese social media hotspot /Tha Phra Chan clings to Thai herbal traditions
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand advances green hospital initiative
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Sam Roi Yot Run Set Sunday
Sam Roi Yot Run Ep.7 will offer distances of 2.7km, 5km and 10km along scenic coastal routes through local communities. Entry fees vary depending on registration period, with general registration open until May 31. Registration …
Krabi Police Arrest 39 in Land Nominee Crackdown
Authorities in Krabi have launched an investigation into alleged illegal land acquisitions through nominee companies, uncovering extensive violations of Thailand’s Land Code. The operation targeted companies suspected of using Thai nationals to conceal foreign ownership of land and businesses.
The investigation was divided into two groups of offenders. The first focused on nominee companies, where nine firms were found to be holding 17 plots of land covering over 6 rai, with an estimated value of 209 million baht. The court approved 40 arrest warrants and 13 search warrants in connection with the cases. Continued …
Commerce Ministry moves against 140 accountants in nominee crackdown
The Commerce Ministry is preparing action against 140 “grey accountants” as part of a nationwide crackdown on the use of Thai nominees to conceal foreign ownership in restricted businesses.
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said the department had worked with relevant agencies over the past eight months to prevent and suppress the use of Thai nationals as proxy shareholders, or nominees, for foreign investors. Continued …
Thai government reports sharp drop in crime rates
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday touted the government’s success in cracking down on crime, particularly scam networks and foreign nominee businesses, saying offenses fell by nearly 60% over the past three months.
Leading a briefing on the nine-month national crackdown, Anutin said that combating call-center gangs, online scam networks, and transnational nominee operations is a government priority. To strengthen enforcement, a steering committee was set up to formulate policy, set directions, monitor operations, and enhance cooperation among agencies, he said. Continued …
Households unfairly bear cost of street lighting, says minister
Energy Minister Akanat Promphan said yesterday households have been unfairly charged for the cost of public street lighting for decades, and he plans to change that.
The minister, speaking at Government House, said the cost of public street lighting was included in the overall cost of the national electricity system and householders were “secretly” charged for it through their monthly power bills. Continued …
New cannabis penalty rules introduced
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has issued new penalty guidelines that include license suspensions or revocations for cannabis businesses found to breach the department’s requirements.
The guidelines, developed under the Ministry of Public Health’s Controlled Herbal Product (Cannabis) BE 2568 notification, set penalties for licensed operators engaged in research, export, sale, or processing of cannabis for commercial purposes. The guidelines are intended to provide a uniform framework for both law enforcement and cannabis business operators. Continued …
Trump says ‘I will do what I have to do’ if Iran does not stick to deal
U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday “I will do what I have to do” if Iran does not stick to its agreement with Washington. Video …
Trump allies defend him to Israelis anxious over Iran deal
American allies of President Donald Trump this week defended him to an Israeli public anxious about a U.S. interim deal with Iran and White House criticism that together appeared to signal fissures in Israel’s decades-old alliance with Washington. Video …
Fertilizer prices set to fall as Mideast shipments resume
The price of fertilizers is trending downward, with shipments from the Middle East currently en route to Thailand, says the Commerce Minister.
Following discussions with the Thai Fertilizer and Agricultural Supplies Assn. (TFAS), the Thai Fertilizer Producer Trade Assn., and the Thai Agro Business Assn., Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said fertilizer supplies are likely to remain sufficient, and prices are expected to decrease. Continued …
Thai Baht Buckles Under the Weight of Oil Shock and a Hawkish Fed
The Thai baht opened the week at 32.94 per US dollar yesterday, drifting toward the psychologically significant 33 threshold as a confluence of external headwinds and domestic vulnerabilities battered sentiment.
Traders say the currency’s near-term fate hinges on four pivotal variables: the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on June 24, May export data, the trajectory of Middle East peace negotiations, and the direction of foreign fund flows. Continued …
Thai exports post double-digit growth in May
Thailand’s exports posted double-digit growth in May but at a slower pace than April, a Commerce Ministry official said yesterday. Customs-cleared exports rose by 23.1% in April from a year earlier. May data is due later this week.
Shipments have been driven by demand for electronics and tech-related products, according to Nantapong Chiralerspong, head of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office. Continued …
Government sets 12-year goal for Thailand to become high-income country
The government has announced an ambitious 12-year target to lift Thailand into the ranks of high-income countries, while bringing the private sector into the design of a new national economic blueprint.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said after yesterday’s meeting of the Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPCC) that the government and private sector had agreed on long-, medium- and short-term targets to raise Thailand’s economic potential. Continued …
EIA-approved projects change hands in weak market
Thailand’s property market is seeing a major shift as developers move beyond simply delaying new launches and begin selling land and ready-to-develop projects to preserve liquidity.
Some listed and non-listed property firms are offloading land banks and projects that have already received Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval to larger developers with stronger balance sheets. Continued …
Environment Committee approves five major infrastructure projects
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri chaired the second meeting of the National Environment Committee (NEC) on Friday at Government House, with the committee approving environmental impact assessments for five significant public and private infrastructure projects.
The approved projects are: the Bangkok Mass Transit System Silom Line extension Phase 3; a four-lane highway bypass in That Phanom district; the Chiang Mai Red Line mass transit system; a limestone quarrying operation for industrial lime production by Chememan Public Co. in Saraburi province; and the construction of third and fourth runways at Suvarnabhumi Airport, together with an eastern passenger terminal extension. Continued …
Thailand foreign tourist arrivals top 15 million, China leads
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has updated the latest tourism situation for the period from Jan. 1, 2026) to June 20. It found that Thailand had welcomed a cumulative 15,447,571 foreign tourists, generating B745.388 billion in foreign visitor spending.
The top five source markets for foreign tourists visiting Thailand were: China, 2,538,498 tourists; Malaysia, 1,992,324 tourists; India, 1,188,190 tourists; Russia, 996,840 tourists; South Korea, 576,404 tourists. Continued …
Global Tensions Ripple Through Thailand’s Tourism Economy
Tourism businesses throughout Thailand are once again navigating an increasingly uncertain environment, as ongoing geopolitical tensions, economic concerns, and changing travel behavior influence international visitor demand.
While Thailand itself remains a safe and welcoming destination, tourism operators are seeing signs that global events occurring far beyond the country’s borders are affecting how travelers plan, budget, and commit to international travel. For many businesses in northern Thailand, the timing is particularly challenging. Continued …
Visa study: Thailand a top-five destination
Visa, a global leader in payments, has unveiled key findings from the 2026 Global Travel Intentions (GTI) study, the latest edition of its flagship global study that has captured global travel patterns and preferences for over 20 years.
The study was conducted among more than 47,000 respondents worldwide, including more than 17,000 in the Asia-Pacific markets. According to the GTI study, 63% of respondents surveyed traveled to destinations within Asia-Pacific, dwarfing planned travel to Central Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (16%), Europe (13%), and North America (6%). Continued …
Thailand luxury hotels draw global investors as wealth tourism rises
Thailand’s luxury hotel sector is emerging as one of the country’s most attractive investment assets, as global economic uncertainty pushes investors toward properties seen as resilient, scarce, and capable of generating long-term returns.
While many business sectors remain under pressure from global volatility, high-end hotels are increasingly being viewed not only as hospitality businesses but also as safe-haven assets that can preserve value and deliver stable growth over time. Continued …
Clip of deserted Koh Phi Phi goes viral
A video clip of deserted Koh Phi Phi off Krabi went viral online and attracted lots of comments, with netizens pointing to high prices as a major issue dissuading tourists from visiting the well-known destination.
Many social media users shared personal experiences from visiting Koh Phi Phi, noting that the prices of consumer goods were extremely high, such as soft drinks costing up to 100 baht per bottle. Furthermore, many observed an ironic point: seafood on the island, a coastal area, was more expensive than in northern Thailand. Continued …
AirAsia X to keep lowering fares as jet fuel prices fall, CEO says
Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia X has lowered fares by 5% since June 15, with the airline reviewing its pricing week by week and adding back capacity as jet fuel prices drop, the company’s Chief Executive Officer Bo Lingam said yesterday.
Lingam said the easing of tensions in the Middle East following the signing of an initial US-Iran peace deal had brought welcome relief to the aviation industry, with fuel prices retreating sharply from their March highs. Continued …
Thai heritage arts take global stage in Frankfurt and Seoul
Thailand’s world heritage-level performing arts have taken center stage in Europe and South Korea, as Khon, Nora, Songkran traditions, and Thai classical dance were showcased in Frankfurt and Seoul as part of a wider push to promote Thai cultural soft power overseas.
The overseas showcases were driven by the Bunditpatanasilpa Institute, in cooperation with Sabeeda Thaised, Minister of Culture, as Thailand seeks to raise the international profile of its cultural capital and strengthen the country’s image as a creative cultural nation. Continued …
Thai third-class train ride becomes Chinese social media hotspot
With a fare of just five baht and a journey of less than half an hour, the Chiang Mai–Lamphun train ride has become a hit with Chinese tourists, mostly women, seeking scenic views and photogenic content for their social media.
The northern rail route has recently emerged as a popular attraction after photos and travel reviews of the trip went viral on Chinese social media, particularly Xiaohongshu. Continued …
Tha Phra Chan clings to Thai herbal traditions
“This is part of the roots of Thai culture. One day, it may no longer exist. The place where it all began is slowly fading away,” says Payao Sitthisong, 70, looking out onto the street from her herbal medicine store. “But the truth is, this is where it all started — right here at Tha Phra Chan.”
Located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River, Tha Phra Chan is one of Bangkok’s oldest piers. The area has long been known not only as a transport hub but also as a center of traditional Thai herbal medicine. Continued …
Thailand advances green hospital initiative with solar rooftop pilot project
Thailand’s government is advancing its green hospital policy by promoting clean and renewable energy in public health facilities to reduce operating costs, improve energy efficiency, and support the country’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) have signed an agreement to install solar rooftop systems at hospitals overseen by the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Public Health. The pilot phase will include 25 hospitals nationwide. Continued …
Chinese Business Scrutiny Intensifies in Huai Khwang
Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district has come under renewed scrutiny after a Chinese restaurant controversy reignited questions about closed-loop business networks, nominee ownership, and regulatory enforcement in Thailand. Continued …
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Polish Man Arrested in Buriram Over Interpol VAT Fraud – Continued …
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Taxi Driver Reports Tourist After Theft Attempt in Phuket – Continued …
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Kazakh woman blocks roads, crashes, flees after emotional episode in Phuket – Continued …
Keir Starmer quits as UK prime minister
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced yesterday that he was resigning, paving the way for what is expected to be an orderly transfer of power to frontrunner Andy Burnham. 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
Hua Hin land titles and property ownership can be confusing, especially for foreign buyers trying to understand leases, title deeds, and what is legally safe. Many people have seen the recent crackdowns on nominee company ownership (see below), with more than 46,900 companies reportedly under investigation across Thailand.
Thailand is pursuing two major policy directions that appear to conflict with one another: opening its economy to foreign business while intensifying enforcement against foreign-linked property ownership structures.
Thailand is facing renewed calls to tighten regulations governing foreign condominium ownership as the government considers raising the foreign ownership quota in condominium projects to attract overseas investment and support a property market still struggling with a slowdown.
Elephants can certainly shift. African elephants can reach top speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour, albeit over short distances only. This is more than twice as fast as the average human runner, so it seems like an open and shut case.
Thailand’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) says it has intensified oversight of medical cannabis businesses nationwide, carrying out more than 1,200 inspections in recent weeks as authorities seek to ensure cannabis is used strictly for medical purposes.
During the past week, global attention focused on the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, bringing months of protracted conflict to a halt.
Thailand is entering the second half of 2026 with a mixed economic signal: S&P Global Ratings has maintained the country’s sovereign rating at BBB+ with a stable outlook, but economists warn that pressure from oil prices, rising imports, fiscal deficits, and global uncertainty could keep the current account and the baht under strain.
Foreign investment in Thailand exceeded 153.56 billion baht in the first five months of 2026, surging 73% from the same period last year.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is set to launch the Thailand FastPass program at Government House tomorrow, aiming to accelerate major investment projects by removing regulatory barriers and streamlining approvals.
Can Thailand’s Land Bridge Challenge Malacca and Redefine Asian Trade Routes?
Thailand’s exporters are heading into a more uncertain second half of 2026, with growth expected to slow as global trade risks pile up across energy, logistics, and major export markets.
Vietnam is moving aggressively to expand its global trade reach through a new generation of free trade agreements (FTAs) targeting the Middle East and South Asia, a strategy that could increase competitive pressure on Thai exporters in markets where both countries sell similar goods.
China’s growing pet-friendly culture is creating a new export opening for Thailand, as demand for premium and health-focused pet food rises among Chinese consumers who increasingly treat pets as family members.
A toxic mix of record household debt, strict lending criteria, and a severe demographic slowdown leaves Bangkok’s property market heavily oversupplied. The accumulated inventory of unsold residential properties in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces is projected to surge to an unprecedented 213,000 units by the end of 2026, triggering warnings that Thailand is on the brink of a chronic, Japan-style vacant housing crisis.
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) has announced plans for WellEra, a wellness-integrated development in the city’s Lumphini district that will redefine the relationship between healthcare, residential living, hospitality, and lifestyle.
Italy has offered to employ 20,000-30,000 Thai workers a year to remedy labor shortages in three sectors, deputy government spokeswoman Patdarat Thongsaluaykorn said yesterday.
The government has reiterated that investments in data centers must not adversely affect local communities or the agricultural sector. According to government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek, the data center investment boom reflects the country’s potential to become a regional digital infrastructure hub, supporting the growth of cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), e-commerce, fintech, and other digital services.
Thailand is redefining its annual green season, promoting the rainy months as a prime opportunity for wellness, nature-based experiences, and meaningful travel. Through its “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is encouraging travelers to view the season not as an off-peak period, but as a time for restoration, reflection, and deeper connections with nature and local communities.
Authorities in Phuket are considering a proposal to raise the provincial tax on hotels from 1% to 3% of room rates to generate additional revenue for local development and tourism promotion.
The recent proposal to merge the Ministry of Culture with the Ministry of Tourism should be treated with great caution. This idea may appear to be just a bureaucratic restructuring. But the two ministries have distinct missions, functions and skill sets that should not be combined.
Master the Art of Ordering Som Tum Like a Thai Local
Phangnga: Southern springboard to growth
The Great Hornbill forages in the treetops, usually living in pairs. Outside the breeding season, they can sometimes gather in flocks of up to 150, roosting in trees in valleys. However, they occasionally descend to the ground to forage. Their loud call, “Kok Kok Kok, Kahang Kahang Kahang” or “Kawa Kawa Kawa,” is the origin of their name. Great Hornbills are found in moist evergreen forests, dry evergreen forests, or mixed deciduous forests. 
Thailand needs to accelerate its transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) and expand the use of renewable energy to strengthen long-term energy security, according to Areeporn Asawinpongphan, a researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Analyst urges shift away from fossil fuels
Thailand’s consideration of an expanded foreign ownership quota for condominium units is being viewed as a possible measure to attract overseas investment, support the property sector, and improve liquidity in a market still facing a slowdown.
Warning signs of a “Super El Niño” are becoming clearer, and Thailand may not have much time left to prepare before the situation escalates from dry spells to drought, extreme heat, and a water-shortage crisis that could last until the middle of next year.
The Thai army is closely monitoring reports of Cambodian tank and military hardware movements along the border, Second Army Area commander Weerayuth Raksilp has confirmed, warning that readiness, speed, and equipment would be decisive if a third round of clashes broke out.
Thailand’s cannabis policy is facing fresh scrutiny after the House Public Health Committee convened a tense meeting to examine whether cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list, as concerns grow over widespread sales, legal loopholes, and public health risks.
Residents have raised alarm over what they describe as a growing army of stray dogs roaming the grounds of Chiang Mai City Hall, saying the animals are intimidating visitors, chasing pedestrians, and creating safety concerns at the government complex.
Thailand’s residential property market is showing clearer signs of a supply slowdown, with developers holding back new projects despite an improvement in home transfers and housing loans at the start of 2026.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), revealed that a joint survey with the Bank of Thailand on hotel operator confidence in May found that over 50% of businesses are facing tighter liquidity.
Bypassing Malacca is a bridge too far for Thailand’s ports project
The Finance Ministry is expediting its review of welfare reforms to ensure the benefits target those most in need, minimize duplication across programs, and promote greater participation in the labor force. This approach is based on the concept of a negative income tax (NIT) system.
Is Thailand becoming a welfare state? The answer remains to be seen, given the government’s fiscal constraints. Public debt has risen recently, nearing the statutory ceiling of 70% of GDP.
True Internet Data Center Co., or True IDC, the largest data center and cloud service provider in Thailand under the Charoen Pokphand Group, announced a continuous investment of over 6 billion baht and held a groundbreaking ceremony for its seventh data center in northern Bangkok.
Chiang Mai’s bid to become UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in jeopardy
For decades, Thailand built its economy on the assumption that energy would remain cheap, stable, and someone else’s responsibility. That assumption is beginning to break. Many see this as a threat. It may also be an opportunity.
Thailand’s rapid solar energy expansion has grown from 2.5 megawatts to nearly 5,000 megawatts, supported by government policy and falling costs. End-of-life panel management remains largely unaddressed, however, with projections estimating between 431,000 and 728,000 tons of solar waste by 2050.
Thailand’s major fuel retailers have adjusted pump prices after announcing reductions across petrol and diesel categories. The changes, made by PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp., came into effect this morning.
More than 630,000 cancer patients received treatment under Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme in the 2025 fiscal year, with breast cancer remaining the most common cancer among women and colorectal cancer topping the list among men.
Dr. Areeporn Asawinpongphan of the Thailand Development Research Institute warns that Thailand should not be overly optimistic about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran, as any renewed conflict could pose risks to the Thai economy. 
Thailand has welcomed the ceasefire framework between the United States and Iran but warned that global energy markets could remain under pressure despite an easing of tensions in the Middle East.
Oil tankers have begun crossing the Strait of Hormuz again following a newly signed US–Iran agreement aimed at easing a war that has disrupted global energy flows.
Parliament has approved five major international trade agreements, paving the way for Thailand to expand market access in Europe and South Asia.
While Vietnam has surpassed Thailand as Asia’s most valuable branded residence market, Thailand still leads its peer with the largest launch of luxury development, according to hospitality consultancy C9 Hotelworks.
Quick meals, noodles, and coffee or tea are among the top orders via food delivery platforms under the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” state co-payment scheme. As of June 17, spending via food delivery platforms tallied 272 million baht.
Meta has positioned Instagram as a driver of Thai digital economic growth, highlighting the platform’s growing influence in commerce, creator monetization, and cultural engagement as businesses increasingly seek new avenues for expansion.
Vietnam is no longer being viewed only as Asia’s “manufacturing base”. It is becoming one of Southeast Asia’s most closely watched tourism destinations, especially after foreign visitor numbers rebounded rapidly following COVID-19 and began moving closer to leading tourism markets such as Thailand.
Thailand welcomes 33 to 35 million international tourists annually. In 2024, Thailand changed its visa policy, allowing visitors from 93 countries to stay for 60 days without needing to apply for a visa in advance.
As global oil volatility continues to push transportation costs higher, more Thai consumers are turning to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as a practical hedge against unpredictable long-term running costs. The shift is already visible across the market.
Ukraine yesterday launched its largest drone attack on Moscow in years, sparking fires, hitting a major oil refinery, and forcing evacuations at the country’s largest airport. At least 17 people were wounded in the strikes, which also set a shopping center and apartment building ablaze, authorities said. 
The Digital News Report 2026, which surveyed news consumers in 48 countries, found that 54% of respondents used social media and video platforms for news, compared with 51% who accessed news through the websites and apps of news organisations. This marks the first time that external platforms have become more popular than digital channels directly owned by news outlets. 
Design plans reviewed for Phon Kingphet Public Park
Prachuap Khiri Khan has launched Wellness Tourism 2026 as part of a plan to promote the province as an international health and wellness destination.
Registration is opening for the Wellscape Prachuap Khiri Khan Night Run 2026, an evening health run taking runners through the “City of Three Bays”. The event, organized by Prachuap Khiri Khan Province and the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports, will take place on Friday, July 3.
Authorities have postponed a plan to impose higher electricity rates on large households with heavy consumption, citing the need to revise how power bills are calculated, says Energy Minister Akanat Promphan.
Five Thai reservoirs above maximum storage levels
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dramatically shaken up Phuket’s administration, removing the governor and transferring two deputy governors amid escalating allegations of internal conflict, influential networks, disputed beachfront land, intimidation, and claims of political protection.
Commerzbank’s analysis highlights that global energy market volatility, particularly in early 2026, is exerting substantial downward pressure on the Thai baht. Thailand’s significant reliance on energy imports, primarily crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), means that rising global energy costs directly worsen its trade balance.
Thailand’s property market is sending an interesting signal, as the number and value of “second-hand” homes listed for sale nationwide have risen significantly.
Malaysia and Thailand are edging closer to resolving a tit-for-tat seafood safety dispute, offering a lifeline to exporters after weeks of halted shipments and retaliatory restrictions on Thai shrimp and Malaysian sea bass.
Arnupharp Kongmalai, vice president of marketing at MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) evealed that the company’s operational outlook for the second half of 2026 continues to be supported by ongoing branch expansion, a value-focused business model, and government economic stimulus measures, which may partially support consumer spending.
TAT Looks to Rail Travel for the Next Chapter of Thailand’s High-Value Tourism
Traveloka reveals Thai destinations gaining global interest
Police in Vietnam have rescued more than 500 cats after dismantling a suspected cat meat trafficking network in one of the country’s largest animal welfare operations in recent years. The raid, carried out in and around Ho Chi Minh City last week, followed an investigation into a series of pet thefts. Authorities detained nine suspects and uncovered hundreds of live cats allegedly destined for the meat trade. 
If you’re an expat living in Thailand and you’ve had the same health insurance policy for years, it’s easy to assume you’re set. You pay your renewal, you stay covered, and that’s that.
When did the first smartphone appear? The first mobile phone prototype came from Motorola in 1973. The first one approved, affectionately called The Brick, came out in 1983. In 1992 an IBM engineer created the Sweetspot but it didn’t hit the market until 1994, as the IBM Simon Personal Communicator.
Thais are expected to spend an average of 6.9 years living with illness or disability in later life, highlighting growing pressure on healthcare services and long-term care systems, according to the Thai Health Report 2026.
The family of a Thai farmer were stunned to discover 1.84 million baht in cash hidden inside a modified metal storage box used for tools after his death, revealing years of careful saving that even his wife did not know about.
The world’s oil and gas majors have high hopes for a quick reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, but they have few illusions about a return to normal for the Gulf energy industry after more than three months of blockage.
Thailand has welcomed an agreement reached between the United States and Iran to end their conflict, expressing hope that the deal will bring lasting peace and stability to the Middle East and safeguard global economic interests.
Thailand is preparing to reform its electricity tariff structure in an effort to make power prices fairer and reduce electricity costs for households and local industries. Energy Minister Akanat Promphan announced that the government is reviewing the current pricing system to ensure that electricity charges better reflect actual costs.
DTAM pushes 5-point plan to boost kratom industry
The Transport Ministry expects Bangkok’s two main airports to handle around 120 million passengers annually by 2029 as it accelerates efforts to make the country a regional aviation hub.
Vana Nava Hua Hin is the ultimate all-ages fun escape
National park officials collected six large bags of plastic waste from Loh Samah Bay on Phi Phi Leh Island after large numbers of plastic water bottles were found floating across the sea near the boat access point to Maya Bay, one of Krabi’s best-known marine attractions.
The Danish Embassy in Thailand has announced that Danish Ambassador to Thailand Danny Annan will host an informal gathering for Danes in Hua Hin on Thursday. The event will take place from 2 pm to 4 pm at Ferior Interior in Hua Hin and is open to all Danes in the area. No registration is required.
Dear Doctors: I’m a 55-year-old man, and I have been active all my life. I know target heart rates are based on age and was surprised that my heart rate while running is often between 150 and 195. Should I slow down a bit?
Domestic oil prices in Thailand are expected to remain elevated until the final quarter of this year, even though global crude benchmarks have eased and the US is set to sign a peace deal with Iran this Friday to end nearly four months of conflict in the Middle East.
Thai FDA warns over 20 illegal meatball and Vietnamese pork loaf brands
Reflecting on data from Thai households, it is evident that a significant portion of individuals over 50 years old have low incomes, accounting for about 42% of Thai households. This indicates a lack of readiness for retirement in Thai society.
Thai financial institutions may face higher-than-average risks from AI-driven fraud as artificial intelligence reshapes financial crime and makes scams faster, more automated, and harder to detect, according to a new survey by BioCatch.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled a plan to position Thailand as ASEAN’s hub for advanced chip manufacturing, with the goal of producing “Made in Thailand” semiconductors by 2050.
Krabi International Airport is attracting growing interest from international airlines, with new routes from Finland and Scandinavia expected to strengthen tourism and support local development, the Ministry of Transport says.
Tourism killed Thailand’s most famous bay. Here’s how it was brought back to life
This video catalogs signature Thai street foods and explains their ingredients and regional contexts, offering a concise culinary overview. Dishes include Pad Thai with rice noodles, egg, tamarind, fish sauce, and toppings, and Pad Kra Pao served over rice with a fried egg.
About 153,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) are predicted to appear on the roads of Thailand this year, prompted mainly by the ongoing energy crisis triggered by the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
The World Bank Group is supporting Thailand’s use of natural capital accounting (NCA) as a tool to help policymakers balance economic growth with environmental protection. NCA measures the stocks and flows of natural assets and translates them into data that can be used alongside existing national accounting systems.
Roadworks on Hua Hin Soi 102 will begin near Laguna Village tomorrow. The project will involve the construction of a reinforced concrete road and drainage system in the Laguna Village area of Soi 102.
A new Thai health study has linked regular e-cigarette use to a sharply higher risk of erectile dysfunction, finding users face double the risk even without underlying medical conditions.
Thailand’s economy is currently facing a significant challenge, as its currency, the baht, weakens despite the presence of portfolio inflows. A record USD 10.0 billion trade deficit in April, primarily driven by robust import activity, is exerting considerable downward pressure on the baht.
Thai trade unions address reduction of safety and health risks in the workplace
Thailand is emerging as one of the world’s most promising markets for AI-driven investment, as artificial intelligence in global finance moves beyond experimentation and into serious real-world use.
AI layoff trap raises wider risks for workers, firms, and demand
For more than half a century, Thailand held a proud title: the “Detroit of the East.” This economic engine was built almost entirely on Japanese blueprints. Beginning in the 1960s, Japanese auto giants like Toyota, Honda, and Isuzu constructed vast industrial networks across the country, establishing a seemingly unshakeable dominance.
Thailand is being urged to close legal loopholes and revise its import strategies as the country seeks to secure a lower tariff rate under Section 301 in negotiations with the United States.
Foodie, mom and kids, lifestyle, and beauty influencers remain the four groups most sought after by businesses as Thailand’s influencer marketing industry enters a more performance-driven era, according to IdeasLabs.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has allocated airport slots to four new airlines for the winter 2026/2027 schedule, paving the way for additional international services during Thailand’s peak tourism season. The new routes will strengthen air connectivity between Thailand and key markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Krabi set for 126 winter flights as Nordic demand rises ahead of high season
The Thai Hotels Association – Southern Chapter and 12 private-sector tourism and economic organizations in the Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, have submitted a letter to the minister of Tourism and Sports and the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), proposing that the government consider reviewing the measure to end visa-free entry for Indian tourists.
Thailand is increasingly using waste-to-energy projects as part of its drive to reduce landfill, generate electricity, cut pollution, and support the country’s clean-energy transition.
Thailand’s central plains are set to become the frontier for sustainable agriculture as the Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Rice Research Center aggressively deploys the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economic Model to pioneer low-carbon rice production.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is concerned that the expiration of the government’s electric vehicle (EV) incentive program in 2027 could leave Thailand vulnerable to a surge of Chinese EV imports and weaken local automotive supply chains.
Japan fans left the stands spotless after their World Cup opener against the Netherlands in Texas yesterday, saying it was “Japanese culture” to tidy up after themselves. Spectators stayed behind after the 2-2 draw to make sure they left the stadium as they found it, meticulously picking up litter and stuffing it into blue plastic bags. 
Russia fired a barrage of missiles at several major Ukrainian cities, setting Kyiv’s historic Dormition Cathedral on fire and killing nine, while Ukraine strikes claimed three lives south of Moscow. 
Switzerland yesterday rejected a proposal to cap its population at 10 million, a projection showed, as voters prioritized economic stability and ties with the European Union over worries immigration was straining public services and pushing up rents. 
Is Hua Hin really the perfect retirement destination in Thailand… or is there a side of life here that most YouTube videos never show? In this video, I take an honest look at what happens after the honeymoon period ends for many expats and retirees living in Hua Hin.
The real way to travel Thailand: Bangkok to Hua Hin by train
The Thai Meteorological Department has warned people in the north, northeast, east, and south to prepare for heavy rain in some areas over the next 24 hours, while Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are forecast to see thunderstorms across 70% of the area.
The Thai Retailers Assn. (TRA) wants to unlock the conditions for the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” co-payment scheme by expanding eligibility to business of all sizes, supporting business continuity and employment.
Replacing visa-free entry with a visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian tourists will not affect this market as affordable prices remain the decisive factor for them, while the policy change can help curb visa abuse, according to an Indian travel agent.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positioning Africa as a key growth market as it seeks to diversify visitor sources amid ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East.
India’s largest low-cost carrier, IndiGo, has announced that its direct service to Krabi will be suspended from July 1 to Sept. 30 as part of a restructuring of its international route network.
A British man who left the UK due to rising living costs says he now lives comfortably in Chiang Mai on just GBP800 a month, compared with more than GBP3,000 a month previously. Robert Hoadley, 45, from Portsmouth, relocated in 2025 and says the move has given him greater financial freedom, improved work-life balance, and a healthier lifestyle.
Skip Chiang Mai’s usual northern loop for this 3-day Lamphun-Lampang road trip
At first glance, it may appear to be a simple question. Yet, it exposes a potentially significant anomaly within Thailand’s fisheries data system. While government agencies have consistently maintained that Thailand legally imported blackchin tilapia only once — and solely for research purposes — official records indicate that the same species was subsequently exported in remarkably large quantities to foreign markets during roughly the same period.
Cybercriminals are using the FIFA World Cup to launch scams and steal credentials, warns FortiGuard Labs, the research arm of cybersecurity firm Fortinet.
Global growth is forecast to slow to 2.5% in 2026, down from 2.9% in 2025. Forecasts for two-thirds of economies have been downgraded relative to January of this year. Global growth is expected to improve to 2.8% in 2027 but will remain 0.4 percentage point below the average during the 2010s.
Thailand’s labor market is facing growing pressure from demographic change, education mismatch, and the rise of artificial intelligence, with four major occupational groups at risk of disruption.
The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) fell to 49.5 in May, the lowest level since December 2022, the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) said yesterday.
Water is no longer simply a basic factor for consumption or agriculture in the modern era. It has become a decisive factor in foreign investors’ decisions and part of the national security strategy.
Ahead of the Feb. 8 general election, politicians often came to court voters like 69-year-old rice farmer Chaon Taiupok in Ayutthaya, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok.
A minister attached to the prime minister’s office, Supamas Isarabhakdi, has ordered increased inspections of amusement parks and water parks nationwide following concerns about consumer safety. The directive was announced during a safety inspection at Siam Amazing Park in Bangkok conducted with officials from the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) and other relevant agencies.
Communities across northern Thailand are raising the alarm after tests detected dangerous levels of arsenic and other heavy metals in major waterways.
Thongkham Inprom has been farming for more than six decades, growing jasmine rice and sticky rice in Chiang Rai. The 71-year-old harvests about 60 tons each year and keeps 1% for his family. The rest is sent to a rice mill and eventually sold in central Thailand.