Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More- ECONOMY: Thai economy beats estimates/VAT Rise to 10% Proposed/Restaurant Association Demands Stimulus/Japanese restaurant numbers fall/Thai–Chinese High-Speed Rail/Government eyes B990-billion land bridge/Nine things foreign investors should know/Top Cybersecurity Trends for 2026
- TOURISM: Thailand Tourism Challenges/Pattaya crackdown on prostitution/Phuket Shop charges 40-Baht Entry Fee/Hat Yai tourism reels
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Elephants need space
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Arsenic exceeds safety limit
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin completion expected in 2028
The Dusit Ajara Hua Hin project is moving forward with full-scale development after receiving approval for its environmental impact assessment (EIA) report from the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONREP). Construction has now commenced as planned, with the expected completion of residential units in 2028,
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin is an ultra-luxury, low-rise, low-density residential project, with 96 units on 20 rai of land. The project focuses on sustainable living in all aspects, in collaboration with experienced and expert partners in both building design, interior and exterior, creating a new living experience amid the urban forest surrounding the project.
Thailand experiencing significant shift in population structure
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
This is the 12th population census and the sixth household census. The country has a population of 70.3 million people and 26.3 million households. Continued …
Kalasin hospital boast 100% cancer surgery success rate
A district hospital in northeastern Thailand has reported a 100% success rate in laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer after screening more than 1,200 people over the past three years.
Yang Talat Hospital in Kalasin said it had carried out free colonoscopy screenings on 1,222 people since the 2023 fiscal year, detecting 19 cases of colorectal cancer. All 19 patients underwent successful laparoscopic surgery and have since returned to normal daily life, hospital officials said. Continued …
Could the public handle 1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll?
As the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is now proceeding with a feasibility study of building a bridge connecting mainland Surat Thai to Koh Samui, a politician raised the question whether the public will be able to cope with 1,000-baht toll fee per trip, with this rate being more expensive than some world-class bridges.
Samart Ratchapolsitte, former deputy leader of the Democrat Party and former deputy governor of Bangkok, asked whether this steep toll is appropriate and fair to the public. “If you had to shell out 1,000 baht to drive across a bridge to Koh Samui, taking only 20 minutes instead of the usual two hours by ferry… would you pay?” he asked. Continued …
Thai Navy Finds New Mines in Thai Territory
Thai authorities say they have found clear evidence that Cambodia secretly planted landmines inside Thai territory, describing the act as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
The Royal Thai Navy confirmed that newly laid anti-personnel mines were discovered during operations to secure and clear border areas. Officials said the discovery has heightened security concerns along the frontier. Continued …
Security Tightened in Yala After Seven Bombings
Security has been raised to the highest level in Yala following a coordinated wave of seven bomb attacks in neighboring Narathiwat over the past 48 hours.
The incidents, which took place Saturday and Sunday, prompted authorities to intensify screening measures for residents and travelers. Although no injuries were reported, officials remain on high alert to prevent further violence. Continued …
‘Extinct’ No More: Predatory Legend Rediscovered in Southern Thailand’s Peatlands
In a discovery that has stunned the international conservation community, researchers have confirmed the first official sighting in decades of the False Gharial in the Thai wild. The legendary reptile, which many experts feared had vanished from the kingdom’s natural habitats, was captured on film in a remote canal in Narathiwat province.
The encounter began with a pair of “mysterious eyes” reflecting the beam of a torch above the ink-black waters of a Tak Bai waterway. As the creature emerged, it revealed a prehistoric form over three meters in length — a living testament to a species the world feared had been lost to history. Continued …
Thai economy beats Q4 growth estimates
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
Gross domestic product in the three months through December rose 2.5% from a year earlier, the National Economic and Social Development Council said today. That exceeds the 1.3% median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey and the 1.2% pace in the third quarter. Continued …
VAT Rise to 10% Proposed to Fund Elderly Benefits
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The extra funds would help raise monthly pensions for elderly citizens from the current 600–1,000 baht to 3,000 baht. VAT currently accounts for around 30% of total government income, generating approximately 900 billion baht each year. Continued …
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Thai Restaurant Association Demands Emergency Stimulus
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Industry leaders are demanding a swift injection of liquidity and a seat at the policy-making table as businesses grapple with a toxic combination of surging costs and weakened consumer spending. Continued …
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Japanese restaurants have long remained one of Thailand’s most popular dining segments, ranging from small eateries to premium venues. However, in 2026, the Japanese restaurant market is facing a major turning point, after the number of outlets fell for the first time in nearly 20 years.
Abe Ichiro, president of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Bangkok, cited the 2025 survey of Japanese restaurants in Thailand, which found a total of 5,781 outlets nationwide, down 135 outlets, or 2.2%, from 5,916 the previous year. Continued …
Thai–Chinese High-Speed Rail Project Reaches 51%
The first phase of the Thai–Chinese high-speed rail project has reached 51.7% completion, according to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). TActing SRT Gov. Anan Phonimdaeng said progress is continuing across multiple contracts.
Phase 1 links Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima and carries a total investment value of 179.41 billion baht. The phase consists of 14 construction contracts and one train system contract. Two contracts covering the Klang Dong–Pang Asok and Sikhiu–Kut Chik sections have been completed, while construction is under way on 10 others. Continued …
New government eyes B990-billion land bridge
Attention is turning to the Bhumjaithai-led government’s push to advance the land bridge project, valued at B990 billion, with the Transport Ministry expressing confidence that it can move to tender and attract private-sector partners within four years of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s administration. Officials said both Thai and overseas investors have shown interest in joining the project.
Bhumjaithai has set out plans to drive major infrastructure in the south, particularly transport and logistics projects aimed at developing the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) and linking freight movement between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea through the land bridge. Continued …
Nine things foreign investors should know about Thailand
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
- Relationships come first: In Thailand, you cannot rush into business. Major deals are built on trust and long-term relationships. Investing time to genuinely connect with business partners is essential for success. In Thailand, business often moves at the speed of trust, with multiple meetings, conversations, and even dinner or social gatherings taking place before an agreement is reached. Continued …
Gartner Unveils Top Cybersecurity Trends for 2026
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
According to the latest insights from Gartner, Inc., cybersecurity leaders are entering a period of unprecedented change that will test the resilience of even the most mature organizations. Continued …
Thailand Tourism Challenges: Rising Baht and Exchange Rate Impacts on Travel Costs for Tourists
Thailand, celebrated for its vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and rich history, continues to be a significant destination for international travelers. However, recent concerns regarding ncreasing travel expenses, especially among visitors from South Korea and the U.S., have emerged.
Many perceive that the rising costs are due to domestic inflation; however, Thailand’s tourism authorities clarify that these perceptions stem from exchange rate fluctuations, not local price hikes. The country remains a top vacation spot despite these challenges, emphasizing the need for potential travelers to understand the underlying economic factors affecting travel costs. Continued …
Pattaya police crack down on prostitution to boost tourism image
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
The operation led to the detention of 20 individuals suspected of engaging in prostitution, most of whom were foreign women. This crackdown was in response to numerous complaints from foreign tourists who expressed shock at being approached, harassed, and solicited for sex by provocatively dressed women, both Thai and foreign. Continued …
Phuket Shop charges 40-Baht Entry Fee
A video showing a shop in Phuket’s Old Town charging visitors 40 baht to enter has triggered widespread criticism on Chinese social media, raising concerns about the potential impact on Thailand’s tourism image. The controversy emerged yesterday after footage filmed inside a shop circulated online, on Chinese social media apps.
The clip spread rapidly on Chinese platforms. The footage allegedly shows an elderly woman inside the shop demanding a 40-baht fee from Chinese tourists to enter and browse products. When the visitors declined to pay, she reportedly used inappropriate language and made gestures perceived as mocking and racially offensive. Continued …
Hat Yai tourism reels as Chinese New Year bookings plunge
The Chinese New Year in Hat Yai has been markedly subdued this year, with room bookings plunging and many businesses still closed months after last year’s flood, local hotel and tourism operators said yesterday.
Sitthipong Sitthiphataraprabha, president of the Hat Yai–Songkhla Hotels Assn., said bookings for the 2026 festival period were hovering around 40%, a sharp decline of 60% from last year. Visitor numbers were expected to reach only 25,000, far below the usual 50,000–60,000 during peak years. Continued …
Elephants need space
Elephants hold a special place in the hearts of Thais. The latest evidence was Wednesday’s protest following the death of Seedor Hu Pab, a male elephant that died on Feb. 3 during a ham-fisted relocation attempt by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
Angered animal protection activists have demanded the resignation of DNP chief Attapon Charoenchansa over the elephant’s death, which occurred during its relocation from Khon Kaen province to Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary in Loei province. Continued …
Arsenic exceeds safety limit in Kok, Sai rivers
Arsenic levels exceeding the safety threshold of 0.01 milligrams per liter (mg/l) have been detected in parts of the Kok River and its tributaries, says the Pollution Control Department’s (PCD) 15th report on water and sediment quality.
Water and sediment samples collected from Jan. 13–16 in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai followed reports of unusual turbidity and possible contamination. Most heavy metals, including cadmium, copper, nickel, chromium, zinc, and mercury, remained within national standards. Continued …
- Pattaya Immigration Arrest Iranian Over Attempted Murder – Continued …
- Israeli Restaurant Owner Held in 50-million-baht Drugs Bust – Continued …
- Brit caught running illegal operation in national park for more than 10 years – Continued …
- Phuket Russian Bar Raided for Multiple Offenses – Continued …
- Malaysian Held Over 1.93-million-baht Pattaya Fraud – 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 City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
The number of daily passengers using Chiang Mai Airport as reached a new post-pandemic high, underlining the city’s status as a tourist hub in northern Thailand.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
The US military is preparing for the possibility of extended operations lasting weeks against Iran, if President Donald Trump orders an attack, according to two US officials. This raises the stakes significantly in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran. 
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has been awarded the R5 Guarantee Award under the “R5 Guarantee to Global” initiative, organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the Thai Food and Drug Administration. This accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to quality, safety, and internationally aligned health and wellness standards.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Recount. Nationwide vote recount. The Election Commission must resign. A new election altogether. These are the growing demands of some voters, particularly supporters of the People’s Party, who believe the Feb. 8 snap election was not just rigged here and there but systemically manipulated.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
The global average birth rate has halved since 1960 and is now just above the “replacement” rate of 2.1 children per woman. However, that is misleading, as averages often are. Only sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East still have the old, high birth rates. Everywhere else there is a rising panic about a future where the old will outnumber the young. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
Travelers heading between Hua Hin and Bangkok are being advised to plan ahead following a Rama II Road closure at the Bang Khun Thian Bridge that will last for up to four months.
The Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, starting at 4 pm, with Hua Hin City Municipality confirming a full program of traditional processions, performances, and cultural activities.
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan moved a step forward yesterday as city officials met with Shinawatra University to discuss EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
Traffic signs and road markings installed on Soi 78 to ease congestion
The World Bank now expects Thailand’s economic growth, measured by GDP, to slow to 1.6% in 2026, driven by weaker global trade, persistently high household debt, and a slower recovery in tourism. This is below its earlier projection of 1.8%, before a rebound to 2.2% in 2027.
The economy is expected to expand by 1.51%–1.75% this year, says a public opinion survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president and chairman of the advisory board at the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey on public expectations of the new administration shows voters prioritize structural economic reform over short-term populist measures.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government’s plan to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists, on average, stay for less than a month.
The narrative surrounding Thailand’s tourism appeal has evolved. Visitors no longer come simply because the destination is affordable. Increasingly, travelers choose Thailand for its depth of experience, consistency, and a genuine sense of welcome that remains difficult to replicate elsewhere.
The average daily rate for hotels in Thailand surged by 3% last year to 4,984 baht and they recorded a longer average length of stay, with Booking.com, Agoda, and direct hotel bookings generating the most revenue, according to SiteMinder.
The “Disneyland Thailand” buzz has resurfaced after Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, deputy prime minister and minister of transport, floated the idea of moving ahead with a world-class theme park project in Chonburi under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
Thailand has significant untapped potential to develop advanced green manufacturing as a new engine of growth, with electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic components, and energy-efficient cooling technologies offering opportunities to raise GDP by an additional 2.9% by 2035, according to the World Bank’s latest Thailand Economic Monitor released yesterday.
Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) sales (passenger car and light duty vehicles) more than tripled year-on-year to over 44,000 units in January 2026, a record month for the country. Its penetration rate grew to 48%, another monthly record, surpassing its previous high of 37% set in December.
A record-breaking surge in wealthy people “relocating abroad” is reshaping the global balance of power. Countries are increasingly being treated like assets, while citizenship is becoming a tool for diversifying risk. In an era where state policy can change faster than economic fundamentals, capital moves first — and moves more aggressively than ever before. 
Passengers in Thailand can now utilize QR codes for enhanced taxi ride safety and convenience. This new feature allows users to verify driver details, real-time track their journey, share trip information, and rate their experience. The Department of Land Transport plans to equip around 70,000 taxis with these QR codes by June.
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
Arada Fueangthong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said Thailand’s utilization of trade preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand in January–November 2025.
If the incoming coalition government implements its IT policies as pledged during the campaign, it should increase revenue growth of system integrator and data center businesses by 5.8% year-on-year to 260 billion baht this year, says Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
As global healthcare costs continue to rise, access to affordable and reliable medical care has become an increasingly important factor in travel decisions. For retirees, digital nomads, long-stay visitors, and medical tourists, healthcare is no longer merely a matter of safety. It is part of the destination value proposition.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has urged the incoming government to prioritize urgent economic and cost-of-living problems as its first agenda, warning that household debt, SME distress, export pressures, and an influx of cheap imports now pose a critical threat to growth and public welfare. T
Unofficial results of the 2026 general election clearly point to the Bhumjaithai Party taking the lead in forming the next government. The party campaigned on its “10 Plus” economic platform, which is set to become the core economic policy of the new administration.
Thailand’s hotel sector will remain highly challenging in 2026, pressured by multiple factors, including uncertainty in key foreign markets amid global geopolitical risks and the continued strength of the baht, according to Kasikorn Research Center.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. is calling for small eateries registered as juristic persons to be included in the anticipated revival of the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme under the new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party.
The public sector under the new government is expected to accelerate the adoption of cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to bridge its legacy bureaucratic systems with advanced digital technology.
Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) expects more than 4.11 million passengers to pass through its six airports during the Chinese New Year holiday period from Feb. 13-22. The surge is driven largely by a continued recovery in the Chinese market, increasing pressure on airport operations nationwide. Authorities are preparing for heavier traffic and longer processing times during peak travel days.
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
Thailand’s election marked a significant shift as the nation embraced nationalism and the monarchy, moving away from a progressive movement that had gained traction in recent years. The election results are a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape.
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective Jan. 15. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
Thailand will impose a temporary nationwide ban on the sale, distribution and serving of alcoholic beverages during the general election. The restriction will be in force from 6 pm yoday until 6 pm tomorrow. During this period, alcohol will not be legally available in any setting nationwide.
The Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) has sounded the alarm over a critical public health crisis, revealing that the average Thai citizen now consumes 3,650 milligrams of sodium daily. This figure is nearly double the 2,000mg limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), sparking a push for a “Salty Tax” on high-sodium products.
The restaurant industry continues to face several challenges this year, as tourism has not fully recovered, labor shortages persist, and costs remain high. Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Restaurant Association, said the tourism industry has an uncertain outlook in terms of traveler numbers, contributing to difficulties for eateries this year.
Starting from Jan. 1 this year, all goods ordered online and imported into Thailand are subject to both import duty and value-added tax (VAT). The Customs Department eliminated the minimum tax-exempt value (de minimis value), which was 1,500 baht. The measure is intended to ensure fairer trade competition and improve the efficiency of government revenue collection.
While 786 factories closed in 2025 and 1,220 new ones opened, there were more closures than openings in December for the first time in two years, according to the Kasikorn Research Center. This reflects ongoing structural problems and intense competition in the manufacturing sector, the research center pointed out,
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) is preparing to restart oil and gas exploration and production projects once a new government takes office following tomorrow’s general election, in a bid to attract multi-billion-baht investments and strengthen Thailand’s long-term energy security.
Gulf Development Public Co has successfully secured loan facilities totaling 60,000-million baht to support the development of 27 renewable energy power projects with a total contracted generation capacity of 939 MW.
In January, the number of layoffs in the United States surged to 108,435, marking the highest level since the 2009 subprime crisis. This increase, which represents a rise of 118% compared to January 2025 and 205% compared to December 2025, highlights a troubling trend in the job market. In addition to the surge in layoffs, new hiring also dropped to its lowest point in 17 years, with just 5,306 new positions announced in January. 
Canada and France, which both oppose US President Donald Trump’s claim to Greenland, opened consulates in the Danish autonomous territory’s capital yesterday, in a show of support for the local government. Since returning to the White House last year, Trump has insisted that Washington needs to control the strategic, mineral-rich Arctic island for security reasons. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
From Feb. 8 to 11, a moderate to strong high-pressure system, or cold air mass, from China will cover the upper parts of Thailand, leading to thunderstorms initially, followed by a decrease in temperature and strong winds.
The president of Thailand’s fifth-largest bank has acknowledged the country’s economic challenges following its recent characterization as the “sick man of Asia”, arguing the malaise requires deep structural reforms rather than temporary stimulus, while unveiling a strategy to bolster sustainable finance by 40% to 350 billion baht (US$10.1 billion) by 2030.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week. 
The Thai food delivery market recorded significant consolidation and growth between 2024 and 2025.The market is increasingly defined by a duopoly between Grab and Line Man, as smaller competitors exit, according to Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works.
Thailand’s annual headline inflation rate was negative for a 10th consecutive month in January, driven by lower energy prices and government measures to ease living costs, the Ministry of Commerce said today. The headline consumer price index (CPI) dropped 0.66% in January from a year earlier, following an annual fall of 0.3% in the previous month, the ministry said.