- International flights for Hua Hin?/Hua Hin Airport upgrade/Tourism Minister visits Hua Hin/Parking changes for soi 94/Hua Hin recognized/Hua Hin videos/Crackdown on unfair bank fees/Egg prices up 20 satang/Nominee crackdown steps up/Parents debate social media time
- THE IRAN WAR: War constrains auto industry
- ECONOMY: CPI up 2.42%/Prolonged property slump/Gold and Food Security Emerge/EU’s €3 parcel fee/Data centers and power infrastructure/IMF-World Bank in Bangkok
- TOURISM: Thailand Targets 33 Tourism Firms/Second-half tourism campaign/Koh Tao arrivals/Pattaya Hotels Face Steep Occupancy Drop/Saudi pilgrimage trip collapses/Thai-Made Train Joins Tourism Fleet
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Ranong for eco-tourism and wellness/Exploring Bangkok’s urban wildlife/13 common mistakes to avoid
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Sell excess rooftop solar power/Thailand Pushes Clean Energy Drive/Regional roadmap to tackle climate/How much plastic are we using?
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Singapore, Taipei, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur flights for Hua Hin?
Government agencies and the private sector have taken a major step toward bringing international flights to Hua Hin Airport, with Thai AirAsia identifying four potential overseas routes. A Market Insights and Customer Insights Workshop was held on Friday, bringing together more than 60 tourism, hotel and hospitality operators from Hua Hin and Cha Am.
Singapore, Taipei, Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur were identified as high-potential international routes for Hua Hin. The routes are seen as having the potential to bring more international visitors directly to Hua Hin, particularly families, honeymooners and travelers with higher spending power. Continued …
Hua Hin Airport upgrade: More tourists the priority
Hua Hin’s long-running push for international flights is now being tied to a wider plan to reposition the city as a year-round destination, rather than one reliant mainly on weekend visitors and domestic tourism.
Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the development of Hua Hin Airport was now being considered alongside wider tourism planning for the city. She cited an important collaboration between the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, TAT and Thai AirAsia, with discussions focused on passenger demand, market potential and what Hua Hin needs to offer future visitors. Continued …
Tourism Minister visits Hua Hin with plans to boost connectivity
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul has unveiled a sweeping plan to reinvent Hua Hin as a world-class tourism hub, with direct international flights, a transformed Hua Hin Airport and a premium tourism strategy designed to rival Phuket and Koh Samui.
Backed by major infrastructure upgrades, new airline partnerships and a drive to attract higher-spending visitors from across Asia and beyond, the government says the royal resort can become a leading international gateway, while generating billions of baht in new tourism revenue and reshaping Thailand’s western Gulf coast. Continued …
Parking changes on the way for soi 94
Hua Hin parking measures, including odd-even day no-parking signs in Soi 94 and designated parking areas for rental vehicles, were discussed at a municipal road safety meeting held last week. The meeting focused on traffic management, road safety and the use of public spaces, as Hua Hin continues to experience heavier traffic linked to the city’s growth.
Officials discussed the installation of odd-even day no-parking signs on Hua Hin Soi 94 as part of efforts to manage roadside parking and improve traffic flow. The issue was raised alongside complaints about congestion in several areas, including Hua Hin Soi 88, near Ban Khun Por restaurant, and the Khao Phitak community. Continued …
Hua Hin recognized for environmental health services
Hua Hin City Municipality has received an EHA Excellence Award recognizing it as a model local administrative organization for environmental health services.
The award was presented during Thai Environmental Health Day 2026, held on Friday at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok. The event was organized by the Ministry of Public Health and the Department of Health under the theme “Scaling Up Environmental Health for a Low-Carbon Society and Better Well-Being”. Continued …
Is Living in Hua Hin better Than Phuket?
Explore Hua Hin as a real world living option, not just a holiday destination. We break the city down into clear categories so you can actually understand what life is like here day to day if you were to move, retire, or spend a long-term stay.
We cover accommodation options, including budget stays, mid-range condos, and long-term rental potential. We explore beaches and what the coastline is actually like for swimming, relaxing, and everyday use. We dive into shopping and markets to see how convenient and affordable daily life feels. We also review restaurants and bars to understand the food scene, variety, and value. Video …
Hua Hin Nightlife
Go bar hopping across some of the town’s best nightlife spots, including Hard Rock Cafe, the Hilton Rooftop Bar, Soi Bintabaht, Soi 94, Soi 80, Khao Takiab and more! From rooftop sunset drinks and live music to DJ bars and hidden local spots, this vlog captures the atmosphere of Hua Hin after dark. Also check out drink prices along the way to see what a night out in Hua Hin actually costs in 2026. Video …
BOT cracks down on unfair bank fees
Individual customers and businesses in Thailand are set to benefit from lower service fees charged by commercial banks and other financial institutions under a new regulation issued by the Bank of Thailand (BOT).
BOT Gov. Vitai Ratanakorn told the media that the regulation is intended to reduce the financial burden on the public and businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Continued …
Thailand egg farmers lift mixed-size egg prices by 20 satang
Thailand’s Egg Farmers’ Co-operative Network has announced a 20-satang increase in the farm-gate price of mixed-size eggs to 3.80 baht each, raising the cost of a 30-egg tray by six baht from today. The rate will remain in force until further notice.
The network comprises four major co-operatives: Paet Riw Egg Farmers’ Co-operative, Chonburi Egg Farmers’ Co-operative, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Egg Farmers’ Co-operative and Noi River Basin Egg Farmers’ Co-operative. Continued …
Nominee crackdown steps up
The Commerce Ministry has vowed to intensify its crackdown on the illegal use of Thai nominees by foreign investors as part of a broader effort to protect fair competition and the country’s economic interests.
Its Department of Business Development (DBD) said nominee shareholding had become a long-standing problem that distorts market competition and disadvantages legitimate businesses operating in Thailand. The number of companies considered at risk of nominee arrangements had risen steadily over the past two decades, from 523 firms in 1998 to 11,746 in 2025. Continued …
Parents debate curbing kids’ social media time
As policymakers debate whether Thailand should follow countries such as Australia and the United Kingdom in restricting children’s access to social media, many parents say the real battle is already taking place inside their homes.
For some, smartphones and online games have become a constant source of conflict. Others have spent years carefully building routines to limit screen time before problems emerge. Still others argue that no law can replace consistent parenting. Continued …
Mideast war continues to constrain auto industry
Thailand’s automotive industry and supply chain may continue to feel the strain of conflicts in the Middle East despite peace negotiations, says Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand) Co., a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned electric vehicle (EV) maker Chery Automobile.
The prospect of Washington and Tehran fully halting hostilities remains uncertain, fueling concerns over a drawn-out conflict. Such instability is expected to exacerbate semiconductor scarcity and push global prices higher, said Cedric Cui, president of Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand). Continued …
Thailand’s June headline CPI up 2.42% y/y
Thailand’s headline consumer price index rose by 2.42% in June from a year earlier, following an annual rise of 2.79% the previous month, the commerce ministry said today.
The reading compared with a forecast increase of 2.79% in a Reuters poll, and was inside the central bank’s target inflation range of 1% to 3%. The core CPI, which excludes volatile energy and fresh food prices, rose 1.23% in June compared to a year earlier. Continued …
Thai real estate sector faces prolonged property slump and energy pressure
Thailand’s real estate sector faces mounting pressure, as a prolonged property downturn, weak purchasing power, tight credit and higher energy costs continue to weigh on production, investment and employment.
The broader picture of the Thai economy points to a recovery that remains concentrated in limited areas, with several key industries still showing few clear signs of a rebound. Property and automotive businesses, in particular, are facing severe challenges, as household debt stays high and consumer demand remains fragile. Continued …
Gold and Food Security Emerge as Pillars of a New Thai Trade Strategy
Thailand is positioning itself as a resilient, neutral hub in a fracturing global economy, leveraging its geography and gold’s growing strategic value to navigate the deepening rivalry between the United States and China.
Speaking at the Thailand Gold Summit 2026 yesterday, Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun set out a “mutual benefit” trade strategy intended to balance ties with the world’s two largest economies, while elevating gold from a traditional savings vehicle to what she termed a “strategic national asset”. Continued …
EU’s €3 parcel fee puts Thailand between export opening and import risk
The European Union’s new €3 customs fee on low-value e-commerce parcels may deal a blow to Chinese online giants such as SHEIN, Temu and AliExpress, but for Thailand the bigger question is whether the measure will create a new export opportunity — or trigger a fresh influx of cheap Chinese goods into ASEAN.
The EU began applying the new charge on July 1, targeting the surge in low-value e-commerce imports that had previously entered the bloc under the duty-free de minimis threshold of €150. The European Commission says the temporary €3 customs duty applies to low-value consignments worth up to €150 imported from outside the EU, replacing the exemption that was in place until June 30. Continued …
Data center success depends on power infrastructure
Investment in data centers, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, remains economically viable and attractive, but it must be evaluated in the context of three fundamental constraints, says Gartner Inc., a business and technology insights company.
The first constraint is the availability and cost of key components, especially AI-optimized servers such as graphics processing units, said Linglan Wang, director analyst at Gartner. Continued …
IMF-World Bank meeting puts Thailand on global investment stage
Thailand’s Finance Ministry expects the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok to give the country a rare global platform to showcase its economic readiness, crisis-management capacity and investment potential.
The meetings will take place Oct. 12-18 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The ministry views the gathering as more than a short-term boost from visitors and spending. It says the event will give Thailand valuable international “airtime” to communicate its direction, policy priorities and ability to manage challenges at a time of global uncertainty. Continued …
Thailand Targets 33 Tourism Firms in Nominee Crackdown
Thailand is stepping up its crackdown on foreign-operated tourism businesses suspected of using Thai nationals as illegal nominees, with authorities identifying 33 high-risk firms across five key tourism provinces.
The government is also expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology to detect suspicious business structures, while four tour operators have already lost their licenses following investigations. Continued …
TAT intensifies second-half tourism campaign as arrivals edge up
Although the war in the Middle East and intensifying regional tourism competition are factors affecting Thai tourism in 2026, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) still sees the outlook for foreign visitors to Thailand this year at 33 million, representing a slight growth of 0.1%. TAT is moving to stimulate the market heavily in the second half of the year.
Thai tourism this year continues to face negative factors from the economic crisis, the impact of the energy crisis caused by the war in the Middle East, as well as risks that are difficult to control, including epidemics, natural disasters, geopolitical and political conflicts, and Thailand’s current value-for-money challenge. Continued …
Koh Tao arrivals set to top 800,000
Tourist arrivals on Koh Tao continue to grow, with local tourism operators expecting visitor numbers to exceed 800,000 by the end of the year and generate around 10 billion baht in revenue.
Rumluek Assavachin, president of the Koh Tao Tourism Assn., yesterday said the island welcomed 407,697 visitors between January and June, up 50,076, or 14%, from the same period last year. Continued …
Pattaya Hotels Face Steep Occupancy Drop This Low Season
Pattaya’s tourism sector is experiencing a particularly weak low season, with tourist numbers falling in Pattaya and Chon Buri, leaving many hotels unable to reach break-even occupancy levels. Many properties are reporting occupancy rates of just 15% to 20%, below the estimated break-even threshold of 40% to 50%.
The downturn follows the April to May school holiday period, when family travel would normally help sustain demand into the early low season. However, this year the decline has been more pronounced, with reduced meetings, seminars and government-related travel contributing significantly to weaker performance. Continued …
Thai tour operator arrested after Saudi pilgrimage trip collapses
A Thai man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport Saturday after police received complaints from 150 travelers who alleged they had paid for a pilgrimage tour to Saudi Arabia that never departed, with reported losses exceeding 4 million baht.
Police said the group had booked a 10-night, 11-day trip to Saudi Arabia scheduled to run from July 3 to 13. Each traveler allegedly paid 25,000 baht. Continued …
Thai-Made EV Train Joins SRT Tourism Fleet
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has received its first Thai-made luxury-class EV passenger train prototype, marking a significant milestone for the country’s rail industry and plans to expand domestic manufacturing. The handover ceremony took place on Friday, with the prototype set to undergo comprehensive safety testing before entering service on tourism routes.
The luxury-class EV passenger train was designed and built entirely in Thailand by Thai researchers and engineers. The project, an official said, demonstrated successful collaboration between research institutes and more than 30 private-sector companies, highlighting the country’s growing engineering capabilities. Continued …
Ranong touted as premier destination for eco-tourism and wellness
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is positioning the southern province of Ranong as a premier destination for eco-tourism and wellness, leveraging its pristine natural resources and award-winning universal design features to attract both domestic and international travelers.
Despite being classified as a secondary tourism city, Ranong boasts highly abundant terrestrial and mangrove forests, alongside stunning marine resources, according to DNP Director-general Attapol Charoenchansa. Continued …
Exploring Bangkok’s urban wildlife: A night with snakes and reptiles
It looked like a string bean at first. Wrapped around a branch behind a clutch of parked motorcycles, the snake’s chartreuse skin was just a few swatches brighter than the tall foliage it was trying to blend into. Thai-American snake expert Christopher Shannon caught it in the beam of his flashlight, quickly identifying it as an Asian long-nosed vine snake. Its pointy snout and slit-like pupils gave it, in his words, “binocular vision.”
Within minutes, our small group spotted several more critters. A flying fox, the world’s largest bat species, crashed through the trees overhead. Just below, a puff-faced water snake writhed through a concrete ditch, while a large-eyed pit viper rested nearby. Their home: a roadside plot of shrubs and palm trees, just 15 minutes from the gleaming skyscraper jumble of downtown Bangkok. Continued …
13 common mistakes to avoid in Thailand
Traveling in Thailand requires awareness of cultural etiquette, legal restrictions, and environmental factors. Key considerations include respecting local customs such as removing shoes, dressing modestly in temples, and avoiding gestures like touching heads or pointing feet.
Practical tips cover planning realistic itineraries, preparing for seasonal weather, ensuring proper documentation, managing money and transport, practicing food and health safety, and steering clear of activities or behaviors that violate laws or ethical standards. Continued …
Householders can now sell excess rooftop solar power
Householders with solar rooftops can now apply to sell their excess power to electricity authorities. People in Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan can file application to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority via the website address.
Those who live in other provinces can do so through the Provincial Electricity Authority website . Both state-run power enterprises will buy power at 2.20 baht per unit for 10 years and each approved householder can sell up to five kilowatts per meter. Continued …
Thailand Pushes Clean Energy Drive
The Thai government says it is accelerating the restructuring of the country’s energy sector to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, expand renewable energy and strengthen energy security, while making Thailand more attractive to investors. The announcement comes as global demand for clean electricity continues to grow and governments compete to secure investment linked to low-carbon energy.
A government spokesperson said the global economy is entering a new phase of competition focused not only on technology and manufacturing, but also on the ability to produce clean electricity. She said clean energy is becoming a key factor in attracting investment, supporting exports and creating future jobs, prompting the government to speed up reforms to ensure Thailand remains competitive. Continued …
Asia-Pacific nations adopt new regional roadmap to tackle climate and environmental crises
Governments across Asia and the Pacific have adopted a new regional roadmap to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution through closer cooperation, during a meeting convened by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
ESCAP stressed that the region continues to face growing environmental pressures. At the current pace, 88%of measurable environment-related sustainable development goal targets are projected to be missed by 2030, while 90% of the population is exposed to unsafe levels of air pollution. Continued …
How much plastic are we using?
From dishes to furniture, electronics, toys, and even clothing, it feels like everything these days is made of plastic. Most plastics take decades, or even centuries, to break down. This means that even when properly disposed of, plastic items do not just go away.
Recycled plastic sticks around, too, although recycling plastic into new objects does help reduce the demand for new plastic to be made from fossil fuels. Continued …
British Woman Charged With Murder in Pattaya
A 20-year-old British woman has been charged with murder after her 33-year-old British partner was found dead with multiple stab wounds at a villa in Pattaya. Thai police allege Isabelle Violet Carreras was responsible for the killing, although she has denied the accusation during questioning. Continued …
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Hong Kong Customs Seize Cannabis From Thai Flights – Continued …
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Immigration Busts Fake Passport Ring in Bangkok – Continued …
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South Korean Scam Boss Arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
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Israeli, Romanian Held in Koh Pha Ngan Childcare Raid – Continued …
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10 illegal workers arrested after foam waste flood in Chon Buri – 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
Is Hua Hin Actually Worth It?
Embark on a culinary journey through Hua Hin with this ultimate food guide featuring the 10 best restaurants in the area. From hidden gems to popular street food spots, explore the authentic and exotic flavors that make Hua Hin a foodie’s paradise. Taste test must-try dishes and sharid top food recommendations.
Thailand has been placed on alert for heavy rain, flash floods and rough seas as Tropical Storm Maysak intensifies monsoon conditions across the country, despite the storm not being expected to move directly into Thailand.
With memory prices surging and new gadgets becoming more expensive, the smartest smartphone buy in Thailand in 2026 may not be the newest flagship but last year’s premium model — still fast and polished and far less likely to make your credit card need a lie-down.
The government’s “Thais Help Thais Plus” co-payment scheme has helped to revive the economy and stimulate spending in the food and beverage sector, according to two online food delivery operators.
Households in the northeast are still struggling, and confidence in the economy remains weak, according to a new poll that gave the government’s economic performance low marks.
Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said yesterday that Thailand’s exports in May were worth US$34.333 billion, up 10.6% and expanding for a 23rd consecutive month.
Sky Kanyarat was playing pool in the early hours of the morning in one of Thailand’s most famous red light districts when a middle-aged foreigner with a heavy gait approached her. She had often seen him walking past the bar where she worked in Pattaya, a city about a two-hour drive from Bangkok. But this was the first time Kanyarat had seen him come in.
Thailand will introduce tougher airport security measures based on a zero trust approach after a Thai airline cabin crew member was detained in Australia over alleged involvement in drug trafficking. The government said the case should not be viewed as an isolated incident but as a catalyst to strengthen aviation security across the entire air travel system.
Thailand is moving to strengthen its role as a sportainment destination as interest in fitness travel grows alongside the longevity trend, which is reshaping exercise from a lifestyle choice into part of long-term health and travel planning.
Tourism operators in the south have urged the government to strengthen security measures after Malaysian tourists were injured in a roadside bomb attack in Tak Bai, although the incident has affected only a limited number of tour groups traveling to Hat Yai this weekend.
Kui Buri – Where the Wild still roams
Scientists and environmental groups warn the land bridge project could threaten fragile marine ecosystems and coastal communities in southern Thailand, while the government promises economic growth. 
Thailand is intensifying its efforts to combat global warming by steering investment toward green manufacturing. At the center of this strategy is the bio-, circular and green (BCG) economic model — a framework that aims to balance growth with sustainability.
Sustainability has moved beyond the language of annual reports. In Thailand, it is becoming something far more tangible: solar panels on factory roofs, biogas from production by-products, lighter packaging, smarter energy systems and industrial discipline that can be measured in tons of avoided carbon.
Thailand’s ambition to become a leading electric vehicle production hub in ASEAN has gained further momentum, with investment promotion approvals in the EV industry reaching 198 projects worth more than 137 billion baht as of May.
The Thailand Riviera coastal road project is set to move forward again, with the Ministry of Transport seeking budget approval for fiscal year 2027 to study and design an extension from Chumphon to Songkhla.
Fuel prices in Bangkok were updated today after PTT Oil and Retail Business, or OR, and Bangchak Corp, or BCP, announced cuts to petrol and gasohol prices. The reductions ranged from 0.60 to 1.20 baht per liter, while diesel prices were left unchanged.
The government has welcomed Thailand being ranked the world’s eighth-best healthcare system in 2026 by the Numbeo website, saying the result reflects the country’s efficient healthcare management and broad access to medical services.
Nine monks were killed and 13 other people injured after a pickup truck driven by an 11-year-old boy plowed into a morning pilgrimage in Muang district of Mukdahan province yesterday.
Thailand’s economy is sending two completely different signals. Official figures point to a country recovering faster than expected, with GDP expanding by 2.8%, exports surging by more than 23% in April, and tourism continuing to drive growth, albeit at a falling rate.
The narrowing trade deficit and easing inflationary pressure should support the baht regaining strength against the US dollar late in the third quarter this year, reversing a short-term depreciation trend, says Siam Commercial Bank Financial Markets (SCB FM).
There are growing signs that small and medium-sized Chinese entrepreneurs in auto sectors are interested in investing in Thailand, according to the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce.
Thailand is on course for another record year in foreign film-production investment, as global streaming platforms and the fast-growing vertical-drama market continue to bring overseas crews and spending into the country.
The Department of Consular Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has updated its 2026 list of countries and territories offering visa-free entry to holders of ordinary Thai passports. The revised list includes 35 destinations where Thai travelers can enter without applying for a visa, subject to each country’s entry conditions.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has emphasized the development of rail tourism as an important step toward creating new experiential and economic value for Thailand’s tourism industry. TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that Thailand’s tourism sector has long drawn strength from its natural attractions, cultural heritage, and recognized hospitality.
Pattaya’s tourism is facing a particularly weak low season, with tourist numbers falling by around 20% to 30% in Pattaya and Chon Buri, while many hotels are reporting occupancy rates below break-even levels.
The Gulf of Thailand has always sold itself through color: turquoise water, coral gardens, fishing boats and island horizons. Now Thailand is adding another color to the seascape — the clean, clever green of technology.
Since China’s “National Sword” policy took effect in January 2018, banning imports of contaminated plastic and electronic waste, the recycling industry that was once concentrated inside China has scattered across the region. As a result, Thailand has absorbed a large share of it.
Honda Automobile (Thailand) is intensifying its strategy to challenge the Chinese-dominated electric vehicle (EV) market, announcing plans to make next-generation hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) the cornerstone of its lineup.
The first half of 2026 has been marked by a relentless rise in ocean temperatures, with global averages reaching a record 21 degrees Celsius, shattering previous highs recorded in 2023 and 2024.
Thailand has established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations for luxury real estate, attracting buyers who appreciate high-quality homes, exceptional lifestyles, and a wide variety of residential options. From dynamic city centers to peaceful coastal communities, the country offers something for every type of buyer.
The Pa La-U Fruit Festival 2026 has opened in Hua Hin, with locally grown GI durians on sale for 200 baht per kilogram, as organisers look to attract visitors and support farmers in Huai Sat Yai.
Registration is now open for the AIA One Billion Trail 2026 by TMS, which will take place in Hua Hin on Nov. 21. The event will bring runners to one of Thailand’s best-loved seaside destinations, with routes combining sea views, natural landscapes and plenty of adventure.
Thailand is bracing for another day of widespread rain, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning of heavy downpours in several parts of the country on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are expected to see thunderstorms across 70% of the area, while the North and Northeast face rain over 80% of their areas.
The Dutch embassy will relocate from its historic Wireless Road premises to new offices on Rama IV Road in August, ending nearly 80 years at its current site.
A primary school in Kalasin province has sparked widespread criticism after advertising a temporary English teaching position with a monthly salary of just 5,500 baht. Ban Non Yang School in Kuchinarai district announced yesterday it is seeking one temporary employee for the position of assistant teacher/English teacher.
Survey shows economic fears persist
Confidence in the broader economy remains “subdued”, with concerns centering on corruption, inflation, and divided opinions about what direction the country should move in, market research firm Ipsos says.
Thailand’s economy is expected to grow by 1.6% to 2.0% this year, a leading business group said yesterday, maintaining its earlier forecast. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) also maintained its forecast that exports, a key driver of Thai growth, would rise by 8% to 10% this year.
Total spending in the first month of the government’s “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” (Thais Help Thais) co-payment scheme reached 43.2 billion baht, with 1.2 billion remaining unspent, the Ministry of Finance said yesterday.
Thai Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said after holding talks with Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu that the neighboring country will likely lift its temporary ban on import of five Thai shrimp species within 30 says.
The renewed campaign against illegal resorts built on public beaches and protected forests is a welcome sign that authorities are taking conservation more seriously.
Travel And Tour World has released its Top 50 Medical Tourism Destinations for 2026, and Thailand has taken second place, bested only by Turkey and finishing ahead of a global field.
World’s top tourist destinations are done selling sunsets and are betting everything on dinner
Koh Samui shines in Asia-Pacific awards
Despite optimism around the US-Iran ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, it will take time for jet fuel prices to return to pre-crisis levels and airfares could remain high for longer than passengers expect, says the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA).
Thailand has been ranked the best country in Asia and ninth globally as a retirement destination in the Global Retirement Index 2026. Thailand was ranked ninth worldwide and first in Asia by International Living, a leading US media outlet specializing in overseas living and retirement.
Located in the heart of Thailand, Hua Hin offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in Thailand. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife, Hua Hin has something to offer for everyone.
Hua Hin has long been one of Thailand’s favorite beach getaways, known for its royal history, relaxed atmosphere, and easy access from the capital. But beyond the beach, the city has a lot more going on than you might expect.
The most useful AI gadget for expatriates in Thailand may not be a robot, a smart speaker or a laptop priced like a small motorbike. It may be the smartphone already sitting beside their morning iced coffee, quietly judging their screen time while helping them translate Thai messages, plan trips, manage work calls, read banking alerts and understand condominium notices that seem to have been written by a committee in a hurry.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of heavy rain in parts of Thailand, with very heavy downpours possible in some areas of the east and the western side of the south today.
Thais genuinely enjoy playing the lottery. Even though the chances of winning the grand prize are staggeringly low, only one in a million, they buy more and more tickets every day.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday that 10 out of 11 Thai-flagged vessels and vessels chartered by Thai operators stranded in the Strait of Hormuz area after the closure announcement on Feb. 28, had now safely left the area.
Thailand’s total dependence on imported fertilizer has left its 16 million farmers dangerously exposed to global geopolitical shocks, according to industry leaders, state officials, and academics who gathered for a roundtable yesterday.
Thailand’s Cabinet has extended ultra-low property transfer and mortgage registration fees for another year, keeping a key housing stimulus measure in place as the government seeks to ease costs for homebuyers and support a fragile real estate recovery.
Thailand’s property market may be moving cautiously, but at the very top end developers are racing in the opposite direction. A new wave of branded residences — backed by global hotel, fashion, design and automotive names — is turning Bangkok, Phuket and resort destinations into a regional test ground for luxury homes sold not merely as places to live, but as managed, long-term collectible assets.
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) decreased by 0.8% year-on-year to 101.18 points in May, due mainly to a slowdown in the domestic automotive sector, said the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). The index increased from 92.76 points in April, however, when global conflicts and domestic challenges weighed on industrial activity.
Prachuap Khiri Khan is moving ahead with its wellness tourism strategy, with model communities selected across all eight districts as part of plans to develop the province as a wellness city. At a meeting yesterday at the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office, officials reviewed work being carried out in each district to strengthen health services and support sustainable wellness tourism.
Bangkok was named the world’s most visited city for 2025 by Euromonitor International, drawing an estimated 30.3 million international arrivals, ahead of Hong Kong, London, Macao, and Istanbul. Thailand expects that number to climb further in 2026, with 34.9 million foreign visitors forecast and tourism revenue projected at 1.63 trillion baht, an 8% increase year on year.
These 3 Small Thai Towns Could Stretch Your Budget Further
“The future is fully electric,” the president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand), Christian Schell, declared, expressing his confidence in the automobile’s future path. This was emphasized in the first half of 2026 by the oil crisis, when people turned to buying electric vehicles (EVs) in fear of fuel shortages.
Global investment in the energy sector continued to expand, with total investment reaching US$3.3 trillion in 2025, the highest level on record. Of this, US$2.3 trillion went into clean energy, helping lift the share of renewables and nuclear power in global electricity generation to 42%. 
Andrea Canonico focused on her breathing to stay calm as she lay trapped under a building that had crumbled during the two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week. Just 23 years old, Canonico spent almost 48 hours in the same position before being pulled out – alive. 
Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin has offered a first look inside its new Zone B building ahead of its official opening in early July. The expansion will add 50 inpatient rooms and upgraded specialist departments, including the Heart Center, Gastrointestinal and Liver Department, Health Check-up Unit, Internal Medicine Department and Dermatology Department.
Construction of the first 1.3-kilometer section of Thailand’s border fence with Cambodia in Chanthaburi is 45% complete, a parliamentary delegation has been told.
For decades, Thailand’s economic engine was driven by manufacturing and export-led industries. Today, the kingdom is decoupling its growth from the factory floor and tethering it to the server rack.
Thailand’s vehicle production fell sharply in May 2026, as weaker exports, particularly to the Middle East, weighed on the automotive industry, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Live commerce is becoming a more powerful sales channel for Thailand’s farm produce, with a joint TikTok and Department of Internal Trade (DIT) campaign pushing durian sales on TikTok Shop up 10.6-fold.
America celebrates its 250th birthday this week. The US is now the world’s most powerful country, and every word and signature of President Donald Trump can shape events around the globe.
Last year, I moved to Chiang Mai, a city known for what Thais have termed “slow life”. I’m almost five years living in Thailand, and came to the country’s second city for a new teaching job.
The ghostly white creature curled up on a weighing scale is almost unrecognizable in the Facebook post offering it for sale. Only closer inspection reveals it to be a dead pangolin.
People in the Philippines are flocking to install solar power on rooftops and escape the burden of soaring electricity prices, making it the world’s biggest spender on solar panels since the war in Iran started. 
Volkswagen management has told employee representatives that the job cuts already agreed are not enough, according to a works council note. The note said any further reductions had not yet been quantified, at least not to the employee side. 
PM Anutin Presides Over Buddhist Consecration Ceremony in Hua Hin
The State Railway of Thailand is turning the rainy season into a new travel window, launching nine special rail-tourism programs across the country from July to September. The programs are designed to promote rail-based tourism while connecting travelers with nature, local culture, religious traditions, history, and lesser-known destinations in several provinces.
Western men and indeed families are moving to Thailand in growing numbers, turning holiday romances into marriages, businesses and permanent new lives as high living costs, remote work, COVID-19 controls, and anger over Western dating culture drive a quieter migration east.
Thailand’s immigration system holds detailed records of foreign arrivals and overstayers but continues to struggle to consistently act on that information, meaning some long-term overstayers are only detected during raids, at departure points, or after unrelated criminal investigations.
The Faculty of Medicine at Prince of Songkla University (PSU) has developed CAR-T cell therapy, a highly effective and affordable treatment for patients diagnosed with lymphoma, leukemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has declared victory in the Bangkok governor election after unofficial results showed the independent incumbent heading for a landslide second term.
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has launched a strict crackdown on the use of forged cannabis prescription forms after uncovering evidence of identity fraud and the online sale of fake documents used to obtain cannabis for recreational purposes.
The Transport Ministry will extend measures to support airlines affected by unrest in the Middle East, including a 30% reduction in air navigation service charges for domestic flights during July and August, Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit said.
One of the key raw materials for the production of plastic products is ethylene, which is produced from naphtha – a byproduct of oil refining. Approximately 60% of Asia’s current naphtha imports come from the Gulf region.
Thailand is experiencing a continuous deterioration in household credit quality amid expanding household debt, which has risen to 86.7%of national gross domestic product.
Thailand is eyeing growth in the “global pink economy” as speakers at a forum highlight rising market value, changing consumer behavior and new investment opportunities. Speaking on the topic of “Pink Economy: From Visibility to Economic Value”, Tanachai Kulsomboonsin, chief executive and co-founder of Canvas Ventures International, said awareness of the pink economy has expanded in Thailand over the past two years.
Thailand has officially opened its state-owned railway network to private operators for the first time, allowing companies to apply for track access to run passenger, tourism, and freight train services.
The global beauty industry is no longer being shaped only by Western markets. Southeast Asia, once seen largely as a follower of K-Beauty, J-Beauty, and European brands, is now positioning itself as a beauty economy hub with growing influence over the direction of the global industry.
Thai cocoa and chocolate products are expected to benefit from a growing but niche global market, particularly for high-value, environmentally friendly, and health-focused products.
The government is moving ahead with its “Thailand 365 Days” policy to position the country as a year-round, high-value tourism destination, using rising interest in natural attractions and local experiences to spread income beyond major tourist cities and support sustainable growth.
Having lived and worked in Thailand’s hospitality and tourism industry for more than 35 years, I have learned one simple truth: tourism rarely moves in a straight line.
Pattaya‘s nightlife strip is leaning hard on discounts and happy hour deals this June, as bar operators describe a slow season where every customer counts. As the sun sets, colored lights flick on and staff step outside with familiar routines: smiles, greetings, and quiet invitations to passing tourists and hotel guests. Behind the lively atmosphere, though, June has become what many in the trade call a “survival month”.
Short breaks are becoming one of the defining travel trends of summer 2026, as travelers look for quicker, more flexible escapes without giving up the sense of a rewarding holiday, according to Trip.com Group.
Europe faced temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) yesterday as storms swept other areas, with France reporting 1,000 excess deaths in a record-breaking heatwave. Its public health agency said most heat-related fatalities involved older people and warned the toll was expected to rise as more details emerged from residential care and private homes. 
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the country was suffering from “a certain shortage” of fuel in an interview published by the Kremlin yesterday, after repeated Ukrainian strikes in their four-year war. 
Thai herbs targeted for pharma use
Thailand seeks solution to human-elephant conflict
Commercial viability key to land bridge, panel says
Tourism operators expect the domestic market will be flat or contract from last year unless the government launches an effective stimulus scheme to increase low-season trips, as Thai household income generation weakened last year.
The Transport Ministry is speeding up infrastructure development to support economic and tourism growth, with the government now positioning Udon Thani as a key mechanism linking the northeast with international markets.
Il dolce far niente — the sweetness of doing nothing. The Italian saying celebrates the simple pleasure of slowing down, something Thailand has long mastered. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes stretching from north to south, the Land of Smiles is renowned for its warm hospitality and deep-rooted wellness traditions, making it a world-class destination for anyone seeking to recharge, both physically and mentally.
A Japanese travel content creator has gone viral after posting a video of an unexpected mishap at Hua Hin Railway Station, where a chair suddenly broke beneath him as he leaned back while waiting for a train.
Apple has officially increased prices across its Mac product line in Thailand, with adjustments now visible on the Apple Store Online and Apple Store app.
A reported attack on a cargo ship near Oman has renewed concerns over security in the Strait of Hormuz, just as shipping and oil flows through the vital waterway had begun returning toward pre-war levels.
Kirida Bhaopichitr, assistant Commerce minister, said the world has entered an era of a “new global order” in which international trade rules are becoming increasingly unstable and less anchored to the traditional framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Thailand’s exports expanded by 10.6% year-on-year in May, reaching a value of US$34,333.1 million (approximately 1.095 trillion baht), according to the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy (TPSO).
Chinese investors’ growing appetite for factory sites in Thailand is reshaping the industrial land market in the Eastern Economic Corridor, with one planned industrial park in Chonburi now attracting close scrutiny over zoning, infrastructure demand, and possible gaps in state oversight.
Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT) has issued a long-term commitment to aggressively scale up the nation’s aviation ecosystem, pledging to expand its total airport capacity to handle over 160 million passengers annually within the next decade.
The Chinese Ambassador to Thailand is apparently not happy about Thais using the term “gray Chinese” to refer to Chinese nationals who engage in criminal activities in Thailand, and has made it known. Ambassador Zhang Jianwei feels the term made Thais appear “unfriendly” to Chinese visitors.
In 2026, Thailand is no longer defined solely by its beaches, temples, and tourism appeal. It has evolved into a global headquarters for a new kind of workforce — the digital nomad generation — earning a reputation as one of the world’s most attractive bases for remote professionals seeking both productivity and lifestyle.
Thailand’s soft power shines through food, fun, and 5F charm
Energy Minister Akanat Promphan said at the “Energy Transition: Transitioning Thai Energy to a Low-Carbon Economy” seminar, under the topic “Thai Energy Direction and PDP 2026 Progress”, that discussions on energy transition often focus solely on electricity.
How electric tuk-tuks are powering Bangkok’s quiet mobility revolution
Rescue crews and residents are searching for hundreds of people trapped under the rubble of buildings yesterday, after back-to-back major earthquakes struck Venezuela’s northern coast and caused devastation across the region. At least 188 people had been confirmed dead and 200 were trapped under rubble. 
Minor Hotels has appointed Kanruethai Roongruang as general manager of Avani+ Hua Hin Resort. Originally from Phuket, Kanruethai brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience across Thailand and international markets, with expertise in resort operations, wellness, commercial strategy, business development, and luxury hospitality management.
Thailand’s Department of Business Development (DBD) is tightening enforcement against “nominee” businesses by requiring Thai shareholders in foreign co-investment firms to submit three months of financial evidence, including bank statements, to prove genuine investment capacity. The move is part of a broader crackdown on concealed foreign ownership structures and is already affecting thousands of companies across high-risk sectors.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that Thailand would continue to see thundershowers over the next 24 hours, with isolated heavy rain in the east and along the south’s west coast.
Lisa’s Instagram Posts Reach 58-million-baht Value Worldwide
Oil prices retreated yesterday to their lowest levels since the start of the United States-Iran war, while tech shares continued to show weakness on a mixed day for global stocks.
The Thai baht is currently facing short-term pressure, with market strategists indicating it could test the 33.00–33.20 resistance band. This weakness is influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the Federal Reserve’s rate-hike expectations.
The Bank of Thailand has upgraded its GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 2.3% from 1.5%, attributed to strong exports, government stimulus, and easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The Bank of Thailand yesterday left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 1.00% as widely expected, saying it would continue to monitor inflation trends and expectations.
Thailand is facing a rapidly escalating medical inflation crisis, raising concerns among insurers and regulators about its long-term implications for the healthcare and insurance sectors.
TikTok Shop flexes muscle in 3-way Thailand tussle
High-net-worth parents across Asia, the Middle East, and Russia are fundamentally rewriting the equation for elite schooling. Facing a volatile matrix of escalating geopolitical friction, erratic financial markets, and skyrocketing living costs in traditional Western markets, affluent families are increasingly asking whether a premium education requires sending children across the globe.
Constant Energy, a leading renewable energy developer in Southeast Asia, has announced the successful inauguration of a 5.26 MW solar rooftop installation at the manufacturing facilities of Meyer Industries and Meyer Aluminium (Thailand) Co. in Laem Chabang, Thailand.
Once a lush field of green, the seagrass meadows surrounding Thailand’s Koh Libong are now largely barren stretches of sand, devastating the island’s iconic dugong population.
Europe braced yesterday for another day of an unprecedented heatwave that has smashed records in many countries and sent air conditioner sales zooming in a continent unused to and ill-equipped to handle searing heat.