- The Real Reason We Stay/Thailand’s expats face new digital reality/K9 dog rewarded after murder arrest/Bail denied to murder suspect/Hua Hin tourist police conduct drug tests/Swedish drug dealer defeated by distinctive tattoos/Citywide checks of homeless groups/Smog levels unsafe in most of Thailand/Enforcement of open burning rules/Tracks repaired after crane collapse/Regulatory Outlook for Foreign Residents/Thailand Privilege Extends Bronze Membership
- ECONOMY: World Bank Predicts Thailand’s 2026 Growth/Baht breaks 31 per dollar/November Exports Rise/Thailand Seeks Investor Confidence/11 Thai banks post profits/E-commerce growth eases/Thai Rice Exports Beat Target/Marketing and advertising in Thailand
- TOURISM: Shaping Thailand’s tourism future/Strong baht may crimp bookings/Backlash over Lisa tourism promotion
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s 5 ancient cat breeds/Wild elephants enjoy human-made water source/Singha Park Chiang Rai balloon fiesta
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar Energy: Myths, facts, and challenges
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
We found this online and thought it was worth posting …
The Real Reason We Stay (It’s Not the Cheap Beer)
It’s easy to get cynical in Thailand. We complain about the heat, the traffic, the dual pricing, and the scams. But then, something happens that stops you in your tracks.
You break down on a motorbike in the middle of a rainstorm in a rural province. Back in London, New York, or Berlin, people would speed past you, eyes locked on the road, too busy to care. In the West, we have become efficient, but we have also become cold.
Here, a pickup truck pulls over. A grandmother you have never met offers you shelter under her awning. Someone brings you a glass of water. A local mechanic fixes your tire and tries to refuse your money.
They call it Nam Jai (Water of the Heart). It is kindness that flows without being asked for, and without expecting anything in return. It is a reminder that while the West has “standards” and “safety,” it has often lost its sense of community.
We tell our friends we stay for the weather or the cost of living. But the truth is, we stay for the Nam Jai. In a world that is forgetting how to be kind, Thailand remembers. – My Thailand
From visa runs to QR codes, Thailand’s expats face new digital reality
Thailand has long been a haven for those seeking tropical sun, beaches and a laidback lifestyle. It’s host to communities of expats, long-term freelancers, and foreign residents, some of whom have existed in a legal gray zone, taking advantage of visa runs to extend their stay indefinitely. Those days of extended stays in The Land of Smiles could be coming to a definitive end with the digital transformation of the immigration system.
Victor Wong, a legal expert in finance and tax, discusses the implications of the transition to a fully digital system. “It represents a fundamental shift in how the Thai state monitors, manages, and regulates foreign residents, and it will inevitably become part of Thailand’s new normal.” Continued …
K9 dog and team rewarded after quick Hua Hin murder arrest
A police dog and an investigative team in Hua Hin were awarded 30,000 baht yesterday after swiftly apprehending a murder suspect linked to the killing of a hotel worker.
The reward was presented at Hua Hin Police Station in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Provincial Police Chief Artorn Chinthong and Hua Hin police superintendent Police Col. Kampanat Na Wichai handed over the cash prize to the K9 unit and its star member, Praewa, for their role in the capture of the suspect. Continued …
Bail denied to Hua Hin murder suspect
The Hua Hin Provincial Court has denied bail to “Sam”, the suspect in the brutal murder of a female hotel employee in central Hua Hin, citing the seriousness of the charges and concerns that he could flee if released.
Investigators from the Hua Hin Police Station brought Rattikan Yingyot, also known as Sam, before the court today following his arrest in connection with the killing. Police allege that the suspect attacked the victim with a metal pipe, striking her on the head at a hotel counter in central Hua Hin during a robbery, causing her death at the scene. Continued …
Hua Hin tourist police conduct drug tests
Hua Hin tourist police have stepped up their Drug-free Tourism Community campaign, carrying out fresh inspections this week aimed at strengthening confidence in drug-free tourist areas during the peak travel season.
Yesterday, officers from Hua Hin Tourist Police conducted operations under the initiative at key locations across the city. The program focuses on raising safety standards in tourist zones through screening and random drug testing of workers in the tourism sector. Random checks were carried out at Hua Hin Night Market and several hotels within the Hua Hin City Municipality area. No illegal substances were detected. Continued …
Swedish drug dealer defeated by distinctive tattoos as he tried to claim mistaken identity in Hua Hin
A Swedish national lying low in Hua Hin was arrested on Sunday after a task force from Immigration Bureau Division 3 surprised him at a luxury apartment building in the seaside town popular with Western foreigners. The man insisted they had the wrong person. He claimed he was slimmer than the suspect shown in police files.
However, police used biometrics and tattoo images, especially a marking on the wanted man’s neck, to defeat his protests. He then dressed and was escorted by police down in the lift and taken into detention. Continued …
Hua Hin police plan citywide checks of homeless groups
Hua Hin police are preparing a citywide operation to regulate homeless and other vulnerable groups, as authorities seek to boost confidence among residents and tourists following recent public safety concerns.
Kampanat Na Wichai, superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, yesterday said the measures will be carried out proactively and in coordination with local administrative bodies and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Police will focus on locations identified as higher risk, with the stated aim of maintaining public order and reassuring the public. Continued …
Smog levels unsafe in most of Thailand
Unsafe levels of ultrafine dust at the orange level (starting to harm health) shrouded Bangkok and 53 provinces, mostly in the Central Plains and the northeast, late this morning.
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency reported that orange levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 38.3 to 55.5 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) of air in the capital and 53 provinces. Continued …
Enforcement of rules against open burning stepped up
The Pollution Control Department has ordered stepped-up surveillance of open burning as the seasonal risk of haze and dust pollution rises, according to Director-general Surin Worakitthamrong.
More hotspots are being reported in agricultural and forest areas, he said. Local authorities in many provinces have issued formal notices and been instructed to strictly enforce laws against open burning, alongside designating controlled burning zones. Continued …
State Railway of Thailand finishes repairing tracks after crane collapse
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has finished repairing a stretch of railway track in Sikhiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima province in the wake of a fatal crane collapse that struck a passenger train on Jan. 14, killing 30 people, while a parallel technical investigation moves toward identifying the causes and accountability.
The SRT said the damaged and twisted rails had been replaced with 36 meters of new track after the contractor, Italian-Thai Development Plc, removed all remaining crane debris from above the line on Tuesday. Continued …
Law Firm Provides Regulatory Outlook for Foreign Residents and Businesses
Siam Legal International, a full-service law firm with over 22 years of experience advisinginternational clients in Thailand, has released its comprehensive guidance for foreign nationals and businesses navigating Thailand’s regulatory environment in 2026. The firm highlights several national developments that may influence administrative procedures, compliance expectations, and regulatory focus throughout the year.
The Bangkok-based firm notes that 2026 is expected to include significant national events and state activities that may influence administrative focus and public conduct standards. While Thailand remains open and welcoming to foreign residents, investors, businesses, and visitors, the firm emphasizes that awareness of broader national developments is essential for maintaining compliance and supporting effective long-term planning. Continued …
Thailand Privilege Extends Bronze Membership and Family Promotion
Thailand Privilege has announced the official extension of two of its most in-demand offers, the Bronze Membership and the Next Member Family Promotion, giving prospective long-term residents additional time to plan their move to Thailand.
The extension follows feedback from applicants and authorized agents requesting greater flexibility, as interest in long-stay residency options continues to grow. Both offers will now remain available until March 31, or until further notice. Continued …
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World Bank Predicts Thailand’s 2026 Growth at 1.8%, ASEAN’s Lowest
The World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects report indicates that Thailand’s GDP is predicted to grow by 1.8% in 2026, a slight revision upward by 0.1 percentage point from an earlier projection. Despite this increase, Thailand’s growth remains the lowest among major ASEAN countries.
The report foresees global economic challenges due to continuous trade tensions and policy uncertainties, which might hinder job creation as 1.2 billion young adults enter the workforce over the next decade. Continued …
Baht breaks 31 per dollar; Bank of Thailand to curb app gold trades
The baht has again become a growing concern after strengthening rapidly. Yesterday, the baht continued to appreciate and broke below the 31.00 level against the US dollar, reaching a strong level of THB30.88 per US dollar.
This marked its strongest level since March 2021, or the strongest in about 4 years and 10 months. Meanwhile, the Thai stock market closed up 21.19 points at 1,317.56, or 1.63%, with trading value (volume) of Bt68,148.65 million. Continued …
November Exports Rise for 17th Month but Risk 2026 Contraction
In November, Thai merchandise exports reached USD 27.45 billion, growing 7.1% year-on-year (YOY), slightly above SCB EIC’s 7% forecast but below the Reuters median of 8.3%. Despite solid expansion, seasonally adjusted exports showed signs of slowdown, declining 2.3% month-on-month.
This slowing trend comes after cumulative export growth of 12.6% over the first 11 months. Electronic products and exports to the US led growth, while gold exports contracted sharply for the second consecutive month due to a high base effect and slowed gold prices. Continued …
Thailand Seeks Investor Confidence at Davos 2026
Thailand is participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos to boost investor confidence and promote its economic policies, with a focus on digital economy investments. The event in Switzerland from Jan. 19–23 sees around 3,000 participants, including 64 heads of state.
Leading the Thai delegation, Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas aims to strengthen ties with international organizations and tech companies. Continued …
11 Thai banks post Bt265-billion profit in 2025; Kasikornbank tops chart
Thailand’s commercial banking sector posted solid results in 2025, with the combined performance of 11 banks remaining at a healthy level: SCBX, Bangkok Bank (BBL), Kasikornbank (KBANK), Bank of Ayudhya (BAY), TMBThanachart Bank (TTB), Kiatnakin Phatra Bank (KKP), TISCO Financial Group (TISCO), Land and Houses Bank (LHFG), CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT), Thai Credit Bank (CREDIT) and Krungthai Bank (KTB).
Overall, the 11 banks reported combined net profit of 265.396 billion baht in 2025, up 3.6%. The highest profit was recorded by Kasikornbank, at 49.604 billion baht, followed by Krungthai Bank at 48.229 billion baht, SCBX at 47.488 billion baht, and Bangkok Bank at 46.007 billion baht. Continued …
E-commerce growth eases as brands rethink operating models
Thailand’s e-commerce market is projected to post normalized growth this year, expanding by 7% to reach 1.15 trillion baht, as the maturing landscape is characterized by heightened complexity and fierce competition. To emerge as winners, brands must transition toward commerce operating systems, according to Priceza.
Success depends on the ability to manage all channels through a single integrated operating system, seamlessly bridging marketplaces, direct-to-consumer websites, offline retail, agentic commerce, and social/video platforms, e-commerce gurus said during the ECOM TALK 2026 seminar held yesterday by Priceza. Continued …
Thai Rice Exports Beat 2025 Target as 2026 Outlook Weakens
Thailand’s rice exports exceeded official targets in 2025, but the Ministry of Commerce has lowered its projection for 2026 amid intensifying global competition, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks. Officials say the focus next year will be on defending existing markets while expanding into selected new destinations to support farmer incomes and stabilize export volumes.
Yesterday, Arada Fueangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade, said Thailand exported 7.9 million tons of rice in 2025, surpassing the target of 7.5 million tons. The shipments were valued at 148.204 billion baht, or about US$4.515 billion. Continued …
How to do marketing and advertising in Thailand? Top 7 tips
The marketing landscape has evolved at a remarkable pace. By early 2026, Thailand is expected to have around 67.8 million internet users, representing nearly the entire population (DataReportal). This level of digital penetration places Thailand among the most connected markets in the region.
The way Thai consumers interact with brands has fundamentally shifted. Conversations about going digital have moved on to a reality where AI underpins daily operations, “Shop-tainment” drives purchasing behavior, and long-held spiritual beliefs coexist with modern technology. Continued …
Shaping Thailand’s tourism future
The era of volume is dead. The next decade of Thai tourism will and must be shaped not by the number of arrivals, but by the economic value generated by those arrivals.
Thailand’s tourism industry has long thrived on its core strengths: genuine hospitality, generosity, and cultural attractions. For decades, these qualities allowed us to rely on pure scale. Yet, the tourism landscape has changed fundamentally. Continued …
Strong baht may crimp bookings
With the baht strengthening against the US dollar, surpassing 31 to the greenback for the first time in almost five years, it should impact forward bookings for the next few months and during the low season, discouraging tourist spending.
Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said travel agents have expressed concern about the strong baht, which has been an obstacle since last year for many markets, including the US, Russia, Europe, and Japan. Continued …
TAT faces backlash over Blackpink’s Lisa tourism promotion
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) latest promotional campaign, featuring pop icon Lisa of Blackpink, has drawn mixed reactions online, with critics arguing that the TAT has secured a “precious gem” but undermined her value through poor presentation.
Critics have also questioned why artificial intelligence was used to depict Lisa, rather than filming or photographing her at the actual location. Continued …
Discover Thailand’s 5 ancient cat breeds
From the iconic Siamese cat with its stunning blue eyes to the lucky Korat, these cats have been beloved in Thai culture for centuries. Suphakluk, Khao Manee, and the mysterious Konja each bring their own charm, believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and prosperity. Discover the legacy of these fascinating breeds and learn why they are cherished by cat lovers worldwide. Video …
Wild elephants enjoy human-made water source in Khao Yai
A herd of wild elephants has been spotted enjoying a newly dug pond in Khao Yai National Park, signaling that the initiative to prevent the animals from straying and damaging local residents’ properties is yielding tangible results.
The herd was seen yesterday on video recorded by a camera trap installed near the supplemental water source in the Pha Ta Bak area to observe the animals’ behavior and assess the effectiveness of the initiative, said Yossawat Thiansawat, director of the Office of Conservation Area 1. Continued …
Singha Park Chiang Rai marks 10 years of balloon fiesta
Singha Park Chiang Rai is set to light up the northern skies this Valentine’s season as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of its international balloon festival, positioning the province as a “World Class Love Destination.”
The Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta 2026, scheduled for Feb. 11-15, will feature more than 30 hot air balloons from 13 countries, making it the largest balloon festival in ASEAN. The event aims to transform Chiang Rai into a global destination for romance, culture, and world-class entertainment. Continued …
Solar Energy: Myths, facts, and challenges
Solar energy is the most abundant of all energy resources on planet Earth. Solar energy is also one of the most powerful tools available to reduce air pollution and cut greenhouse gas emissions at their source.
Yet, despite its promise, solar energy is often misunderstood. Persistent myths about cost, reliability, and feasibility have slowed adoption, even as technology improves and prices fall. Understanding what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what challenges remain is key to scaling solar responsibly and equitably. Continued …
- Krabi Raids Israeli-Linked Cannabis Farm Using Thai Nominees – Continued …
- 13 Africans Arrested in Muang Thong Thani Romance Scam Bust – Continued …
- Norwegian Tourist Warned After Nude Incident on Pattaya Beach – Continued …
Trump drops Feb 1 tariffs, but vows no force on Greenland
US President Donald Trump has withdrawn his threat to impose new tariffs on multiple countries that oppose US control of Greenland, saying he has now reached an outline framework agreement with NATO. “Based upon this understanding, I will not be imposing the tariffs that were scheduled to go into effect on February 1,” Trump wrote online, without providing details. He posted the message after meeting Mark Rutte, secretary-general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), in Davos, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum. Continued …
Hua Hin Links
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
Laos has tightened controls on outdoor burning, as air pollution continued to affect major cities yesterday, with the government warning that forest fires and agricultural burning remain the main drivers of seasonal haze and health risks.
Thailand’s economy in 2026 is projected to face significant uncertainty and potential stagnation, risking a decline in competitiveness. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is urging the government to accelerate free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations and implement structural reforms to navigate these challenges.
Thailand still has an undersupply of hotel rooms, according to international chain IHG Hotels & Resorts, which aims to add nearly 40 hotels here in 3-5 years. Elie Maalouf, chief executive at IHG, said Thailand is still “under-penetrated” in terms of hotel rooms per person, as many hotels have very high occupancy rates for much of the time.
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) has finished drafting amendments to the Petroleum Act to ensure the continuity of petroleum production when licenses expire, avoiding delays that can result in expensive electricity bills.
A wave of blunt, often frustrated comments from readers has reignited a long-running question: is Pattaya intentionally — or unintentionally — pushing away its traditional Western visitor base?
The friendliest Thai cities for foreigners
The influencer racing to save Thailand’s most endangered sea mammal
The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting 2026 in Davos has begun in a notably heated atmosphere, after Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney used a major address to declare that the so-called “rules-based order” is effectively “dead” in practice and urged the world’s middle powers to unite against growing coercion by larger states. 
If the US and the European Union (EU) implement tariff barriers against each other, it could cause severe disruptions to global trade, as both are crucial players in the global supply chain and major consumer markets, say economic analysts. Tensions are escalating after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs ranging up to 25% on eight European allies that oppose his demands for control of Greenland. 
Foreign visitors to Japan reached a record estimated 42.7 million in 2025, the government said yesterday, with their spending also at a new all-time high of 9.5 trillion yen (1.8 trillion baht), thanks to a weaker yen and increased flights to Japan. 
The world is entering an era of “global water bankruptcy”, with rivers, lakes, and aquifers depleting faster than nature can replenish them, a United Nations research institute said yesterday. It argues that decades of overuse, pollution, environmental destruction, and climate pressure had pushed many water systems so beyond the point of recovery that a new classification was required. 
Global gold prices surged to another record high yesterday, rising above US$4,700 an ounce and moving closer to the US$4,800 mark, as escalating geopolitical tensions drove demand for safe-haven assets. Silver also hit an all-time high, briefly breaking above US$95 an ounce. 
Hua Hin water supply issues were the focus of an urgent meeting held yesterday as city officials moved to address ongoing problems affecting residents, including supply interruptions, low water pressure, and concerns over water quality.
A planning meeting has been held to prepare for the Hua Hin City Creates Happiness, Healthy Hua Hin Residents festival, a community wellness event scheduled to take place Feb. 2 in Hua Hin.
Rising treatment costs, combined with Thailand’s medical inflation in 2025 (estimated at 14%–15%), have prompted major insurers such as AIA and Krungthai-AXA to reduce the share of new lump-sum (all-inclusive) health plans for new customers.
Thailand is on high alert as authorities warn of an impending air pollution crisis. Forecasts predict rising PM2.5 levels nationwide through to Jan. 25, sparking serious health concerns.
Thailand’s Transport Ministry plans to include travel insurance in train ticket fares, aiming to provide automatic passenger coverage in accidents. This follows the fatal Nakhon Ratchasima crash, which resulted in 30 fatalities.
Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) is intensifying efforts to ensure a fair election on Feb. 8 after a survey indicated that over a quarter of voters might accept cash for their votes. Allegedly, payments range from 3,000 to 7,500 baht per person.
Marathon Teaching: The strained tasks of small school teachers
How is Thailand’s Dining Landscape Set to Shift?
Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has announced that 1,520 conventional buses will be converted into electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority’s (BMTA) ongoing modernization program.
The future of the electric vehicle Asia Pacific market is set for robust expansion, as the green mobility revolution transforms the regional automotive ecosystem. The Asia Pacific EV market was valued at USD 221.95 billion in 2022 and is forecast to grow to approximately USD 459.06 billion by 2029, registering a CAGR of around 10.94% over this period.
Germany’s finance minister, Lars Klingbeil, said in Berlin yesterday that Europe was “constantly facing new provocations and hostility” that President Trump was seeking, and that Europeans needed to make clear “this is the limit”. 
The Trump administration has ordered nearly 30 ambassadors in embassies around the world to return to the United States within weeks, a move that would leave a large gap in the American diplomatic corps even as President Donald Trump has said he wants to resolve conflicts through diplomacy. 
Spanish police said yesterday that at least 39 people are confirmed dead in a high-speed rail collision the previous night in the south of the country, when the tail end of a train jumped the track, causing another train speeding past in the opposite direction to derail. 
A recent seminar in Hua Hin has highlighted growing legal risks for foreign residents who bought property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders, as Thailand intensifies a nationwide crackdown on structures used to bypass land and business ownership laws.
Academics and activists said over 40 million workers in Thailand remain stuck in low-paid, unsafe jobs with inadequate healthcare and social protection, urging parties to draft policies that ensure labor protection and fair employment.
Phuket International Airport recorded a significant boost in flight movements and passenger numbers in 2025, signaling a robust recovery in aviation and tourism. According to Monchai Tanod, the airport director, last year’s performance outshone 2024 and edged closer to the peak year of 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The decision by the administration of US President Donald Trump to suspend or significantly tighten US immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand, has triggered widespread concern across the global travel, tourism, and meetings industries.
The tiny shopfront of Gu Long Bao in Bangkok’s Chinatown has seen a lot of history unfold over its century of operation, from the creation of Thailand as a nation to its rise as a cultural and tourism hotspot. The shop has a fan following for its pillowy buns, with fillings such as barbecued pork and black sesame.
Sugarcane farmers are using bundled incense sticks as slow starters to illegally burn off cane trash in their fields when they are not there, in a ploy to deny accountability for the resulting increase in air pollution.
Chinese electric vehicle maker Changan Automobile is gearing up to launch the second phase of its battery electric vehicle (BEV) production in Thailand in the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing its ambitions in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing EV markets.
The collective wealth of the planet’s billionaires soared to a record level in 2025, charity Oxfam reported today, warning of “highly dangerous” political consequences as the global elite gathers for the World Economic Forum. 
The idea of what a “home” should be is quietly but powerfully changing. Homes are no longer just places to rest, entertain guests, or escape the heat. They are becoming active partners in how people live, move, breathe, and age well.
Italian-Thai Development Public Co. secured seven government construction projects worth a combined 26 billion baht following the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) building, according to procurement records on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
Authorities are closely monitoring developments after a road collapse on Rama II Road caused major disruption this morning, with traffic at a standstill and a citywide water outage declared in Samut Sakhon.
This year’s rainy season is expected to arrive earlier and bring heavier rainfall than usual, Deputy Prime Minister Borwornsak Uwanno has warned, urging agencies to step up preparedness for major flooding.
One police officer has been dismissed and four others face criminal and disciplinary action for their alleged involvement in corruption linked to the unlawful release of Chinese detainees, the Royal Thai Police said yesterday.
Excessive workloads, long teaching hours, and a worsening work-life balance are raising concerns about teachers’ wellbeing and the quality of education, especially at Thailand’s small schools, a new study finds.
Recently, market analysts pointed out that as Thailand’s economic growth forecast is revised down from 2.2% in 2025 to 1.5% in 2026, the petrochemical and plastics industry, which accounts for about 20% of the country’s GDP, is facing severe challenges. The core difficulties in the industry’s development currently stem from the dual pressures of currency appreciation and trade barriers.
Chonburi’s tourism sector faces mounting challenges in 2026, with a strengthening baht weighing on long-haul markets and Asian arrivals remaining weak, according to Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Chonburi Tourism Federation Assn. (ACTF).
Solar energy has emerged as a central pillar of the European Union’s clean energy transition, with new data highlighting rapid capacity growth, rising consumer adoption, and increasing economic benefits across the bloc. In a historic milestone, solar energy became the EU’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time in June 2025. 
A proposal to support Hua Hin smart city development was presented to Hua Hin City Municipality yesterday, outlining a technology-led vision to improve transport, tourism services, and urban safety as the city plans its next stage of growth.
Transport Minister Suspends Elevated Road and Rail Projects
The deadly Rama 2 Road: Why Thailand’s ‘Seven-Generation Road’ keeps claiming lives
Sihasak Phuangketkeow, minister of foreign affairs, addressed the recent announcement by the US Department of State to suspend the processing of immigrant visas (permanent visas) for 75 countries, including Thailand.
China has shattered global records with a staggering trade surplus of approximately $1.2 trillion for 2025, fueled by a relentless export boom that has flooded international markets with everything from electronics to machinery. While this achievement underscores Beijing’s manufacturing prowess amid domestic headwinds, it poses both opportunities and significant challenges for Thailand, its largest trading partner in ASEAN.
Thailand was once the ultimate value-for-money destination. Cheap eats, affordable hotels, unforgettable experiences. That era is over. A soaring Thai baht is pushing travelers away — just as Thailand is fighting to revive its tourism-driven economy.
It’s been just over a year since I took the leap and made Thailand my home. Moving from regular visitor to someone who lives and works here has let me fully embrace what I love about the country — and given me a front-row seat to the same tourist mistakes playing out again and again.
Bangkok was named the third best city to visit in the world today in The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2026 list, praised for its green spaces, vibrant art scene, and recent innovations in public transport.
Tourists and locals are raising alarms over the open sale of sex stimulants, sex toys, and illegal cigarettes along Pattaya Beach Road – without proper tax stamps.
On vacation in Thailand, my family and I visited Bangkok’s majestic Wat Pho, marveling at the temple’s 150-foot-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. In Chiang Mai, we rode ATVs through the rugged Mae Taeng Valley, then rafted in challenging whitewater rapids while elephants roamed the river banks. We spotted pigs on Koh Madsum and bright-orange clown fish while snorkeling Koh Samui. But nothing compares to the thrills we found in 7-Eleven.
Thailand is stepping up efforts to support research and development in alternative energy, with officials preparing to allocate more financial resources to projects that advance clean technologies such as hydrogen.
Tech giants have blocked 4.7 million accounts under Australia’s world-first social media ban for under-16s, the country’s online safety watchdog said today. Initial figures showed platforms were taking meaningful action to remove underage users, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said. 
Two people were killed after a construction crane collapsed onto vehicles on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon province this morning, prompting road closures and warnings for motorists to avoid the area.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
Amazing Three Bays City Prachuap Khiri Khan festival set for late April
The Thai real estate market is experiencing its most severe downturn in nearly three decades, since the 1997 financial crisis. The stock of unsold residential properties has skyrocketed, with new project launches falling sharply. Consumer purchasing power has weakened due to high household debt, and the mortgage lending situation is tighter than ever before.
Chartsiri Sophonpanich, president of Bangkok Bank, pointed out that in 2026 the world will continue to face risks, volatility, and uncertainty, driven by five key factors that will serve as both obstacles and opportunities in shaping ASEAN’s future. He made this remark during the opening of the AEC Business Forum 2026 yesterday.
Thai business giants Saha Group and Central Restaurants Group (CRG) are aggressively expanding their restaurant portfolios. Despite a competitive landscape, both groups see the Thai food market, valued at Bt572 billion, as a high-growth sector where “Capital, Brand, and Culture” create long-term value.
Thailand has set a target to increase revenue from foreign film productions by at least 10% in 2026, building upon a record-breaking performance in the previous year, the Department of Tourism said yesterday.
Riding on a record-breaking 2024 and strong momentum in 2025, Thailand is setting an ambitious target of welcoming 2.5 million Indian visitors this year. With more than 1.3 million Indians having already traveled to the country by July, the market is emerging as one of Thailand’s most important growth drivers, underpinned by a strategic shift from volume-led recovery to value-focused tourism.
Three political parties – the People’s Party, Democrat, and Pheu Thai – have pledged to put cannabis back on the narcotics list and allow its use only for approved medical purposes, while operators urged the future administration to eliminate foreign businesses using nominees and unfair competition from illegal businesses.
Thailand dominates global night market rankings with 3 markets in the top 10
Bangkok has been ranked 12th in the world for the worst air quality, as PM2.5 levels soar to dangerous levels. According to the IQAir real-time air quality index on Wednesday, the capital’s air quality index (AQI) hit 161, marking it in the red zone, which is unhealthy for all groups.
Permanent Secretary for Public Health Dr. Somruek Chungsaman said yesterday that resolving the shortage of medical personnel is one of the ministry’s top priorities, as emphasized by Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat. A three-phase management plan has been set out to address the problem.
More than 110 Cambodian soldiers and police were killed during the December border clashes with Thailand, according to a review of official social media posts and government announcements compiled by Nikkei Asia.
Thailand’s economy is facing significant structural challenges that extend beyond short-term issues, according to Vitai Ratanakorn, governor of the Bank of Thailand (BOT). Speaking at the KKP Year Ahead 2026 seminar, Vitai highlighted concerns about low productivity, a lack of new investment, and the rising levels of both household and corporate debt.
Thailand’s incoming government must abandon populist handout policies and implement radical structural reforms if the country is to escape its low-growth trap, leading economists warned at a major economic forum yesterday.
Pattaya is undergoing a metamorphosis, shifting from a party hotspot to a thriving residential hub as part of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development. High-speed rail and industrial growth are beckoning a steady influx of skilled professionals, redefining the city’s identity as a prime living destination.
Vendors affected as price of fresh chillis soars
Thailand’s GI-registered coffee products generated total sales of 1.497 billion baht in 2025, with the top five items alone accounting for 1.318 billion baht, according to the Department of Intellectual Property.
The planet experienced its third-warmest year on record i n 2025, and average temperatures have exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius of global warming over three years, the longest period since records began, European Union (EU) scientists said today.
On long weekends, the road from Bangkok to Hua Hin resembles a faulty production line. City dwellers racing to beat the rush, often end up cooled by car air conditioning instead of ocean winds.
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Thai exports are expected to grow by 2%-4% this year due to foreign investment, particularly in the electronics sector, according to the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC).
The Thai Tourist Police have launched an effort to improve services to visitors around the Grand Palace, aiming to tackle issues of overcharging and passenger refusals. This comprehensive strategy involves coordination with multiple government sectors and seeks to boost the image of this key national attraction.
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Guided by the Ministry of Energy of Thailand, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the ASEAN Smart Energy & Energy Storage Expo 2026 will return from March 25–27 at the IMPACT Exhibition Center, Bangkok.
US President Donald Trump has drawn a wave of criticism for his actions in Venezuela, violations of international law, disdain for longstanding norms, and threats against other countries – not least allies like Denmark and Canada. Around the world, there is a palpable sense of uncertainty and foreboding. But it should already be obvious that things will not end well, neither for the United States nor the rest of the world. 
President Donald Trump said yesterday any country that does business with Iran will face a tariff rate of 25% on trade with the United States, as Washington weighs a response to the situation in Iran, which is seeing its biggest anti-government protests in years. 
The body of a Canadian tourist has been found off the coast of Sam Roi Yot, three days after he went missing while swimming in rough sea conditions near Khao Takiab Temple.
A leading luxury drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in Hua Hin is set to expand its services with the opening of a new outpatient mental health clinic in the city. Diamond Rehab Thailand, fully licensed by the Thai Ministry of Public Health and founded by Theo de Vries and his wife, Panwadee de Vries, will begin offering outpatient counseling and psychological services at The Hub Hua Hin from January.
The Hua Hin Championship Road Race 2026 will take place on Sunday, March 1, bringing competitive and recreational cyclists to the roads around Huay Mongkol for a full day of racing and touring in the Hua Hin area.
A coordinated wave of bombings and arson attacks struck 11 PTT petrol stations across three southern Thai provinces in the early hours yesterday, causing widespread property damage but no reported casualties.
The Customs Department in Thailand is considering a significant increase in import duty rates on low-value goods. The Customs Department deems the current variable rates, averaging around 10%, insufficient to ensure fair competition with domestically produced goods. There are plans to increase the rate to up to 30% in order to establish a more equitable market.
Thailand’s experiment with cannabis liberalization is undergoing a profound and contentious recalibration. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) is advancing a new draft ministerial regulation designed to impose stringent oversight on the sector, a decisive pivot away from the largely unregulated commercial free-for-all that emerged post-2022 and back towards a strictly medical framework.
Effective Jan. 1, the export of fishery products from 12 major Vietnamese fishing grounds to the United States has been officially suspended.
Contractors for rooftop solar installation must register with the Council of Engineers Thailand to enhance consumer confidence on safety, according to the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT).
Thailand needs a new law to help it handle around 400,000 tons of electronic waste a year — including used mobile phones — by recycling the waste for valuable materials, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) said.
A biomass fuel factory in Phrae province has been found to be operating without a required health hazard license, despite ongoing complaints that pollution from the site has caused illness among dozens of nearby residents.