Category Archives: bangkok

bangkok, cha am, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-Feb 28

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International tourists in PKK/Roundabout work to affect traffic/PKK, Phetchaburi join forces/PKK English proficiency/Cha Am Crab Festival/Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas Honored/Not covered by health insurance/Air pollution illnesses hit 12.3M/Price controls on air purifiers/Bad old days for fisheries/Rare planet parade visible/Population time bomb/Curbing water monitor numbers/Dumping trash into Chao Phraya River/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thai growth outlook/Partnership to connect global investors/Latest Developments in Foreign Investment/7-Eleven buyout bid fails/TOURISM: 300-baht tourism tax/Thai hospital operator expansion/European tourists flock to Pattaya/Phuket Airport to boost flight capacity/Tourists Fall Victim to Thefts/American tourist missing in Phuket/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Hua Hin’s Patrick Jacobs gives insiders’ guide/Thailand’s soft power boom/INTERNATIONAL/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

International tourists in PKK increased 35% in ’24, Chinese top list

Continued …

Chomsin Road roundabout work expected to affect traffic

Continued …

 

PKK, Phetchaburi join forces to battle air pollution

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PKK English proficiency among Thailand’s worst

Continued …

Cha Am Crab Festival March 8-15

Continued …

 

 

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas Honored with award for luxury hotels

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas is a winner of the 2024 Trip.Best Award in the luxury hotel category by Trip.com. This accolade highlights the resort’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, privacy, and comfort, ensuring unforgettable experiences for every guest.

Nestled amid lush tropical surroundings, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas offers a tranquil retreat where guests can unwind in private pool villas and enjoy personalized hospitality. The award reflects the support of guests and the dedication of the resort’s team in creating a remarkable stay. Continued …

What’s not covered by health insurance in Thailand?

Health insurance in Thailand has important limits that everyone should know. Many policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, motorcycle accidents, extreme sports, or specific treatments. These gaps can lead to unexpected costs during emergencies.

Coverage for outpatient care and hospital stays also varies between plans. This article explores what is typically not covered by health insurance in Thailand and why it’s important to understand these exclusions. Continued …

Air pollution illnesses in Thailand hit 12.3M in 2024

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) revealed that in 2024 12.3 million Thais suffered from health issues caused by air pollution, with the northern region having the highest rate, followed by the northeastern region. It also reported that within just two months of 2025, the number of people affected exceeded 980,000.

NESDC presented the fourth-quarter social situation of Thailand and an overview for 2024, highlighting significant developments in health issues that require attention going forward. The PM 2.5 dust problem has worsened, significantly impacting public health. Air pollution remains a major issue, intensifying, especially PM 2.5 pollution. Continued …

Price controls on air purifiers, vacuum cleaners expected

Officials at the Ministry of Commerce have proposed adding air purifiers and vacuum cleaners to the price control list, as more consumers seek ways to reduce the effects of pollution.

The proposal is expected to be discussed today by the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services, said Goranij Nonejuie, deputy director-general of the Department of Internal Trade. Continued …

Thailand ‘bringing back the bad old days’ for fisheries, say activists

Jirasak “Boot” Meerit left school before he was a teenager to become a fisher alongside his father. When he started a family, Meerit bought his own boat and set out to catch blue crab and spotted mackerel in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, western Thailand.

“There was fierce competition for marine resources in my day already, because large-scale commercial fishing boats were not well regulated,” Meerit says. The industry was also rife with fabricated fishing permits and destructive gear, he adds. Continued …

Rare planet parade visible tonight in Thailand

Stargazers in Thailand are in for a celestial treat as a rare planetary alignment will light up the evening sky this week, according to the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT). For a limited time, all the visible planets in the solar system will be lined up, creating a parade that can be seen with the naked eye.

Skywatchers can spot Saturn, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Mars without any equipment only this evening. For those hoping to catch a glimpse of Uranus and Neptune, a telescope is recommended. NARIT explained that while the planets appear to line up in the night sky, they are not actually aligned in space. Rather, they occupy positions in their orbits that make them visible in the same region of the sky from Earth’s perspective. Continued …

Population time bomb

Beyond Valentine’s red roses and the festivities of this month of love lies a sobering reality: more Thais than ever prefer living a single life than getting married, according to government agencies.

The rise of singles is closely tied to broader population aging and decline patterns, which will have profound implications for the country’s economic and social development. The statistics are worrying. In 2023, one-fifth of Thais were single, according to the National Statistical Office (NSO). Continued …

Bangkok eyes curbing water monitor numbers

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is considering measures to control the growing population of water monitors in Lumpini Park and the canal along Rama IV Road.

Water monitors are protected under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act BE 2562, which prohibits the hunting, trading, possession or harming of the species. Continued …

Cruise ship caught dumping trash into Chao Phraya River

Video footage has emerged of cruise ship staff dumping large amounts of trash into the Chao Phraya River every day. The scandal was exposed by former beauty queen Carla Porter, first runner-up of Miss Thailand World 2009, who posted the incriminating video on her Facebook page.

The clip, secretly filmed by a friend, shows staff from a cruise ship discarding plastic bottles, foam boxes, and other rubbish directly into the river. Porter revealed that the dumping occurs daily at the same spot. When the crew noticed they were being watched, they moved behind another docked ship to continue their illegal activity, thinking they were out of sight. Continued …

  • Thai woman catches Asian man stealing on flight to Hong Kong – Continued …
  • Italian tourists defy coral reef warning – Continued …
  • Expat Arrested Keeping Exotic and Protected Wildlife – Continued …
  • Thai Victim Hunts for Foreign Hit-and-Run Motorcyclist – Continued …
  • Bangladeshi Man Arrested for Selling Cannabis Vape Pods – Continued …
  • Chinese Nationals Arrested for Operating Illegal Business – Continued …
  • Indian Man Arrested for Illegal Loan Sharking – Continued …

Thai growth outlook remains stable

Economists have maintained Thailand’s 2025 GDP growth forecast following the Bank of Thailand’s recent interest rate cut, saying more reductions are likely during the year to lift a stagnant economy amid a challenging global outlook.

Economists at BofA Securities, led by Pipat Luengnaruemitchai, said the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) rate cut came earlier than the market anticipated, indicating the central bank was more concerned about the country’s growth outlook. Continued …

Partnership to connect global investors to the EEC

The Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO) and HSBC Thailand announced a strategic partnership to drive global investment into the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), reinforcing the country’s position as a hub for high-value industries.

The collaboration with HSBC provides the EECO with access to HSBC’s international network and global investor base spanning 58 markets. Through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), both organizations will expand investor outreach and unlock opportunities from key investment corridors, such as mainland China, Europe, ASEAN, Middle East, India, Taiwan, and Japan. Continued …

Thailand’s Latest Developments in Foreign Investment

Thailand’s foreign investment landscape in 2024 showed significant growth, particularly in planned investments. Key industries such as renewable energy, digital technology, and advanced manufacturing attracted substantial interest from global investors.

Government initiatives, including tax incentives and streamlined regulatory processes, played a pivotal role in fostering a favorable business environment. This surge was notably led by sectors like data centers and cloud services, highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a hub for digital and technology investments. Continued …

7-Eleven parent’s $58-billion buyout bid fails

The founding Ito family of Japan’s Seven & i Holdings failed to secure financing for a $58 billion management buyout, sending its shares plunging and offering fresh impetus to a rival bid from Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard.

“There is no actionable proposal from Junro Ito and Ito-Kogyo for 7&i to consider at this time,” the company said in a statement, adding that it “continues to assess a full range of strategic alternatives”, including Couche-Tard’s $47 billion bid. Continued …

Thailand expected to start 300-baht tourism tax next high season

Thailand is poised to roll out a new 300-baht tourism tax on foreign visitors by year’s end. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, confirmed the expected launch during the nation’s bustling high season, contingent on its approval in the Royal Gazette by March.

This tax, applicable to all entering tourists, aims to provide life and accident insurance, enhancing visitor safety. Arrivals by air will incur a 300-baht fee per person per trip, while those by land or water will pay the same with allowances for multiple entries over a period of 30 to 60 days. To simplify the process, the fee will be tied to the impending Thailand Digital Arrival Card, set for a May debut. Continued …

Top Thai hospital operator hastens expansion on foreign demand

Thailand’s biggest private hospital operator will add more new beds than previously planned on expectations that an aging local population and foreign demand for affordable healthcare services will further boost its business.

Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) plans to add around 800 new beds at its hospitals to raise the total to 9,600 by the end of 2027, the company said after its earnings release on Wednesday. That’s more than the 9,300 target that Chief Executive Officer Poramaporn Prasarttong-Osoth revealed last year. Continued …

European tourists flock to Pattaya for extended stays

Pattaya continues to charm European tourists even as the high season winds down, with many choosing to extend their stays thanks to the city’s laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and improved tourism policies. This thriving beach town remains a top destination, proving that its appeal goes beyond seasonal travel trends.

A survey conducted on Tuesday in the Yinyom and Cozy Beach areas revealed bustling tourism scenes, with both Thai and foreign visitors flocking to the shores. Known for its clear waters, powdery white sands, and scenic rocky landscapes, Cozy Beach offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets. Continued …

Phuket Airport to boost flight capacity to 35 per hour

The Thai Ministry of Transport has instructed the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co. (AEROTHAI) to enhance Phuket Airport’s flight handling capacity. The aim is to increase from 25 to 35 flights per hour this year.

Deputy Minister of Transport Monaporn Charernsri announced yesterday, February 27 that AEROTHAI is examining methods to boost Phuket Airport’s efficiency, one of Thailand’s busiest airports, following Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Continued …

Tourists Fall Victim to Thefts in Pattaya

Pattaya recently witnessed a string of thefts involving foreign tourists, highlighting the challenges visitors sometimes face in bustling tourist hubs. Three separate incidents occurred on a single night, leaving both victims and authorities on high alert.

The first incident involved a 68-year-old Swiss tourist, who, with his Thai girlfriend, reported a theft aboard a songthaew, a popular local public transport. After arriving in Pattaya from Hua Hin, the couple experienced their initial disappointment. Continued …

American tourist missing in Phuket after jet ski ride

An American woman, identified only as Mrs. Nina, has disappeared while jet-skiing at Patong Beach in Phuket. The incident has prompted a significant search effort as authorities seek to uncover what led to her mysterious absence.

Mrs. Nina rented a jet-ski from a local operator yesterday at approximately 9:25 am. She wore a life jacket and was expected to return after 25 minutes. However, when she failed to reappear, the concerned operators alerted the Patong Police. Continued …

Hua Hin-based Belgian photographer Patrick Jacobs taking photos on Khao Takiap

Hua Hin’s Patrick Jacobs gives insider’s guide to local activities

Hua Hin is a three-and-a-half-hour train journey from Bangkok. Hugging the coast 200 kilometers from the Thai capital, the royal resort town is the northernmost district of Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

“We’re located between the mountains and the sea, and enjoy good air quality most of the time,” says Patrick Jacobs, a 69-year-old retired hairdresser, citing one of the reasons he chose Hua Hin as a place to settle. “It’s small, but also international. Coming from Belgium, I speak four EEuropean) languages. I use all of them here.” Continued …

Thailand’s soft power boom: Pop culture and global expansion

At a time when countries in the Indo-Pacific are reorienting their focus toward investing in hard power, Thailand sees increasing potential in developing soft power by leveraging its popular culture. While Thailand’s approach seems influenced by the South Korean model, the country has built on some sectors that are unique, giving it the edge over others such as Taiwan and Japan.

A part of this uniqueness stems from its entertainment industry, which, in the last decade, has captured the attention of global audiences, adding to its worldwide influence, bringing in economic investments, and increasing prospects for the country across other sectors like tourism. Continued …

US tariffs on Chinese goods will double to 20%, effective next week

U.S. President Donald Trump announced yesterday that the U.S. would not only impose his originally outlined 10% tariffs on all Chinese imports beginning on Tuesday, but that these were now being doubled for an effective rate of 20%. The move, targeting billions of U.S. dollars in bilateral trade, represented a significant raising of the stakes in the economic showdown with China. Continued …

Russia says talks on annexed Ukrainian land ‘non-negotiable’

The Kremlin yesterday ruled out giving back Ukrainian regions it claims to have annexed as part of a future peace deal, setting out a major red line as Russian and U.S. officials met in Istanbul for a new round of talks aimed at normalizing relations. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, climate change, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Thursday’s news-Feb 27

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PKK advances development policy/PKK man murders wife/Thailand braces for soaring temperatures/Vaping Crackdown/Bangkok to limit pet numbers/’Trick 100 scam victims a day’/Over 7,000 foreign nationals rescued/Crackdown on illegal immigration/Phuket officials under fire/Death toll in bus crash rises to 19/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rate/Social security system faces pressure/Thai casino push ‘a big threat’/Rice exports to dip/TOURISM: Ethical Tourism in Indigenous Communities/Authority Dismisses 94% Drop in Chinese Tourists/‘Summer Festivals’ extravaganza/240-million-baht Songkran budget/Chinese investors’ daily condo rentals/Chinese removing daily-rental keycard boxes/Grab contributed 1% to GDP/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Travel Guide: Hua Hin/Thailand’s last sea nomads/‘The White Lotus’ Prompts Criticism/CLIMATE THAILAND: EEC solar farm court battle/Phuket ‘waste banks’/Thailand’s glass packaging sector/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

Prachuap Khiri Khan advances development policy

Continued …

PKK man murders estranged wife

A 60-year-old man has been arrested after stabbing his estranged wife 11 times, fatally wounding her in their home in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Their son has spoken out, revealing that his father was deeply addicted to gambling.

The attack took place at around 5:30 am Tuesday in Ban Na Thong, Khlong Wan subdistrict, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan. The suspect, identified as Sumpan Siangsai, used a newly purchased 50-centimeter knife to stab his wife, 53-year-old Sangwan Sualek, in the torso, with multiple wounds penetrating her heart and lungs. She died at the scene. Continued …

Extreme heat advisory: Thailand braces for soaring temperatures

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted extreme heat conditions in several regions from today until March 5, with temperatures expected to soar above 40 degrees Celsius in some areas. Detailed forecasts reveal varying heat levels across the country.

In the southern region (eastern coast), from today 27 to March 1, expect a 20% to 30% chance of thunderstorms from Surat Thani upward. Eastern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour, with 1-meter waves and higher in stormy areas. Continued …

Thailand Ramps Up Vaping Crackdown Amid Rising Concerns

In a move to clamp down on the illegal trade of vapes, Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a nationwide crackdown targeting illegal vape imports and sales. The initiative, starting immediately, places a strong focus on areas surrounding schools and universities to protect young people from the vaping epidemic.

The PM, in her social media updates, underscored the importance of community involvement, urging citizens to report illegal vape activities. Continued …

Bangkok to limit pet numbers, registration needed

A city regulation aimed at tackling stray animals goes into effect in about a year, which will impose a limit on how many pets an owner can keep, according to Bangkok Deputy Gov. Tavida Kamolvej.

The pet control regulation approved by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) last year was announced in the Royal Gazette on Jan. 15 and will take effect within a year. Continued …

Rescued teen ‘ordered to trick 100 scam victims a day’

A 14-year-old girl who was rescued from a scam gang in Cambodia said she was ordered to trick at least 100 victims a day or she would be assaulted and not fed.

The account came from the minor who had disappeared from her home in Rayong province last Saturday and was reportedly lured into working for a call-center gang based near the Cambodia-Vietnam border. Continued …

Over 7,000 foreign nationals rescued from Myanmar scam centers

More than 7,000 foreign nationals trapped in scam call centers in Myanmar’s Myawaddy region have been freed and are awaiting repatriation, according to the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF).

The victims, totalling 7,141 people from 28 nationalities, were rescued from the notorious Shwe Kokko and KK Park complexes, areas known for human trafficking and cybercrime activities. The BGF, led by Karen warlord Saw Chit Thu, handed over the list of names to Thailand’s Ratchamanu Task Force for processing. Continued …

Thai police crackdown on illegal immigration leads to 9,532 arrests

Thailand’s national police chief has directed a nationwide crackdown on illegal immigrants, resulting in nearly 10,000 arrests. Notably in Surin, police discovered a building used for forging Chinese passports to evade immigration checks.

Speaking yesterday, Police Lt. Gen. Achayon Kraithong, a spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, stated that under the policy of the national police chief, an operation was ordered by the Center for Suppression of Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration. Continued …

Phuket officials under fire after corruption claims

Allegations of corruption and negligence are rocking Phuket as Deputy Secretary-General of the Office of the Ombudsman Khanitnan Aphicharn arrived to investigate a series of complaints against local officials accused of turning a blind eye to illegal activities.

The explosive allegations were discussed at a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on Monday, chaired by Phuket Vice Gov. Samawit Suphanphai. Senior representatives from key government agencies were present as residents voiced grievances about officials failing to enforce the law. Continued …

Death toll in Prachin Buri bus crash rises to 19

The bus driver blamed a brake system failure for the accident on Prachin Buri Road, which resulted in 19 deaths. One of the victims’ families is searching for missing valuables worth over 460,000 baht.

The coach bus collided with a traffic barrier and overturned on Road Number 304 in Prachin Buri province at about 3.30 am yesterday during a work trip for members of the Phon Charoen Subdistrict Municipality Office. They were traveling from the Isaan province of Bueng Kan toward the eastern province of Rayong. Continued …

  • Chinese Couple Arrested in Phuket for 4-Year Visa Overstay – Continued …
  • Chinese firm accused of Chachoengsao land grab – Continued …
  • 2 Chinese arrested in Phuket over nominee activity – Continued …

Thai Stocks Surge as Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rate to 2%

In a move to energize Thailand’s economy, the Bank of Thailand lowered its key interest rate by 0.25% yesterday, responding to government pleas for economic relief and a weaker baht to enhance exports. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 6-1 in favor of reducing the one-day repurchase rate to 2.00%, citing increased economic risks.

Reacting to the decision, Thai stocks saw a midday rise of 1.6%. The baht held steady around 33.70 against the U.S. dollar. Continued …

Why Thailand’s social security system faces pressure for major reform

The Social Security Office (SSO) is facing major calls for reform amid criticism that lavish spending, poor budgeting, and a lack of transparency have pushed Thailand’s social security system to the brink of collapse.

Critics say the SSO requires a complete overhaul to enhance efficiency and safeguard health, pension and other welfare benefits it provides for some 24 million Thais. Continued …

Thai casino push ‘a big threat’, says Philippine gaming chief

Thailand’s plan to legalize casinos is a “big threat” to the Philippines, which is now Asia’s second-largest gambling hub and is looking to set a revenue record in 2025, says the head of the country’s gaming agency.

Gross gaming revenue may reach 450 billion to 480 billion pesos ($7.8 billion to $8.3 billion) this year, driven by a recovery in integrated resorts and booming electronic games, Alejandro Tengco, chairman and CEO of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, told reporters yesterday. Continued …

Rice exports projected to dip 33% in Q1

Thailand’s rice exports are expected to drop by 33% year-on-year in the first quarter, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Assn. Thai rice exports are projected to tally 7.5 million tons this year, dipping 24.2% from 9.94 million tons last year.

The two largest contributors to this downturn are India resuming white rice exports after a two-year hiatus and a global increase in rice production of 10 million tons compared with last year. Continued …

Exploring Ethical Tourism in Indigenous Communities of Northern Thailand

Visiting the highland communities of northern Thailand often evokes romanticized visions of remote villages preserved in time, seemingly untouched by modernity. However, this idealized perception can be deceptive.

Ethical tourism begins by questioning our own assumptions: Are you genuinely supporting the community, or unintentionally contributing to its exploitation? Continued …

Tourism Authority Dismisses Claims of 94% Drop in Chinese Tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is dismissing rumors that Chinese tourist numbers have plummeted by 94%. TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool assures that Thailand still ranks as the top destination for Chinese travelers.

The reported decline has been attributed to Thailand’s crackdown on call center scams. Thapanee pointed out that the disappearance of Chinese actor Wang Xing near the Thai border hasn’t affected tourism numbers, as no official reports back up the claim. Continued … 

Thailand launches ‘Summer Festivals’ extravaganza to boost tourism

The government has unveiled its “Thailand Summer Festivals” campaign, which aims to boost tourism and the creative economy through a series of festive celebrations scheduled from March to September.

The campaign, themed “7 Months 7 Wonders Summer Festivals”, spotlights events across seven categories, namely Songkran, Pride Month, culture, music, sports, food and art, and creative festivals. The objective is to enhance Thai tourism by bridging the low season gap and promoting continuous travel throughout the seven months. Continued …

240-million-baht Songkran budget, tourist tax in final quarter

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is proposing a 240-million-baht budget to the cabinet for holding Songkran celebrations in April, aiming to generate 40-50 billion baht in revenue based on a 10%-20% uptick from 1.5 million visitors last year.

The ministry also plans to start collecting the 300-baht tourism tax during the high season in the final quarter. Continued …

Calls grow for the government to address Chinese investors’ daily condo rentals

Recent reports have highlighted a rising trend of Chinese investors purchasing condominium units in Thailand to rent out on platforms like Airbnb, catering to large numbers of tourists and effectively operating as hotels. This has led to dissatisfaction among condo residents and complaints from hotel associations, citing the negative effects on the local hospitality industry.

Suntorn Sathaporn, president of the Real Estate Business Assn., addressed the growing issue of illegal daily condo rentals, particularly those involving Chinese tour groups renting units to bypass legal restrictions. He emphasized that this practice results in large groups of tourists occupying condos, without regard for the impact on Thailand’s hotel industry. These actions, he noted, are illegal and violate the Condominium Act. Continued …

Chinese gradually removing daily-rental condo keycard boxes

After a netizen highlighted that there are boxes installed throughout the city holding keycards to condos illegally rented out on daily basis, a news team found out that the Chinese capitalists running this business have steadily removed many of them.

A Facebook page had posted photos of some cabinets holding combination lock boxes, with each holding a keycard to nearby condos, and causing trouble for other residents in these buildings. Local people revealed that there are foreigners, both Chinese and Westerners, coming to pick up keycards every day. Continued …

Grab contributed 1% to Thailand’s GDP, generated more than 280,000 jobs

A recent study by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) reveals that digital platforms significantly contribute to Thailand’s economic growth, with the ride-hailing and delivery platform Grab accounting for approximately 1% of the country’s GDP in 2023.

The platform generated 179 billion baht, created over 280,000 jobs, and contributed to a household income of around 24 billion baht. Continued …

Travel Guide: Hua Hin

Travel well in Thailand with this guide to two days in Hua Hin. We traveled to this beautiful, luxurious beachside town, discovering some of the very best things to see, eat and do. Continued …

Thailand’s last sea nomads cling to their roots in a changing world

Ngui slips beneath the waves, his movements effortless and precise. He’s done this thousands of times, diving deep to find fish and crustaceans hiding beneath the coral shelves of the Andaman Sea. His catch today is different. A sheet of black plastic, snagged on a rock 50 kilometers (30 miles) from mainland Thailand.

Video 

Ngui is Moken, a nomadic seafaring people who once spent most of their lives at sea; all they needed could be harvested from the sea and scattered islands. But in a rapidly changing world, the Moken have been forced to adapt their way of life. Fishing restrictions, dwindling fish stocks and the rise of tourism have pushed most to settle on land, their movement and activities limited within the boundaries of the Mu Ko Surin National Park. Continued …

‘The White Lotus’ Prompts Criticism of How the West Views Southeast Asia

Few recent TV shows have been more hotly anticipated than season three of HBO’s “The White Lotus,” set this time in Thailand’s Koh Samui.

Season three of the smash hit premiered on Feb. 16 but, so far, the beloved show has already garnered criticism for its take on Thailand, including its sepia color correction, underuse of Thai characters, and stereotypes about Thailand. Continued …

SPCG’s Solar Power Korat 1 plant in the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima.

EEC solar farm court battle heats up

The Central Administrative Court is being asked to examine a 3.7-billion-baht lawsuit filed by solar farm developer SPCG Plc against the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) for allegedly unfairly discontinuing the company’s solar farm project in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The PEA was asked by the EEC Office in 2019 to plan for a supply of clean energy in the EEC, which led to cooperation between the authority, its wholly owned PEA Encom International, and SPCG. Continued …

Phuket to set up local ‘waste banks’

Phuket City is preparing to establish a “community waste bank” program as authorities on the tourist island seek better ways to manage 1,200 tons of waste generated daily.

The program encourages people in communities to separate waste such as plastic and glass bottles and paper, which can be sold at the waste bank. The program is expected to expand to other parts of Phuket in the future. Continued …

How the EPR system will impact Thailand’s glass packaging sector

Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is an environmental policy approach in which the producer’s responsibility for a product and/or packaging is extended to the post-consumer phase of the product’s life cycle.

An EPR policy is characterized by shifting responsibility for a product and/or packaging to the producer and away from local authorities and municipalities. It also aims to incentivize producers to take environmental aspects into account when designing their products. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, climate change, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Feb 26

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Ancient child skeleton rewriting prehistory/Cha Am Bikini Beach Run/To simplify work permit process/Flu cases surge/17 killed as tour bus overturns/Congestion and corruption at Laem Chabang Port/Worries about freed scam center foreigners/5-kilometer queue into Mae Sot/Lisa to perform at Oscars/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thai nominee crackdown/Exports up 13.6%/Falling rice prices/Thai Beauty Sector Growth/Global tax challenge/TOURISM: Russians seek escape on Phuket/Foreign investors cause a stir/Bangkok condo nightmare/Development of U-Tapao Airport/Streamlining Airport Experience/Thailand among top solo travel destinations/China market uptick for Thailand/Pattaya Nightlife Under Scrutiny/Bank Account with a DTV/Sitting with corpse on long-haul flight/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: March Festivals and Events/Traditional martial arts of Southeast Asia/Exploring Chiang Mai/Single spark that ignited 20 years of violence/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok’s 1,520 electric buses/Pattaya plans low-carbon future/How much trash is being thrown out/INTERNATIONAL/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

Ancient child skeleton unearthed in PKK rewriting prehistory

A remarkable archaeological discovery in a remote cave within Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park has yielded the oldest human skeleton found in Thailand to date, potentially pushing back the timeline of human occupation in the region by tens of thousands of years.

The skeletal remains of a child, affectionately nicknamed “Pangpond” after a popular Thai cartoon character, were unearthed during excavations at Din Cave, a site already known for its prehistoric rock art. Continued …

Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 15 -16

The Cha Am Bikini Beach run is a unique adventure, not only for mixing different surfaces along the course (road and sand) but for inviting runners to participate in their swimsuits. Continued … 

Thailand moves to simplify work permit process

Continued …

Warning issued as flu cases surge

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has warned the public about a spike in influenza after 130,000 infected patients were reported over the past two months.

DDC Director-general Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul said that 131,826 influenza cases were reported from Jan. 1 to Feb. 24, with a dozen being fatal. Most patients were children aged five to nine, followed by babies and toddlers aged 0-4 and 10-14 years old. Continued …

17 killed, 40 injured as tour bus overturns in Prachin Buri

Over 40 people were injured, and 17 lost their lives after an educational field trip bus overturned while descending Khao San Pu Tone mountain in Prachin Buri’s Na Di district this morning.

The incident took place at around 4am, when a tour bus from Bueng Kan’s Phon Charoen district went off the curve on Highway 304 during the journey to Rayong province. The vehicleoverturned and was completely damaged. Continued …

PAT to ease congestion and tackle corruption at Laem Chabang Port

The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is working with several agencies to address traffic congestion and boost customer satisfaction in Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri Province, which includes an investigation of queue-jumping bribes.

Laem Chabang Port is the largest deep sea port in Thailand and a major logistics hub in ASEAN, with more than 9.4 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and more than 6 million passing trucks a year. Continued …

Worries about influx of freed scam center foreigners

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has expressed concern about a possibleflood of foreignersreleased from shutteredscam centers in Myawaddy, Myanmar.

He said yesterday the government would try to block their entry until their home countries agreed to repatriate them. Illegal entry through natural border crossings was of particular concern. Continued …

5-kilometer queue of Burmese drivers crossing into Mae Sot to refuel

Long queues of cars, extending up to 5 kilometers, are waiting in Myanmar’s Myawaddy border township to cross the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge into Thailand’s Mae Sot to refuel.

This sight has become common place, as fuel is becoming increasingly scarce since Thailand cut electricity, fuel and internet supplies to locations in Myanmar, including Myawaddy, on Feb. 5, to put pressure on Myanmar and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) to crack down on Chinese-run scam call centers in the Myawaddy, Tachileik and Payathonzu border townships. Continued … 

Blackpink’s Lisa to perform at Oscars, amid controversy

Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal, of the South Korean girl group Blackpink, is set to take the stage at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2, much to the excitement of her global fanbase.The performance will be broadcast live and available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar.

Lisa, alongside Doja Cat and Raye, will perform their collaborative track “Born Again”. The song features in the third season of The White Lotus, in which Lisa also stars. Raye, a British singer-songwriter, wrote and produced the song. Continued …

British Man Arrested After 25-Year Visa Overstay

Chiang Mai Immigration recently arrested a British man who overstayed his visa by 9,135 days — more than 25 years. This case marks one of the longest recorded visa overstays in Thailand’s history. Continued …

  • Naked Foreigner Walks into Phuket Convenience Store – Continued …
  • 7 Tourists Nabbed in Pai for Public Cannabis Use – Continued …
  • Police Launch Major Crackdown on Nominee Businesses in Region 8 – Continued …
  • Lao woman arrested in Hat Yai prostitution sting – Continued …

Thai nominee crackdown uncovers tourism, property chaos

Authorities have announced progress in a crackdown on foreigners using Thai nominees to illegally run businesses, focusing on tourism and real estate. Between September 2024 and January 2025, a multi-agency taskforce led by the Commerce Ministry prosecuted 820 illegal nominee businesses, with estimated damages totaling 12.5 billion baht, officials revealed on Monday.

Authorities will investigate another 27,000 suspected nominees in 2025, targeting tourism, real estate, hospitality and logistics, Auramon Supthaweethum, the Department of Business Development’s director-general, said. Continued …

Thailand’s exports up 13.6% in January, as trade momentum continues

Thailand’s exports in January 2025 grew by 13.6% year on year to US$25.27 billion (862.36 billion baht), marking the seventh consecutive month of expansion, the Commerce Ministry announced yesterday.

Excluding gold, oil and military supplies, exports expanded by 11.4% compared to the same period last year, said Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). Continued …

Falling rice prices a hot potato for Thai government

Rapid changes in global market conditions have led to rice prices plummeting, posing a challenging situation for the Thai government.

Farmers in the central and northern parts of the country, who also form an important voting block, recently held protests, demanding that the government tackle the issue of declining paddy prices. The government responded with short-term measures to shore up prices and plans to spend around 1.9 billion baht. Continued …

Thai Beauty Sector Sees Explosive Growth, Foreign Investment

The Department of Business Development reports the beauty business has experienced continuous growth with new establishments over the past five years, now totaling 6,621 legal entities, with foreign investments reaching $83.1 million.

Yesterday, Oramon Sapthaweetham, director-general of the Department of Business Development, disclosed an analysis showing beauty business registrations jumped from 527 entities in 2020 to 1,161 in 2023 and 1,135 in 2024, with total registered capital of $5.65 billion. In-depth analysis of the past three years (2021-2023) shows average annual revenue exceeding $9 billion. Continued …

New global tax challenge lies ahead

U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to leave the global minimum tax accord is affecting international tax law worldwide. Thailand is not spared either.

While other major nations are still pressing ahead with the 15% corporate tax floor for multinational corporations, Thailand must rethink its strategy for drawing foreign investment — or risk falling behind. Continued …

Russians seek escape from sanctions, draft on Thailand’s Phuket Island – Not everyone is happy

For many years, Chinese tourism fueled the economy of the island paradise of Phuket, known for its tropical weather, stunning sunsets and foreign-friendly accommodations.

But with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Thailand’s Phuket Island is transforming into a different kind of getaway: a refuge for Russians fleeing military conscription, political oppression and the economic impact of Western sanctions. Continued …

Foreign investors in Thai property causes a stir

Tourist industry insiders voiced concerns about the amount of foreign investors snapping up hotels, pool villas, and luxury digs in Thailand’s bustling tourist hotspots like Phuket and Bangkok.

Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), added his voice to the growing chorus of concern. He’s especially wary of Russian property owners flouting the rules by secretly renting out their pads on a daily basis. Continued …

Bangkok condo nightmare: Noise, cannabis, and daily rentals

Residents of a Bangkok condominium are at their wits’ end as daily rentals by foreigners have turned their once peaceful home into a noisy nightmare.

Complaints of loud parties, the smell of cannabis lingering in hallways, and blatant rule-breaking at the swimming pool have become all too common, leaving long-term residents frustrated and desperate for solutions. Continued …

Artist’s rendering of new U-Tapao Airport

Development of U-Tapao Airport to proceed but on a smaller scale

Plans to expand U-Tapao Airport are being revised, with the project scaled back significantly due to ongoing delays with the high-speed rail link.

Keeree Kanjanapas, chairman of U-Tapao International Aviation (UTA), confirmed that the development of the airport and the adjacent Eastern Aviation City will go ahead, but without waiting for the delayed Bangkok-Rayong high-speed train. Continued … 

AOT President Kerati Kijmanawat on Streamlining Airport Experience with Biometric Technology

Airports of Thailand (AOT) President Kerati Kijmanawat, in a two-part interview, discusses efforts to make airports more sustainable, focusing on carbon reduction and biometric technology for seamless travel. This second installment explores how Thailand’s leading airport operator is enhancing efficiency and reducing waiting times.

As part of its goal to enhance passenger experience, AOT has introduced self-check-in kiosks, self-bag drop kiosks, and biometric immigration processing. These changes have led to a reduction in average immigration processing times from 30 minutes to around 4 minutes. Continued …

Thailand among top solo travel destinations for 2025

Thailand ranks fifth globally for solo travel, according to a new survey by luxury tour operator Kensington. India tops the list, followed by Italy, Japan and Egypt.

“Solo travel is on the rise,” said Matt Cammaert of Kensington, speaking to Travel + Leisure magazine. “Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations rich in cultural significance and offering unique landscapes, combined with the independence and seamless, personalized service they desire.” Continued …

Trip.com Group sees China market uptick for Thailand

Though Chinese tourist bookings grew slower than expected in the first month of the year because of safety concerns, they should improve overall from last year, as Thailand remains a popular global destination, says online travel agent Trip.com Group.

According to Trip.com Group, the operator of CTrip and trip.com, Chinese travelers’ hotel bookings in Thailand from Jan. 1 to Feb. 19 rose by nearly 10% year-on-year. This figure fell short of its original forecast of 50% growth. Continued …

Pattaya Nightlife Comes Under Scrutiny Amid Noise Complaints

Pattaya’s lively beer bar scene is facing scrutiny as local authorities respond to mounting noise complaints from residents. Yesterday, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampichet spearheaded an investigation into a well-known beer bar complex on Soi Diana, South Pattaya.

The bustling area, known for its vibrant atmosphere, has drawn the ire of locals who claim the noise is disrupting their nightly peace. Continued …

Opening a Bank Account with a DTV Visa

Many foreigners holding a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) encounter difficulties when trying to open a bank account because almost every bank refuses to serve DTV visa holders.

The primary concern is that bank accounts opened by foreigners could be used for illegal financial activities such as online gambling, romance scams, or money laundering. Continued …

Australian says ‘wasn’t nice’ sitting with corpse on long-haul flight

An Australian couple has criticized Qatar Airways after a blanket-draped corpse was seated next to them during a long-haul flight. Mitchell Ring said a passenger died part-way through the 14-hour flight from Melbourne to Doha last week.

“They tried to wheel her up toward business class, but she was quite a large lady and they couldn’t get her through the aisle,” he told an Australian network this week. Continued …

March Festivals and Events in Thailand

March is filled with vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations, including the Phanom Rung Light Phenomenon. Enjoy world-class performances at Pattaya Music Festival 2025 and PELUPO 2025, while experiencing Thai heritage at the 17th World Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony.

Book enthusiasts can explore the National & Bangkok International Book Fair, while the Thailand Tourism Festival showcases the best of Thai culture, crafts, and traditions. March promises an unforgettable mix of light, music, heritage, and excitement. Continued …

A Fighting Chance: the traditional martial arts of Southeast Asia

Every Southeast Asian country contributes to a rich arsenal of traditional martial arts that go beyond mere fighting techniques and are unique in their cultural identity.

“These traditional martial arts represent each of our member countries’ individual cultures and ways of life,” Caleb, a martial arts instructor, explained. Continued …

A First-hand Guide To Exploring Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has been all the rage recently, diverting attention from the more mainstream tracks that of Koh Samui. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, a powerful realm that spanned across present-day northern Thailand, parts of Myanmar, Laos and China.

Today, Chiang Mai retains its rich historical roots while evolving into a vibrant cultural and culinary hub, attracting travelers from all corners of the world. With its astonishing temples, thriving street markets, lush landscapes and world-class cuisine, it is poised to become a cosmopolitan hub. Continued …

‘Petty criminals’ – a single spark that ignited 20 years of violence

“There is no separatism, no ideological terrorists, only petty criminals,” said then-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra after the “Pi-Leng Camp Weapons Raid” on Jan. 4, 2004, and the burning of 18 schools.

Thaksin was so furious that he reprimanded the military and soldiers for their lack of vigilance, saying, “If you have an entire battalion stationed there but still fail to be cautious, then you deserve to die.” Continued …

Bangkok set to roll out 1,520 electric buses by August

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is preparing to lease 1,520 electric buses, with the first batch set to be operational by August. This initiative aims to replace over 30-year-old non-air-conditioned buses and reduce maintenance costs.

According to a report from the Ministry of Transport, the BMTA will propose the leasing project to the board during its meeting ttoday. The project, valued at 15,355 million baht, will span seven years from 2025 to 2032. It involves an electronic bidding process for the lease agreement and will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval next month. Continued …

Pattaya plans low-carbon future with solar power and clean energy

Pattaya Cit yis on a mission to transform itself into a low-carbon tourism destination, with ambitious plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable energy.

In the second meeting of the Public Image Committee, Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of PattayaCity, outlined a bold vision for a greener, cleaner future, leveraging solar power and clean energy solutions. Continued …

How much trash is actually being thrown out annually

Plastic pollution costs an estimated $300-600 billion USD per year in social and environmental impact, with some estimates above $1.5 trillion per year. Seventy-seven percent of plastic goes to waste every year, 18% ends up in mismanaged waste streams such as illegal dump sites or land and ocean litter.

Out of all plastic waste, 67% comes from homes, businesses, and public buildings, 11% comes from the automotive industry, 11% comes from textiles, 5% comes from building and construction, and 4% comes from electronics. Continued …

US Refuses to Blame Russia for Ukraine War, Splitting with European Allies

In a dramatic shift in transatlantic relations under President Donald Trump, the United States split with its European allies by refusing to blame Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in votes on three U.N. resolutions Monday seeking an end to the three-year war. Continued …

Could Fort Knox revaluation spark a global gold market boom?

The potential revaluation of U.S. gold reserves, particularly those stored at Fort Knox in Kentucky, has sparked considerable speculation, with some analysts predicting a surge in the price of the precious metal. Continued …

Alibaba to invest $53 billion in cloud, AI infrastructure in next 3 years

Alibaba Group announced on Monday that it will invest more than 380 billion yuan (about $53 billion) in building cloud and AI hardware infrastructure in the next three years, capitalizing on the rapid growth of the AI industry. Continued …

Private US company set for second Moon landing attempt

Intuitive Machines made history last year as the first private company to put a robot on the Moon, although the triumph was marred by the lander tipping onto its side. Now, the Houston-based firm is gearing up for a second attempt, determined to achieve a perfect touchdown. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand islands, tourism, transportation, wildlife tourism

Monday’s news-Feb 24

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Roundabout at Chomsin Road intersection/Graffitti artist removing his work/Sacred stones thieves arrested/Is vaping safer than smoking cigarettes?/Heavy rain in 48 provinces/Online Gambling on Football and Muay Thai/Retirement lottery scheme/Phuket Scams Surge/Clampdown on Pattaya Parking/215 foreigners rescued/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Developers request property measures/Shoring up the auto sector/TOURISM: Disaster for Thailand’s Koh Samui?/Impact of Set-Jetting in Thailand/Thailand’s elephant tourism/Emergency medical treatment in Thailand/Phuket eyes Bt500 billion in revenue/Nok Air to cut Chinese flights/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Pad Thai: A wartime invention/Koh Mak: redefining travel to Thailand/Digital Nomad Paradise/5-year visa for digital nomads/Surfing in Thailand/Thailand’s 8th World Heritage site/Best Resorts in Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok’s unhealthy trash diet/Studying small nuclear reactors/INTERNATIONAL/Effects of Trump’s Ukraine deal/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

Roundabout to ease traffic at Chomsin Road intersection

Continued … 

Hua Hin’s eye graffitti artist removing his work

Continued …

Sam Roi Yat sacred stones thieves arrested

Continued …

Is vaping safer than smoking cigarettes?

Over the past 20 years, fewer than 100 people worldwide have died from vaping, while more than 100 million people have died from smoking regular cigarettes.

In Thailand, the tobacco death toll is 71,000 people each year, and from vaping – zero. So why are cigarettes available in every convenience store, while e-cigarettes are banned? Continued …

Heavy rain in 48 provinces, monsoon hits the South

Heavy rain is expected today in 48 provinces, including Bangkok, with thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail. The monsoon covering the southern region will bring heavy rainfall to 70% of the area. Upper Thailand will experience unstable weather conditions, including thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds, and isolated hail in the northern and northeastern regions. Following this, temperatures will drop by 1-3°C.

Widespread thunderstorms (70% of the area) with isolated heavy to very heavy rain, mainly in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Online Gambling on Football and Muay Thai Expected to Be Legalized

Online football and Muay Thai gambling are expected to be legalized, according to Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong.

Prasert stated that a joint working group, comprising the DES Ministry, the Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Council of State, has convened twice to discuss the matter but has yet to reach a final conclusion on the legalization of online gambling. Continued … 

Retirement lottery scheme to be put to Parliament

Following the Council of State’s revision of the draft National Savings Fund (NSF) Act, the retirement lottery scheme will soon be put to Parliament for consideration, Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul said yesterday.

He noted that insufficient savings after retirement is a problem faced by many Thais, especially those on a low income and who lack financial literacy, causing many retirees to rely on children, welfare and loans. Continued …

Phuket Scams Surge: 5,500 Victims and 413 Million Baht Lost

Phuket is witnessing an alarming rise in financial fraud, with over 5,500 individuals falling victim to scams in the past year, resulting in cumulative losses of 413 million baht. These figures were confirmed by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Region 5.

There has been a sharp increase in scam activities since 2022. Last year, while there were 1,365 reported victims, who collectively lost 10.9 million baht. The numbers jumped dramatically in 2023 to 3,538 victims with 18.8 million baht in losses. By 2024, the figures skyrocketed to 5,510 victims, with financial damages amounting to 413 million baht. Continued …

Clampdown on Parking: Pattaya Enforces Strict Odd-Even Rule

Pattaya officials are stepping up their efforts to curb traffic congestion and reclaim pedestrian walkways by strictly enforcing the odd-even parking rule on South Pattaya Road. From Feb. 3 onward, parking on this busy 850-meter stretch is restricted on alternating odd and even dates, between 11 am and 11 pm.

To ensure compliance with these regulations, the city has stationed 12 officers per shift to oversee this bustling area. Drivers caught flouting the rules will face immediate consequences, including fines and wheel clamping. Continued …

215 foreigners, including Thais, rescued from Cambodian scam center

Cambodian police have rescued 215 foreigners, 109 of them Thais, from a scam compound in Poipet city following stepped-up collaboration to combat scam gangs between Thailand and Cambodia.

The operation followed Friday’s urgent meeting between the Royal Thai Police inspector-general and Cambodian high-ranking police officers to discuss operational plans to eradicate call center scam gangs. Continued …

  • Foreign couple cheats hair salon of 500 baht in Koh Phangan – Continued …
  • lllegal Chinese-owned Condo Rentals Spark Concerns in Thailand – Continued …
  • Hungarian Man Arrested in Krabi Raid for Working Without a Permit – Continued …
  • American Woman Arrested with 4kg of Ice at Phuket Airport – Continued …

Real estate developers request property measures

The government should extend property measures and relax loan-to-value (LTV) limits for second- and third-time buyers, as domestic demand is expected to remain weak in 2025, according to developers and consultants.

Nuttaphong Kunakornwong, chief executive of SET-listed developer SC Asset Corp., said negative factors from last year continue to weigh on domestic housing demand this year. Continued …

Shoring up the auto sector

The recent announcement by the Board of Investment (BoI) that Nissan Motor Thailand will maintain its investment here, following news reports that the parent company plans to close three factories overseas, is reflective of changes in the Thai automotive industry.

Automakers are not only adapting to electric mobility technology, which has been heavily promoted by the government, but are also struggling with a years-long slowdown in domestic car sales and production. Continued …

White Lotus Effect Could Be a Disaster for Thailand’s Koh Samui

The Four Seasons positioning itself with The White Lotus is one of the smartest marketing partnerships in travel. It is a master class in old-school, top-of-funnel marketing, achieving something few luxury brands manage: catapulting into mainstream awareness while maintaining exclusivity.

My beef here is that much of the media coverage surrounding this phenomenon (and the launch of the new season set in Thailand) has been largely uncritical. The surge of attention is set to bring an influx of hyper-tourism to Koh Samui, a small Thai island already grappling with infrastructure challenges: namely water scarcity and issues with garbage processing. A beautiful island is in danger of being completely overloaded. Continued …

The Economic and Tourism Impact of Set-Jetting in Thailand

Set-jetting in Thailand is a growing trend where travelers visit locations featured in popular films and television shows. This phenomenon has significantly boosted tourism in the country, with several iconic destinations becoming must-visit spots for fans.

Thailand’s cinematic appeal has made it a hotspot for set-jetting, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture serving as backdrops for numerous films and TV shows. Here are some of the most popular set-jetting locations in Thailand that have drawn travelers inspired by their on-screen fame: Continued …

Ethics in Thailand’s elephant tourism?

An elephant experience is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist attractions; however, tourists should exercise caution and adopt ethical practices by refraining from touching the elephants when visiting elephant camps.

World Animal Protection Thailand has called on camps to stop using elephants to entertain tourists, specifically requesting that hands-on participation by tourists in bathing and feeding activities be banned. Continued …

Passing the buck on paying for emergency medical treatment in Thailand

An unfortunate British tourist Gatehouse is facing medical and repatriation costs of around 80,000 pounds (3 million baht) and much more if a private plane evacuation proves necessary. Her husband says their travel insurance proved worthless because they visited India before Thailand, a technicality that invalidated all claims.

Inevitably, the British embassy was contacted but there is no slush fund to cover non-insured tourists or expats. Indeed, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London has in the past pointed out that British taxpayers cannot, and should not, subsidize overseas tragedies no matter how pitiful. Continued …

Phuket eyes Bt500 billion in revenue for 2025

Phuket expects to achieve 500 billion baht in tourism revenue this year, said Sophon Suwannarat, the island’s provincial governor. He added that the resort island’s tourism revenue was deemed successful last year.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), at least 13.14 million tourists visited, generating a minimum of 497 billion baht in revenue. For this year, Sophon said that the local authority has set a goal of 500 billion baht. Continued …

Nok Air to cut Chinese flights amid moribund market

To offset sluggish growth in the Chinese market this year, Nok Air plans to reduce traffic to the mainland and compensate with flights to India, as well as new destinations such as Japan, Taiwan and Singapore.

Wutthiphum Jurangkool, chief executive of Nok Air, said there are several factors affecting tourism and aviation this year, particularly the changing behavior of Chinese travelers. Continued …

Pad Thai: A wartime invention turned global culinary icon

Pad Thai, a dish now synonymous with Thai cuisine, has a fascinating origin rooted in necessity. During World War II, Thailand faced a severe food crisis. Rice, the nation’s staple, became scarce and expensive, putting pressure on the government to find an alternative to sustain its people.

This led to a creative solution by then-prime minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram, introducing a new national dish that would reduce rice consumption while fostering a sense of unity among Thais. That dish was Pad Thai. Continued …

Koh Mak: The tiny island that’s redefining travel to Thailand

As season three of The White Lotus prepares to thrust Thailand’s islands into the global spotlight, drawing fresh waves of visitors to the already bustling shores of Phuket and Koh Samui, a very different story is unfolding across the Gulf of Thailand. Here, a speck of an island named Koh Mak has quietly positioned itself as a model for sustainable tourism, offering a rare vision of what the future of travel in Thailand could be.

Heading toward Koh Mak’s southern shores by speedboat, my first impression was disarmingly simple: golden sand curving into clear shallows while coconut palms leaned toward the sea as though caught mid-bow. There were no high-rises, no blaring beach clubs. Instead, low-slung bungalows peeked through the trees and bicycles outnumbered cars on the island’s quiet roads. Continued …

Digital Nomad Paradise: Top 5 Destinations In Thailand

Like moths to a flame, it’s practically a given digital nomads will be flocking to Thailand at some point: Be it the lush nature, the higher quality of life (at cheaper prices), or the vibrant expat community, it’s the textbook definition of a workcation paradise: as a matter of fact, it is the top destination for remote workers in Asia.

It is one of the continent’s most diverse countries, with a striking contrast between a mountainous, verdant north and a typically tropical, island-dotted south – but which “side” of Thailand has been drawing in the most long-term visitors lately? Continued …

What is the 5-year visa for the digital nomad in Thailand?

The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is a great option for digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers who want to stay in Thailand for a long time. This multiple-entry visa is valid for five years, allowing stays of up to 180 days per entry, with the option to extend.

While it does not serve as a work permit, it lets remote workers live in Thailand while working online. In this guide, we’ll cover the requirements, benefits, and application process to help you decide if the DTV Visa is the right choice for your digital nomad lifestyle. Continued …

Thailand: A Surfer’s secret stash of hidden waves

While it might not boast the legendary waves of Hawaii or Bali, Thailand has plenty to offer, especially for those just starting out or looking for a relaxed surf trip.

The best time to catch some waves depends on which coast you’re hitting. The Andaman Sea side, home to Phuket and Khao Lak, gets its best swells from May to October, thanks to the southwest monsoon. Over on the Gulf of Thailand, around Hua Hin and Rayong, the waves are smaller but still fun from October to December. Continued …

UNESCO recognizes Phu Phrabat as Thailand’s 8th World Heritage site

Sasikarn Watthanachan, deputy spokeswoman for the prime minister’s office, announced on Saturday that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially recognised Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Udon Thani as a World Heritage Site under the name Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sima stone tradition of the Dvaravati period.

This designation marks Thailand’s eighth World Heritage site and the fifth cultural heritage site in the country. It is also the second World Heritage site in Udon Thani, following the Ban Chiang archaeological site, which was registered by UNESCO in 1992. Continued …

The Best Resorts in Thailand for the Ultimate Luxury Getaway

There’s one destination on everyone’s minds right now. Thailand. And there’s no better place to take in the breathtaking views and unwind like a luxury resort. To help you start planning the ultimate getaway, we’ve rounded up the best resorts in Thailand, from Bangkok to the beach.

From a private pool villa to a sumptuous suite, these are the exotic places you’ll want to stay when you’re traveling. And with amenities like spas, infinity pools, fitness centers, and more, you’ll never want to leave. Continued …

Bangkok’s unhealthy trash diet

Bangkok is grappling with significant challenges in waste management, as food makes up nearly half of the garbage generated in the city. The question is how the government, businesses and the public can collaborate to address food waste in Bangkok.

In fiscal 2024, spanning Oct. 1, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2024, authorities collected an average of 9,238 tons of waste per day, according to the Environment Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Continued …

EGAT tasked with studying small modular nuclear reactors

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has been told to accelerate the study of nuclear power plants using small modular reactors (SMRs) to boost Thailand’s energy security. A source from the Energy Ministry said laws and regulations should be implemented to supervise private companies’ investment in SMRs in order to ensure safety.

The most difficult part, however, is creating an understanding with the public sector, a source said, adding that Thailand would look at setting up national nuclear power plants before allowing private investment. Continued …

The effects of Trump’s Ukraine deal

At the end of World War I, John Maynard Keynes was part of the British delegation to the Paris Peace Conference, where the victorious Allies dictated the peace terms for the defeated Central Powers. He emerged from the conference distraught. As he subsequently wrote in The Economic Consequences of the Peace, delegates’ focus on short-term political considerations, including the desire to “punish” Germany for its aggression, would come at the cost of long-term social and political stability in Europe. It is a warning worth remembering today. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand islands, tourism

Saturday’s news-Feb 22

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Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival/Asian Emergency Medical Services in Hua Hin/To Monitor Foreigners in Thailand/32 provinces face air pollution/Summer Starts Next Week/Thunderstorms and heavy rains/Role of Thailand’s Rainforest/Wild Elephant Electrocuted/12 fast and furious drivers jailed/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Rising number of factory closures/Business Registrations Hit Record High/IMF predicts Thailand’s GDP growth at 2.7%/Health sector to boost economy/TOURISM: Visa Agencies in Thailand/Immigration Biometric System Fails/Koh Samui’s White Lotus boom/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Backpacker’s Guide To Thailand/Temple of the ‘vultures’/CLIMATE THAILAND: Efforts to Safeguard Doi Suthep/Cleaning up Bangkok’s waterways/Bangchak Champions Climate Action/INTERNATIONAL/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

Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival 2025 underway today

Monsoon Valley, Thailand’s largest vineyard and most internationally awarded wine, invites wine lovers and adventure seekers to the “Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival 2025”, taking place from Feb. 22 – March 2 at its vineyard outside Hua Hin.

Spanning 300 rai (110 hectares) and producing over 300,000 bottles of wine per year, Monsoon Valley is home to more than 10 grape varietals. With a reputation built on over 430 international awards, Monsoon Valley wines are enjoyed worldwide, solidifying its status as Thailand’s most recognized and celebrated winery. Continued …

Asian Emergency Medical Services meeting held in Hua Hin

The Taiwan National Fire Agency won an award for its emergency medical services and ambulance safety, at a conference of the Asian Association for Emergency Medical Services in Hua Hin Thursday.

The service includes a national data exchange platform linking the fire departments of 22 cities and counties with 10 emergency medical service systems. The group consisted of representatives from 20 countries working to educate and research emergency aid. New Taipei won the top prize and Tainan came third with 13 teams from six countries participating. – Taiwannews.com

Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) to Monitor Foreigners in Thailand

The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has heightened its surveillance of areas with significant foreign populations across Thailand. This comes as a preventive measure following recent tensions involving Israeli tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province.

Issued yesterday, the directive from ISOC’s Second Operational Command aims to ensure foreigners adhere to local laws and to maintain harmony within communities. The order stresses the importance of avoiding conflicts that could damage international relations and advises local ISOC branches to focus on Thailand’s national security, economy, and tourism. Continued …

Bangkok, 32 provinces face severe air pollution as PM2.5 levels rise

The Pollution Control Department has issued a warning concerning high PM2.5 levels across 32 provinces in Thailand, with Bangkok experiencing the most severe pollution. Predictions indicate that PM2.5 levels in Bangkok and its vicinity are likely to rise in the upcoming week.

Among the provinces are Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, Chiang Rai, Nan, Lampang, Lamphun, Phitsanulok, Tak, Phichit, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Phetchaburi, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Trat. Continued …

Thailand’s Summer Starts Next Week, Intense Heat Expected

As next week marks the onset of summer in Thailand, meteorologists forecast a particularly scorching season, particularly in the north and northeast of the country. The Thai Meteorological Department has announced that the summer period will officially kick off from Feb. 28 and run through to mid-May.

Despite the seasonal change, there’s a ray of hope for cooler weather this year due to La Niña, which is expected to take some of the edge off the usual intense heat. The phenomenon is anticipated to result in a more moderate temperature range, hovering around 35°C to 36°C — slightly under last year’s hotter average of 37.5°C. Continued …

Thunderstorms and heavy rains likely from Sunday to Tuesday

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a weather advisory today, urging people to beware of variable and severe weather conditions from Sunday to Tuesday.

Affected provinces in the south are as follows:

Sunday: Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phang Nga and Krabi.

Monday: Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun. Continued …

The Role of Thailand’s Rainforest in Regulating Its Weather

Deforestation poses a significant threat to the weather-regulating abilities of Thailand’s rainforests. The removal of trees and vegetation can lead to disruptions in rainfall patterns, increased soil erosion, and higher temperatures, contributing to a more erratic and less predictable climate in the region. Continued …

Wild Elephant Electrocuted: Authorities Launch Investigation

Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has launched an investigation following the electrocution of a wild elephant in Chachoengsao province. A post-mortem examination confirmed burn marks and signs of sudden cardiac arrest, prompting authorities to track down those responsible.

The male elephant, weighing 6,060 kilograms and standing 3.1 meters tall, was discovered on Thursday in Ban Thammarat, Klong Takrao subdistrict, The examination revealed burn marks beneath the trunk and on the roof of the mouth, along with fluid accumulation around the heart and internal bleeding, consistent with electrocution-induced cardiac arrest. Continued …

12 fast and furious drivers jailed after Pattaya motorway pile-up

Twelve speed demons have received two-month jail terms for dangerous driving on the Motorway from Pattaya after an accident that damaged all of the racers’ cars and that of another motorist.

The Chon Buri District Court yesterday sentenced all 12 drivers to two months in the Chon Buri Prison. Their modified cars were confiscated and their driving licenses revoked. Continued …

Rising number of factory closures points to bleak future for Thai industries

Thailand is staring at a crisis caused by the rising number of factory closures in recent years, partly attributed to an influx of cheaper Chinese products. This trend is expected to continue this year, raising fears of an irreversible decline in local manufacturing and its consequences for Thai workers.

According to the Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch), the number of factory closures exceeded 100 per month last year for the second consecutive year. This trend is particularly pronounced among small-scale factories operated by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Continued …

Thai Business Registrations Hit Record High

Thailand’s new business registrations hit a record high of 87,596 in 2024, with projections of 90,000-95,000 for 2025. Key sectors driving this growth include technology, tourism, and renewable energy, supported by government incentives and streamlined registration processes.

Foreign investment in Thailand exceeded $6.76 billion in 2024, with Japan being the top investor. The Eastern Economic Corridor saw significant growth in foreign investment, with a 124% increase in the number of companies and a 46% increase in investment value compared to 2023. Continued …

IMF predicts Thailand’s real GDP growth at 2.7% in 2024, 2.9% in 2025

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecast 2.7% growth in Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) for 2024 and 2.9% for this year, mostly driven by continued recovery in the tourism industry.

In its “2024 Article IV Consultation with Thailand” report published on Thursday, the IMF’s executive board concluded that the kingdom’s economy is gradually recovering, but at a slower pace than its peers. Continued …

Health sector predicted to boost economy

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin is confident that smart investment in the medical and wellness industry will generate a substantial proportion of the national income this year. Somsak chaired a meeting yesterday to drive policies to increase Thailand’s potential as a medical and wellness hub.

During the meeting, he announced seven key policies that aligned with global health trends to strengthen the medical and wellness industry. “These policies will help create 690 billion baht in economic value for Thailand in 2025, or around 3.4% of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP),” the minister said. Continued …

Visa Agencies in Thailand: Balancing Immigration Assistance with Challenges

Visa agencies throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand, have long played a crucial role in easing the complex immigration processes for foreigners. However, changing regulations and technology are presenting new challenges to their operations.

Historically, visa agencies have been pivotal for expatriates in Thailand since the 1980s, often doubling as travel and financial service providers. Over the decades, the landscape of visa options expanded significantly, leading to a surge in demand for agency services to navigate the increasingly complex immigration regulations. Continued …

Immigration Biometric System Fails to Record Data for 17 Million Travelers

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has admitted to lapses in its biometric system, affecting the tracking of about 17 million travelers last year. According to opposition MP Rangsiman Rome, the system’s capacity was maxed out, halting biometric data collection and posing security risks by potentially allowing criminals to re-enter undetected.

Rangsiman, chairing the House Committee on National Security, revealed that since the licensing for the system expired, the Bureau has only been capturing facial images and fingerprints, not true biometric data. He warns it could take up to 29 months to reinstate a functioning system, with procurement yet to commence. Continued …

Koh Samui enjoying a White Lotus boom

The third season of the HBO series The White Lotus has sparked an 88% increase in internet searches for Koh Samui and led to a 44% rise in hotel reservations on Thailand’s second-largest island, say tourism executives.

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) says Koh Samui may not experience a low season this year thanks to the hit series — a satire that focuses on the lives of employees and their wealthy guests at an exclusive Thai resort over the space of a week. Continued …

A Backpacker’s Guide To Thailand

They don’t call it “The Land of Smiles” for nothing! Thailand really does have something for everyone. There’s the notoriously cheap and crazy nightlife in Bangkok, breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the south, and a vibrant culture to immerse yourself in. Continued …

Temple of the ‘vultures’ at Wat Kaeng Khoi

Established in 1787 by local villagers, Wat Kaeng Khoi is a Buddhist temple located on the east bank of the Pa Sak River in Saraburi province.

Originally named Wat Rang Khoi, with “rang” meaning “vulture” in Thai, the temple reflects the sight of vultures roosting in the nearby rubber trees, which fascinated the community. Video …

University Leads Conservation Efforts to Safeguard Doi Suthep

Over 700 years of history have forged a deep connection between Chiang Mai residents and Doi Suthep, which holds cultural, religious, and spiritual significance.

Initially a source of water, timber, and wild resources, Doi Suthep has evolved into one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, crucial to the local economy. However, encroachment and damage to its flora and fauna highlight the need for CMU to leverage its expertise and technology to ensure the sustainability of these natural resources. Continued …

The LuxCanal’s mission to clean up Bangkok’s waterways

A small initiative with a big dream has taken root on the banks of the Bang Khunthian canal, a Bangkok waterway steeped in history and yearning for a return to its former glory.

This dream comes in the form of the LuxCanal, a small solar-powered boat equipped to collect the debris that has plagued these vital arteries of Bangkok for too long. Continued …

Bangchak Champions Climate Action and Carbon Market Readiness

Bangchak Corp. is reinforcing climate crisis awareness and promoting carbon footprint assessment tools to drive sustainability across the supply chain.

Gloyta Nathalang, senior executive vice president, Sustainability Management and Corporate Communications, stressed the urgency of climate action, outlining Bangchak’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 under the BCP 316 NET plan. Continued …

Scientist: No need to panic about asteroid that might hit Earth in 2032

Since early January, scientists have been continuously observing an asteroid that has a small chance of colliding with Earth in 2032. By combining global data, astronomers have updated the probability of impact to around 1.5 %. Continued …

US Tops Global Soft Power as China Surges Past UK; Thailand Holds at 39

The United States has maintained its position as the world’s leading soft power nation, while China has overtaken the United Kingdom for second place, according to Brand Finance’s 2025 Global Soft Power Index. Thailand held relatively steady at 39th place, showing modest improvement in the rankings. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Feb 20

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Roast duck and rice at Chat Chai/Bus service to Don Mueang Airport/Bangkok Bank sends financial requests/Hua Hin Yoga Festival/Harvest Wine Run/Increased hotspots and airborne pollution/Beijing to share air pollution practices/Thundershowers until Tuesday/Bangkok ‘integrated’ bus terminal/Biometric SIM registration/Myanmar scam center survivors/Gunmen ambush police in Pattani/Is it time to leave Pattaya?/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: PM sees ‘clear economic revival’/Real estate to experience uneven recovery/Legal actions launched against nominees/Investment inflows set to hit high/Feed mills eye $2.8 billion in imports/Thai auto industry wary/TOURISM: Thailand’s Flu Outbreak and Tourism/Tourism Sector Shaken by US Tariffs/Instant White Lotus Effect/Most Overtouristed Cities in the World/A more sustainable tourism industry/How to be a digital nomadTHAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand takes center stage/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

Roast duck and rice at Chat Chai

Video …

 

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport. Online ticketing and advance bookings are still in the works.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bangkok Bank sends expat customers financial requests

From Expat Tax Thailand

Last year, Kasikorn Bank (KBank) began issuing emails requesting compliance information under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) and FATCA (for U.S. citizens). Now, some expat clients of Bangkok Bank have received similar requests. Example here.

This is a standard procedure, in line with Thailand’s commitment to global tax transparency regulations. This comprehensive resource: Thai Banks CRS/FATCA Compliance can help navigate this. This article includes a detailed video explanation, step-by-step guidance on completing the forms, and answers to common questions.

Bangkok Bank is complying with CRS and FATCA regulations:
  • For Americans: FATCA requires banks to report account details to U.S. tax authorities.
  • For non-Americans: CRS ensures tax residency information is shared with international tax authorities to prevent tax evasion.

This is not unique to you or your bank — all Thai banks are required to implement these measures following Thailand’s adoption of the CRS agreement in 2020.

Under CRS rules, banks must:
  • Confirm the tax residency of all account holders.
  • Identify any connections to other countries for tax purposes.
  • Share financial account details with local tax authorities, who may exchange this information internationally if needed.

This ensures overseas income and assets are properly declared. While this may feel new in Thailand, it’s a standard practice globally. Switching banks won’t avoid these requests, as compliance is mandatory across all Thai financial institutions.

What Should You Do?
  • Stay calm — there’s no immediate rush.
  • Check your request for the specific deadline.
  • The advice from Bangkok Bank is to complete the form and take it to your local branch.
  • You can direct questions to Bangkok Bank’s helpline 1333 (Extension 2 for English).
  • Refer to our guidance: Visit this article for detailed instructions and a helpful video.

Hua Hin to host its first full moon party March 15, 650 baht per person

Continued …

Hua Hin Yoga Festival Feb 21-23

Continued …

Harvest Wine Run at Monsoon Valley Feb 25

Continued …

Increased hotspots signal return of wildfires and airborne pollution

A total of 2,021 hotspots have been detected in 17 northern and western provinces today by a Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) satellite, signaling the return of wildfires and airborne pollution in the north.

According to GISTDA, the provinces with the highest incidence of wildfires are Lampang, Tak, Kanchanaburi, Uttaradit, Phrae, Uthai Thani, Kamphaeng Phet, Phayao, Chiang Mai and Lamphun. Continued …

Beijing to share air pollution clean-up practices with Bangkok

Beijing will share its best practices in battling air pollution with its sister city Bangkok, according to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) recently signed by the environment authorities of these two cities.

This MOU, spanning a time frame of three years, states that Beijing will share its best practices with Bangkok in battling air pollution, particularly in monitoring and reducing PM2.5 pollutants, which are airborne particles of 2.5 microns or below in diameter, with the two cities cooperating in this realm. Continued …

Most of the country to experience thundershowers until Tuesday

The north, northeast, central including Bangkok, and eastern regions will experience a hot day and isolated thundershowers today, the Thai Meteorological Department said. These conditions are due to the southerly and southeasterly winds bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand to the upper country, the department said.

Isolated thundershowers are forecast in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla; minimum 21-26°C, maximum 31-35°C; waves about 1-2 meters high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued … 

Bangkok mulls ‘integrated’ bus terminal

The Ministry of Transport is considering moving the capital’s inter-provincial bus terminals to Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal in an effort to ensure a seamless connection for travelers with the city’s mass transport network.

The plan, if approved, will affect three major terminals: Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) in Chatuchak district, which offers services to the north and northeast; Ekkamai in Klong Toey district, which covers the eastern provinces; and the new Southern Bus Terminal in Taling Chan district. Continued …

Biometric SIM registration approved

The board of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) approved yesterday the draft of a new SIM card registration system and the collection of mobile users’ data through a biometric system.

The draft requires all mobile operators to process the SIM card registration via liveness detection technology. The requirement is expected to take effect in 180 days, as mobile service operators need time to adjust their systems for compliance. Continued …

Myanmar scam center survivors recall torture and coercion

Inside a Thai military camp, four Ethiopian men yesterday showed the bruises and scars on their bodies they said were sustained during their time in one of Myanmar’s most notorious scam compounds. “I got a lot of punishments,” said 19-year-old Yotor, who gave only one name and had cuts along his leg. “I received electric shocks every day.”

Yotor and his countrymen are among 260 people, most of them human-trafficking victims, who were sent from Myanmar to Thailand last week as a multinational crackdown on scam centers along the border between the two countries gathers pace. Continued …

Gunmen ambush police in Pattani, killing two officers

Gunfire erupted late last night when a group of assailants ambushed police officers in Yarang district, resulting in the immediate deaths of two officers at the scene.

Residents alerted the police upon hearing gunshots in the middle of the night. The unidentified group ambushed officers from Yarang Police Station who were on a routine patrol. Continued …

Is it time to pack and leave Pattaya?

Pattaya has always been a city of extremes — vibrant yet chaotic, affordable yet increasingly expensive, exciting yet sometimes overwhelming. As the low season approaches, many long-term residents and tourists are asking themselves: is it time to pack up and leave, or should they ride it out until conditions improve?

There’s no denying that Pattaya has seen better days. Many feel that it’s going downhill fast, with increasing crime, economic struggles, and a changing tourism demographic. Some argue that Phuket isn’t much better, as the type of tourists coming to Thailand nowadays are often perceived as low-spending, disruptive, and inconsiderate. But in truth, there are problems everywhere — nowhere is perfect. Continued …

  • British and German Nationals Arrested in Thailand for Sexual Abuse of Children – Continued …
  • Police & FDA Raid Chinese Rental Properties – Continued …
  • British Tourist Arrested at Phuket Airport for Cocaine Possession – Continued …
  • Police Raid Cannabis Operation in Don Mueang Market, Three Foreigners Arrested – Continued …

PM sees ‘clear economic revival’, sets 3% growth target for 2025

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced ambitious economic targets for the coming year, revealing plans to accelerate investments in emerging technological sectors, while confirming stronger-than-expected recovery figures.

Speaking at the “Matichon Leadership Forum 2025” on Tuesday, the PM confirmed that Thailand’s GDP grew by 2.5% in 2024, exceeding the government’s initial 2% target. The PM attributed this growth to successful domestic consumption stimulus packages and a significant tourism recovery following the implementation of visa-free entry schemes for key markets. Continued …

Real estate to experience uneven recovery in 2025

The hotel and industrial estate sectors are expected to remain robust this year, driven by foreign markets, while the residential and office sectors continue to slow due to weak domestic demand and excess supply, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.

Roongrat Veeraparkkaroon, managing director of CBRE Thailand, said the property recovery this year will vary by sector, led by hotels and industrial estates. Continued …

Legal actions launched against nominee structures and foreign-operated businesses

The Thai government has prosecuted 820 cases of nominee businesses, resulting in nearly 12.5 billion baht in damages, and identified over 200,000 potential mule accounts nationwide.

These actions are part of a coordinated effort across multiple agencies to crack down on nominee businesses, particularly those involving Thai citizens holding shares on behalf of foreigners to bypass the Foreign Business Act, and the trade of substandard imported goods. Continued …

Investment inflows set to hit record high

Thailand’s investment applications are expected to reach a record high in 2025 for the second year in a row, fueled by strong foreign direct investment (FDI) amid escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, according to Krungthai Compass, a research center under Krungthai Bank.

On Monday, the National Economic and Social Development Council reported a record number of BoI applications, totaling 3,137 projects in 2024, up 40.4% from the previous year, with an investment value of 1.14 trillion baht, a gain of 34.5%. Continued …

Thailand bows to US tariff threat: Feed mills eye $2.8 billion in imports

Thailand’s animal feed industry is pitching to buy about $2.8 billion worth of agricultural commodities annually from the United States instead of other suppliers, as the country seeks to narrow its $35-billion trade surplus and head off possible tariffs on its exports.

The Thai Feed Mill Assn. is in talks with the government to ease some rules to make U.S. feedstuffs like soybean meal and corn more competitive to ship in, Pornsil Patchrintanakul, the president of the organization, said. Continued ….

Thai auto industry wary as Trump threatens tariffs

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is monitoring U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to slap a 25% tariff on car imports to the U.S. and plans to assess its impact on the sluggish Thai automotive industry.

“It’s too soon to say whether the new tariff will affect Thailand. This is just the beginning of the plan,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. Continued … 

Thailand’s Flu Outbreak Resulting in Tourism Concerns

Thailand had been experiencing a sharp rise in influenza infections, with 107,570 reported cases and nine fatalities this year as of Feb. 18, according to the Public Health Ministry. The surge in flu cases had raised concerns among both domestic and international travelers, leading to speculation about whether tourists would reconsider or alter their plans to visit the country.

The escalation of flu cases has not only affected local residents but had also begun to impact Thailand’s tourism industry, especially in key destinations such as Phuket, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai, which had reported some of the highest infection rates. Continued …

Thai Tourism Sector Shaken by US Tariffs and Market Uncertainty

The Thai tourism industry is currently navigating choppy waters as it faces potential disruptions from U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and shifting global markets. Airlines and hoteliers are on high alert, with fuel prices and an unpredictable Chinese tourism influx being pivotal concerns in a landscape marked by economic challenges.

Recently imposed U.S. tariffs are anticipated to affect global oil prices, a critical element for the travel sector, especially airlines. Tassapon Bijleveld, executive chairman of Asia Aviation, which holds the majority stake in Thai AirAsia, stressed that while low fuel prices currently advantage airlines, fluctuations tied to trade policies could upend this benefit. Continued …

Instant White Lotus Effect: Koh Samui interest surges after popular TV show

Thailand is enjoying the global spotlight following the season premiere of the popular HBO show “The White Lotus”. For the island of Koh Samui, in particular, the series’ main shooting location, Agoda noted a 12% increase in accommodation searches.

Interest from the United States grew by 65% compared to last month’s average. The search increase from the United States sees the market enter Koh Samui’s inbound top five based on accommodation searches made on Agoda. With the U.S. replacing Malaysia, the top international markets searching for travel to Koh Samui in the past two days are now all from the West: Israel, Germany, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom, respectively. Continued …

Phuket, Pattaya Among 10 Most Overtouristed Cities in the World

Social media timelines filled with must-visit destinations, cheap flights, readily available accommodation, and an insatiable appetite to explore the world lead to overcrowded cities worldwide. Overtourism has led to environmental emergencies, irreversible damage to historical landmarks, and tension within local communities.

At what point does tourism stop being beneficial and create problems? Issues arise when the tourists outnumber the locals, as many places are now finding out. Here are the top 10 most overtouristed cities in the world. Continued …

What a more sustainable tourism industry could look like

This weekend, the much-anticipated third season of the HBO show “White Lotus” dropped its first episode. The show famously shows a dark side of tourism, illustrating the class divides between wealthy Westerners who travel to high-end resorts oozing with entitlement and the locals whose livelihoods depend on catering to their needs.

Even without the boost of the show, tourism to Koh Samui — Thailand’s second-largest island and a popular travel destination — has been in conflict with the island’s natural beauty. The local population of 70,000 is dwarfed by annual visitors in the millions, and the sheer volume of visitors means that local water resources are constrained, waste management is a growing problem, and construction has damaged the nearby reef and other ecosystems. Continued …

How to be a digital nomad in Thailand

Thailand is one of the best destinations for digital nomads, offering an ideal mix of work and lifestyle. With affordable living, high-speed internet, and a thriving coworking place, remote workers can stay productive while enjoying the country’s rich culture and scenic landscapes.

Whether in the bustling streets of Bangkok or the peaceful beaches of Phuket, digital nomads have plenty of options for both work and leisure. Thailand also provides visa options that allow remote workers to stay longer, along with a strong expat community and countless networking opportunities. Continued …

Thailand takes center stage in a spiritual ‘White Lotus’ journey

The acclaimed HBO series “The White Lotus” is back for a highly anticipated third season with Thailand as the exotic backdrop. The new series, which comes with the intriguing tagline “What happens in Thailand, stays in Thailand”, explores themes of spirituality, while weaving Thai culture into its signature blend of drama and social commentary.

The show’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its integration of Thai culture, with both Western and Thai cast members highlighting the genuine cultural exchange that occurred both on and off camera. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
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Saturday’s news-Feb 15

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Thailand May Ease Overseas Income Tax Rules/Assessment from Expat Tax Thailand/Woman’s Tragic End in PKK/Ineffective Disaster Response System/Wildfires across northern Thailand/Thai Scammers Victims?/Gold prices down/Couples flock to register marriages/Motorcycle Bomb Injures Seven/4-meter King Cobra in woman’s kitchen/New tollway speed limits/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand Eyes Bold Reforms/World Bank projects 2.9% growth/Thai fiscal risks mounting/Thailand hopes it will not face US tariffs/Coping with US tariffs/Valentine’s Day sparks spending surge/Ride-Hailing’s Role in Economic Growth/TOURISM: Airport smoking rooms on hold/TAT targets ASEAN, Indian boost/AirAsia passenger growth/THAILAND EXPERIENCE:Thailand’s Best National Parks/Luxury Tourism Boom in Thailand/From peaceful wildlife to buzzing Bangkok/CLIMATE THAILAND: Sanakham Dam Along the Thai-Lao Border/CP Group, Mitsubishi Electric Partner/Volvo’s new EV offeringsINTERNATIONAL/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

Thailand May Ease Overseas Income Tax Rules Amid Global Changes

In a move that could significantly impact expatriates and Thai nationals alike, Thailand’s government is contemplating adjustments to the taxation of overseas income. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has indicated that the global economic landscape necessitates a re-evaluation of current tax regulations, though specific details were not provided.

Presently, the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) stipulates that, effective Jan. 1, 2024, any assessable income transferred into Thailand from abroad by either Thai citizens or foreigners residing in Thailand for at least 180 days within a calendar year will be subject to personal income tax. Continued …

Editor: This report does not suggest any changes in what we have been reporting on the tax rules for expats who are covered by dual tax treaties between their home countries and Thailand. However, in Thailand you never know. We will continue to update you as more information is provided. For information and links to experts, click HERE.

Here’s an assessment from Expat Tax Thailand

Recent press reports have highlighted that Thailand’s Ministry of Finance is reviewing tax rules on foreign-sourced income. The stated goal is to simplify fund repatriation for Thai citizens, but no tax exemptions have been announced and no official policy changes have been made.

What You Need to Know
  • The current tax rules remain unchanged. Expats should continue to comply with existing tax obligations.
  • 2024 tax filings are unaffected. Assessable foreign-sourced income remitted to Thailand remains taxable.
  • The government is focusing on Thai citizens repatriating funds and it is unclear whether any changes will impact expats.
What Does This Mean for Expats?
  • For 2024 tax returns, nothing has changed. The existing tax rules apply.
  • Income earned before 2024 remains non-taxable if remitted in 2024 or later.
  • Any potential future changes may focus on making fund transfers easier, but no formal policy has been announced.

Expat Tax Thailand is in direct contact with the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) to confirm:

  • Whether any planned changes could impact expats in the future.
  • What specific adjustments the government is considering to streamline fund transfers.

At this stage, there is no change to your 2024 tax filing obligations. If any updates occur, we will provide clear guidance.

Need Help?

If you have any concerns or need assistance with your 2024 tax return, our team is here to help.

Young Woman’s Tragic End in PKK Highlights Gambling Dangers

A 22-year-old woman, Natthaporn, was tragically found dead under a mango tree in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. She was reportedly overwhelmed by debt from online slot machine gambling. Her husband, Sukit, discovered her lifeless body Thursday after she failed to return home.

Natthaporn’s gambling addiction led her to accrue debts, borrowing money to continue gambling on her mobile phone. Her body was found with no evidence of foul play according to the police and a doctor from Thap Sakae Hospital. Continued …

Thailand’s Ineffective Disaster Response System Exacerbates Flood Crisis

Thailand’s weak disaster management — from poor warnings to inadequate rescues — turns emergencies into preventable tragedies. As climate change worsens storms and floods, the damage will grow unless action is taken now to fix the broken system.

The dangers are real. From 2000 to 2019, Thailand faced 146 natural disasters, killing an average of 138 people each year and costing $7.7 billion (277.2 billion baht) — nearly 1% of the country’s GDP. Continued …

Wildfires rage across northern Thailand

The north of Thailand is grappling with a surge in wildfires, with 401 hotspots detected across 17 provinces, the Region 3 Forest Fire Control Center said. Phetchabun province has been particularly affected, registering 82 hotspots – the highest in the region – with fires spreading across almost the entire province.

The latest data released Thursday reveals the scale of the crisis. While specific data for other provinces was unavailable as of press time, Phetchabun’s 82 hotspots are of significant concern. Of them, 32 are located in forest reserves, 21 in land reform areas, 15 in agricultural lands, 11 in protected forests and three in community areas. Continued …

Thai Scammers Now Claim to Be Victims — But Authorities Aren’t Buying It!

Many Thai nationals who were once part of international scam call centers are now claiming they were tricked into it. Thai authorities recently cracked down on fraudulent call centers operating along the Thai-Myanmar border. These scam hubs had been conning people out of their hard-earned money, but when the government cut off their power supply, the scammers were left stranded and forced to return home.

Now, many of them insist they were victims, too, claiming they had no idea they were part of an illegal operation. According to them, they were lured in by promises of easy money, only to discover they had been deceived. But not everyone is convinced. Continued …

Gold prices down 600 baht, lowest level this year

The Gold Traders Assn. this morning announced buying prices for gold ornaments at 45,222.28 baht per baht weight and for gold bars at 46,050 baht per baht weight.

The selling prices were set at 46,650 baht per baht weight for gold ornaments and 46,150 baht per baht weight for gold bars. This means gold prices fell 600 baht from yesterday’s close, the lowest level this year. Continued …

Couples flock to register marriages on Valentine’s Day

Many couples flocked to district offices in Bangkok and other venues across the country to register their marriages on Valentine’s Day yesterday.

In Bangkok, more than 800 couples made advance bookings for marriage registration at the Bang Rak district office, the country’s most popular venue for such occasions. Bang Rak in Thai means “village of love.” Continued …

Motorcycle Bomb Explodes Outside Security Post, Injuring Seven

A motorcycle bomb exploded outside a paramilitary ranger post in Waeng district, Narathiwat province, injuring seven people, including security personnel and local residents. The blast caused significant damage to the building’s structure and several parked motorcycles.

Police received a report of an explosion near the perimeter wall of the Volunteer Defense Corps Company. The attack took place 700 meters from Waeng Police Station. Officers and military personnel were immediately deployed to secure the area and assist the wounded. Continued …

4-meter King Cobra slithers into Chumphon woman’s kitchen

A 55-year-old woman from Chumphon province was startled when a 4-meter-long King Cobra, weighing over 8 kilograms, slithered into her kitchen while she was eating. She abandoned her meal and called emergency services for assistance.

The rescue unit of the Chumphon Charity Foundation in Sawi district received a call from Jirawan, who resides in the Sawi district. She reported the presence of a large snake in her home, expressing concern for her safety. The rescue team, equipped with snake-catching tools, promptly arrived at the scene. Continued …

Thailand rolls out new tollway speed limits

Thailand’s transport ministry has introduced new speed limits for tollways, aiming to improve traffic flow and enhance safety. The regulation, issued under the Highway Act 1992, applies specifically to concession highways, marking the first time such roads have been subject to speed restrictions.

Under the new rule, different vehicle categories must adhere to strict speed limits: trucks over 2.2 tons and buses with more than 15 seats – maximum 80 km/h; vehicles towing another vehicle or small four-wheel vehicles – maximum 65 km/h; school buses and student transport vehicles – maximum 80 km/h; all other vehicles – maximum 100 km/h. Continued …

  • 13 Arrested at Illegal Poker Game at Chinese Restaurant – Continued …
  • Chinese Fraud Gang Arrested After Scamming Thai Elderly Woman – Continued …
  • French Motorcyclist Arrested for Dangerous Kamala Stunt – Continued …
  • Irish, Brazilian, Israeli Musicians Arrested in Pai for Working Without Permits – Continued …
  • Video: Drunken tourist brawl erupts in Phuket, sparks online outrage – Continued …

Thailand Eyes Bold Reforms to Attract Global Investment

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has pledged comprehensive economic reforms to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness, boost investor confidence, and solidify the country’s position as a top destination for foreign investment.

Speaking at the JFCCT Prime Minister Address Luncheon 2025, hosted by the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT), she outlined her administration’s vision for faster regulatory processes, a seamless digital economy, and sustainability-driven growth. Continued …

World Bank projects 2.9% growth for Thai economy in 2025

The World Bank has revised its growth forecast for Thailand’s economy, projecting a 2.9% expansion in 2025, up from 2.6% in 2024, according to its latest Thailand Economic Monitor report released yesterday.

The improved outlook is primarily driven by recovering investment, supported by increased budget disbursement and ongoing infrastructure project implementation. Continued …

World Bank sees Thai fiscal risks mounting due to spending surge

Thailand’s pursuit of an expansionary fiscal policy strategy to propel growth faces the risk of rising costs for elderly care, investment and the need to keep public debt level to sustainable levels, according to the World Bank.

The Southeast Asian nation can enhance fiscal resilience amid the rising spending by reducing regressive energy subsidies, raising tax revenue and accelerating public investments in infrastructure, new technology and huyesterdayon Friday. Continued …

Thailand hopes it will not face US tariffs

Thailand is hoping it will not face tariff measures of the United States and will do everything to make sure the country is not a target, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said yesterday, amid concerns that the country’s trade surplus with Washington could become an issue.

The Southeast Asian country has a plan for negotiations and is ready to adjust to U.S. requests to ensure a good outcome, Pichai said, adding he would return to the United States for more discussions with U.S. officials. Continued …

How Thailand can cope with aggressive US tariff policies

Thailand faces its first major trade challenge under the new U.S. administration. President Donald Trump has signed an order imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports into the United States, effective from March 12.

This move has widespread implications not only for the U.S. economy but also for countries like Thailand that rely on exports. The Trump administration has threatened to extend its tariff policies to other sectors, including automobiles, pharmaceuticals and computer chips. Continued …

Valentine’s Day sparks 20% surge in Thai shopping expenditure

This year’s Valentine’s Day has boosted Thai people’s shopping expenditure by 20% year-on-year, with shopping preferences differing from generations, Central Group’s consumer insight firm, The 1 Insight, said yesterday.

1 Insight’s survey indicated that most Thai people purchased healthy products for their partners, in which the top five products included fitness equipment, smart watches, sports shoes, gym clothes and sports equipment. Continued …

Bolt Highlights Ride-Hailing’s Key Role in Thailand’s Economic Growth

Ride-hailing services have transformed urban mobility, offering a fast, convenient, and accessible alternative to private cars. With just a few taps on a smartphone, users can hail a ride anytime, anywhere — connecting passengers and drivers seamlessly.

As the industry continues to grow, Bolt has released its latest economic report, highlighting the role of ride-hailing in the economy, labor sector, and urban infrastructure. The report sheds light on industry trends, as well as opportunities for sustainable support and development. Continued …

Airport smoking rooms on hold

Airports of Thailand Plc. (AoT) is pushing for the reinstallation of smoking rooms within international terminals, yet this proposal has hit a pause as Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin takes a cautious approach. His recent remarks suggest a thorough review is necessary before any definitive decision is made.

Currently, a working group under the Public Health Ministry is assessing the potential impact of reinstating smoking rooms at Thailand’s international airports. This group is yet to deliver a conclusive report, as there is no specific deadline set for the completion of their analysis. Minister Somsak emphasized the need to address this complex issue meticulously before reaching any resolution. Continued …

TAT targets 180-million-baht boost from ASEAN and Indian travelers

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and its partners continue to attract travelers from ASEAN and India to Thailand in a bid to generate at least 180 million baht for the country.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency is putting its effort into attracting travelers from Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, Myanmar and India in a bid to promote Thailand as a tourism hub in ASEAN. Continued …

AirAsia scores record passenger growth in 2024

AirAsia is flying high after recording a surge in passenger numbers throughout 2024, as the budget airline group expanded its fleet to meet booming travel demand. The carrier welcomed over 63 million passengers last year, an 11% increase from 2023, while its load factor climbed to 89%.

The final quarter of 2024 was particularly strong, with 16.2 million passengers flying across the airline’s network between October and December, marking a 9% increase year-on-year. Continued …

10 of the Best National Parks to Visit in Thailand

Thailand is a country known as a solo travel haven, for the welcoming community and good tourism infrastructure – but it’s also an adventurous dreamland.

The country has a remarkable 156 national parks (as well as 58 wildlife sanctuaries and 120 forest parks), so there’s no lack of wild places waiting – it’s just knowing where to start that can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best national parks in Thailand, with adventure in mind. Continued …

How “The White Lotus” Season 3 Will Ignite a Luxury Tourism Boom in Thailand

The anticipation for season three of The White Lotus is palpable, and with its setting in Thailand, the show is poised to ignite a fervor for the country’s lush landscapes, vibrant culture and unparalleled luxury. For those who have yet to experience the Land of Smiles, now is the time to start planning.

Thailand’s allure lies not only in its postcard-perfect beaches and bustling cities, but also in its ability to seamlessly blend opulence with authenticity. Here’s your “Artful Living” guide to the most luxurious hotels, dining experiences, cultural destinations and shopping havens that will make your Thai journey unforgettable. Continued …

From peaceful wildlife to buzzing Bangkok: Put your money on Thailand

I’m having a moment with a 31-year-old female Asian elephant called Mea Buab. Standing behind a fence under the supervision of her mahout (an elephant keeper or owner), Janwan, Mea Buab has snorted several bucket-loads of pulped banana, pineapple and sugar cane up the immense nostril of her whisker-pricked trunk. For about 30 seconds we lock eyes in, I think, an exchange of mutual respect. My heart sings.

Mea Buab is one of 10 free-roaming female elephants living with their mahouts at Thailand’s newest bush camp. Located in rural Mae Hong Son, a couple of hours from Chiang Mai, the Elephant Hills Bush Camp overlooks the Ping River. Continued …

Sanakham Dam Sparks Fear and Anguish Along the Thai-Lao Border

In Chiang Khan, a picturesque Thai tourist town bordering the Mekong River, the new year brought dark forebodings of a hydropower project slated to be installed just 2 kilometers away in neighboring Laos.

Thanusilp Inda, the head of Ban Klang village in Chiang Khan, expressed his anxiety over the future. “The Sanakham dam will be a disaster for ecology and fish, it will cause worse flooding,” he said. Continued …

CP Group, Mitsubishi Electric Partner for Sustainability Goals

Charoen Pokphand Group (CP) and Mitsubishi Electric Corp. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a comprehensive collaboration to promote carbon neutrality and a circular economy in Thailand. This partnership aims to contribute to a more sustainable society by combining the strengths and resources of both companies.

Both companies have set ambitious environmental goals. They plan to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from their factories and offices by 2030 and net-zero GHG throughout their value chains by 2050. In addition, they will reduce waste and environmental impact by promoting efficient resource use and recycling. Continued …

Volvo shifts gears with new EV offerings in Thailand

Volvo Car Thailand is gearing up for modest growth in car sales, capped at 5% this year, by revving up its appeal with fresh electric vehicle models and an innovative battery repair service. This strategy aims to keep long-term maintenance costs low for drivers and attract more eco-conscious consumers.

Chris Wailes, managing director of Volvo Car Thailand and Malaysia, acknowledges the bumpy road ahead for the Thai automotive industry. “Weak auto loans, high household debt, and a sluggish economy are presenting significant challenges.” Continued …

Japan will tap emergency rice supplies as prices surge 82%

Japan will sell 210,000 tons of rice from its emergency stockpiles, as households are paying record prices for the grain. The average retail price for 5 kilograms of rice surged 82% to 3,688 yen (US$24) in the week of Jan. 27 compared with a year ago, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Continued …

Trump keeps tariffs drumbeat going, with autos targeted next

U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday kept alive his drumbeat of tariff threats, saying levies on automobiles would be coming as soon as April 2, the day after members of his cabinet are due to deliver reports to him outlining options for a range of import duties as he seeks to reshape global trade. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
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Friday’s news-Feb 14

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Webinar on the new expat tax/Fishing ban off Prachuap Khiri Khan/Hua Hin tax strategy meeting/Khao Sam Roi Yot to Open Campsite/PKK promotes sustainable waste management/53 provinces see unsafe PM2.5 levels/Nearly Everyone Breathes Bad Air/Baht expected to reach 36 per dollar/Price of roses soars/Thailand flunks English language test/Thailand suspends gun-carrying permits/Restaurants back easing booze laws/Workers Joined Scam Voluntarily/Illegal Bitcoin Mining/Pattaya cracks down on homelessness/ECONOMY: Economy likely grew in Q4/Consumer confidence hits peak/Mazda to invest Bt5 billion/Alibaba Cloud’s Second Data Center/Trump policies rev up exports/Small firms shun digital/TOURISM: Thailand’s Tourist Boom/Tourism at crossroads/Can Foreign Tourists Expect Fair Legal Treatment?/Songkran – A chaotic free-for-all/Backpackertaken on 1,200km detour/Sky-high thieves on the rise/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand marks ‘Love Hornbill Day’/CLIMATE THAILAND: CKPower’s Renewable Energy/INTERNATIONAL/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

Yesterday’s webinar on the new expat tax

Continued …

For more information on the expat tax …

Fishing ban off Prachuap Khiri Khan coast starts tomorrow

A fishing ban has been issued to allow fish stock to recover off the coasts of Prachuap Khiri Khan down to Surat Thani, says the Department of Fishery (DoF). The ban is issued over two periods — from Feb. 15 to May 15 and from May 16 to June 14, affecting multiple maritime zones.

The first period covers sea areas from the tip of Laem Monglai in Prachuap Khiri Khan to Don Sak district of Surat Thani. The second period concerns areas from the tip of Laem Monglai to Hua Hin district. Continued …

Hua Hin tax strategy meeting Feb 20

Continued …

 

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park to Open Campsite

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park has announced the reopening of its Sam Phraya beach campsite starting Saturday. The site, which had been temporarily closed due to adverse weather conditions, will now be available for visitors after calm seas return to the Gulf of Thailand.

The campsite, located near the park’s substation at Sam Phraya Beach, will offer a scenic environment for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can make inquiries and get additional details by calling the park’s office at 032-821568. – huahin.locality.guide

PKK promotes sustainable waste management

Prachuap Khiri Khan Province launched “LEV Week: Local Environment Volunteer Network Unites for Sustainable Thai Environment” on Tuesday at the auditorium of Wat Thammikaram Municipal School in Mueang District.

The event aimed to encourage community participation in waste management, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen environmental responsibility through the 3Rs principle — reduce, reuse, and recycle. Continued …

53 provinces see unsafe PM2.5 levels

Bangkok and 53 of the nation’s 76 provinces were shrouded by unsafe levels of ultrafine dust pollution yesterday, with thick smog levels blanketing mostly the central plains and the east, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) said.

GISTDA’s report issued said Bangkok and 27 provinces suffered red levels (hazardous to health) of PM2.5 ranging from 75.7 to 112.4 micrograms per cubic meter of air over the past 24 hours. Continued … 

Nearly Everyone in the World Breathes Bad Air. How to Lower Your Risk

Everyone loves a breath of fresh air. Unfortunately, too often our air is anything but fresh.

While air quality varies dramatically from place to place and day to day, nearly the entire world — about 99% of the global population — is exposed to air at some point that doesn’t meet the strict standards set by the World Health Organization. Polluted air, laden with noxious gasses or tiny, invisible particles that burrow into human bodies, kills 7 million people prematurely every year, the UN health agency estimates. Continued …

Baht expected to reach 36 per dollar in second quarter

The rally in the Thai baht this year looks primed to peter out on escalating global trade tensions and a slump in the nation’s equities.

The baht has gained 2.7% over the past month to hit 33.817 per dollar yesterday, marking the best performance among Asian currencies. But it may weaken to 36 per dollar in the second quarter after a seasonal boost at the start of the year loses steam, according to MUFG Bank. Continued … 

Price of roses soars as romance blooms

A spike in Valentine’s Day demand has driven the retail prices of roses to a 20-year high in this Chai Nat Province, local vendors say. Rose sales jumped substantially in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day today, and so did their prices at the Chai Nat municipal market.

There, the prices were almost doubling overnight, jumping from 10-15 baht apiece yesterday to 15-30 baht per flower today. Continued … 

Thailand flunks English language test

Thailand has found itself lagging at 106th place out of 116 countries in global English proficiency, according to a recent survey.

The EF English Proficiency Index, unveiled yesterday, paints a dire picture as Thailand struggles with a “very low proficiency” rating, stumbling behind regional neighbors like Myanmar, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Philippines. Continued …

Thailand suspends issuance of gun-carrying permits

Thailand is suspending the issuance of new firearm-carrying permits for one year, starting from today, as part of a government effort to curb crime.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed the order on Wednesday, said Traisuree Taisaranakul, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Interior. Continued … 

Duh! Restaurants back easing Thailand’s booze laws

Eateries support the government’s review of the ban on alcohol sales in the afternoon, as it could benefit restaurants and convenience stores, said the Thai Restaurant Assn.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra ordered a study of the prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages from 2pm to 5pm, as well as the ban on Buddhist holy days, to see how they affect tourism. Continued …

Police Say 99% of Workers Joined Scam Call Centers Voluntarily

Thai authorities have disclosed that a mere 1% of workers returning from scam centers in Myanmar are genuine victims, with the vast majority reportedly engaging with these criminal operations willingly. This announcement follows rigorous investigations into the activities of numerous scam centers situated along the Thai-Myanmar border.

Police Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabut, who heads the Center for the Protection of Children, Women and Families, commented on the process of welcoming back individuals fleeing from these illegal employments. Continued …

Cyber Police Operation Dismantles Illegal Bitcoin Mining Operation

In an operation dubbed “Dawn in Mae Sot,” Thai cyber police have successfully dismantled an illegal Bitcoin mining operation in the Mae Sot district of Tak province, which was found to be illegally using electricity and causing lost costs exceeding 4 million baht. In addition to the mining operation, police seized a substantial cache of illegal firearms and ammunition.

The operation targeted six locations in Mae Sot following an investigation into the illegal use of electricity and firearm violations. Continued …

Pattaya cracks down on homelessness amid public safety concerns

Pattaya is stepping up efforts to tackle homelessness and improve public safety along Sukhumvit Road and the beach, responding to growing concerns about crime and disorder.

Local officials are rolling out new measures to clean up the streets, provide support for the homeless, and clamp down on illegal activities. Residents have voiced strong opinions on the issue, with many calling for a balance between assistance and stricter enforcement. Continued …

Thailand economy likely grew at its fastest pace in over two years in Q4

Thailand’s economy likely grew at its fastest pace in over two years last quarter, driven by a surge in foreign tourists and strong exports that helped offset sluggish domestic demand, a Reuters poll of economists found.

While household consumption is expected to remain under pressure despite the government’s cash handout to stimulate demand, exports and a steady flow of tourists during the holiday season probably helped growth. Continued …

Consumer confidence hits eight-month peak

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) hit an eight-month high in January, driven by government economic stimulus efforts, according to a survey conducted by the University of Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the UTCC, said this marked the fourth consecutive month of improvement, reaching a level not seen since June 2024. Continued …

Mazda to invest Bt5 billion to create MHEV production hub in Thailand

Mazda will invest over 5 billion baht in Thailand to establish a major production hub for its mild-hybrid (MHEV) B-SUV. The plant aims to produce 100,000 units annually for export, following the Thai government’s approval of support measures for the transition to electric vehicle manufacturing.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BOI), confirmed that Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro had announced the expansion plans. Thailand will become the primary production base for the MHEV, a hybrid vehicle combining a traditional engine with an electric motor. Continued …

Alibaba Cloud Doubles Thai Footprint with Second Data Center Launch

Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology arm of Alibaba Group, has opened its second data center in Thailand, marking a significant expansion of its cloud computing infrastructure in Southeast Asia.

The new facility responds to the growing demand for cloud services, particularly in the field of generative AI, while supporting Thailand’s digital innovation and sustainable technology initiatives. Continued … 

Trump policies rev up export gains

Thai export growth this year should accelerate because of the policies implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to the chief of the Export-Import Bank of Thailand (Exim Bank).

Rak Vorrakitpokatorn, president of Exim Bank, said many countries around the world are accelerating imports to avoid the impact of Trump’s policies. This includes countries in the EU, South Asia and Southeast Asia, which are acquiring goods ahead of Trump’s trade policies, as there is great uncertainty about the effect of these policies on U.S. imports in the second and third quarters this year. Continued …

Small firms shun digital investment

Around 92% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) say they do not have a plan to invest in digital technology this year, while 5.9% do plan to invest, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

The survey on trends of investment, international trade, technology changes, and digital economy dynamics in 2025 was conducted by a trio of UTCC organizations: the Digital Economy, Investment and International Trade Research Center (DEIIT), the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, and the economics faculty. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourist Boom: 4.8 Million Visitors So Far

Thailand’s tourism sector is thriving, with 4.8 million international visitors entering the country from January to Feb. 9 this year, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. This bustling travel scene has significantly boosted the economy, contributing 234.9 billion baht in revenue during this period.

Leading the pack are Chinese tourists, totaling 825,617, followed by travelers from Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. The re-emergence of tourists after worldwide travel restrictions is being met with enthusiasm in Thailand, as these numbers mark a hopeful sign of recovery. Continued …

Tourism at crossroads

Thailand’s tourism industry faces two contrasting challenges, highlighting the urgent need for a strategic rethink. In Mae Hong Son province last week, four Israel tourists were deported after breaking into Pai Hospital’s emergency room and vandalizing its property. The chaos at Pai Hospital exposed deeper problems in the northern district, which is considered one of Thailand’s most scenic tourist attractions.

According to a doctor at the hospital, it was not the first time the hospital has encountered aggressive and disruptive behavior from foreign tourists. Indeed, the situation has reached the point when medical staff feel unsafe. Beyond the hospital’s walls, the situation is equally alarming, with illegal motorcycle riding schools and unlicensed drivers contributing to road accidents. Continued …

Can Foreign Tourists in Pattaya Expect Fair Legal Treatment?

Pattaya, a bustling tourist hub on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast, is at the heart of a pertinent discussion around justice and equality under the law for foreign visitors. This topic resonates strongly amid the numerous experiences that shape perceptions of tourists regarding their interactions with local law enforcement.

In theory, the principles of justice dictate that everyone, irrespective of nationality, should be treated equally under the legal framework. However, some foreign tourists in Pattaya have reported instances where they feel differently — particularly in the context of minor disputes or traffic incidents. Continued …

Pattaya’s Songkran – A chaotic free-for-all with little respect for residents and road safety

Annually in mid-April, Pattaya becomes a chaotic disaster zone during Songkran, as the streets are flooded with rowdy revelers who seem to forget all sense of respect for others.

The city, known for its vibrant nightlife and tourism, turns into a free-for-all, where traffic snarls and water fights take over the roads. While many locals and tourists enjoy the celebrations, there’s a growing frustration among those who just want to go about their daily lives. Continued …

Backpacker in Thailand taken on 1,200km detour

A foreign backpacker making his first visit to Thailand was planning an island getaway in the south, but after a miscommunication he ended up in the north nearly 1,200 kilometers away. He also lost his wallet on the way back, according to a policeman in Suphan Buri province who shared the story online.

According to the officer’s post, the backpacker told a driver he wanted to go to Koh Tao, a popular tourist island in the southern province of Surat Thani. But the driver took him to the north, believing his passenger had said “Doi Tao”, a district in the northern province of Chiang Mai. Continued …

Sky-high thieves on the rise: Minister demands tighter flight security

A wave of in-flight thefts targeting unsuspecting passengers sparked urgent action from Thai police after reports revealed that criminals stole valuables worth 19 million baht on flights to Hong Kong last year.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has now called on airlines to step up cabin inspections and warn passengers to safeguard their belongings. Several airlines have already tightened security measures in response to growing concerns. Continued …

Thailand marks ‘Love Hornbill Day’

Known for love and fidelity to their mate, hornbills are traditionally celebrated today, the day before Valentine’s Day, with the “Love Hornbill Day”.

According to Mahidol University’s Thailand Hornbill Research Foundation, hornbills have been around for millions of years and play an important role in maintaining the abundance of forests. Hornbills were dubbed “masters of reforestation” as they often consume ripe fruits and leave the seeds in various areas, the foundation said. Continued …

CKPower Drives Renewable Energy Goals

Amid the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy driven by renewable energy in the power-generation sector, renewable energy certificates (RECs) have emerged as a vital tool for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

RECs also fulfill business requirements for advancing environmental development while significantly enhancing sustainability branding and strengthening an organization’s image in this area. As a result, the REC market in Thailand is experiencing significant growth, supported by both public and private sectors. Continued …

Chilean kayaker swallowed by humpback

In a heart-stopping incident off Chilean Patagonia, a kayaker found himself briefly swallowed by a humpback whale before being miraculously released unharmed. Video …

Trump moves to impose reciprocal tariffs as soon as April

President Donald Trump ordered his administration to consider imposing reciprocal tariffs on numerous trading partners, raising the prospect of a wider campaign against a global system he complains is tilted against the United States. Continued …

Chevron to lay off up to 20% of global workforce

Chevron will lay off 15% to 20% of its global workforce by the end of 2026, the U.S. oil company said on Wednesday, as it seeks to cut costs, simplify its business, and complete a major acquisition. Continued … 

Nissan and Honda ditch $60-billion merger talks

Nissan and Honda ended merger talks to forge a $60 billion carmaker yesterday, pitching Nissan deeper into uncertainty and underlining the challenge for legacy auto companies as Chinese rivals upend the industry. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation, wildlife tourism

Thursday’s news-Feb 13

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Feedback re: new expat tax/Prachuap Khiri Khan Art Festival/Big C Marche at Bluport/Ban Krut community selected/Ping-pong bomb thrown at Prahcuap hotel/Buddhist alms ceremony/Hazardous smog at ‘red’ level in PKK/Thailand braces for rising heat/Macular degeneration/Top Thai Officers Probed/Myanmar to Repatriate 7,000 Scam Victims/To cut power, internet, fuel supply to Cambodia/New Road Link to Malaysia/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: $9 Billion Jackpot with Casino/Trump’s tariffs and trade policies/Taiwanese Circuit Board Makers/5 Wellness Trends in 2025/Smartphones Propel Asia’s Cashless Revolution/TOURISM: Thai hotel room rate growth/Nana street hookers arrested/Chinese Tourists Choose Japan/Thailand’s Medical Tourism Industry/Changing Thailand’s elephant tourism/To benefit from airport upgrade/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Yangsheng self-cultivation practices/State of the Stomach in Bangkok/Chiang Rai International Balloon Festival/Thai desserts you’ll love/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s climate challenge solutions/Floating solar projects for Cargill/Energy Storage Expo/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

RE: Nightmare scenario at PKK tax office over new expat tax

“Thank you for the article ‘Nightmare scenario at PKK tax office over new expat tax‘ and thank you ‘Thesatat’ for being a ‘pipe cleaner’ trying to be a good person and file taxes in PKK. The head of the PKK tax office personally promised us at a meeting in Hua Hin that “All DTAs will be honored.” Clearly, he hasn’t shared that with his subordinates. Personally, I’m going through AIT (American International Tax Advisors) and let them deal with these issues. At the end of the day (which may be two to three years out – maybe more – we hope to pay only what is legally required.” – PB

Editor: We have asked the tax consultants we used for our previous reporting to assess this latest news, but this is probably just a lack of understanding on the part of local officials about the tax. We anticipated this might be a problem early on, as the law is ambiguous and there are roughly 90 dual tax treaties to be considered, not all the same. We doubt, at this stage, that there has been any education of local officials, and even if there is, the complications might make them resort to an “everyone has to pay the tax” mentality. There will probably be a lot of misinformation on this issue as we go forward and we will try to keep you informed as we hear about problems or solutions. Getting expert guidance as you have done is probably a wise move.

Here us the response from Expats Tax Thailand’s experts: “The key issue here is not just U.S. Social Security but the broader challenge of how international tax rules are applied at the local level in Thailand. The 2024 remittance tax changes have introduced complexities that some local tax offices — especially in provincial areas — may not yet fully understand. Many expats have reported difficulties due to inconsistent guidance, as well as language barriers when trying to clarify their tax position.

“In cases like U.S. Social Security, the rules are clear: it is not taxable in Thailand, nor does it need to be included on a Thai tax return. However, misunderstandings at the local level can lead to unnecessary stress and potential disputes with tax authorities.

“For expats looking to avoid these difficulties, using a professional tax filing service can help ensure compliance while avoiding the frustration of dealing with tax offices unfamiliar with international tax agreements.”

Click HERE if you have more questions.

Prachuap Khiri Khan Art Festival this weekend

Continued …

Big C Marche to replace Bluport’s Gourmet Market

Continued …

Ban Krut community selected for tourism project

Continued …

Man arrested for throwing ping-pong bomb at Prahcuap hotel

Continued …

5,000 attend Buddhist alms ceremony at Prauchap Bay

Continued …

Hazardous smog levels in 53 provinces, ‘red’ level in PKK

Bangkok and 53 of the 76 provinces were shrouded with unsafe levels of ultrafine dust pollution this morning, with very thick smog levels blanketing mostly the central plain and the east, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).

Twenty-two provinces also facing red levels of PM2.5 were, in descending order, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Saraburi, Nonthaburi, Samut Songkhram, Ayutthaya, Phetchaburi, Chanthaburi, Rayong, Lop Buri, Kanchanaburi, Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Sing Buri, Suphan Buri, Uthai Thani, Sa Kaeo, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ang Thong, Chai Nat and Nakhon Ratchasima. Continued …

Thailand braces for rising heat and southern thunderstorms

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today forecasts increasing temperatures, with hot weather during the day and thunderstorms expected in southern provinces of Thailand. Mariners have been advised to exercise caution due to the high seas.

In the next 24 hours, a weakened high-pressure system is affecting northeastern Thailand, resulting in cool morning temperatures and hot conditions during the day. Continued …

Do you know about macular degeneration?

Many of us are painfully aware of our body’s increasing number of shortcomings as we get older. Sagging skin, hearing loss, receding hairlines and tending to use the bathroom more frequently than we used to.

But one of the most dreaded adverse outcomes is that of diminishing eyesight. Reduced vision, also known as vision impairment, is common in older people. While many factors can contribute to it occurring, the leading cause of vision loss in older adults is age-related macular degeneration, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Continued …

Top Thai Officers Probed Over Links to Scams in Myanmar

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) is conducting an investigation into alleged connections between senior police officers and criminal activities linked to scam operations across the Burmese border. This action follows the transfer of five senior officers from Tak province, a move that has raised eyebrows due to the significant wealth of one of the officers.

At the heart of the investigation is Police Maj Gen Ekkarat Intasueb, acting chief of Inspection Division 6 for the Office of the Inspector General. His duties encompass seven provinces, including Tak, which is directly opposite Myawaddy — a known hub for scam syndicates. As inquiries progress, he has been relocated to Bangkok by order of the national police chief. Continued …

Myanmar to Repatriate 7,000 Call Center Scam Victims to Thailand

Myanmar is preparing to return approximately 7,000 victims of call center scams to Thailand. Phumtham Wechayachai, deputy prime minister and defense minister, confirmed this plan, stressing that these victims should be repatriated directly to their home countries without being temporarily housed in Thailand.

Yesterday, Phumtham announced that 261 victims have already been released, with more awaiting repatriation. He emphasized that Thailand‘s approach is to coordinate with the victims’ home countries so they can be received directly, avoiding any delays in regions like Tak Province. Continued …

Thailand moving to cut power, internet, fuel supply to Cambodia

After cutting electricity, internet and fuel supply from five points to Myanmar border townships where scam centers are operating, Deputy Prime Minister/Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is now expanding this strategy to three districts and an island in four provinces along the Thai-Cambodian border to suppress transnational criminals holed up across that border.

A spokesman of the Defense Ministry said a 165-kilometer fence is also being built with a budget of 286 million baht to strictly control the Thai-Cambodian border along Sa Kaeo province in suppressing transnational criminals and control illegal entry and exit. Continued … 

New Road Link Promises Stronger Malaysia-Thailand Economic Ties

The long-anticipated road alignment project connecting Malaysia and Thailand’s key border checkpoints is nearing completion, promising to strengthen bilateral trade and ties.

The project links Malaysia’s Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) complex with Thailand’s Sadao Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complex, with the road expected to open by the year’s end. Continued …

  • South Korean Drug Trafficker Arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
  • Foreign Hotel Manager Arrested for Illegal E-Cigarette & Smuggled Cigarette Sales – Continued …
  • South Korean Fugitive Arrested in Pattaya for Electronics Fraud – Continued …

Thailand Eyes $9 Billion Jackpot with Casino Ambitions

Thailand is on track to become a global gaming hotspot with ambitious plans to establish a lucrative casino industry. The country aims to tap into billions of dollars in revenue while boosting its thriving tourism sector. However, experts caution that success hinges on effective regulation, something that has previously been a challenge, as seen with the mishandled cannabis legalization in 2022.

Thailand’s potential to surpass Singapore’s glamorous casinos is being touted, with big players like Las Vegas Sands Corp, MGM Resorts International, and Galaxy Entertainment possibly showing interest. Though none of these companies have commented yet, Thailand remains a promising contender. Continued …

Trump’s tariffs and trade policies: What they mean for Thailand

Thailand must adapt to boost its competitiveness and economic growth amid shifts in the global economic landscape, thanks to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent trade policies, several experts have said.

Somphop Manarangsan, president of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management, said the U.S.’s reciprocal tariffs against trade surplus countries would encourage nations to seek new trade partners or focus on stimulating their domestic economies. Continued …

Taiwanese Circuit Board Makers Drive Growth in Thailand’s Electronics Sector

Taiwanese investments in Thailand’s PCB production have surged, fueled by U.S.-China tensions, with 126 projects worth 50 billion baht, bolstering the country’s electronics sector significantly.

Taiwanese firms are capitalizing on Thailand’s strategic location and favorable investment policies, positioning the country as a key hub for electronics manufacturing in Southeast Asia. This influx of investment is expected to enhance local supply chains, create jobs, and drive technological advancements, further strengthening Thailand’s competitiveness in the global electronics market. Continued …

5 Wellness Trends in 2025 boosting Thailand’s ‘Wellness Economy‘

“Wellness” refers to a state of complete and balanced well-being — physically, mentally, and emotionally — achieved through a healthy lifestyle. This has driven the growth of the “Wellness Economy”, an industry encompassing products and services that enhance health and quality of life.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the Wellness Economy was valued at US$6.3 trillion in 2023, up from $5.61 trillion in 2022, and is projected to reach $7 trillion by 2025 and $9 trillion by 2028, with an average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3%. Continued …

QR Codes and Smartphones Propel Asia’s Cashless Revolution

Cash is rapidly disappearing from consumer transactions across Asia, giving way to QR codes and other smartphone-driven technologies.

This shift is fueled by the growing penetration of mobile devices, widespread internet access, and the convenience these payment methods offer. Governments and businesses alike are embracing this digital transformation, promoting cashless ecosystems to enhance efficiency and reduce transaction costs. Continued …

Thai hotel room rate growth at 15%, leads world

Hotel room rates in Thailand rose last year by an average of 15% from 2023, making it the only country to achieve double-digit growth, according to SiteMinder, an e-commerce platform that helps hotels sell rooms on their own websites and through third parties.

The company’s Hotel Booking Trends report, based on more than 125 million reservations – the largest volume of hotel reservations from any single platform – shows that the average daily rate (ADR) in Thailand increased to 5,377 baht from 4,648 baht in 2023. Rates peaked in December, reaching 6,460 baht per occupied room, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Continued …

Nana street hookers arrested in police crackdown on prostitution

Metropolitan Police in Bangkok moved last weekend to crack down on street prostitution and drug dealing in the popular Nana area of Bangkok, a hotspot for foreign tourists. On Friday, 25 women engaged in prostitution were rounded up by police. These included transgender street walkers, with the majority of those arrested being foreign sex workers, particularly from Africa.

The sweep came just a week after a similar operation targeted African gangs selling drugs on the pavements of the locality, which is a favorite haunt for foreign tourists, particularly Western tourists. Continued …

Chinese Tourists Choose Japan Over Thailand for New Year

In a surprising turn of events, Thailand has been knocked off its pedestal as the favorite destination for Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year period, with Japan now taking the crown.

This shift in travel preferences has been linked to a combination of favorable factors, such as lower airfares to Japan, a weaker yen, and relaxed visa requirements, alongside rising safety concerns regarding travel in Thailand. Continued …

Is the Growth of Thailand’s Medical Tourism Industry Sustainable?

Thailand is one of the most attractive medical tourism hubs in the world. The country’s total number of foreign medical patients rose from two million in 2012 to 3.4 million in 2018. This is nearly three times the corresponding figure for Malaysia, another regional hub.

Although the Covid-19 pandemic adversely affected the industry, it has since recovered, with total foreign patients reaching three million in 2024. The industry generates substantial foreign exchange earnings for Thailand, estimated at US$9 billion in 2019. Such earnings are reliable as the average spending of medical tourists is relatively high and less sensitive to price increases over time. Continued …

This is a definite no

How the rise of regenerative travel is changing Thailand’s elephant tourism for the better

Travel is no longer just about ticking off bucket list destinations – mindful travelers want their adventures to have a positive impact. With growing awareness of environmental and social issues, more people are now looking for ways to give back to the places they visit rather than simply passing through.

This shift has fueled the rise of regenerative travel. Going beyond sustainability means actively working to restore ecosystems and support local communities and habitats. The goal is to create lasting benefits. Continued …

‘South Coast Triangle’ to benefit from airport upgrade

The “South Coast Triangle” of Thailand, comprising Koh Samui, Surat Thani, and the recently upgraded Nakhon Si Thammarat, is quickly emerging as a hotspot for tourism and investment along the Gulf of Thailand. A substantial investment of Bt1.46 billion (approximately USD 43 million) in Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport is accelerating this region’s transformation, according to a new report by C9 Hotelworks.

With Asia’s top tourism destinations — such as Japan welcoming 36 million international visitors in 2024 and Thailand reaching 35 million — travelers are increasingly exploring new luxury destinations. The report highlights the growing need to expand beyond established tourist hubs like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin to tap into the untapped potential of emerging regions. Continued …

How Yangsheng self-cultivation practices enhance health and longevity

Traditional Chinese medicine Yangsheng can enhance practitioners’ health and longevity with various self-cultivation practices, according to the Public Health Ministry’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine.

As Thailand is facing challenges from an aged society and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), this kind of alternative medicine focuses on improving practitioners’ bodies and minds to treat and prevent diseases. Continued …

The State of the Stomach in Bangkok

Look at Bangkok through the lens of Instagram, a travel article, or a listings website, and these days the city’s restaurant scene can appear to be all about Michelin stars. The brand swept into the city in 2017, and in a short time, chefs and diners alike became obsessed with collecting its celestial accolades.

Yet, look at Bangkok from ground level, and you’ll see a very different picture. The curry shacks, noodle stalls, legacy restaurants, and street vendors that have shaped the city’s dining scene for decades continue to put out some of the best value, casual, unselfconscious, full-flavored, delicious food on earth, all while blissfully unaware of a French tire manufacturer’s rating system. Continued …

Chiang Rai International Balloon Festival underway

The month of love gets into gear with the international balloon festival kicking off at Singha Park in Chiang Rai’s Mueang district today, featuring hot air balloons rising into the sky both during the day and at night.

The annual “Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta 2025”, which continues through Monday, features several photo opportunities and a wealth of activities designed to delight visitors. Continued …

Thai desserts you’ll love if you enjoy Mango Sticky Rice

Are you a fan of mango sticky rice? If so, here are six delicious Thai sweets that are just as rich, creamy, and satisfying. Have you tried any of these?

Khanom Krok (Thai Coconut Pancakes)

Khanom Krok is a traditional Thai dessert made from flour, sugar, and coconut milk, then poured into a special dimpled pan. When ready to eat, it is scooped out as round pieces, often paired together. Continued …

Thailand’s climate challenge solutions

Thailand’s economy is among the hardest hit by the harsh impacts of global warming. But there is still a way forward. Rising temperatures and extreme weather are slashing crop yields, flooding factories, and threatening key tourist destinations. Projections show Thailand could face a 19.5% GDP reduction by 2050 if the temperature rises by 2C.

The Swiss Re Institute, which studies potential economic loss due to climate change among 48 countries, ranks Thailand No.3 for the impact on agricultural yield and No.1 in both labor productivity and tourism vulnerability. A terrifying scenario, indeed. Continued …

Cleantech Solar building 30 floating solar projects for Cargill in Thailand

Cleantech Solar has announced the commissioning of 10 MWp of floating solar PV systems for Cargill in Thailand. These PV systems are part of nearly 30 solar PV projects under various stages of operations, construction and development for the food-processing giant in Thailand, and numerous other projects in Southeast Asia and India.

The floating solar PV projects add to Cleantech Solar’s existing rooftop solar projects and are located at Cargill’s fully integrated poultry-processing units in Korat and Saraburi, providing high-quality, reliable and cost-efficient solar power for operations. Continued … 

ASEAN (Bangkok) Energy Storage & Smart Energy Expo March 5-7

The ASEAN (Bangkok) Energy Storage & Smart Energy Expo (Solar PV & Battery & Clean Energy) 2025 is set to take place from March 5-7 at the Impact Exhibition Center in Bangkok.

Covering an exhibition area of 10,000 square meters, it is expected to attract over 200 companies from around the world and will welcome more than 10,000 professional visitors. The exhibition is dedicated to showcasing and promoting the latest energy storage technologies and applications of smart energy, providing a comprehensive platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, exports, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Feb 12

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Nightmare scenario over new expat tax/Man Killed by Elephant in Sam Roi Yat/67 provinces with unsafe air pollution/Summer to start as February ends/Review of 2-5pm alcohol sale ban/Baht expected to weaken/Myanmar human trafficking/Monkey shelters in Phetchaburi/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand to face economic challenges/To forge ‘industrial-tech ecosystem’/TOURISM: Pattaya tourists fuming/Foreign arrivals poised to grow 5%/More planes to take off/New Domestic Flights/Samui tackles power outages/Full moon party postponed/LGBTQ tourism surges/Russian Tourist Dies/Thai Fishermen Save Foreign Woman/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A bitter-salty harvest/Some of the best cheese in Thailand/Sacred jujube tree takes center stage/CLIMATE THAILAND: Project to support EV shift/ALPLA delivering sustainable plastic solutions/INTERNATIONAL/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

Nightmare scenario at PKK tax office over new expat tax

“I just returned from the Prachuap Khiri Khan tax office at the Prachuap provincial office (Not Hua Hin). I had my total amount that was transferred to fill in their forms, as well as proof the the monies were from Social Security office.

“While speaking to the personnel, they asked my wife where did my money come from. My wife showed them my form 1099 that showed how much was paid to me from the SSI. They then told her that all of that income on that piece of paper would be taxed and I would need to pay thousands on it to their office. I tried to explain to them (with wife’s help in Thai) that the DTA for SSI to Thailand is not taxable.” Continued …

Editor: Hua Hin Expat News‘ understanding of this issue, as explained by tax experts, is that American Social Security payments, Canadian pensions, and similar income is not subject to the new tax. Furthermore, we have been advised that is not even necessary to file a tax return or report the income, based on existing tax laws. We have been concerned, however, that local tax authorities lack the necessary knowledge to implement the new tax guidelines, as can be shown in the above example. Expat News has an exclsive review of the new expat tax HERE, including a link to ask your questions.

Man Killed by Wild Elephant in Sam Roi Yat Palm Plantation

A 67-year-old man was fatally crushed by a wild elephant yesterday while inspecting his palm plantation in Khao Sam Roi Yot District.

The head of Kui Buri National Park confirmed the death of Chaliyo from Sam Roi Yot District, who was found lying on his back with severe injuries after being trampled by an elephant. The attack took place outside the boundaries of Kui Buri National Park, at a palm plantation in Ban Lak Lor, Sao Lai Subdistrict, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Continued …

67 provinces, including PKK, covered with unsafe air pollution

Sixty-seven of 77 provinces in Thailand were shrouded with unsafe levels of ultrafine dust pollution this morning, with the worst smog blanketing greater Bangkok, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTA).

In descending order of PM2.5 levels, 20 other provinces shrouded with red levels were Samut Songkhram, Phetchaburi, Ratchaburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Nong Khai, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Prachin Buri, Saraburi, Rayong, Suphan Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Nakhon Nayok, Lop Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, Uthai Thani, Chanthaburi, Kalasin and Sa Kaeo. Continued …

Summer to start as February ends, bringing highs of 43°C

Thailand will officially enter the summer season at the end of February, with high temperatures lasting until May, the Thailand Meteorological Department announced yesterday. The Thai summer is characterized by a hot southerly wind covering the upper part of the country, it added.

However, the department forecast that the north and northeast will continue to experience cool mornings throughout March, as a weak high-pressure system from China extends over upper Thailand. Continued …

PM orders review of 2-5pm, Buddhist holidays alcohol sale ban

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a review of the ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages from 2pm to 5pm following calls by business groups for eased regulations to support tourism.

The ban is not covered in the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act. It was announced in a decree by the coup regime of Thanom Kittikachorn in 1972 to deal with officials drinking during work hours, and has never been rescinded. Continued …

Baht expected to weaken

The baht is expected to weaken over the next few weeks amid rising global trade tensions following the recent U.S. decision to increase tariffs on aluminium and steel imports to 25%.

Yesterday, the baht opened at 33.96 per U.S. dollar, slightly appreciating from Monday’s close of 33.91, before weakening past 34 baht during the day, tallying 34.07 per dollar as of 4:30pm. Continued …

Gold’s upward momentum continues

Gold prices have continued to hit fresh record highs in both Thai and world markets, with global prices approaching US$3,000 an ounce, driven by escalating trade tensions and a potential inflation spike.

Bullion climbed to $2,937 an ounce amid volatile trade on Monday in Western markets after U.S. President Donald Trump signed executive orders to impose 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from March 12, ramping up a long-promised trade war despite warnings from Europe and China. Continued …

Thailand considers border ban and export halt to curb scams

The government of Thailand is considering intensifying its efforts against call-scam gangs operating from Myanmar, potentially including a border ban on suspected accomplices and halting solar panel exports to Myanmar. This was stated by senior officials following recent discussions.

Chatchai Bangchuad, secretary-general of the National Security Council, stated yesterday that current anti-scam measures will continue. Should these prove insufficient, additional strategies may be implemented for greater effectiveness. Continued …

Thailand launches global task force to combat Myanmar human trafficking

Thailand is stepping up its fight against human trafficking and scam call centers by establishing an international coordination center to rescue victims trapped in Myanmar, Police Inspector-General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot announced.

Speaking from Tak province Monday, Thatchai confirmed that the center will work with international law enforcement to track down and free people, regardless of nationality, who have been lured or trafficked into Myanmar to work in fraudulent operations. Continued …

Monkey shelters in Phetchaburi to be ready by March

The government of Thailand is overseeing the construction of monkey shelters (cages) in Phetchaburi, which are expected to be completed by March. These facilities aim to accommodate troublesome monkeys from Phetchaburi city, addressing the issue of overpopulation.

Once completed, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation will coordinate the timing to relocate aggressive monkeys from Mueang Phetchaburi district to the Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Station for behavioral adjustment and shelter, according to a report. Continued …

  • British Tourist Arrested at Manchester Airport on Drugs Charges – Continued …
  • Authorities Raid Three Chinese-Owned Factories for Illegal Recycling – Continued …
  • Bolt driver warns after Indian couple scams free airport ride – Continued …
  • Cyber police round up Taiwanese gray capital gang in Phuket – Continued …

Thailand to face economic challenges amid Trump’s trade war

The world is closely watching the impact of President Donald Trump’s tariff hike measures, which will affect U.S. trading partners, particularly countries with high trade surpluses. These, analysts say, run the risk of retaliatory tariffs and potential economic fallout, and should thus focus on fast-tracking trade negotiations.

Economists predict that Trump’s trade war will bring significant changes across Asia, with India and Thailand facing high risks of severe economic repercussions due to likely retaliatory tariff policies. Continued …

Venture to forge ‘industrial-tech ecosystem’

Three property and industrial estate developers have joined hands to build an “industrial-tech ecosystem” to further strengthen Thailand as an investment destination in Southeast Asia.

The ecosystem, which will be developed and operated by joint venture Araya Land Development, forged by three companies, is a mix of modern technology-driven businesses, including data centers, advanced manufacturing and R&D, an industrial estate, a logistics park, lifestyle amenities and residential areas. Continued …

Pattaya tourists fuming as Makha Bucha shuts down nightlife

Pattaya’s famous nightlife has gone silent as officials enforce a strict alcohol ban in observance of Makha Bucha Day, leaving frustrated tourists scrambling for alternative plans.

While locals observe the occasion with merit-making and temple visits, many foreign tourists are expressing disappointment, claiming the ban dampens their holiday experience. Some, unaware of the restriction, arrived in Pattaya expecting to enjoy its legendary nightlife, only to be met with shuttered bars and dry restaurants. Continued …

Foreign arrivals poised to grow 5% in February to 3.5M

Thailand is expected to welcome 3.5 million foreign tourist arrivals in February, a 5% increase year-on-year, with all major markets surging between 2% and 20%, except the Chinese market, which is on course to plummet by 7% due to safety concerns, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said Germany and Japan are projected to secure the strongest growth of 20% and 18%, respectively, compared to the corresponding period last year. Continued …

More planes to take off as Thailand summer travel surges

Thailand’s skies are set to get busier as flights increase across major airports under the new northern summer schedule, which kicks off next month. With international travel rebounding, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) confirmed a significant rise in flight slots at the nation’s busiest airports.

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced that Suvarnabhumi Airport has secured 1,202 daily flight slots, marking a 16% increase from pre-Covid levels. The airport, Thailand’s main gateway, has a full capacity of 1,930 daily flights. Continued …

New Domestic Flights Boost Tourism in Secondary Cities

Recent developments in Thailand’s aviation industry have seen an increase in domestic flights to secondary cities, sparking a significant boost in local tourism. Airlines have started recognizing the untapped potential of smaller cities, often overlooked in favor of larger urban hubs.

By opening up these new routes, they are providing travelers with greater flexibility and options, making it easier and more affordable to explore lesser-known destinations. Continued …

Samui tackles frequent power outages with mobile generators

Authorities on the Thai tourist island of Koh Samui are resolving frequent power outages attributed to old transmission lines by using diesel-fueled generators to produce additional electricity.

The effort is a short-term solution before new transmission lines are completely installed by 2028, said Prasert Sinsukpraert, permanent secretary to the Ministry of Energy. He said he experienced a blackout at a hotel during his visit to the island to inspect the outages and meet local officials to discuss the problem. Continued … 

Full moon party postponed, reset for tomorrow

This month’s full moon party on Koh Phangan has been postponed from tonight until tomorrow to avoid a clash with Makha Bucha Day, a major Buddhist holy day.

District chief Suriya Bunphan issued an announcementyesterday prohibiting the sale of alcohol on the island today, Makha Bucha Day. Continued …

Thailand’s LGBTQ tourism surges, as spending hits record high

Thailand is fast becoming the globe’s top LGBTQ travel destination, with spending among LGBTQ tourists skyrocketing 38% to over 73,000 baht per trip, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The number of first-time LGBTQ visitors has also jumped 19.9%, signaling a major shift in the country’s tourism landscape. Continued … 

Russian Tourist Dies After Sliding into the Sea from Tour Boat in Pattaya

A 33-year-old Russian tourist lost his life yesterday after sliding from a water slide at the rear of a tour boat near Koh Sak, off the coast of Pattaya.

Rescue personnel from Pattaya’s marine disaster response team and the Sawang Boriboon Foundation rushed to the scene by speedboat. Upon arrival, they found the tourist, identified as Andrew Anganov, lying unconscious without a pulse on the deck of a large tour boat near Koh Sak. Weighing over 100kg, the man had reportedly gone down the slide into the sea before climbing back onto the boat, complaining of severe back pain. Moments later, he collapsed and lost consciousness. Continued …

Thai Fishermen Save Foreign Woman Floating in Sea for Six Hours

In a dramatic sea rescue, fishermen in Krabi saved a 46-year-old foreign woman named Malanie, who had been adrift for six hours. The incident occurred on Monday, about 6 kilometers off the coast of Koh Lanta.

Setting out on the boat “Janjira Nam Chok” for a night of squid fishing, the fishermen spotted Malanie waving for help. Without hesitation, they pulled her aboard and provided her with food and drink. As she seemed unharmed, they continued fishing until morning before safely returning her to shore. Continued …

A bitter-salty harvest

A salt farmer in Bang Bakong district, Chachoengsao, expresses concerns as the industry he relies on faces significant challenges. With declining salt prices and rising labor costs, the once-thriving market has dwindled, leaving farmers struggling to stay afloat. Video … 

Some of the best cheese in the world is in Thailand — here’s where to try it

Humans have been eating cheese for around 10,000 years. The National Historic Cheesemaking Center explains that it’s a culinary habit with no clear beginning, but the act of eating cheese did make its way to ancient Greek literature and Egyptian murals. It appears every civilization has had some affinity for it. Today, though, there is room for debate on who loves cheese the most.

In 2024, Mintel, a global market intelligence company, released a report ranking which nations import the most cheese and “which are the most interested in cheese.” Its top countries were all the usual suspects, with the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and the United States leading the charge. However, Thailand is currently producing some seriously swoon-worthy cheese. Continued …

Sacred jujube tree takes center stage in annual ceremony in Uttaradit

A significant spiritual event is currently taking place at Uttaradit’s famous Wat Phra Thaen Sila At. Though the royal temple in the Laplae district is renowned for its sacred laterite slab dating as far back as the Sukhothai period (1238-1438), it also boasts a towering 10-meter-tall jujube tree that stands tall on the temple grounds. It is believed that this tree is a descendant of the tree where the Buddha instructed his disciple Ananda to hang his alms bowl.

Every year on the full moon day of the third lunar month, typically in February, the locals hold a special ceremony dubbed “Phuthra Kwan Bat” or Jujube with Monk’s Alms Bowls. This festival has been marked for generations and is key to Uttaradit’s cultural calendar. Continued …

United Nations, UK project to support shift to electric mobility in Thailand

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have launched a £1 million initiative to strengthen transport policies and workforce development for a transition to electric mobility in Bangkok.

The project is funded through the Thailand UK PACT (Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions) Country Fund and will complement the efforts of Thailand to accelerate the move to electric mobility by ensuring the transition of the transport labor force is just and equitable. Continued … 

ALPLA expands in Thailand with new plant, delivering sustainable plastic solutions

ALPLA is expanding in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific region and opening a second location in Thailand. The modern plant in Chachoengsao, near Bangkok, combines all production technologies, a technical center and STUDIOa, the one-stop-shop for design, on a 24,000-square-meter site.

The global packaging and recycling specialist is thus increasing capacities, expanding its portfolio and offering safe, affordable and sustainable full-system solutions made of plastic to numerous industries and markets. Continued … 

Gutting aid, US cedes soft power game to China

When President Donald Trump froze nearly all U.S. foreign aid, Cambodia was forced to suspend workers removing dangerous mines from the country – until China stepped in with the necessary funding. Continued …

OpenAI rejects $97 billion Musk-led takeover bid

OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman has rebuffed a reported $97-billion bid by a group of investors led by Elon Musk to buy the nonprofit group that controls the creator of ChatGPT. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

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