- 500-baht refueling limit in Hua Hin/Lining up for fuel in PKK/City-wide CCTV network/New taffic lights at Soi 51/Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival/Tuesday’s bus crash in Cha Am/Hua Hin Wine Expo starts/Road to improve access to Hua Hin/New GM at NH Hua Hin Hotel/Thailand’s 2026 heat index/Upcoming local running events
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil tops $110/Qatar says Iran attacked LNG hub/Thailand’s oil price structure questioned/Oil prices squeeze heavy industry/Government Aid for Aviation/Rural oil shortage/Oil crunch hits Chiang Mai’s songthaews/Price controls possible/Retailers urged to build up stocks/Transport federation warns of nationwide stoppage/To secure fuel supply/Fuel shortage affects emergency response/Medical supplies ‘enough for three months’/Thai fishermen staying ashore/First Thai national killed in Iran
- ECONOMY: Government action on living costs/Sluggish demand pauses condo launches
- TOURISM: 1,000 Flight Cancellations to Thailand/Double blow to global aviation and tourism/Malaysians urged to postpone travel to Thailand/British Man Dies After Alleged Drink Spiking/Gun Range Staff Accidentally Shoots Chinese Tourist
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok’s Chatuchak Named the Best Night Market/Tom kha gai named world’s best chicken soup
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Higher power prices prompt solar/Midsummer Expands Into Thailand/Doomsday Glacier collapse
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
500-baht refueling limit at most gas stations in Hua Hin
Most petrol stations in Hua Hin have introduced temporary refueling limits as fuel demand continues to rise across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging motorists not to panic buy despite stable national supply levels.
In recent days, residents have continued to bring their vehicles to service stations across the region following adjustments to diesel and gasohol prices. Operators say the surge in demand has required new measures to help manage distribution, with many stations now limiting purchases to 500 baht per vehicle. Continued …
Lining up for fuel in PKK Province
Hua Hin begins installation of city-wide CCTV network
So-called “smart poles” are being installed at key locations across Hua Hin as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and support the development of smart infrastructure. The initiative forms part of the Hua Hin Smart City Phase 1 project, under which Hua Hin City Municipality has installed no fewer than 30 CCTV cameras, along with related equipment throughout the municipal area.
Each smart pole integrates several features within a single structure. These include energy-efficient LED lighting to improve night-time visibility, CCTV cameras for monitoring public areas, and an emergency SOS button that can be used to request assistance. Continued …
New taffic lights at Soi 51 and Phetkasem Road
Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival ends Saturday
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will conclude on Saturday at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
Phetchaburi Province, in collaboration with Cha Am City Municipality and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, is organizing the event. Visitors can enjoy menus featuring fresh blue swimming crab and seafood sourced directly from local fishermen, alongside crab-release activities and evening entertainment. Continued …
Tuesday’s bus crash in Cha Am
Hua Hin Wine Expo starts today
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 is being held today and tomorrow, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
The decision to move the event to March was made to align with the new vision and leadership team. This shift provides a “longer runway” to transition the expo into a landmark international-standard showcase. By moving the dates, the event gains the necessary preparation time to match an ambitious new scale and deliver the high-caliber experience that local and international guests expect. Continued …
Thailand Riviera tourist road to improve access to Hua Hin
A major section of the Thailand Riviera tourist road project is set to improve road connectivity to Hua Hin, after the Department of Rural Roads allocated funding to build more than 44 kilometers of new route linking the town with surrounding districts.
The development forms part of the Tanowsri Khiri Phat tourist road initiative, a long-term infrastructure project designed to strengthen travel along the western coastline of the Gulf of Thailand and provide an alternative to the often congested Phetkasem Road. Continued …
Nartsupak Thaweewong Named General Manager at NH Hua Hin Hotel
NH Hua Hin Hotel has appointed Nartsupak Thaweewong as general manager. Nartsupak brings more than 20 years of hospitality experience in Thailand and Singapore to the role.
Before joining NH Hua Hin Hotel, Nartsupak was resort manager at NH Collection Samui Peace Resort, where she led the property through a major rebranding, launched the Global Hotel Alliance membership program, and implemented training initiatives. Continued …
Thailand’s 2026 heat index may exceed 52°C, with three regions at highest risk
Airin Phanrit, deputy spokeswoman for the prime minister’s office, said yesterday that this year’s heat index is expected to be more severe than last year’s, with levels in April and May likely to rise into the “very dangerous” range of more than 52°C.
She warned that the extreme conditions could pose serious health risks and, in some cases, prove fatal, urging close monitoring of vulnerable groups. Continued …
Upcoming local running events…
Muangthai Triathlon set for Sunday at Sam Roi Yot Beach
The Muangthai Triathlon 2026, part of the Thailand Triathlon EcoHero Super Series, will take place at Sam Roi Yot Beach on Sunday. Athletes will compete in standard triathlon distances consisting of a 1.5km swim, 40.7km bike ride, and 10km run, as well as sprint triathlon races featuring a 750m swim, 25.5km bike ride, and 5km run. Duathlon, relay, and children’s race categories are also included. For informtion …
Sam Roi Yot Run Fun Fest – May 30-31
The Sam Roi Yot Run Fun Fest will take place at Sam Roi Yot Beach near Long Lay Market, offering distances of 21km (990 baht), 10km (850 baht) and 5km (750 baht). Organizers say the event will combine running with music, entertainment, and local seafood. Registration closes on May 15. Registration …
Phetchaburi Half Marathon – June 21
The Phetchaburi Half Marathon on June 21 at Chao Samran Beach will feature a 21km half marathon (790 baht), 10km mini marathon (690 baht), and 5km race (590 baht). A VIP category priced at 1,500 baht will allow participants to compete across distances. Registration has now closed. More information …
Sam Roi Yot Run Ep.7 – June 28
Sam Roi Yot Run Ep.7 will offer distances of 2.7km, 5km and 10km along scenic coastal routes through local communities. Entry fees vary depending on registration period, with general registration open until May 31. Registration …
Oil tops $110 as Middle East energy sites come under attack
Brent crude rose sharply above US$110 a barrel in early trading today, as fresh attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East heightened fears of broader supply disruption.
Brent gained 2.8% to US$110.40 a barrel in the morning session, as markets reacted to escalating strikes between Iran and Israel, with both sides targeting key energy assets and showing no sign of de-escalation. Continued …
Qatar says Iran attacked LNG hub; UAE shuts gas facilities
Qatar’s state oil gian QatarEnergy said yesterday that Iranian missile attacks on Ras Laffan, the site of the country’s core LNG processing operations, caused “extensive damage”, while the UAE shut gas facilities after intercepting missiles early today.
The attacks came hours after Iran issued evacuation warnings for several oil facilitie across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, as it prepared retaliation following strikes on its own energy infrastructure in South Pars and Asaluyeh. Continued …
Thailand’s oil price structure questioned as diesel rises
Whether Bangchak and PTT service stations are selling fuel at higher or lower prices than those in other ASEAN countries remains a matter of continuing public interest and frequent scrutiny. This is especially the case at present, amid the Middle East war following the attacks launched by the United States and Israel on Iran.
This is because fuel prices are one of the key factors affecting people’s cost of living. An examination into Thai fuel prices compared with those in ASEAN countries, to determine whether Thailand is more expensive or cheaper, found that data from the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO), Ministry of Energy, ranked ASEAN countries by the highest fuel prices for both gasoline and diesel as follows. Continued …
High oil prices squeeze heavy industry as costs jump up to 50%, FTI warns of packaging shortages
Thailand’s heavy industries are coming under renewed pressure from high oil prices, with production costs rising sharply and supply-chain strains raising the risk of shortages in plastic bags and packaging materials, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI, said the federation has urged the government to consider using the Oil Fuel Fund mechanism to provide additional energy-price support to the industrial sector. He said this would help stabilize prices, reduce incentives for panic buying at petrol stations, and ease manufacturing costs. Continued …
Rising Costs Spur AAT to Request Government Aid for Aviation
The Airline Association of Thailand (AAT) is seeking government intervention for relief measures, as the aviation industry faces escalating cost pressures. In a recent meeting with executives from its member airlines, including Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia, the AAT discussed challenges posed by global economic conditions and external factors, particularly the geopolitical tensions affecting fuel prices.
The association highlighted the volatility in fuel prices as a critical issue, resulting in increased and unpredictable operating costs for airlines. It plans to propose that the government temporarily reduce the excise tax on aviation fuel for domestic flights to alleviate these burdens. Continued …
Call for urgent action to tackle rural oil shortage
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has called on the government to intervene in support of oil middlemen, known locally as “jobbers”, who are struggling to secure supplies from refineries, resulting in a shortage affecting industrial and agricultural sectors, as well as smaller filling stations not affiliated with major retail brands.
Jobbers traditionally purchase oil directly from refineries and distribute it to farmers, factory owners and independent petrol stations in rural areas. However, the US-Iran conflict has disrupted global oil flows, prompting refineries to prioritize sales to their own branded outlets. This shift has left jobbers unable to meet demand in local communities. Continued …
Oil crunch hits Chiang Mai’s red songthaews: fewer tourists, higher costs
Chiang Mai’s iconic red songthaew operators say fuel shortages and higher pump prices are tightening margins as tourist numbers fall. A cooperative leader warns diesel stocks are running low and calls on the government to address fuel and rising living costs.
After the government announced fuel price adjustments yesterday — with diesel up 50 satang per liter, gasohol 95 and 91 up 1 baht, and E20 down 79 satang — the impact has spread widely. Not only is fuel in short supply, prices have also risen, hitting Chiang Mai’s red four-wheeled songthaews, the city’s signature public transport, particularly hard. Continued …
Price controls possible for more essential goods
The Ministry of Commerce plans to review its price control list to ensure it better reflects the current market, with the possibility of adding more essential items. Caretaker commerce minister Suphajee Suthumpun said that the gradually rising diesel price, which has a ceiling of 33 baht per liter, has not yet affected the prices of consumer goods.
To ease the cost of living, the ministry has outlined measures to regulate essential goods, particularly those that are price-controlled. Businesses are prohibited from raising prices on controlled items without prior notification to the Department of Internal Trade (DIT). Continued …
Warn of soaring costs issued, retailers urged to build up stocks
Saha Pathanapibul and BJC, two major consumer goods companies, have warned retailers of the impact of unrest in the Middle East, which has driven up raw material, packaging, and transport costs and may affect product availability and deliveries.
Saha Pathanapibul Public Co. (SPC) sent a letter to shop owners and store managers regarding the impact of the unrest in the Middle East, stating that: The current military conflict and wartime situation have pushed up production costs for consumer goods, including the sourcing of raw materials, packaging, and transport. Continued …
Transport federation warns of nationwide stoppage due to energy crisis
The Land Transport Federation of Thailand has issued five demands for the government to address the energy crisis, warning it may escalate to a nationwide transport shutdown if no action is taken.
Thongyu Khongkhan, president of the Land Transport Federation of Thailand (LTFT), spoke yesterday about the problems arising from the energy crisis. He said that, amid the energy crisis, the federation was calling on the government to urgently address the problem. Continued …
PM moves to secure fuel supply
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered urgent nationwide measures to safeguard the country’s energy supply, instructing provincial governors to coordinate closely with police to allow oil transport trucks to operate around the clock.
The directive aims to ease potential fuel shortages and ensure uninterrupted energy distribution to households and businesses. Under the plan, governors are to coordinate with provincial police chiefs to relax traffic restrictions that limit the operating hours and routes of oil tankers. Continued …
Ambulances in 3 provines hit as fuel shortage affects emergency response
Ambulances under the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) have been hit by a nationwide fuel shortage. The most severe impact is in Kalasin province, where a dispatch center has been forced to suspend operations.
NIEM Secretary general Pichet Nongchang, said yesterday that in two other provinces, Songkhla and Nong Bua Lamphu, services have been curtailed, as petrol stations in the area close. Continued …
Necessary drugs, medical supplies ‘enough for three months’
Thailand’s existing stocks of necessary drugs and life-saving medical supplies are enough for three months’ use, the Ministry of Public Health said yesterday.
Dr. Somlerk Jeungsmarn, the ministry’s permanent secretary, was responding to public concerns about the possible impact of the Middle East war on imports of some essential medicines and equipment. Continued …
Thai fishermen staying ashore as fuel prices bite
Fishing boats are gradually returning to shore and may suspend further operations, as sharply rising diesel prices drive up costs, raising concerns over possible seafood price hikes and wider economic disruption.
Suradech Nil-ubon, president of the Songkhla Fisheries Assn., said many member operators have begun bringing their boats back to port as their fuel supplies run low. Several have indicated they may delay their next fishing trip because the price of “green diesel”, a marine fuel commonly bought and sold offshore by fishing boats, has risen steeply, pushing up operating costs. Continued …
First Thai national killed in Iranian missile attack in Israel
A Thai agricultural worker was killed in an Iranian missile attack in northwestern Tel Aviv, medics said today, marking the first Thai national killed in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Israel’s Magen David Adom said the man, described as a foreign worker, died after being struck by shrapnel in Moshav Adanim, about 20 kilometers northeast of Tel Aviv and close to the West Bank. Continued …
Thais demand government action on living costs
Thais say their top concern is rising living costs and they are urging the new government to take swift action on the issue, according to a National Statistical Office (NSO) survey.
The nationwide survey was conducted from Jan. 22-28 to assess public expectations of the new government. The survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews with 6,000 adults living in private households across the country. Continued …
Sluggish demand pauses condo launches
Despite declines in new launches and inventory in Bangkok, condo developers are likely to delay new supply this year, as sales remain sluggish and absorption rates continue to fall, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).
Siddhipen Siddharthapong, acting assistant director-general at REIC, said the condo market remains weak, with new sales in the fourth quarter of 2025 declining, marking a third consecutive quarterly drop. Continued …
Middle East Turmoil Leads to 1,000 Flight Cancellations to Thailand
About 1,000 flights bound for Thailand have been canceled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Aeronautical Radio of Thailand reports significant disruptions to flights following the US and Israel’s strikes on Tehran, which began on Feb. 28. This impact is particularly felt by Middle Eastern airlines, sharply reducing their services to key Thai airports.
Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports are the most affected, with 600 and 400 canceled flights, respectively. Other airports, including Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Don Mueang, have also seen cancellations, representing around 3% of all incoming flights for the period. The disruption is part of broader consequences affecting global aviation due to strategic airspace closures and heightened geopolitical tensions. Continued …
Middle East conflict deals a double blow to global aviation and tourism
Thailand’s ambitious tourism recovery plans for 2026 are facing significant challenges due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have triggered flight cancellations, route detours, and a sharp rise in travel costs.
As the conflict drives up fuel prices and disrupts transit hubs like Dubai, the Thai tourism industry projects a potential 10% to 15% decline in visitor arrivals and substantial revenue losses, prompting a strategic shift to focus on regional Asian markets to offset the drop in long-haul travelers. Continued …
Malaysians urged to postpone travel to southern Thailand due to fuel shortages
Malaysians are being urged to postpone travel to southern Thailand following fuel shortages caused by panic buying, raising concerns ahead of the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri holiday period.
According to Malaysian officials, the advisory was for Malaysians looking to travel to popular destinations like Hat Yai and Songkhla over the long festive weekend. “If there is no urgent need, it is best to postpone travel temporarily,” officials said. Continued …
British Man Dies in Bangkok After Alleged Drink Spiking
A British events organizer has died and his girlfriend was left fighting for her life after the couple’s drinks were allegedly spiked during a holiday in Bangkok. Tom Pardhy, 38, passed away on March 6 while his partner Naomi Raksha, 31, was rushed to hospital in intensive care following the alleged poisoning.
The couple were on a six-week holiday in Thailand when Naomi first fell ill on a night out, prompting Tom to take her to hospital in a tuk-tuk. Naomi was intubated in ICU after suffering a cardiac arrest. About 24 hours later, her family learned Tom had been found unresponsive in their hotel. According to his mother Heather, the pair had reportedly had their drinks spiked with a combination of cocaine and heroin. Continued …
Gun Range Staff Accidentally Shoots Chinese Tourist in Phuket
A 52-year-old Chinese tourist was injured when a firearm discharged at a Phuket shooting range yesterday. The bullet struck her right cheek, embedding the projectile and causing facial trauma. She was rushed to Vachira Phuket Hospital for urgent treatment.
The incident occurred in Kathu district, after the woman and a companion had used the shooting range’s facilities. They were taking photographs near the firing lanes when the taxi driver accompanying them reported the injury. Authorities responded immediately, transporting her to hospital. Continued …
Bangkok’s Chatuchak Named the Best Night Market in the World
Sometimes, the best meals on vacation come with no reservations, no table, and no real “kitchen” at all. If you’re looking to experience the best of the best in global night markets, then there’s only one place you need to go: Thailand.
Travelbag, a long-haul travel operator website, has released its list of the world’s best night markets, which it ranked using local safety scores, social media metrics, search volume, and tourist reviews. After all that digging, it named the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok the best night market in the world. Continued …
Tom kha gai named world’s best chicken soup
Tom kha gai is the world’s best chicken soup, according to TasteAtlas — a rich, aromatic Thai coconut classic.
It’s a creamy Thai coconut soup balancing sour, salty, and sweet flavors with aromatic herbs like galangal, lemongrass, and lime leaves. Typically made with chicken, it simmers coconut milk, broth, and aromatics, resulting in a rich, comforting dish. Key to its flavor is fresh lime juice added just before serving, along with the perfect balance of galangal and tender mushrooms.
Higher power prices prompt push for solar
Small businesses and households are being urged to reduce their reliance on the state electricity grid and adopt solar power solutions, as global energy price volatility threatens to drive up costs, despite Thailand’s capped power tariffs, according to solar firms.
Caretaker energy minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon recently announced a temporary ceiling of 3.88 baht per kilowatt-hour for the period from May to August. But industry analysts warn that rising fuel prices, driven by the conflict in the Middle East, will eventually push electricity costs higher. Continued …
Midsummer Expands Into Thailand With Flexible Solar Solutions
Swedish solar technology company Midsummer has expanded its operations into Thailand, bringing advanced renewable energy solutions to the Southeast Asian region. As part of this expansion, the company has opened a new regional office in Bangkok to strengthen its presence and respond to the growing demand for clean energy in the country.
The company is known for its innovative solar technology, especially its lightweight and flexible solar panels. Unlike traditional solar panels that are made with heavy glass, Midsummer’s thin-film panels are designed to be much lighter and more adaptable. These panels can be installed on surfaces that may not be able to support conventional systems, making them suitable for a wide range of buildings and infrastructure projects. Continued …
Doomsday Glacier collapse could put Bangkok and 7 million in flood zone
Thwaites Glacier in west Antarctica, covering more than 192,000 square kilometers, has been dubbed the “Doomsday Glacier” because it acts as the final barrier preventing the west Antarctic ice sheet from flowing into the ocean. But the glacier is now melting rapidly, raising fears that many coastal cities around the world could eventually be submerged.
At present, Thwaites is losing ice mass at a rate five times faster than in the 1990s. This has been driven by an imbalance between snowfall accumulation and the volume of ice flowing into the Amundsen Sea. Each year, the glacier is estimated to lose around 50 billion to 80 billion tons of ice, an enormous amount even by Antarctic standards. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Education officials are considering banning mobile phone use in all Thai classrooms, following a new initiative announced in Bangkok aimed at improving learning conditions. The proposed measures seek to reduce distractions and limit the health and behavioral impacts linked to excessive screen time. If adopted, changes would begin in the 2026 academic year.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is collaborating with GrabTaxi (Thailand) to explore the development of drone delivery services. This collaboration aims to enhance transport and logistics, emphasizing the importance of regulatory oversight to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Five officers were injured in a 
Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon said after a meeting of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East that the government had been closely monitoring global energy prices and found that continued increases had made it necessary to adjust domestic oil prices after they had been capped for a full 15 days, effective today.
Global Airlines Hike Fares, Cut Routes As Fuel Costs Balloon
Global airlines sounded the alarm yesterday over soaring jet fuel prices triggered by the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, warning of hundreds of millions of extra costs, higher fares, and cuts to some routes.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) 
Lack of diesel brought garbage collection to a halt in Kanchanaburi municipality yesterday morning, with the trucks not beginning their rounds until fuel was available in the afternoon.
“’Don’t worry about it, we are neutral!” was Thailand’s flippant response to the Islamist terrorist attack on America in 2001 when hijacked jets carrying innocent passengers and filled to the brim with aviation fuel smashed into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon on Sept. 11.
Every US$10 increase in the oil price per barrel is expected to reduce Thai GDP by 0.2 percentage points, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
The energy crisis is likely to spark a cost-of-living crisis, with impacts expected in the next one to three months, the Thailand Consumer Council (TCC) said.
As soaring ocean freight rates put pressure on exporters, Thai wooden furniture manufacturer Deesawat is urging exporters to explore closer markets amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The tripartite wage committee has unanimously agreed that now is not the right time to consider a minimum wage increase, citing uncertainty over the economic fallout from the war in the Middle East and the need to closely monitor energy prices.
Ranong Port: Gateway To BIMSTEC Economy Worth US$3.5 Trillion
Rise of the cat economy: Thai cat population exceeds 4 million
Hotel operators in Thailand consider high energy prices more troubling than mass cancellations, as only one month remains in the high tourism season, resulting in requests for the government to promote domestic travel during the Songkran holiday to help maintain occupancy rates.
Eco-Friendly Adventures Await in Thailand’s Phang Nga
Asian utilities are boosting coal-fired power generation to cut costs and safeguard ?energy supply, industry executives say, as the US-Israeli war on Iran chokes liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments and soaring prices threaten to suppress LNG demand.
The Office of the Cane and Sugar Board (OCSB) expects purchases of sugar cane leaves to more than double this year as Thailand reduces its reliance on liquefied natural gas imports, shipments of which have been disrupted by war in the Middle East.
Last week, Chakkaphan Phewngam, deputy governor of Bangkok, led a high-level site inspection at the On Nut Refuse Disposal Center in Prawet District to evaluate the progress of the city’s landmark waste-to-energy incineration plant. Spanning 30 rai, this 1,000-ton-per-day facility represents a core component of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) strategic shift away from traditional landfilling toward sustainable, high-tech waste management.
Wind power and photovoltaic energy are reshaping the energy landscape. However, early-generation wind and solar equipment, designed to last 20 to 25 years, is now entering a phase of large-scale decommissioning.
Joe Kent, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, announced his resignation yesterday, citing his concerns about the justification for military strikes in Iran and saying he “cannot in good conscience” back the Trump administration’s war. 
Long queues formed at petrol stations across the Laotian capital Vientiane on Monday as fuel shortages deepened, with the ripples of the Middle East conflict reverberating across landlocked Laos. The Southeast Asian nation is dependent on neighboring Thailand for fuel supplies, which initially announced it was suspending exports to conserve its holdings, but has assured Vientiane that fuel is on its way. 
After prices of liquefied natural gas surged to record highs after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, millions of people in Pakistan were repeatedly left without electricity. But people soon started to realize there was an alternative. The falling costs of solar panels and generous government incentives to feed excess power back to the grid made rooftop solar an attractive option. 
Indonesia plans to fast-track the development of renewable energy, aiming to build 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity within the next two years as part of efforts to advance energy transition and strengthen national energy security. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto said the government has instructed a special task force on renewable energy and energy conservation to fast-track the large-scale solar program. 
Thailand is set to receive a new shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from overseas, ensuring adequate fuel for power generation as electricity demand surges during the hot season, according to an energy official who requested anonymity.
Anan Phonimdang, deputy governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and acting SRT governor, said the rise in fuel prices has had a direct impact on the railway operator.
The Thai Board of Investment (BOI) has warned the business sector to prepare for the impact of rising global conflicts and wars, saying they are becoming part of a new world economic order.
A transformative shift in the labor market is taking place as Thailand approaches “super-aged society” status by 2030, according to Jobsdb by SEEK, a leading online job platform.
The Thai banking industry is entering a transition period in which banks can no longer rely on strong interest income or generate the high levels of return on equity (ROE) as seen in the past, according to the chief executive of TMBThanachart Bank (ttb).
Thailand’s healthcare system is facing six major pressures that are beginning to affect services, with some hospitals now at risk of having to reduce the number of beds they operate.
Thailand is losing nearly B30 billion in tax revenue each year as the illegal tobacco market expands, with illicit products now accounting for around a quarter of total tobacco consumption. A new policy report highlights the growing scale of illicit trade and its impact on government income, lawful businesses and consumer safety.
Venice is drowning – not just in rising waters but also in tourists. The city is charging a day-tripper fee and has banned large tour groups and loudspeakers in an effort to curb the crush. Barcelona residents march with squirt guns and “Tourists go home” signs to protest rising rents and crowds. Amsterdam is moving to cap and eventually ban ocean-going cruise ships to reduce pollution and visitor pressure.
Thailand’s former National Intelligence Agency deputy director, Nantiwat Samart, has urged the government to prioritize national security and public safety over boosting tourist numbers. Concerns have grown on social media, with calls to revoke the existing visa-free entry policy due to issues allegedly linked to Israeli tourists.
European tourists are increasingly favoring eastern Thailand’s attractions over the traditionally popular southern areas, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This shift is linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has notably decreased southern Thailand’s appeal.
For the past decade, Whitney Spielfogel’s family has taken an annual multi-generational trip over the holiday season and New Year’s with her parents. Hawaii, Costa Rica, Cabo, Tulum, Turks and Caicos. They had done them all together, her parents and her husband, Ross, and eventually her children, Sienna and Slade.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
The Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon 2026 has been officially launched, with organizers aiming to strengthen the town’s reputation as a sports tourism destination while inviting runners to sign up for the endurance event.
The Thailand Professional Golf Assn. (TPGA) announced its partnership with the Asian Tour to organize an Asian Development Tour (ADT)-level event — the Singha-SAT ADT Hua Hin Championship 2026 — between April 23-26 at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a policy restricting the use of mobile phones and electronic devices during lessons at 437 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
Thailand is facing a burgeoning literacy crisis, with approximately 65% of 15-year-olds unable to comprehend or analyze the content they read, despite being technically literate.
Thai health officials are sounding the alarm over a growing trend of adopting American dietary habits, warning that the latest “Upside-Down Pyramid” model from the United States may be ill-suited to the Thai physique and could lead to chronic health issues.
The Ministry of Commerce held a meeting last week to draw up Thailand’s 2026 proactive international trade promotion plan, chaired by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun together with directors of Thailand’s overseas trade promotion offices — commercial attachés in 58 offices across 43 economic areas worldwide — to take an in-depth look at global trade and set strategies to drive Thai exports.
Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a wall of negative sentiment this year, as geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and tighter access to loans weigh on the sector, raising questions about how businesses can navigate these tumultuous times.
The egg farmers’ cooperative network has raised the farm-gate price of mixed chicken eggs from 3.20 baht to 3.40 baht per egg, or six baht more per tray, effective today.
Chinese automaker BYD has denied allegations from the United States that its manufacturing facility in Thailand is being used to bypass American trade tariffs. The company said its Rayong plant is focused on domestic demand and exports to other regions, confirming that no vehicles from the site have been shipped to the United States.
Thailand has strengthened its position as a leading global destination for medical tourism, with new data showing the country is now among the top three worldwide for international patients seeking treatment abroad. The surge has been driven largely by Russian travelers, who are increasingly choosing Thailand for elective procedures, preventative care, and wellness treatments.
Middle East conflict hits tourism in Phangnga
This abandoned floating hotel in Thailand is straight out of a horror film
Activists in the Mekong region have called on governments and agencies to take urgent action to protect the river from worsening environmental damage caused by hydropower dams and mining activities.
Thailand marks National Elephant Day amid a crisis of coexistence
Bangkok Ranked 8th Best City in the World for 2026
For the second time in four years, energy markets in Asia dependent on imported fossil fuels find themselves at the mercy of global commodity markets. Although each country’s immediate exposure to the Iran conflict varies, all face the indirect threat of higher costs driven by tighter fossil fuel markets and elevated geopolitical risk premiums.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has confirmed that the government is prepared to challenge a looming US investigation into “unfair trade practices.” Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, the Thai government has developed a robust strategic framework to address the Section 301 probe initiated by the Trump administration.
The foundation of modern employment – study hard, secure a job, build a stable life – is eroding fast. Technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, is breaking down the old economic model that tied individual effort to secure, long-term work.
Medical tourism has gained attention as a growing segment within the travel market, with high potential for expansion. According to the Medical Tourism Assn. (MTA), it is estimated that over 14 million people travel abroad for medical services annually.
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.
The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.
The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.
The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.
Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.
Weakening consumer confidence, rather than rising costs alone, has become the biggest threat to Thailand’s property market, as global uncertainty prompts buyers to delay major purchases, according to Pornnarit Chuanchaisit, president of the Thai Real Estate Assn.
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.
The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.
Indonesia bans elephant riding
This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. 
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.
Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. 
The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. 
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard tomorrow, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
The government has introduced a series of emergency measures to prevent domestic fuel shortages, including increasing oil reserves and suspending most exports, while assuring the public that national energy supplies remain secure.
Air quality in this northern border province has deteriorated sharply, with thick haze blanketing the city as forest fires surge across much of the upper north.
The governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan has confirmed that fuel supplies in Prachuap Khiri Khan remain sufficient and urged residents not to panic buy, following concerns about potential price increases linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Royal Gazette Confirms 200,000 Baht Solar Tax Relief
The governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan has accelerated plans to improve energy efficiency as part of efforts to position the province as a model environmentally friendly tourism city.
Cha Am Municipality is taking urgent steps to address a growing water shortage after construction works on an irrigation canal disrupted the flow of raw water used to produce tap water for residents.
A new water production system planned for the Bor Fai area was the focus of a meeting chaired by Hua Hin City Municipality officials this week, as authorities reviewed design proposals and the next steps for the project.
Construction of a reinforced concrete road near Yarm Saad School is under way as part of a 15.37-million-baht project aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing local flooding.
The war involving Iran in the Middle East remains protracted, with the United States and Israel continuing to strike Iran, while Iran insists it will exercise its right to self-defense to the fullest extent.
Fuel price rises start to bite
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the Transport Ministry will ban fare increases for taxis, ride-hailing riders, and motorcycle taxi services from today, warning of legal action against profiteering.
“Cash” has become the most prized asset in global markets as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, triggering a rare sell-off in gold, bonds, and equities at the same time and reshaping what investors see as traditional hedges.
A leading business group maintained its forecast for Thailand’s economic growth this year at 1.6% to 2.0%, but said yesterday a prolonged conflict in the Middle East would hit activity.
Foreign buyers remained a significant force in Thailand’s condominium market in 2025, with Chinese nationals retaining the top position despite a decline in purchases, while buyers from Myanmar recorded the strongest growth to rank second.
Foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand down in first two months of 2026
Traveloka reveals top Songkran travel destinations
The growing cost of elephant intrusions
Thai massage industry set for overhaul
As in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, the new war in the Middle East is exposing once again how far Europe and others lag in replacing imported fossil fuels with domestic solar and wind power, specialists say.
The price of flights between Asia and Europe has soared after the closure of key Middle Eastern hubs due to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, with airline websites showing tickets on many popular routes booked out for days. 
The immigration queue certainly takes the edge off the excitement of a new adventure into the world’s most visited city. This time, I threw some dollars at the problem. The result? It was just 30 minutes from the plane reaching the gate to me sitting in a taxi heading into the city. On my previous visit, the immigration queue alone took 70 minutes.