- Cha Am crab festival/Developer plans new project in Hua Hin
- IRAN INVASION: Trump Signals Prolonged Conflict/NSC Tightens Embassy Security/Foreign Ministry Outlines Evacuation Routes/Many Thai workers in Middle East choose to stay/Thailand braces for oil price shock/PTTEP Boosts Gas Output/Visa waivers, discounted hotel stays/Stranded Tourists Granted Visa Amnesty/Phuket Offers Aid to Tourists/Thai EXIM Bank Unveils Emergency Relief/Stocks slide, inflation fears/Closure of Strait of Hormuz/Hormuz crisis disrupts trade/Drones hit US embassy in Riyadh
- ECONOMY: Thai government braces for US tariffs
- TOURISM: Navigating Thailand’s Tourism Challenges/Don Mueang to open 24-hour automated departure gates
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE:What I Loved and Hated About Thailand/Phetchaburi’s palm sugar
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Two key renewable projects face delay
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Cha Am crab festival set for March 14-21
The Cha Am crab festival will take place from March 1-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, celebrating the town’s well-known blue swimming crab and its coastal food culture.
Organized along the beachfront, the eight-day event, officially titled “Chim Pu Chak @ Cha Am”, will focus on fresh seafood sourced from local waters, alongside Thai dishes prepared by vendors from the area. Visitors can expect a large selection of crab-based dishes, including steamed crab, spicy salads, and traditional seafood recipes popular in Phetchaburi province. Continued …
Developer plans new project in Hua Hin
Developer AP Thailand is sharpening its focus on provincial expansion this year, increasing launches outside Greater Bangkok by entering at least five new provinces, despite maintaining a cautious rollout plan.
The company plans to launch 42 new residential projects worth a combined 55 billion baht, with eight projects valued at 8 billion baht located in provincial markets. New destinations include Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Hat Yai in Songkhla, Saraburi, Chon Buri, and Chanthaburi, adding to the 14 provinces where AP already operates. Continued …
Trump Signals Prolonged Conflict in Iran as ‘Big Wave’ Looms
US President Donald Trump has signaled that the US military campaign against Iran may be more protracted than initially anticipated, even as he maintains that the most devastating phase of the assault has yet to begin.
In a series of weekend communications and a Monday morning interview with CNN, the 79-year-old president sought to clarify the objectives of Operation Epic Fury, which he described as the “last best chance” to neutralize Washington’s long-standing adversary. Continued …
NSC Tightens Embassy Security Amid Middle East Attacks
The National Security Council (NSC) has ordered intensified intelligence monitoring and tightened security at the embassies of the United States, Israel, and Iran in Bangkok, as authorities respond to tensions linked to the Middle East conflict.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said measures are in place and officials have also identified the number of Thai nationals wishing to return home from the Middle East. Continued …
Thai Foreign Ministry Outlines Complex Evacuation Routes Amid Middle East Escalation
Thailand Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow has warned that the conflict in the Middle East has evolved beyond a limited strike on nuclear facilities and is likely to become a “prolonged” engagement. Speaking after a National Security Council (NSC) meeting at Government House yesterday, the minister detailed urgent plans to repatriate Thai citizens as regional tensions soar.
The minister revealed that any evacuation of Thai nationals from Iran would require a difficult 1,000-kilometer road journey to the Turkish border, from which they would board connecting flights. Continued …
Many Thai workers in Middle East choose to stay on despite escalating conflict
Many Thai workers in the Middle East said they do not want to return to Thailand despite the escalating conflict involving Iran and a US-Israel military coalition, with Thai residents posting updates on social media.
Thai people living and working in the region, particularly in Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), shared photos and videos of themselves running to bunkers during air strikes on their social media accounts and in Facebook groups for Thai communities in each country. Continued …
Thailand braces for oil price shock
Thai energy officials are intensifying measures to shield the country from a crisis reminiscent of the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, as mounting tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US raise fears of global oil supply disruptions and economic instability.
Authorities are working with power companies to avoid a repeat of the sharp price hikes that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, said an energy official who requested anonymity. Continued …
PTTEP Boosts Gas Output Amid Middle East Unrest
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has increased natural gas extraction in the Gulf of Thailand to its maximum possible levels to safeguard national energy security. The move comes in response to potential global energy supply disruptions caused by instability in the Middle East.
The company is also postponing non-essential maintenance at its gas fields to ensure an uninterrupted supply to the national grid. Yesterday, PTTEP confirmed it had activated its comprehensive Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to shield Thailand from the impact of international energy shocks. The measures are designed to insulate the Thai public and industrial sectors from potential shortages. The company said it is monitoring the situation with “the utmost vigilance”. Continued …
Visa waivers, discounted hotel stays and 2,000 baht a person per day for stranded tourists
Thailand’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Natthariya Thaweewong moved yesterday to secure discounted accommodation for foreign tourists stranded by the U.S.–Iran conflict that erupted on Saturday, as hundreds of flights scheduled to land at the country’s main airports were scrapped over the weekend and signals from Washington DC and Tel Aviv indicated the war could last another four to five weeks.
Meanwhile, Immigration Bureau authorities confirmed a waiver of overstay penalties for genuine tourists unable to leave, and the ministry announced support payments of B2,000 per day capped at B20,000 per person. Continued …
Stranded Tourists Granted Visa Amnesty as Middle East Airspace Closure Paralyzes Flights
The Thai Immigration Bureau has announced emergency relief measures for foreign nationals stranded within the Kingdom following the abrupt closure of Middle East airspace.
The move aims to assist thousands of travelers caught in a legal limbo after hostilities in the region led to a total suspension of many international flight paths. Major aviation hubs across the Middle East have remained inaccessible for the past four days, preventing tourists and business travelers from returning home. Continued …
Phuket Offers Aid to Tourists Affected by Flight Delays
Phuket officials are urging hotels and tour operators to assist tourists affected by flight disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Collaboration efforts are in place with the Phuket Tourism Assn. and the Thai Hotels Assn. to support those whose travel plans have been complicated by flight schedule changes.
The proposed measures include waiving fees for rescheduling or canceling bookings, offering special rates for extended stays, and providing updated travel guidance. Disrupted flight operations have impacted major airports such as Phuket, Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Chiang Mai. Continued …
Thai EXIM Bank Unveils Emergency Relief as Middle East Tensions Burn Through Trade Routes
Thailand’s state-owned Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank) has triggered an emergency rescue package for domestic businesses caught in the crossfire of the escalating Middle East conflict. The bank has moved to freeze debt repayments for up to a year and slash interest rates as the regional crisis begins to choke vital shipping lanes.
Chalat Rattanabunnithi, managing director of EXIM Bank, announced the measures yesterday, citing the “direct impact” of the volatility on Thai international trade. The Middle East remains a critical corridor for the kingdom, representing 6% of total trade value. In 2025 alone, Thai exports to the region topped $12 billion, while imports — primarily energy — surged to $28 billion. Continued …
Stocks slide as Middle East conflict fans inflation fears
Stocks resumed their selloff and the dollar strengthened in early Asian trading today as investors considered the implications of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on energy prices and the global economy.
“Economic policy uncertainty was already elevated and now with the Iran conflict, the geopolitical risk is expected to rise, too,” said Rupal Agarwal, Asia quant strategist at Bernstein in Singapore. “Last time both spiked was in 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which didn’t work well for Asian markets.” Continued …
Iran announces closure of Strait of Hormuz and threatens vessels that enter
Iran announced this morning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important shipping routes — while threatening to set fire to any vessel that attempts to pass through, amid sharply escalating tensions in the Middle East.
A commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the strait had been ordered “closed” following multiple explosions along the key oil-export route in recent days. Continued …
Hormuz crisis disrupts trade as freight rates double, exporters warn
Thanakorn Kasetsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran, Israel, and the United States are severely affecting supply chains and the mechanisms of global trade. The crisis has had an immediate impact on maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf.
The latest information indicates that a large number of cargo vessels have been forced to drop anchor and stop moving to assess the situation. Shipping lines have had to avoid the Strait of Hormuz and other high-risk areas, switching to routes around the African continent via the Cape of Good Hope. Continued …
Drones hit US embassy in Riyadh
In the early hours of today, foreign media reported a fire at the US embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Reuters, citing two sources, said the fire broke out after an explosion.
Meanwhile, four witnesses told AFP they heard a loud blast and saw smoke rising over the diplomatic quarter, which hosts multiple embassies and residences for foreign diplomats in Riyadh. Continued …
Thai government considers 150-day measures to brace for US tariffs
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas convened an urgent meeting yesterday with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Joined by Thailand’s ambassador in Washington and private-sector representatives, the meeting aimed to set a national strategy in response to the United States’ new tariff policy and trade-restricting measures.
Ekniti said the emergency meeting with the foreign affairs and commerce ministers, together with private-sector representatives, was carried out under a Cabinet mandate assigning the three key economic ministries to integrate efforts and define the country’s strategy. Continued …
Navigating Thailand’s Tourism Challenges Amid Rising Oil Costs and Global Tensions
The economic landscape in Thailand is undergoing significant changes as Middle East tensions and the resulting surge in global oil prices create shockwaves throughout its markets. These rising oil costs, primarily driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz following military actions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, have begun to significantly impact key industries in Thailand, particularly airlines and tourism.
The geopolitical crisis has already triggered a surge in energy stocks, posing a major challenge for those reliant on jet fuel and travel. Airlines, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Asia Aviation, are facing mounting fuel costs, potentially leading to profitability declines. At the same time, Thailand’s robust medical tourism sector may also suffer as Middle Eastern patients cancel visits. Continued …
Don Mueang to open 24-hour automated departure gates on Thursday
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok will open its new 24-hour Automated Border Control (ABC) passport gates for departures on Thursday, to reduce queues for the convenience of passengers. The opening follows a trial period in mid-February when the gates were available only from 7 am to 7 pm.
Immigration checkpoint is now ready to operate the automated gates around the clock, deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Periswiwatana said today. Continued …
What I Loved and Hated About Traveling in Thailand
Thailand sells a powerful dream: golden temples, turquoise bays, fragrant street food, and smiles at every turn. Much of that dream is still real, and traveling here can be one of the most rewarding experiences in Southeast Asia.
Yet, Thailand in 2026 is not the same place many backpackers fell in love with a decade ago. Costs are higher, crowds thicker, and the fine print of travel has become more complex. After several extended trips, here is what I genuinely loved about traveling in Thailand, and what I learned to hate enough to plan differently next time. Continued …
Phetchaburi’s palm sugar: the sweet heart of the ‘City of Three Flavors’
The sweetness found in many Thai desserts in Phetchaburi comes mainly from the toddy palm tree, known in Thai as “Tanot”. These trees are grown in abundance in the province, especially in Ban Lat district.
Toddy palms in Phetchaburi have produced high-quality palm sugar since ancient times. The province’s famous palm sugar is sweet, fragrant, and delectable, and it is essential for making a wide range of local delicacies such as Khanom Mo Kaeng Sangkhaya (Thai custard) and Khanom Tan (toddy palm cake). Continued …
Two key renewable projects face delay
Two key renewable energy projects pushed by the caretaker government of Anutin Charnvirakul need to be delayed until a new government is formed, says energy Permanent Secretary Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo.
A solar-powered water pump project and the direct power purchase agreement (PPA) still require approval from the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC), chaired by the prime minister. Continued …
Arrest Warrants Issued For Ben Smith Over Bt1-billion Fraud
Arrest warrants have been issued for Ben Smith, also known as Benjamin Mauerberger, and his wife, Katriya Beaver, on charges of transnational investment fraud and money laundering, with alleged losses exceeding 1 billion baht. The warrants were approved on March 2 following an investigation by The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). Continued …
- Tycoon arrested off first class flight, convicted in Pattaya of fraud and forgery – Continued …
- Drunk Indian Jet Ski Rider Injures Russian Tourist at Jomtien – Continued …
Trump expected to continue tariff binge
Although the US Supreme Court recently ruled that President Donald Trump could not invoke the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 to impose “reciprocal” tariffs on countries, trade uncertainty may intensify, warns Sompop Manarungsan, an analyst focused on the US and Chinese economies. 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
A rare astronomical event, a total lunar eclipse, will take place tomorrow, which also falls on Makha Bucha Day. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand says the Moon will appear brick-red across the entire disk.
A thunderstorm warning has been issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging residents to prepare for thunderstorms and strong winds across the province from tomorrow through Friday.
Food safety training was the focus of a workshop held in Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday, as local food business operators gathered to strengthen hygiene standards and protect consumer health.
Since the government canceled the long-standing prohibition on selling alcoholic beverages between 2-5 pm, in a move aimed at stimulating the economy and tourism, the early assessments indicate the change is likely to increase restaurant revenues by more than 20%, after aligning sales hours more closely with tourist behavior.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Air Force commander to prepare aircraft to evacuate Thai nationals stranded in Iran, placing all relevant agencies on 24-hour standby. The order was issued yesterday as tensions in the Middle East escalate.
Crude oil prices jumped more than 10% on Monday, surging about 13% at the market open as the escalating war in the Middle East rattled global markets. US stock index futures opened sharply lower, while gold climbed alongside oil as investors moved into perceived safe havens.
The rapid escalation of conflict in the Gulf region is once again reminding the world how closely geopolitics, markets, and tourism are intertwined. As military action involving the United States and Israel against Iran reverberates across the Middle East, reports of retaliatory strikes and heightened security alerts have created understandable concern well beyond the immediate region.
Thailand’s exports to Iran, led by canned and processed fruit and rubber-related products, could face disruption risks as fighting involving Iran, the United States, and Israel escalates, raising concerns over logistics, insurance costs, and payment channels for trade with the region.
Medical Tourism Corp. (MTC), a Dallas-based international healthcare facilitation organization, has released its Thailand Dental Tourism Market Research Report 2026, a comprehensive analysis of patient demand patterns, competitive positioning, and strategic growth opportunities across six major Thai cities.
Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Vacation in Thailand
Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. 
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. 
Thailand will enforce a ban on alcohol sales for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on March 3 this year. According to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, sales are prohibited on specific Buddhist holidays.
Thailand’s housing market in 2025 was like a ship battling rough seas all year, only beginning to see a glimmer of light in the final quarter. Data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) show that in Q4 2025, the market started to recover quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) after short-term stimulus measures, or a “Quick Big Win”, including cuts to transfer and mortgage registration fees and relaxed loan-to-value (LTV) criteria.
The Bank of Thailand says the cycle of policy rate cuts has ended, with yesterday’s reduction deemed sufficient to support the Thai economy. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 4-2 yesterday to cut the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 1%, effective immediately.
Thai rice exports fell by 17.5% in January compared with the same month last year, as a strong baht reduced the country’s price competitiveness. Export volume totaled 530,287 tons, down from 643,144 tons a year earlier. Export value dropped to B9.707 billion, a 30.7% decrease.
U-Tapao Airport project to kick off on April 3
Thailand’s overall border and transit trade in January reached a total value of 161.1 billion baht, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, with China remaining a leading transit market, said deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana.
Lazada Thailand is shifting its strategy to “confidence commerce”, prioritizing trust and reliability over price or delivery speed. The strategy aims to strengthen LazMall in response to the continued growth of Thailand’s e-commerce market.
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison and a 500,000 baht fine.
Thailand’s coffee landscape is being rewritten. Once seen mainly as a local staple or bulk commodity, Thai coffee is evolving into a globally recognized premium product.
Thailand, often celebrated for its vibrant street food and laid-back lifestyle, is also facing a quieter health challenge. The country now ranks second in ASEAN for obesity after Malaysia, with an estimated 48% of the population classified as overweight or obese.
Thailand Riviera road construction boosted
In towns and cities across Thailand, a small, brightly colored pill is quietly tearing communities apart. Known as yaba — literally “crazy drug” — these tablets of methamphetamine and caffeine have become one of the country’s most pressing public health emergencies, cutting across class, age, and geography.
Sen. Veerapun Suvannamai has warned of a looming financial crisis in the healthcare system due to unpaid debts from the National Health Security Office (NHSO) under the universal healthcare scheme.
Canine distemper caused the deaths of 72 tigers at two animal parks in Chiang Mai earlier this month, not avian influenza, and there was no transmission to humans, it was announced yesterday.
The statistics of the kingdom have shown for 10 months inflation results lower than the experts’ statistical forecasts (these being on average negative for the whole of 2025 with -0.13% annual average, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Economic and Trade Forecast Center .
The Thai automotive industry has kickstarted the “Year of the Horse” with a 53.8% surge in year-on-year sales for January. The growth was primarily propeled by a record-breaking influx of electric vehicle (EV) deliveries, though the heavy-duty pickup sector continues to flounder amid tightening credit conditions.
Thailand’s car exports fell in January, dropping 6% year-on-year to 58,405 units – the lowest level since May 2022 – which was attributed to stricter environmental regulations and currency fluctuations, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The industrial and logistics property sector continues to outperform other segments, supported by robust demand and ongoing government backing despite prevailing uncertainties, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.
Phuket’s tourism recovery has surpassed pre-Covid levels, with daily flights setting a new record and visitor numbers reaching around 71,000. Provincial authorities expect arrivals to hold steady and are targeting 14 million tourists this year.
The planned new waste-management plant for Phuket is still at least two years away because of delays in receiving approval from state agencies, according to the provincial governor. Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn aired his frustration over the delay in construction of the second waste incinerator,
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to India this week pushing to double trade and mend fractured ties, his first stop on an Asia-Pacific tour that also includes Australia and Japan, as he seeks to reduce reliance on the United States. 
Ride-sharing drivers operating through mobile applications must register their vehicles under categories Ror Yor 17/18 with the Department of Land Transport by Saturday, the government has warned.
The death of 72 tigers at Tiger Kingdom in Chiang Mai last week has raised concerns about the source of the virus and bacteria responsible. Raw chicken meat from a private farm is suspected, as it was fed to all tigers at the two facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng districts.
The baht has strengthened again, breaking below 31 per US dollar and marking its strongest level in a week, after Donald Trump’s global 15% tariff move weighed on the US dollar. Kasikornbank and Krungthai Bank said the baht could continue to strengthen on capital inflows, the export outlook, and a surge of investment flowing into Thailand.
The incoming Bhumjaithai-led administration will not raise the value-added tax (VAT) rate to 10% over the next three years, a BJT executive said, adding that the party’s immediate focus is economic recovery.
The printed circuit board (PCB) industry is becoming a major magnet for large-scale investment flows into Thailand, amid the global expansion of AI, data centers and advanced electronics. This has helped Thailand move up to become ASEAN’s number one PCB manufacturing base, with a longer-term goal of rising into the world’s top five.
As the Bhumjaithai Party prepares to lead the next government, one significant campaign pledge was to revive the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme. However, people in the wholesale and retail sectors view this initiative as a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution to the country’s sluggish economy.
The social-driven shopping revolution in Asia represents a seismic shift in consumer behavior, where social media platforms have evolved from mere communication tools into powerful e-commerce ecosystems. This phenomenon, often termed “social commerce,” integrates entertainment, community interaction, and seamless purchasing, blurring the lines between scrolling and shopping.
Social media influencer Farah Shams, who has more than 2.4 million followers on TikTok, has sparked controversy after posting a video criticizing what she described as rude behavior by the majority of Thai locals during her visit.
Thailand’s hotel industry has expanded almost continuously for close to five decades since the “Visit Thailand* boom in the 80’s. The latest Asia Pacific construction pipeline data confirms that this trend remains firmly in place.
Ukraine today marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, with a show of solidarity from its staunchest allies and no immediate end in sight to Europe’s bloodiest conflict since World War II. Tens of thousands of lives have been lost since the Kremlin ordered troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, confident of a quick victory but not expecting the fierce resistance that followed. 
While Russian oil exports dropped last year, Russia is still exporting higher volumes than before its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, researchers said today, calling for stricter sanctions enforcement. The volume of Russian crude oil exports remained 6% above pre-invasion levels in the fourth year of the war, despite Western sanctions aimed at curbing Russia’s “shadow fleet”. 
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government is writing to Commonwealth realms about its backing for former prince Andrew to be axed from the line of royal succession. Albanese said he had communicated with his British counterpart Keir Starmer about Andrew, who is being investigated for alleged misconduct in public office following revelations about his dealings with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. 
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
If people used to talk about tourism in the past, it may have meant a short break and a change of scenery from everyday life, a brief moment of happiness that recharged the body before returning to normal routines. Today, however, tourism is shifting from “temporary rest” to “a long-term investment in health”.
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China.