I followed Thailand’s Royal Coast/Children removed from Cha Am forest shelter/Thailand to enter hot season/Provinces told to prepare for drought/Online Driving License Applications Fake/Government ramps up gun controls/Thailand 9th in Cybercrime Losses/British ASOS Co-Founder Dies/Light rail tram in Khon Kaen- ECONOMY: July Deadline Set for Tariff Negotiations/Thailand’s Poverty Rate Increases/Rethinking Trade and Investment Policies/Government disruption could slow GDP growth/Thailand must shift from ‘technology user’/10 overseas film projects planned
- TOURISM: Tourism must compete on quality/Thais ‘should be more nice’/Diplomat tour showcases southern Thai heritage/Phuket airport bus denies forcing Thai students off/Park closes four tourist spots
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok Revitalizing Arterial Canals
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Siamese freshwater crocodiles released/Rise of Battery Electric Vehicles in Thailand
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
I followed Thailand’s Royal Coast and found a regal world even locals don’t see
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.
I’m not a monarchist (more like an escapist) but, curious about this unsung regal riviera – a 300-kilometer stretch through the western Gulf provinces of Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon – I go in search. Continued …
Five children removed from Cha Am forest shelter in welfare check
Cha Am officials visited a privately owned forest area in Sam Phraya subdistrict, Phetchaburi, yesterday to assist five children living with family members in a temporary shelter, after concerns were raised about their living conditions and welfare.
Kaew Khongwong, Cha Am district chief, led the visit, along with district officials, Phetchaburi social development staff, local administrators, public health workers, the kamnan and village heads, and Cha Am police. According to officials, the children were living in unsafe conditions, with no electricity or tap water and relying on well water for everyday use and drinking. Continued …
Thailand to enter hot season on Sunday
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.
Summer storms, as well as hailstorms, will be possible in the upper half of Thailand at the beginning of the hot season, from Monday to Wednesday, because cold and hot air masses will collide during the transitional period. Continued …
All provinces told to prepare for 2026 drought, secure household water reserves
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.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, in his capacity as NDPMC commander, said the Thai Meteorological Department and relevant agencies have reported that from mid-January to mid-May each year, much of the country experiences dry conditions. Many areas may face drought, shortages of water for daily use, and insufficient water for agriculture — particularly outside irrigated zones — potentially damaging agricultural output. Some areas also risk shortages of raw water for tap-water production, directly affecting daily life. Continued …
DLT Alerts Public: Online Driving License Applications Fake
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 misleading page claims to facilitate obtaining licenses without the mandatory processes. This scam could result in financial loss and potential data exposure to online fraudsters. Continued …
Government ramps up gun controls
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.
For purchase permits, registrars must rigorously vet applicants, checking for disqualifications under the Firearms Act, and investigating their personal conduct, associates, and any links to illegal activity. Continued …
Thailand Ranks 9th Globally in Cybercrime Losses
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.
Authorities say the threat now affects individuals, businesses, and the wider economy. According to the Global Risks Report by the World Economic Forum (WEF), misuse of data, cyber attacks and online fraud are among the leading global risks. Rapid advances in artificial intelligence and fragile economic conditions worldwide are accelerating these threats. Continued …
British ASOS Co-Founder Dies in Pattaya Fall
Quentin Griffiths, 58, co-founder of online fashion giant ASOS, has died after falling from the 17th floor of his condominium in Pattaya. Police and medics discovered him on the ground below his balcony. Officers said there were no immediate signs of a disturbance inside the apartment but have not ruled out foul play pending further tests and a full post-mortem.
Griffiths’ death follows a bitter dispute with his Thai ex-wife, who accused him of stealing £500,000 from the company they ran together. Last year, he was arrested and questioned by police after she alleged he had forged documents to sell land and shares in the firm without her knowledge. He denied the claims, insisted he was innocent and was released after questioning, with the investigation ongoing. Continued …
First Thai-built light rail tram begins test runs in Khon Kaen
July Deadline Set for Thailand-US Tariff Negotiations
Thailand Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun announced ongoing negotiations with the US regarding tax agreements. The talks aim to reach a joint conclusion on complex issues, although both countries currently have differing needs and expectations.
Discussions at the director-general level took place on Feb. 12. These negotiations are linked to the governance timeline, with draft agreements influenced by the new government’s establishment. The US stated it would not oppose Thailand submitting goods lists for tariff exemptions before negotiations conclude, but the outcomes depend on successful talks. Continued …
Thailand’s Poverty Rate Increases to 4.9% of population
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.
The NESDC highlights that poverty has shown signs of becoming a chronic issue. In contrast to the past, where poverty typically decreased as the economy grew, in 2024, while the overall economy expanded slightly, the poverty rate increased to 3.4 million people, or 4.9% of the population, up from 3.4% in 2023. Continued …
Rethinking Trade and Investment Policies in Thailand
Thailand needs an economy that delivers better wages, secure jobs, and real competitiveness. But today’s trade and investment rules stand in the way. Without reform, the country risks falling behind in an increasingly cut-throat global economy.
Instead of driving growth, these rules reward low-value industry, protect inefficiency, and weaken competition. They protect the wrong things, at the wrong time. If the economy is to move forward, trade and investment rules must change with it. Continued …
Analysts warn government disruption could slow GDP growth
The Thai economy could continue its growth trajectory and expand by 3% a year if the incoming Bhumjaithai-led coalition administration can complete its four-year term, say economists, though they warned any disruption in government formation might cause GDP growth to slide below 1.5% this year.
The country has regained confidence after the ruling Bhumjaithai Party clinched a landslide win in the Feb. 8 election and is widely expected to take control of top-tier ministries, including finance, commerce, and foreign affairs, said Kiatanantha Lounkaew, an economist and lecturer at Thammasat University. Continued …
Thailand must shift from ‘technology user’ to ‘co-creator’ to survive
Chai Wutiwiwatchai, director of the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), outlined what he called a crucial direction for Thailand as the agency approaches its 40th anniversary. Amid global volatility — where technology has become a key factor in determining competitiveness — he said relying solely on foreign platforms or innovations is a risk Thailand must urgently manage.
Dependence in many areas may no longer be the answer, he argued; instead, Thailand needs to play a role in building technology to strengthen competitiveness, reduce risk, and create long-term security for the economy and society. Continued …
10 overseas film projects planned for Thailand in 2026–2027
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.
During the event, the department reported a total of 10 production companies — from the United States, Scotland, the Czech Republic, the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the Republic of Poland, the Italian Republic, and the Republic of India — expressed interest in filming in Thailand in 2026–2027. The combined investment budget is estimated at more than B2.4 billion, exceeding the department’s target. Continued …
TCT: Thai tourism must compete on quality, not price
The tourism sector in Thailand will shift in 2026 from “recovery” to “adaptation and competition in quality.” After the “revenge travel” period of 2023–2024, this year the behavior will change as people return to normalcy. Travel will be planned more carefully, with tourists less willing to spend just to go on a trip, but rather willing to pay for valuable experiences.
According to the Tourism Council of Thailand’s (TCT) Q4 2025 confidence index report, the “tourism trends for 2026” will shift. The “senior traveler” (active seniors aged 50-70) segment will grow, especially from Europe, Japan, and within Thailand. Businesses that provide universal design and health services will have an advantage. Continued …
Israeli tourist says Thais ‘should be more nice’
A street interview posted online has gone viral after an Israeli tourist shared critical remarks about her experience in Thailand. In the clip, the host asked a female tourist from Israel: “After being here for only two days, what are some things you think Thailand can improve on?”
She replied: “They could be more nice. I’ve been in the Philippines — the Asian people were so nice. Here (in Thailand) they are less nice.” When asked to give a specific example, she said: “Thai people, they always rushing, always getting you to do stuff quickly — ‘do it, do it’ — and it doesn’t feel good.” Continued …
Diplomat tour showcases southern Thai heritage
Diplomats from 45 countries are visiting Surat Thani as part of an official study tour aimed at showcasing the cultural diversity and rich heritage of southern Thailand, while strengthening ties between foreign missions and local communities.
The annual program, titled the “Study Tour for the Heads of Diplomatic Missions and Consular Representatives and Spouses”, began yesterday and runs until tomorrow. The initiative provides ambassadors and consuls with first-hand exposure to different regions of the kingdom. Continued …
Phuket airport bus denies forcing Thai students off for foreigners
A Phuket airport bus operator has denied abandoning Thai students to make room for foreigners after a video and complaints from parents circulated online. Parents shared a clip with several local news agencies showing students getting off an airport bus operated by Phuket Mahanakorn Co., which reportedly runs services between the Thalang area and Phuket International Airport.
Parents alleged their children were told to leave the bus so seats could be given to foreign passengers who were said to be rushing to check in at the airport. The students were left at a bus stop to wait for another bus, according to the complaints. Continued …
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Thap Lan park closes four tourist spots, announces measures to contain wild elephants
The Thap Lan National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima has announced the closure of four popular tourist spots for the period of March 1 to May 31. This decision aims to allow the park’s nature to recover while ensuring tourist safety.
In addition, the park unveiled measures to address the growing issue of wild elephants wandering from the park into surrounding farmlands. Prawatsat Chanthep, the chief of Thap Lan National Park, stated that the closures would give nature time to heal itself. Continued …
Bangkok Revitalizing Arterial Canals to Create Seamless ‘Smart City’ Transport Links
Bangkok has accelerated an ambitious urban regeneration project to transform two of the capital’s primary waterways — Khlong Prem Prachakorn and Khlong Saen Saeb — into integrated transport corridors and recreational spaces. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) aims to move beyond simple flood drainage, reimagining the city’s historic canals as “Smart City” infrastructure.
The plan prioritizes seamless mobility, allowing residents to transition directly from commuter boats into the city’s expanding network of public parks. Continued …
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Two critically endangered purebred Siamese crocodiles have been found and released into their natural habitat in Phetchaburi province, in a move seen as highly significant in global conservation circles.
Mongkol Chaipakdee, the chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, said the two freshwater crocodiles had been found in the Phetchaburi River, and they were transferred to the Provincial Fisheries Office for a more detailed examination. Continued …
The Rise of Battery Electric Vehicles in Thailand
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.
However, government incentives have catalyzed a dramatic shift in consumer behavior, leading battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations to experience an exponential surge from under 6,000 units in 2021 to over 140,000 units by 2025. This increase signifies a fundamental market pivot where BEVs are transitioning from a specialized niche into a common passenger car choice. Continued …
Chinese “Boss Tuan” Arrested Over $128-million Crypto Scam
Thai immigration police have arrested a Chinese national known as “Boss Tuan”, accused of masterminding a fake cryptocurrency platform that allegedly defrauded more than 20,000 victims of US$128. The suspect, Tuan Jianlei, was detained at an up -market housing estate in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan province, after which authorities revoked his permission to stay. He is being held pending deportation to face fraud charges in the People’s Republic of China. Continued …
- Chinese Scammers Arrested Over B9-million Cash Scam – Continued …
- Ukrainian Woman Arrested in Phuket Over Ponzi Case – Continued …
China’s drone exports to Russia use a new route through Thailand
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 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
The Hua Hin property market is emerging as a relative bright spot in Thailand’s challenging real estate sector, supported by sustained foreign demand that is helping to offset weak domestic purchasing power.
Forest fires, suspected to have been caused by human activity, have been raging uncontrollably in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, and Mae Hong Son, driving PM2.5 levels beyond the 37.5-micron safety threshold, according to reports from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC), in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, visited a prison to investigate an Mpox outbreak following a reported fatality. Most recently, two additional close contacts tested positive.
A group of foreign residents in Pattaya has lodged a complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) after allegedly losing more than 300 million baht in a fraudulent gold-trading investment scheme branded “King Power Gold”.
Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index rose marginally to 88.7 in January, up from 88.2 in December, as the manufacturing sector returned to full swing following the New Year holiday and demand picked up ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thai hotel operators are forecasting stable foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, particularly from short-haul markets excluding China, while urging the government to strengthen safety measures and boost traveler confidence.
Thailand is steadily cementing its reputation as one of the leading global destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients each year with its high-quality healthcare services, affordability, and attractive recovery options.
Two listed firms, PTT Oil and Retail (OR) and Central Plaza Hotel (Centel), announced a joint venture that will run budget hotels at PTT petrol stations. OR, oil trade flagship of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, reported on Tuesday night that its board of directors approved the establishment of the joint venture.
Chiang Mai International Airport has recorded a new post-Covid high in passenger traffic, with daily numbers surpassing 36,000, as airlines added 69 extra and charter flights to accommodate Lunar New Year demand.
Puphaman National Park, located in Loei and Khon Kaen provinces, has called on the public to stop feeding wild elephants by leaving fruit and other edible items for them, warning that such well-intentioned acts could ultimately harm the animals and increase the risk of human-elephant conflict.
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has been awarded the R5 Guarantee Award under the “R5 Guarantee to Global” initiative, organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the Thai Food and Drug Administration. This accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to quality, safety, and internationally aligned health and wellness standards.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Recount. Nationwide vote recount. The Election Commission must resign. A new election altogether. These are the growing demands of some voters, particularly supporters of the People’s Party, who believe the Feb. 8 snap election was not just rigged here and there but systemically manipulated.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
The global average birth rate has halved since 1960 and is now just above the “replacement” rate of 2.1 children per woman. However, that is misleading, as averages often are. Only sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East still have the old, high birth rates. Everywhere else there is a rising panic about a future where the old will outnumber the young. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
Travelers heading between Hua Hin and Bangkok are being advised to plan ahead following a Rama II Road closure at the Bang Khun Thian Bridge that will last for up to four months.
The Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, starting at 4 pm, with Hua Hin City Municipality confirming a full program of traditional processions, performances, and cultural activities.
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan moved a step forward yesterday as city officials met with Shinawatra University to discuss EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
Traffic signs and road markings installed on Soi 78 to ease congestion
The economy is expected to expand by 1.51%–1.75% this year, says a public opinion survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president and chairman of the advisory board at the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey on public expectations of the new administration shows voters prioritize structural economic reform over short-term populist measures.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government’s plan to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists, on average, stay for less than a month.
The narrative surrounding Thailand’s tourism appeal has evolved. Visitors no longer come simply because the destination is affordable. Increasingly, travelers choose Thailand for its depth of experience, consistency, and a genuine sense of welcome that remains difficult to replicate elsewhere.
The “Disneyland Thailand” buzz has resurfaced after Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, deputy prime minister and minister of transport, floated the idea of moving ahead with a world-class theme park project in Chonburi under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
Thailand has significant untapped potential to develop advanced green manufacturing as a new engine of growth, with electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic components, and energy-efficient cooling technologies offering opportunities to raise GDP by an additional 2.9% by 2035, according to the World Bank’s latest Thailand Economic Monitor released yesterday.
Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) sales (passenger car and light duty vehicles) more than tripled year-on-year to over 44,000 units in January 2026, a record month for the country. Its penetration rate grew to 48%, another monthly record, surpassing its previous high of 37% set in December.
A record-breaking surge in wealthy people “relocating abroad” is reshaping the global balance of power. Countries are increasingly being treated like assets, while citizenship is becoming a tool for diversifying risk. In an era where state policy can change faster than economic fundamentals, capital moves first — and moves more aggressively than ever before. 
Valentine’s Day flowers: meanings and the best pick for your partner
As global healthcare costs continue to rise, access to affordable and reliable medical care has become an increasingly important factor in travel decisions. For retirees, digital nomads, long-stay visitors, and medical tourists, healthcare is no longer merely a matter of safety. It is part of the destination value proposition.
The Thai baht rose by 1.3% to 31.2 per dollar yesterday, recovering from previous losses and reaching a high not seen in over a week. This rebound can be largely attributed to enhanced market sentiment following the substantial election success of the Bhumjaithai Party.
Unofficial results of the 2026 general election clearly point to the Bhumjaithai Party taking the lead in forming the next government. The party campaigned on its “10 Plus” economic platform, which is set to become the core economic policy of the new administration.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. is calling for small eateries registered as juristic persons to be included in the anticipated revival of the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme under the new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party.
The public sector under the new government is expected to accelerate the adoption of cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to bridge its legacy bureaucratic systems with advanced digital technology.
Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) expects more than 4.11 million passengers to pass through its six airports during the Chinese New Year holiday period from Feb. 13-22. The surge is driven largely by a continued recovery in the Chinese market, increasing pressure on airport operations nationwide. Authorities are preparing for heavier traffic and longer processing times during peak travel days.
The Election Commission of Thailand has confirmed that the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited across all provinces to ensure order during the voting process. The prohibition begins at 6 pm on Saturday, Feb. 7, and remains in effect until 6 pm on Sunday, Feb. .
The Thai food delivery market recorded significant consolidation and growth between 2024 and 2025.The market is increasingly defined by a duopoly between Grab and Line Man, as smaller competitors exit, according to Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works.
Thailand’s annual headline inflation rate was negative for a 10th consecutive month in January, driven by lower energy prices and government measures to ease living costs, the Ministry of Commerce said today. The headline consumer price index (CPI) dropped 0.66% in January from a year earlier, following an annual fall of 0.3% in the previous month, the ministry said.
The Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 4-7 at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, with the Royal Thai Army working alongside tourism and provincial authorities to showcase Muay Thai as a key part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Seriously harmful levels of ultrafine dust, three times the safe limit, were reported in Greater Bangkok this morning, while most of Thailand was blanketed with unsafe smog.
Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht
Thailand’s export outlook for 2026 could improve if reforms accelerate, but speakers at a trade forum warned that global competition is intensifying and domestic growth may remain subdued.
Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?
Phuket has long been synonymous with tropical splendor thanks to its world-famous beaches, emerald rainforests, and waters teeming with life. This profound natural beauty is the very soul of its allure. Yet, for years, the pressures of overtourism, relentless development, and pervasive pollution have threatened to unravel the delicate ecological balance that sustains this paradise.
French lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban social media use by under-15s, a move championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a way to protect children from excessive screen time. 
Laos has tightened controls on outdoor burning, as air pollution continued to affect major cities yesterday, with the government warning that forest fires and agricultural burning remain the main drivers of seasonal haze and health risks.
Thailand still has an undersupply of hotel rooms, according to international chain IHG Hotels & Resorts, which aims to add nearly 40 hotels here in 3-5 years. Elie Maalouf, chief executive at IHG, said Thailand is still “under-penetrated” in terms of hotel rooms per person, as many hotels have very high occupancy rates for much of the time.
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) has finished drafting amendments to the Petroleum Act to ensure the continuity of petroleum production when licenses expire, avoiding delays that can result in expensive electricity bills.
A wave of blunt, often frustrated comments from readers has reignited a long-running question: is Pattaya intentionally — or unintentionally — pushing away its traditional Western visitor base?
The friendliest Thai cities for foreigners
The influencer racing to save Thailand’s most endangered sea mammal
The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting 2026 in Davos has begun in a notably heated atmosphere, after Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney used a major address to declare that the so-called “rules-based order” is effectively “dead” in practice and urged the world’s middle powers to unite against growing coercion by larger states. 
If the US and the European Union (EU) implement tariff barriers against each other, it could cause severe disruptions to global trade, as both are crucial players in the global supply chain and major consumer markets, say economic analysts. Tensions are escalating after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs ranging up to 25% on eight European allies that oppose his demands for control of Greenland. 
Foreign visitors to Japan reached a record estimated 42.7 million in 2025, the government said yesterday, with their spending also at a new all-time high of 9.5 trillion yen (1.8 trillion baht), thanks to a weaker yen and increased flights to Japan. 
The world is entering an era of “global water bankruptcy”, with rivers, lakes, and aquifers depleting faster than nature can replenish them, a United Nations research institute said yesterday. It argues that decades of overuse, pollution, environmental destruction, and climate pressure had pushed many water systems so beyond the point of recovery that a new classification was required. 
Authorities in Bangkok plan to delay enforcement of a regulation requiring pet dogs and cats to be fitted with microchips for a year in order to help all sides prepare and ensure broader adoption.
Thailand’s economy is bracing for its weakest expansion in 30 years, with GDP growth projected at less than 2% in 2026, attributed to sluggish exports, high household debt, and declining competitiveness in global markets, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB).
The leadership of Thailand’s three largest commercial banks have issued a unified warning for 2026, describing the upcoming financial year as a period of “all-around exhaustion.”
Leading economists have issued a stark warning over the proliferation of short-term populist campaign pledges, asserting that these policies are laying a “fiscal trap” that threatens Thailand’s long-term economic sovereignty and its international credit standing.
Thailand’s property market is facing another major test in 2026, after new figures from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of the Government Housing Bank pointed to a clear slowdown in foreign demand in 2025 — long viewed as a key engine of the condominium market.
The outlook for the restaurant industry in 2026 appears grim as there are no new positive factors. A Thai Michelin-starred chef urged restaurant operators to think carefully about business expansion.
Tourism has surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, placing pressure on popular cities, islands, and natural landmarks. By charging tourists, governments aim to generate dedicated funding to manage crowds, upgrade infrastructure, and preserve destinations, while allowing tourism to continue.
Southeast Asia is accelerating its energy transition with growing momentum from both policy and capital. Stronger regulatory support and expanding clean-energy financing are creating a more predictable investment environment, enabling governments and developers to move from planning to delivery.
Police Smash Illegal Hua Hin Factory Rebranding Expired Milk for Sale
Co-payment scheme ends today
The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand
