- Hua Hin foreign property owners warned/Irish fugitive sentenced in Hua Hin/Massage industry set for overhaul/Shell and Caltex cut diesel to 29.94 baht
- IRAN INVASION: Iran’s new supreme leader/Netanyahu’s war, Trump’s big gamble/tourist cancels trip to Hua Hin/conflict threatens B60-billion Thai export hit/Thai exporters spooked/Thailand Among Hardest Hit by Hormuz Closure/unjustified price hike warning/Fragile oil and gas dependency/ US Navy could escort ships in Gulf/Thailand to Evacuate Nationals/Thailand Eyes New Oil Sources/Asia-Europe airfares soar/11 places seen as safest
- ECONOMY: Thailand-US trade after the tariff ruling
- TOURISM: Skip the dreaded immigration queue/Updated LTR Visa Thailand Requirements/Pattaya tourists raise concerns/Nude Sunbathing at Phuket Beach
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin foreign property owners warned about nominee legalities
Foreign residents in Hua Hin who own property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders are being urged to review their legal position as enforcement intensifies across Thailand.
For many years, purchasing land or a villa “in a company name” was widely used by foreigners as a way to secure property in Thailand. In some circles, it was regarded as the safest available option. However, recent enforcement changes suggest that this assumption no longer applies. Continued …
Irish ‘mafia’ fugitive sentenced in Hua Hin
An Irish mafia figure has been jailed for 18 years after posing as a dead man and secretly entering and leaving Thailand 28 times while evading drug and money-laundering charges abroad.
The Hua Hin Provincial Court sentenced Irish national Paul Noel Casey to 218 months in prison, or about 18 years, for forging and using a fake passport and for offenses under Thailand’s Immigration Act. The ruling followed a lengthy investigation that uncovered how Casey used the identity of a deceased person to travel undetected for years. Continued …
Thai massage industry set for overhaul
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) says it is working on a comprehensive upgrade of the country’s traditional Thai massage industry. The upgrade will cover its image and reputation, as well as professional standards and a shortage of human resources, according to the department’s deputy director-general, Somsak Krichai.
He said although Thailand’s massage and wellness industry is valued at around 200 billion baht annually, regulatory gaps and unequal service quality are key challenges. Continued …
Shell and Caltex cut diesel to 29.94 baht, matching PTT and Bangchak
Today, amid escalating unrest linked to the Iran war in the Middle East, Shell and Chevron — which markets fuel under the Caltex brand — were cited as having sharply raised retail fuel prices yesterday.
However, both brands have now lowered domestic diesel prices after pressure mounted from public opinion and the government team, which announced that PTT Public Co. and PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Co. would cap diesel at 29.94 baht per liter. Continued …
Mojtaba Khamenei picked as Iran’s new supreme leader
Foreign media cited a report by Iranian International yesterday saying Iran’s Assembly of Experts has chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s new supreme leader, ending days of speculation after his father was killed in Israeli and US strikes on Saturday. However, Mojtaba’s selection could raise questions because the Islamic Republic of Iran has often criticized hereditary rule and portrayed its system as fairer.
Reports said Khamenei himself did not include this son’s name on a list of potential successors he prepared last year, and within Iran’s Shi’ite clerical establishment, succession from father to son is not viewed positively. Continued …
Netanyahu’s war, Trump’s big gamble
Donald Trump is not just Benjamin Netanyahu’s glove puppet, but it is remarkable how much influence the Israeli prime minister has over the American president. If you are seeking a reason why Trump felt the need to attack Iran again, only nine months after he declared that he had eliminated any nuclear threat from that country, you need look no further.
Trump has a helpless fascination for decisive political strongmen like North Korea’s Kim Jong-un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin, but only Netanyahu has persuaded Trump to go to war for him – not once, but twice. Last June, it was only one day’s air strikes on Iran, but this time it could be the start of a “forever war”. Continued …
German tourist cancels trip to Hua Hin because of flight cancellation
A 68-year-old German tourist said he was heartbroken after his flight to Thailand was canceled due to Middle East airspace closures linked to the conflict between the United States, Iran and Israel.
Rolf Kollrep, who visits Thailand twice a year, had planned to spend the entire month of March holidaying in the country. He was scheduled to depart Germany Monday on a Qatar Airways flight transiting through Doha before continuing to Bangkok. Accommodation in Pattaya and Hua Hin had been booked since last year. Continued …
US–Iran conflict threatens B60-billion Thai export hit, spilling into tourism, property, and retail
Associate Professor Aat Pisanwanich, an independent academic and specialist in international and ASEAN economics, says the US–Israel conflict with Iran has escalated into a full-scale war after Iran retaliated by attacking US bases in 11 countries, including some economic areas. The aim, he said, is to use economic weapons to pressure the opposing side alongside an official closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
No shipping lines dare to pass through due to safety fears. This week, he said, is a “make-or-break” moment that will determine whether the war ends quickly or becomes protracted, and could even lead to political change in Iran. Continued …
Thai exporters spooked as carriers halt bookings and sea freight rates surge
Fighting in the Middle East, which began on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, has escalated into Iranian strikes on US bases in several countries and an Iranian announcement to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for transporting oil and natural gas from major producing sources such as Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.
The transport fallout is not limited to energy. Rerouting by oil tankers, changes to insurance pricing, and the expansion of maritime risk zones are likely to push up freight rates for bulk commodities and containerized cargo, with knock-on effects for global logistics. Continued …
Thailand Among Hardest Hit by Hormuz Closure
Thailand has been named among Asia’s most exposed economies after Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global crude and LNG flows. A CNBC report yesterday said Thailand is likely to face severe fallout from higher oil prices. Brent crude was trading at around US$81 a barrel yesterday, having climbed more than 10% since the conflict erupted.
Senior commanders in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have warned that any ship attempting to transit the waterway would be attacked. CNBC, citing energy consultancy Kpler, said the Strait of Hormuz, between Oman and Iran, carried about 13 million barrels a day of crude oil in 2025, or roughly 31% of global seaborne crude flows. Continued …
Government warns of up to 7 years in jail for unjustified price hikes
The government yesterdayon Tuesday warned businesses against taking advantage of tensions in the Middle East by raising prices, saying violators face up to seven years in prison and fines of up to 140,000 baht.
Authorities are closely monitoring unrest in the Middle East and have instructed all relevant agencies to prepare response measures, particularly to ensure adequate supplies of essential consumer goods. They said retailers and business operators must not exploit the situation by increasing prices without justification and are required by law to clearly display prices for goods and services. Continued …
Mideast war exposes fragile oil and gas dependency
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 Russian invasion in 2022 triggered a massive energy crisis, particularly in Europe, where gas prices — then largely dependent on imports from Russia — soared. Continued …
Trump orders oil tanker insurance support, says Navy could escort ships in Gulf
The U.S. Navy could begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary, President Donald Trump said yesterday, adding he had ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corp. to provide political risk insurance and financial guarantees for maritime trade in the Gulf.
The move marks one of the administration’s most aggressive steps yet to attempt to contain soaring energy prices amid escalating conflict in the Middle East that has raised risks to shipping through key waterways. Continued …
Thailand to Evacuate Nationals From Iran Via Turkey
Thailand is evacuating its nationals from Iran to Turkey before arranging flights back to Thailand, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said yesterday. He confirmed that the Thai embassy in Iran remains safe despite being located in a potential target area.
Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak said embassies across the region are coordinating with host governments and preparing safe areas for citizens. Thailand is closely monitoring the escalating conflict in the Middle East and is assessing available air routes for repatriation. Some airspace in the United Arab Emirates has reopened, with airlines gradually resuming services and Bahrain is also being considered as a transit option. Continued …
Thailand Eyes New Oil Sources as Middle East Tensions Grow
Thailand is looking to diversify its oil imports from Africa and the Americas due to potential disruptions in Middle Eastern supplies. Energy Minister Atthapol Rerkpiboon stated that the first shipments from these new regions are expected by April.
This decision aligns with concerns over rising global oil prices, which have increased by about 7% to between $75 and $85 per barrel. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, focusing on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, pivotal for global oil transit. Although not closed, tensions could lead to further supply challenges. Continued …
Asia-Europe airfares soar after Gulf airport closures
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. Video …
11 places seen as safest if World War III erupts, based on remoteness and resources
Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Israel and Iran — which many fear could spiral into a wider war — overseas media, along with security commentators, have published a list of “11 safest places” in the event of a full-scale conflict or a nuclear disaster.
The assessment is based on geographic distance, resource availability, and political neutrality. Here are the territories often cited as more likely to avoid the direct shockwaves of a global war: Continued …
Navigating new currents: Thailand-US trade after the tariff ruling
The recent decision by the US Supreme Court that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act in imposing broad tariffs marks an important institutional clarification in US trade governance. The court reaffirmed that tariff powers ultimately reside with Congress.
Yet, this is not the end of US tariff activism. The administration has already moved to rely on other statutory tools to impose temporary across-the-board tariffs. In practical terms, this means policy volatility remains. The legal basis may shift, but protectionist impulses persist. Continued …
Fast track arrival pass: The clever way to skip the dreaded immigration queue at Bangkok Airport
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.
Before leaving Sydney, I booked a Fast Track Arrival pass, promising a streamlined process with a personal escort through the terminal, access to a premium immigration lane, help collecting bags, and assistance to a waiting taxi. I figure anything that makes travel easier is worth it, and at $88, it seemed reasonable. Continued …
Siam Legal International Outlines Updated LTR Visa Thailand Requirements
Siam Legal International has issued enhanced guidance for foreign nationals seeking Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa following recent regulatory adjustments aimed at improving accessibility qualification criteria, while maintaining strict compliance standards.
The LTR Visa Thailand program continues to attract significant interest from professionals, retirees, and investors seeking decade-long residence rights with integrated work authorization. Administered by the Thailand Board of Investment, the LTR provides a structured 10-year renewable residence framework that differs substantially from traditional non-immigrant visa categories and membership-based residence schemes. Continued …
Pattaya tourists raise concerns over drink prices, food quality and traffic congestion
As Thailand works to refine its global tourism image with campaigns highlighting culture, sustainability, and high-value travel, some long-term residents say Pattaya risks being left behind — not by policy, but by pricing and direction.
Recent reader comments reflect a growing frustration among certain expat communities who feel the city’s traditional beach and nightlife zones no longer offer the value they once did. Rising drink prices, inconsistent food quality, and traffic congestion are frequent complaints. Some say they now avoid central beach areas altogether, preferring quieter neighborhoods with easier parking, more moderate pricing, and a calmer atmosphere. Continued …
Locals Call for Action on Nude Sunbathing at Phuket Beach
Residents of Rawai, Phuket, have expressed concerns about foreign tourists sunbathing and swimming naked on a public beach, urging authorities to investigate the issue. Images posted online Monday sparked widespread debate. The post questioned the impact of such activities on morality and Phuket’s tourism image, asking if a “nude beach” is appropriate for the area.
The beach in question is a secluded spot known as “Shadow Beach,” located before Laem Phromthep and accessible via a narrow trail. This area has become popular among Russian and European tourists and expatriates. For nearly a year, individuals have frequented the beach to sunbathe nude or in bikinis, most often from afternoon to evening. 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alcohol Sales Prohibited March 3/Anantara Hua Hin Resort celebrates 25 years
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.
Four people, including a two-year-old boy, were killed when a Toyota Fortuner driver lost control and struck a roadside electricity pole in Prachuap Khiri Khan province yesterday. The crash occurred at around 10.30 am on Phetkasem Road, inbound to Bangkok, in Bang Saphan district.
For many people, the day doesn’t begin until the kettle whistles or the coffee maker hums. After all, tea and coffee aren’t just beverages; they’re rituals, identities and even small acts of comfort. One offers a steady, almost meditative lift, while the other delivers a more immediate, higher-caffeine jolt that feels like flipping on a switch.
Authorities at Kaeng Krachan National Park have arrested a Thai man accused of illegally guiding tourists to fish inside the protected area without permission. The operation was led by park chief Mongkol Chaiphakdee yesterday, following complaints about unauthorized fishing trips promoted on social media.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts for today and tomorrow, the high-pressure system or cold air mass covering the northeast and the South China Sea will weaken.
Probe underway after 72 tigers die at Chiang Mai tiger parks
US Supreme court throws out Trump’s tariffs
U.S. President Donald Trump responded with fury to yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling that he did not have the power to unilaterally set tariffs on imports, denigrating individual justices as he vowed to wield a more restrictive law to continue his global trade war. 
Commentary in Thailand has picked up after the US Supreme Court struck down the earlier IEEPA-based tariffs, prompting President Donald Trump to switch tactics, starting with a new 10% global import tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This is a temporary measure limited to 150 days (with a statutory cap of 15% for this type of surcharge).
The US Supreme Court ruling ordering the cancellation of President Donald Trump’s import-tariff increases has pushed the global trading system back into “confusion and turmoil”, as governments, businesses, and consumers race to find answers to two pressing questions: “How do we get tariff refunds?” and “What happens next?”
Following a surprise growth result for the fourth quarter of 2025 and an improved performance over the past year, Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) has upgraded its outlook for the Thai economy.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department has announced the allocation of additional relief funds to 140,000 households severely impacted by the recent floods. The financial aid aims to assist in securing essential supplies, such as food, clean water, and medical care, to help communities rebuild and recover.
How Thailand is Reforming the Seafood Industry to Prevent Exploitation
After Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced an increase in the international departure passenger service charge (PSC) from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person, effective June 20 onward, it has been noted that Thailand thenceforth would be charging more than leading airports worldwide.
Thai hotel operators expect overall foreign tourist numbers in 2026 to remain flat compared with last year, particularly among three-star and below properties reliant on short-haul markets, excluding China. Anticipated growth in long-haul arrivals is expected to be offset by stagnation in short-haul demand.
While Thailand celebrates rising tourism numbers and record profits at major gateways, many businesses on the ground in Pattaya are asking a blunt question: where is the money— and who is it really for?
Authorities in Buriram say preparations are complete for the 2026 MotoGP season opener, with safety, traffic and tourism plans in place ahead of upcoming pre-season testing. The first shipment of racing equipment has arrived at the Chang International Circuit, where infrastructure installation is under way.
The “Thailand lost its edge” narrative has become common expat discourse in 2025 and 2026. Bangkok rents climbed 8% to 12% year-on-year, visa enforcement tightened significantly, and a remittance tax shock led 55% of expats to consider leaving, according to a survey.
Pasaya is a sustainable fabric brand and its factory in Ratchaburi is equipped with a wastewater treatment pond, a proper landfill-based waste management method, and a proper working environment with ventilation and growing trees.
Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
The number of daily passengers using Chiang Mai Airport as reached a new post-pandemic high, underlining the city’s status as a tourist hub in northern Thailand.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
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.
Foreign investors are expected to continue investing in advanced technology, healthcare, and sustainability industries this year, following a record high of 324 billion baht in outlays last year, according to the Department of Business Development (DBD) at the Ministry of Commerce.
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 average daily rate for hotels in Thailand surged by 3% last year to 4,984 baht and they recorded a longer average length of stay, with Booking.com, Agoda, and direct hotel bookings generating the most revenue, according to SiteMinder.
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’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. 
Passengers in Thailand can now utilize QR codes for enhanced taxi ride safety and convenience. This new feature allows users to verify driver details, real-time track their journey, share trip information, and rate their experience. The Department of Land Transport plans to equip around 70,000 taxis with these QR codes by June.
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 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.
If the incoming coalition government implements its IT policies as pledged during the campaign, it should increase revenue growth of system integrator and data center businesses by 5.8% year-on-year to 260 billion baht this year, says Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank.
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. 
Airport screening for Nipah virus, which has been stepped up across Asia this week after two cases were identified in India, are more about reassurance than science, several leading experts said yesterday.
A World Health Organization official said yesterday that the risk of the spread of the Nipah virus is low, saying that none of the over 190 contacts of the two people infected in India had tested positive or developed symptoms of the disease.
Most Thai working people are aware of the health risks posed by PM2.5 airborne pollution but are reluctant to buy quality N95 face masks to protect themselves, claiming that they are too expensive, according to Arkhom Praditsuwan, director general of the Health Service Support Department.
At the “Thailand Redesign 2026 The Next Level” debate, four major political parties — the People’s Party, Democrat Party, Pheu Thai, and Thai Kao Mai Party — presented their proposals to tackle the pressing issue of Thailand’s 40 million workers, with only 4 million currently paying taxes. The debate focused on the wealth protocol and the urgent need for tax reform to drive economic sustainability and fairness.
Thailand is sharpening its culinary edge on the global stage, not through its world-famous sauces or spices, but through a new wave of premium home-grown beef. The National Innovation Agency (NIA) has identified four “Beef Commanders” — Ko Dam Lam Takhong, Surin Wagyu Salakdai, Nong Sung, and Kamphaeng Saen — as the flagship models of Thai soft power destined for the international market.
Pattaya has introduced new rule assigning specific umbrella colors to beach chair operators, saying the move will improve orderliness and create a more attractive seaside view for visitors.
Think you’ve already done everything there is to do in Bangkok? Hate to break it to you, but probably not. Even if you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve visited, the city always finds new ways to surprise, including new attractions with thrilling rides and aesthetic shopping malls in BKK.
The Ministry of Culture has revealed plans for a major cultural celebration from April 22-26, marking the 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin. The events will take place in three central locations in Bangkok and aim to bring the rich history of Thailand to life through a series of activities, exhibitions, and performances.
Thailand’s electric vehicle sector is facing fresh uncertainty after government proposals to sharply raise public EV charging prices, a move that could erase the cost benefits that have driven rapid adoption.
Thailand plans to tighten the rules for investors in data centers and other businesses that use a large amount of electricity, requiring them to provide a bank guarantee or collateral to secure power purchases.
Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract threat; it is part of everyday life. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising air pollution, communities across Thailand and around the world are already experiencing its impacts. As these challenges intensify, education is emerging as one of the most powerful starting points for meaningful climate action.
Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia have each carved out their own space in the long-term expat landscape. Thailand offers dependable healthcare and a well-established expat infrastructure. Vietnam stands out for rock-bottom costs and relentless urban energy. Malaysia brings modern living standards, cultural diversity, and an English-speaking environment that makes settling in remarkably smooth.
Following recent media coverage highlighting the Thai authorities’ increasing scrutiny of nominee company structures, MBMG Group and Hua Hin Accounting & Law have released further insights from their recent seminar, which examined the broader tax, business, and compliance framework now facing expatriates and foreign business owners in Thailand.
Red levels of PM2.5 cover about one-third of Thailand, including PKK
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) searched the residences of three active and one former officials of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and seized thousands of illegal crypto mining rigs, cash, laptops, phones, and bank passbooks.
Thailand has, for the first time, administered contraceptive vaccines to female wild elephants, as part of an initiative to control the elephant population safely and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and elephants.
Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok’s major international gateway. Here’s how to reach the city center upon arrival or travel to the airport for departure.
Global gold prices continued to climb, hitting a new all-time high of $5,136 an ounce overnight, as uncertainty boosted demand for safe-haven assets. Markets expect the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged today. 
It’s easy to get cynical in Thailand. We complain about the heat, the traffic, the dual pricing, and the scams. But then, something happens that stops you in your tracks.
The Hua Hin Provincial Court has denied bail to “Sam”, the suspect in the brutal murder of a female hotel employee in central Hua Hin, citing the seriousness of the charges and concerns that he could flee if released.
Unsafe levels of ultrafine dust at the orange level (starting to harm health) shrouded Bangkok and 53 provinces, mostly in the Central Plains and the northeast, late this morning.
The Pollution Control Department has ordered stepped-up surveillance of open burning as the seasonal risk of haze and dust pollution rises, according to Director-general Surin Worakitthamrong.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has finished repairing a stretch of railway track in Sikhiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima province in the wake of a fatal crane collapse that struck a passenger train on Jan. 14, killing 30 people, while a parallel technical investigation moves toward identifying the causes and accountability.
Siam Legal International, a full-service law firm with over 22 years of experience advisinginternational clients in Thailand, has released its comprehensive guidance for foreign nationals and businesses navigating Thailand’s regulatory environment in 2026. The firm highlights several national developments that may influence administrative procedures, compliance expectations, and regulatory focus throughout the year.
The baht has again become a growing concern after strengthening rapidly. Yesterday, the baht continued to appreciate and broke below the 31.00 level against the US dollar, reaching a strong level of THB30.88 per US dollar.
In November, Thai merchandise exports reached USD 27.45 billion, growing 7.1% year-on-year (YOY), slightly above SCB EIC’s 7% forecast but below the Reuters median of 8.3%. Despite solid expansion, seasonally adjusted exports showed signs of slowdown, declining 2.3% month-on-month.
Thailand’s commercial banking sector posted solid results in 2025, with the combined performance of 11 banks remaining at a healthy level: SCBX, Bangkok Bank (BBL), Kasikornbank (KBANK), Bank of Ayudhya (BAY), TMBThanachart Bank (TTB), Kiatnakin Phatra Bank (KKP), TISCO Financial Group (TISCO), Land and Houses Bank (LHFG), CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT), Thai Credit Bank (CREDIT) and Krungthai Bank (KTB).
Thailand’s e-commerce market is projected to post normalized growth this year, expanding by 7% to reach 1.15 trillion baht, as the maturing landscape is characterized by heightened complexity and fierce competition. To emerge as winners, brands must transition toward commerce operating systems, according to Priceza.
Thailand’s rice exports exceeded official targets in 2025, but the Ministry of Commerce has lowered its projection for 2026 amid intensifying global competition, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks. Officials say the focus next year will be on defending existing markets while expanding into selected new destinations to support farmer incomes and stabilize export volumes.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) latest promotional campaign, featuring pop icon Lisa of Blackpink, has drawn mixed reactions online, with critics arguing that the TAT has secured a “precious gem” but undermined her value through poor presentation.
Singha Park Chiang Rai marks 10 years of balloon fiesta