- New sponsor: Palapon Kitchen/Hua Hin landlord accuses tenant/Thailand alcohol controls
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil market could enter danger zone/US pins hopes on mediator Pakistan
- ECONOMY: Police Chief Targets Foreign Nominee Networks/Banks Join Nominee Effort/Economists stress inflation warning/Bangkok Port Overhaul/Co-pay unlikely to help/Chinese capital expands beyond tourism/Thailand fruit exports rebound
- TOURISM: Thailand updates visa-free rules/Tourists react to visa cuts/200 Chinese charter flights canceled/8.24 million short-haul tourists/AirAsia chief slams tax hike/TAT tries something new/Travel trends of 2026
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Leopard sighting in Kaeng Krachan/Rainy season sparks scarab beetle hunt
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Community rallies to protect dugongs/Rooftop solar buyback
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Please welcome our newest sponsor:
Palapon Kitchen
Palapon Kitchen is the culinary part of Camp Palapon. For over 17 years, our camp has helped people hit their health and fitness goals. Now, we are offering our specialized, calorie-controlled meal prep directly to the Hua Hin community! What We Offer: Clean & Convenient: Calorie-controlled meals (1,400 / 1,600 / 2,000 kcal) fresh prepared. Never frozen. Great Variety: Our meals are prepared fresh weekly (never frozen) and combine Mediterranean-style meals with healthy Thai dishes, designed for weight loss, fitness, and healthier everyday eating.
Hua Hin landlord accuses tenant of trashing rental
A woman in Hua Hin has alerted fellow property owners and local women after her rental house was severely damaged by a Swiss tenant, who continued to invite women to the property post-lease.
The homeowner’s Facebook post, featuring photos and details, swiftly caught online attention. She reports the tenant left the house in disarray, with damaged items including a stabbed mattress and electrical appliances in the swimming pool. Continued …
Thailand alcohol controls take effect
The Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. 2) 2025 has been in force since Nov. 8, 2025. Several sections require subordinate legislation, including rules on places where alcoholic beverages may not be sold or consumed, and rules on advertising and publicity.
The latest eight notifications of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee on places or areas where the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited took effect on Tuesday, May 12. Continued …
IEA warns global oil market could enter danger zone in July-August
The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that the global oil market could enter a “danger zone” in mid-year, after the Iran war disrupted more than 14 million barrels per day of Middle East supply.
The global oil market is facing the risk of a severe crisis between July and August, as summer oil demand rises while supply from the Middle East has yet to recover amid the impact of the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Continued …
US pins hopes on mediator Pakistan in push to end Iran war
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio voiced hope of progress on ending the war with Iran, as he looked to Pakistani mediators to help advance efforts to strike an agreement.
Previous comments by US President Donald Trump had suggested weeks of stop-start negotiations to strike a permanent end to the war were teetering on the “borderline” between a deal and renewed attacks. Continued …
Police Chief Targets Foreign Nominee Networks Nationwide
Thailand’s national police chief has announced a nationwide crackdown on foreign nominee networks accused of illegally controling businesses and property through Thai proxies. The operation will focus on tracing financial transactions and dismantling networks linked to unlawful foreign ownership schemes across the country.
Police Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, said authorities had been compiling an in-depth intelligence database since January. He said updates had been regularly reported to the prime minister, while Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general, had been appointed to lead a dedicated task force targeting foreigners involved in illegal business activities in all sectors. Continued …
Banks Join Effort to Curb Thai Nominee Companies
The Department of Business Development (DBD) is collaborating with the Thai Bankers Assn. and various banks to link their databases to the department’s AI system. This initiative aims to monitor the financial status of Thai nationals co-investing with foreign partners in local companies.
The move should enhance the credibility of Thai investors and identify whether they are genuine stakeholders or merely acting as nominees. The effort targets around 800,000 companies in Thailand, of which about 120,000 have foreign co-ownership under 50%. Continued …
Economists stress inflation warning for Thai economy
Escalating inflation poses a significant risk to the Thai economy, especially if the US-Iran war drags on until the second half of the year, as domestic consumption remains fragile and small businesses in provincial markets face a liquidity crunch, say economists.
Amonthep Chawla, executive vice president and head of research at CIMB Thai Bank, said despite significant growth in the first quarter, the Thai economy remains at risk for the rest of the year, as energy prices are high while overseas bond yields have risen. Continued …
Transport Ministry Accelerates Bangkok Port Overhaul
Deputy Transport Minister Sanphet Boonyamanee has ordered the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) to fast-track its commercial development plans for Bangkok Port, aiming to unlock fresh revenue streams and modernize the surrounding urban areas.
Under the new policy directives, the state enterprise is zoning the total port area to separate core maritime logistics from lucrative commercial ventures. The centerpiece of the strategy is a massive mixed-use development project designed to boost cargo logistics and high-end tourism, which officials explicitly clarified will not include a casino. Continued …
Co-pay unlikely to help big eateries
The government co-payment stimulus scheme “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” is unlikely to benefit mid-sized to large restaurant operators, says the Thai Restaurant Assn., calling on the government to provide support to the neglected segment.
The government is subsidizing 60% of payments, with participants paying the remaining 40%. The government subsidy is capped at 200 baht per day and 1,000 baht per month, running from June to September. Continued …
Chinese capital expands beyond tourism into a Thai business base
For years, when people spoke of “Chinese people” and Thailand, the image many had in mind may still have been tour groups, buses, and famous tourist districts. But a closer look shows that the relationship between “Chinese capital” and “Thailand” is now changing significantly.
What is happening is not only travel for tourism, but an effort to establish a foothold in investment, business operations, residential rental, and even the relocation of production bases. Continued …
Thailand fruit exports rebound 17.9% in April as durian surges 109%
Thailand’s agricultural exports staged a sharp recovery in April, with fruit shipments, particularly durian, posting explosive growth after months of contraction, according to the Commerce Ministry. The ministry said overall agricultural exports in April rose 17.9%, ending eight consecutive months of negative growth.
Among the strongest performers were durian exports, which surged 109.5% year-on-year, while rambutan exports climbed 92.8%, and lychee shipments increased 70%. Continued …
Thailand updates visa-free rules after scrapping 60-day scheme
Thailand has updated its visa-free entry and visa privilege rules for 2026 after the Cabinet approved the cancellation of the 60-day visa-free scheme for 93 countries and territories.
The Department of Consular Affairs said the Cabinet approved the revised visa exemption and visa-on-arrival measures on Tuesday as part of a wider effort to reorganize Thailand’s visa categories and reduce confusion over entry privileges. Continued …
Tourists in Thailand react to cuts to visa-free stays
The backpackers on Khao San Road, the Bangkok thoroughfare beloved by budget travelers, are waking up this week with an extra headache: the government is preparing to shorten the length of visa-free stays.
Near the Tha Tian pier, where tourists catch ferries to Wat Arun, Irishman Alex Brady said the new 30-day limit would have affected his plans a lot — because he and his friends “initially came here with no plan at all”. Continued ,,,
Fuel costs force cancellation of over 200 Chinese charter flights to Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says surging global fuel prices have led to the cancellation of more than 200 Chinese charter flights to Thailand, prompting the agency to consider extending its Thailand Summer Blast campaign until September.
Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT deputy governor for international marketing for Asia and the South Pacific, said yesterday that Thailand welcomed around 13.1 million foreign tourists during the first four months of 2026. Continued …
Thailand welcomes 8.24 million short-haul tourists by mid-May
Thailand has welcomed more than 8.24 million tourists from short-haul markets so far this year, with China continuing to dominate as the country’s largest inbound market and fastest-growing source of arrivals in the region, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
The agency said East Asia remained the key engine driving regional tourism growth, while India, Taiwan, Myanmar, and the Philippines also continued expanding steadily amid support from holiday travel, concert tourism, and targeted marketing campaigns aimed at high-value travelers and special-interest groups. Continued …
AirAsia chief slams tax hike for international flyers
The founder of AirAsia has strongly criticized Airports of Thailand’s (AoT) passenger service charge (PSC) hike, slamming the inappropriate timing during the Middle East war and suggesting varying rates for different airports.
The PSC increase for international flights was published in the Royal Gazette, paving the way for AoT to collect an additional 390 baht for a total of 1,120 baht, starting on June 20. Continued …
TAT tries something new to boost tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is enhancing tourism on both domestic and international fronts by promoting weekday travel through special offers on tourism products and services. The project, titled Workation Paradise Throughout Thailand Season 4, is part of TAT’s Workation Thailand campaign.
It follows the success of the initial “100 travel-and-work” activity, which saw significant participation and interest due to its blend of work and leisure opportunities. This push toward workation tourism aligns with current demand trends, offering a novel way for professionals to enjoy travel while staying connected to their work. Continued …
Travel trends of 2026, and what they mean if you are heading to Thailand
Every year produces a new set of travel trend reports, and most of them say roughly the same thing. The 2026 edition from Hilton, built on a survey of over 14,000 travelers across 14 countries conducted by Ipsos, is different in one important respect: its findings align almost point for point with what Thailand already does well.
The five trends the report identifies, intentional travel, the search for silence, the pull of home comforts on the road, multi-generational family holidays, and inherited travel habits, describe a destination Thailand has been building toward for years without necessarily calling it a trend. Continued …
Leopard sighting ‘sign of thriving habitat’
Images of a leopard crossing a road in Kaeng Krachan National Park have been released, showing signs of a thriving ecosystem, according to the park office.
Yesterday, the national park in Phetchaburi released striking images that delighted conservationists and tourists. Captured by wildlife photographer Kittipong Ngamjling, the photos taken in May last year show a leopard crossing the road en route to the Phanoen Thung area. Continued …
Rainy season sparks scarab beetle hunt in northeast Thailand
Villagers in northeastern Thailand have begun digging for “mang jeenoon”, a seasonal scarab beetle delicacy popular in Isaan cuisine, as the arrival of the rainy season creates opportunities for extra income.
Residents in several communities in Chaiyaphum province said the insects emerge only once a year during the early rainy season, allowing villagers to collect and sell them for up to 1,000-1,500 baht a day. Continued …
Thai island community rallies to protect beloved dugongs, revive declining seagrass
Growing up on the island of Koh Libong, Tipusa Sangsawang remembers fondly how vast numbers of dugongs used to feed on local seagrass meadows teaming with fish, crabs and mollusks.
“Out there, it was like a football field,” Tipusa says, as she watches waves lap across a seemingly barren sandflat that fringes this stretch of shoreline. “It used to be green all around this area. Now, it’s only sand.” Continued …
SPCG preps for rooftop solar buyback
Solar farm developer SPCG is preparing to capitalize on the government’s newly approved rooftop solar buyback program, which offers households the chance to sell electricity back to the grid. Yuttapong Artharn, chief financial officer of SPCG, said the company is ready to stock equipment and rooftop solar solutions to meet demand once the scheme begins.
The program, endorsed by the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC), allows the government to purchase electricity generated from on-grid rooftop solar panels at a fixed rate of 2.20 baht per unit for 10 years. Continued …
CIB Raids 23 Sites, Arrests 22 in Chinese Smuggling Ring
Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) launched coordinated raids across 23 locations in 16 provinces yesterday, arresting 22 suspects linked to an alleged network smuggling Chinese nationals in and out of the country illegally. Investigators said the operation uncovered links to call center scam gangs and mule bank accounts, with more than 20 million baht in assets seized. Continued …
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Immigration Police Raid Chinese Spa Brothel in Rayong – Continued …
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Austrian man deported for blocking road and demanding money in Phuket – Continued …
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Russian Illegal Guide Arrested in Phang Nga – 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
Hua Hin drought zone areas have been officially declared as Prachuap Khiri Khan continues to face widespread water shortages following months of low rainfall and falling reservoir levels.
Scientists at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have shown that active chemicals in sunscreens can readily soak into the bloodstream, confirming the need for more testing on whether these products are safe, the researchers said.
If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen this trend everywhere: people waking up at 5 am, putting on their running gear, heading out before sunrise… or even meeting strangers just to go for a run.
Five senior Phuket provincial officials have been transferred pending an investigation linked to allegations of extortion and bribery involving entertainment venues in Patong. The Department of Provincial Administration issued the order yesterday after complaints from business operators and nightlife workers in Bangla Road, Patong, accused state officials of demanding illegal payments and obstructing licensing procedures.
The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported on the industrial situation in the first quarter of 2026, pointing to worrying economic warning signs as the number of factory closures rose above the number of new factory openings for the first time in two-and-a-half years, or 10 quarters.
Thailand’s industrial sentiment index dropped?for ?a second straight month in April, hurt by high oil prices, a manufacturing slowdown, and the ?war in the Middle East, the Federation of Thai Industries said yesterday. The federation said its industrial sentiment?index fell to 85.3 in April from ?88.6 in the previous month.
Thailand’s property market has entered a fresh round of intense mid-year competition, with major and mid-sized developers launching aggressive promotions to stimulate buying decisions and clear housing stock.
Thailand is aggressively positioning its wellness industry to become a top-five global hub, leveraging a current market value of approximately US$40 billion and a robust annual growth rate of 28%.
Pattaya’s tourism business association has backed the government’s decision to reduce Thailand’s visa-free stay periods from 60 days to around 30 days, saying the move could help address scammer concerns, illegal business activity, and support tourism revenue.
Thailand is considering raising its proposed tourist entry fee for foreign visitors above 300 baht, as officials review rising insurance and healthcare costs linked to the tourism sector.
In 2018, Thailand stood at the peak of its medical tourism boom. Millions of international patients traveled to the country each year, drawn by internationally trained doctors, modern hospitals, and treatment costs often significantly lower than in Western markets. Then the pandemic paused global travel.
Bangkok is among the world’s fastest-sinking cities, with scientists warning that land subsidence is accelerating the impact of rising sea levels and increasing flood risks for millions of residents.
Thailand’s old growth formula is coming under mounting pressure from rising debt, inequality, technological disruption, and environmental risk, raising urgent questions over whether the country can continue relying on the same economic model in a world being reshaped by sustainability standards, artificial intelligence, and climate stress.
The world built and commissioned more coal power in 2025, but used the polluting fuel less, with the United States the only major economy to substantially increase generation, a new analysis shows.
HSBC, Europe’s largest bank, is preparing to cut more than 20,000 jobs — roughly 10% of its global workforce — as it accelerates the adoption of artificial intelligence and automation technologies across the organization in a bid to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency. 
China will?buy 200 Boeing jets and seek an extension of the trade ?agreement with the United States that was reached in Kuala Lumpur last year, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said yesterday. 
Cabinet Cuts Visa-Free Stay Back to 30 Days
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today forecast continued rain across Thailand over the next 24 hours, with heavy to very heavy rain in some areas of the south’s west coast, the northeast, and the east.
Thailand’s cybersecurity authority has warned that weak and reused passwords remain one of the biggest gateways to modern cyber-attacks, with leaked login credentials increasingly being exploited to gain access to mobile banking accounts, corporate systems, and users’ broader digital identities.
Prime Minister’s Office Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi said yesterday the government might have to find potential private sponsors for the World Cup tournament to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada during June 12 and July 20 since, she commented, the FIFA broadcasting rights were considered “unfairly costly” for Thailand.
Thai teenager “Mind Sakol” Panchaya Channoi made snooker history yesterday by defeating 12-time world champion, Reanne Evans, to capture her maiden World Women’s Snooker Championship title and become Thailand’s 3rd world snooker champion.
Two Thai cargo ships waiting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz are expected to receive assistance from Iran after a meeting at Government House Monday.
For years, companies have built teams around a simple idea: hiring experienced people who can execute reliably within a stable system. People who know what to do, how to do it, and how to deliver consistently over time.
Foreign capital, particularly Chinese investment, is significantly reshaping Thailand’s industrial estate market. Although investment decisions briefly slowed in early March due to travel-related factors and economic uncertainty, most investors resumed negotiations and continued expanding their investments once the situation eased.
Condo prices in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) declined in the first quarter, marking a second consecutive quarterly decrease as developers accelerated stock clearance campaigns amid sluggish purchasing power and elevated unsold inventory.
Nippon Steel has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Thailand, urging stronger government protection against an influx of substandard steel imports and expressing readiness to further expand investments in the country.
The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has assigned state telecom enterprise National Telecom (NT) to steer six projects that aim to strengthen Thailand’s digital infrastructure.
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Thailand’s mega project land bridge comes at environmental cost
A new set of trade rules is sweeping through the business world. This time, it is not about price or quality. It is about carbon reduction. The big question is whether companies can keep up with this particular “green” goal.
Save mangroves, save the global water cycle
Power demand growth for green industrial parks, data centers and electric vehicles in Southeast Asia is forecast to grow by more than 100 terawatts per hour (TWh) in the next three to four years, according toa report published by Bain & Co. and Standard Chartered.
The World Health Organization yesterday voiced concern about the “scale and speed” of an Ebola outbreak that has killed more than 130 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and warned it could be lengthy. The UN health agency has declared the surge of the highly contagious haemorrhagic fever in the east of the country an international health emergency. 
Standard Chartered plans to cut more than 7,000 jobs over the next four years as it boosts adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) while targeting growth. The London-headquartered lender is one of the first major global banks to lay out official plans to cut thousands of jobs, citing AI as a driver to make its operations slimmer as it seeks to increase its profitability and tackle competition. 
The Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon 2026 has been officially launched, with organizers aiming to strengthen the town’s reputation as a sports tourism destination while inviting runners to sign up for the endurance event.
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) have raised retail fuel prices in Bangkok, effective today.
Thailand has yet to decide whether to buy the broadcast rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the asking price of at least 1.3 billion baht is far above the 600-million-baht framework previously used by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, while unfavorable match times in Thailand may reduce viewership, advertising revenue, and wider economic benefits.
The Thai Meteorological Department forecast heavy rain in parts of upper Thailand over the next 24 hours, covering the north, northeast, central region, Bangkok, and surrounding provinces, today.
Consumer confidence in April plunged into crisis territory, recording the sharpest monthly decline globally and across the Asia-Pacific region, as economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, rising living costs, and dissatisfaction with government efforts to address the economy eroded public sentiment, according to the Ipsos Global Consumer Confidence Index.
Energy Minister Akanat Promphan has floated a plan to attract Middle Eastern oil producers to invest in a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) in Thailand, positioning the country as a regional oil distribution hub while strengthening long-term energy security.
A high-level Thai delegation has robustly defended the kingdom’s trade practices during technical consultations with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), clarifying that Thai supply chains are completely free of forced labor.
The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has launched an influencer-led campaign alongside Thai celebrity couple “Cee” Siwat Chotchaicharin and “Amy” Amika Klinpratoom to showcase the economic and culinary value of the nation’s Geographical Indication (GI) products.
The April 2026 Hotel Business Operator Sentiment Index, jointly prepared by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT), was based on a survey conducted from April 16 to 30, among respondents from 134 accommodation businesses.
Thai tourism operators are looking beyond the sluggish low season and expect healthy bookings, particularly from European tourists, when the high season returns in the third quarter.
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau posted a video on Sunday warning travelers not to trust claims that a paid fast track immigration service is available at Suvarnabhumi Airport through Trip.com.
Chiang Mai On A Budget: Thailand’s Cosy Mountain Escape
Thailand is emerging as Southeast Asia’s most NEV-ready market, with 58% of consumers considering hybrid or electric vehicles — significantly above the regional average of 42.8%. Key purchase motivators include lower fuel costs, charging availability, and longer driving range.
Thailand’s military is pressing ahead with the construction of a new border fence along the Thai-Cambodian frontier in Chanthaburi province, covering the area between boundary markers 52 and 54 in Pong Nam Ron district. The project stretches approximately 1,310 meters and is intended to strengthen border security and improve safety for residents living near the frontier.
The global gold market has reached a critical crossroads. Following a record-breaking rally in early 2026, prices have entered a significant consolidation phase, caught between the opposing forces of aggressive monetary policy and heightening systemic fragility.
Lisa joins FIFA World Cup 2026 opening show in LA
Six stray dogs were found dead after being poisoned in Pathum Thani, with some also showing gunshot wounds to the head, according to local residents and animal carers.
The war in the Middle East, which began on Feb. 28, is entering its third month and has inflicted damage on several countries, surged energy prices, affected crude oil and natural gas prices, and affected goods prices and inflation.
Provincial restaurant associations are calling on the government to provide support for small and medium-sized enterprises during this tough period, as they are seeing a decline in consumer spending power and a drop in traveler numbers in their areas.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said Thailand is accelerating negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States in a bid to reduce tariff risks ahead of a Section 301 review.
Thai rice exporters are forecasting a significant recovery in the latter half of the year, driven by the intensifying Super El Niño phenomenon. As weather patterns threaten global harvests, major importing nations have begun aggressive stockpiling to ensure domestic food security, providing a much-needed boost to Thai export volumes.
Bangkok’s street food stalls threatened by citywide crackdown
Thai tea emerged as one of the most sought-after items at the Thai Festival in Tokyo over the weekend, with visitors reportedly waiting up to 30-40 minutes for a single cup. Japanese social media users posted photos and comments about long queues at the ChaTraMue booth during the 26th Thai Festival, held at Yoyogi Park.
The government has ordered urgent action to address mounting problems with electric vehicles (EVs), including defects, service center closures, and steep post-purchase price cuts.
Myanmar claimed yesterday that “discriminatory measures” are shutting it out of the ASEAN bloc after a summit last week saw the organization continue to blacklist the country’s post-coup leadership. 
Hua Hin City Municipality is preparing for possible drought-related problems after a dry spell caused water levels in Pran Buri Reservoir to fall to a low level. A meeting was called yesterday after the Pran Buri Water Transmission and Maintenance Project reported that low rainfall since the start of 2026 had affected water levels in Pran Buri Reservoir.
Prachuap Khiri Khan province is facing severe drought conditions, with more than 512 million liters of water already distributed to households lacking water for daily use. Deputy Governor Prateep Boriboonrat chaired a meeting yesterday to monitor the drought situation.
Airpocalypse Forever: Thailand Gasps for Breath
Airlines worldwide hit by Iran war with fare rises, cuts, and closures
Middle East Conflict Sends Fertilizer Costs Soaring for Asia’s Rice Farmers
Thailand’s back-to-school season is expected to generate total consumer spending of 66 billion baht in 2026, a 6% increase on the previous year and the fastest rate of growth in 13 years, according to research released yesterday by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). The findings arrive as the broader Thai economy struggles for momentum, with GDP growth forecast at just 1.6% for the year.
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved six major investment projects worth a combined 29.9 billion dollars, led by a large-scale data infrastructure expansion by TikTok. The largest share comes from TikTok Systems (Thailand) Co., which plans to invest 26.3 billion dollars, across Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao.
Bangkok is set to become the hottest major city in Southeast Asia by 2050, with temperatures projected to rise above 38C as climate change and the urban heat island effect intensify across the region.
Global debt climbed to a record near US$353 trillion by the end of March, with the IIF saying investors are showing growing interest in Japanese and European bonds over US Treasuries. 
Thailand’s Alcohol Control Committee has opened a public consultation on a draft regulation setting days when alcohol sales would be prohibited, with feedback accepted until May 30. The move signals a potential update to existing restrictions, while confirming that recent changes to daytime alcohol sales have not increased accident rates.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday confirmed that Thais will definitely view World Cup 2026 football games to be broadcast live from host countries in North America between next month and July.
Even if you don’t drink coffee, you will know that the coffee business has grown tremendously because coffee shops, either small or large, have been mushrooming. Due to the growth of this market, Thailand is set to host one of the world’s most influential coffee events – World Of Coffee Bangkok 2026.
Is 60 truly the perfect endpoint of a working life? This question is becoming ever more pressing as Thailand, and the broader Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, rapidly transform into a “super-aged society” – a definition for a country or society where 20% or more of the population is aged 65 or older.
U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday he would briefly pause an operation to help ships escape the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward a comprehensive agreement with Iran. 
The Cabinet yesterday approved a draft emergency decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow up to 400 billion baht to address the impact of the energy crisis and support Thailand’s energy transition. Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the decision was necessary because conflict in the Middle East had severely affected energy prices and economic activity worldwide.
Thailand’s condominium market in 2026 is facing pressure from all sides, including the domestic economy and external factors, particularly tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel that have pushed oil prices higher, significantly affecting the cost of goods and services, as well as the cost of living for Thai consumers.
An environmental advocacy organization, the Environmental Law Foundation (EnLAW), yesterday launched a nationwide campaign titled “Stop SEC Act & Land Bridge”, calling on the public to oppose the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC), or land bridge project, through an online petition.
More than 50% of farmer debtors are unlikely to fully repay their debts within their lifetime, largely because most of them are elderly, according to the Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research (PIER). The institute says a combination of debt relief measures is needed to address the issue.
Thailand’s hotel industry is bracing for a weaker low season as rising oil prices, fewer flights, and softer travel demand begin to weigh on bookings. The prolonged conflict in the Middle East, now running for more than two months, has pushed global oil prices sharply higher and added fresh pressure to the tourism sector, which had only recently recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Before we go too far down the road of new tourism taxes, it is worth pausing to ask a simple question. Are we really talking about something new, or are we revisiting an old idea that has already been tried, tested and, in many cases, quietly abandoned?
A tourist complaint has put photographers at Wat Arun back in the spotlight after visitors claimed they were told to move from public areas to make way for paying photo clients.
Bangkok food vendor curbs push city staple from the streets
Chinatown in Bangkok is one of the world’s most vibrant Chinese districts, famous for its atmosphere and energy. Visitors can explore Yaowarat Road, admire landmarks like China Gate and Wat Traimit, wander through Sampheng Lane, and enjoy a rich variety of street food after dark. 
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered the Ministry of Energy and related organizations to set up a one-stop center for solar rooftop consulting.
Thailand’s electric pickup market is shifting into high gear, fueled by a mix of global energy pressures and domestic policy support, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
They die quietly, one by one, doing the forest officials’ job, rewarded with little more than praise that masks state hypocrisy. In early April, Boonma Phadaeng, 56, collapsed and died after days of fighting a forest fire in Mae Rim district, Chiang Mai province.
Critics have warned that the military-led approach to handling the conflict in Thailand’s southern border provinces may be prolonging unrest rather than resolving it. Since violence resumed in 2004, the conflict in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat remains entrenched, rooted in historical, identity, and religious differences involving separatist groups.
The Thai retail landscape has reached a historic tipping point, with e-commerce now established as the sector’s primary engine of growth. Recent data reveals the digital market has surpassed the 1 trillion baht ($30 billion) threshold, accounting for 30% of total national retail value.
Thailand’s Fiscal Policy Office has cut its 2026 economic growth forecast to 1.6%, down from the 2.0% projection made in January, citing rising pressure from geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
Thailand is emerging as one of Asia’s new wealth hubs as the global capital landscape shifts and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) become increasingly mobile, creating fresh momentum for Thailand’s high-end property, investment, and luxury lifestyle sectors.
Number of Japanese restaurants in Thailand declines
Thai Airways International has issued an important announcement on revisions to its fuel surcharge rates for tickets on international routes. The move comes under pressure from a “fuel crisis”, with global aviation fuel prices volatile and rising far beyond forecasts.
LA Songkran Event Sets Guinness Record with Pad Thai Sales
Twenty-two Sri Lankan Buddhist monks who had just returned from Thailand were arrested on April 25 at an airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after customs officers allegedly found cannabis hidden in their luggage. The monks were detained after officers found 110 kilograms of cannabis concealed in secret compartments inside their suitcases. 
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed it will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance from May 1, ending more than five decades of membership and dealing a fresh blow to the producers’ group as the Iran war continues to disrupt global energy flows. 
If the ancestors of Donald Trump and King Charles could see them today, the US president mused yesterday, they “would surely be filled with awe and pride that the Anglo-American revolution in human freedom” had survived to the present day. The White House captioned a photo of the moment, “TWO KINGS”. 
Thailand is widely perceived as a relatively safe destination compared with many countries at similar income levels, yet risk profiles vary considerably between cities. For expats and digital nomads planning a medium to long-term stay, understanding which Thai cities offer the most predictable and manageable safety environment is critical.
The Ministry of Energy is pressing ahead with a major overhaul of the entire electricity tariff structure for the first time in more than 20 years. Its plan to introduce a new tiered tariff structure is creating ripples for households using more than 400 units a month and for the business sector.
The baht closed last week, on April 24, at a fresh two-week low of 32.51 baht per US dollar, as markets awaited the outcomes of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting and the US Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting.
The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has unveiled a nationwide contingency plan to mitigate the potential impact of a looming Super El Nino, warning that hotter temperatures and below-normal rainfall could threaten crops, water supplies, and rural incomes this year.
Thailand’s automotive industry showed fresh signs of recovery in March, as total vehicle production rose to 133,413 units and domestic sales were boosted by strong demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.
The information center of LWS Wisdom and Solutions Co. has pointed to a new picture of the property market in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), saying it is moving from growth driven by investment and infrastructure stimulus toward a housing market powered by “real demand” from the workforce and industrial sector. This has significantly changed the equation for project development and property investment in the area.
The battle for Thailand’s skincare market is intensifying as local and international beauty brands race to capture consumers who are spending more on science-based, skin-health-focused products.
Thailand’s Public Health Ministry is advancing plans to integrate medical cannabis into the country’s health economy. This initiative aligns with recent changes in U.S. cannabis policy, as the U.S. eases restrictions on certain cannabis products.
Searches for short-haul travel destinations have risen sharply ahead of Thailand’s upcoming long weekend from April 30 to May 4, covering Labor Day and Coronation Day. The trend reflects growing demand for convenient, budget-conscious holidays, with Thai travelers showing stronger interest in both domestic destinations close to Bangkok and nearby international cities.
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) will meet tomorrow to consider a plan to buy more solar power from households and businesses, with the intention of encouraging people to generate their own electricity.
The industrial sector in Bangkok is seeing a noticeable shift as factories and warehouses begin turning their rooftops into productive financial assets through solar power installations. This change is being driven by rising electricity costs and supportive government policies, making solar energy an increasingly attractive option for businesses in Thailand’s capital and nearby areas.
Police have arrested two Chinese tourists accused of carrying out a gold shop robbery in Nakhon Ratchasima, stealing rings worth about 300,000 baht before fleeing. The suspects were detained later the same day in Bangkok after investigators traced their getaway vehicle. The stolen items were recovered and authorities are preparing legal proceedings. 
The man who authorities say tried to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with guns and knives was charged yesterday with the attempted assassination of US President Donald Trump, as federal authorities suggested an attack that disrupted one of Washington’s glitziest events had been planned for at least several weeks. 
Australia unveiled draft laws today that would tax tech giants Meta, Google, and TikTok unless they voluntarily strike deals to pay local outlets for news. Traditional media companies around the world are in a battle for survival as readers increasingly consume their news on social media. Australia wants big tech companies to compensate local publishers for sharing articles that drive traffic on their platforms. 
The death toll from a train collision near the Indonesian capital Jakarta has risen to 14, with another 84 injured, the train operator said today, as rescuers worked to extract survivors still trapped in the wreckage. The collision between a commuter train and a long-distance train happened late yesterday in Bekasi, just outside Jakarta. 
Hua Hin is exploring the use of CCTV with AI-enabled facial recognition systems as part of plans to strengthen public safety and modernize urban management. The proposal was discussed during a meeting chaired by Nopporn Wutthikul on Friday at Hua Hin City Municipality.
Five stray dogs were found dead after suspected poisoning in a residential area of Cha Am municipality, Phetchaburi, on Friday, prompting concern among local residents and calls for authorities to investigate. The animals were discovered lying on the road and nearby grass, showing signs of severe distress, including foaming at the mouth, bleeding, and loss of bodily control.
The likelihood of a “super El Niño” poses a serious threat to Thailand’s agricultural sector, particularly rice production, potentially increasing food security risks.
A senior doctor has warned that eating raw shrimp can lead to serious parasitic infection, after a case highlighted the risks beyond common food poisoning. Yesterday, Dr. Jessada Bunyawongviroj, deputy director of Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, shared details of a patient who developed gnathostomiasis after consuming raw seafood. The condition caused swelling that moved across the body, as parasites migrated under the skin.
Thailand’s Ministry of Energy is preparing to propose a new electricity pricing scheme to the cabinet, aimed at reducing costs for households that use no more than 200 units per month. Under the plan, these users would pay less than 3 baht per unit, with lower consumption leading to progressively cheaper rates, potentially benefiting around 14 million people.
Thailand’s economic outlook is under increasing strain as uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict continues, with authorities warning that a prolonged war could extend into 2027, dragging down growth and pushing inflation higher.
Nine out of 10 ships that once passed through the Strait of Hormuz are not going anywhere. The consequences are already shaping Asia’s next harvest and the one after that.
As temperatures climb across Thailand, households are feeling more than just the heat. This year’s hot season has brought a sharp rise in living costs, particularly fuel prices, tightening budgets and amplifying financial strain. In this environment, effective financial management has become essential to easing the burden.
Government Outlines B1.38-trillion Transport Plan
Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the government was pressing ahead with its economic plan to help households and businesses cope with global volatility, while also strengthening Thailand’s medium- and long-term competitiveness.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with the United States following talks with US Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill on Friday.
Quasar Medical, a manufacturer of interventional and minimally invasive devices, has opened its newest manufacturing facility in Chonburi, Thailand. This new facility adds to the company’s initial investment in Thailand, and is Quasar’s third site in the country.
Thailand’s famed massage industry is getting a reset. Last month, the government rolled out sweeping reforms to raise standards, improve training, and reshape its global image. In 2024, Thailand’s wellness tourism spending hit US$14 billion, up 36% from the previous year. This video looks at whether the changes will lift the sector or price it out of reach. 
The water has dried, the streets have cleared, and the music has faded, but for many long-term visitors in Pattaya, the aftermath of this year’s Songkran has left behind more frustration than fond memories.
The sights, sounds, and smells of Bangkok hit me immediately and simultaneously. The spiced aromas wafting from street food vendors mixed with the heavy traffic’s gasoline fumes. My head was constantly on a swivel, captured by the neon lights in Chinatown contrasting against the gold facades of the centuries-old wats (temples).
10 high-sodium Thai dishes that may quietly harm your kidneys
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), together with strategic partners, successfully concluded the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026 in Phuket last week.