Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car- ECONOMY: Thailand faces high baht volatility/SCB predicts gradual baht decline/Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves/Manufacturing index rises/Thailand’s Role in Semiconductor Supply Chains/40,000-ton rice deal/Trump’s Tariff Setback Implications
- TOURISM: Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive?/Dual pricing, who pays the price?/Thailand’s Fast-Growing Wellness Market/Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion/Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 in Bangkok
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Salt making on the decline/The best time to visit Thailand/5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities/Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Run Khan Do event to run through July
The third RUN KHAN DO event will take place across Prachuap Khiri Khan from March to July 2026, with officials confirming that preparations are now under way to deliver a larger and more varied program this year. On Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, chaired a planning meeting at the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports to review progress and coordinate arrangements for RUN KHAN DO 2026.
Officials confirmed that a total of 12 events will be organized across all eight districts of the province, running continuously from March to July. The program will include fun runs, health walks, trail running competitions, and a commemorative cycling event. Continued …
Pone Kingphet Park renovation behind Songkran schedule
The Pone Kingphet Park renovation is being accelerated by Hua Hin City Municipality to ensure the venue is ready for Songkran 2026.
Yesterday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul led municipal executives, councillors, and relevant officials to inspect progress at the park, which is undergoing a major redevelopment. He acknowledged that construction has fallen behind the original schedule and instructed the contractor to increase manpower and machinery to speed up the remaining works. Continued …
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
The ThaiLPGA Tour 2026 season will offer total prize money of 18 million baht, with the opening events scheduled for March at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, organizers said.
The Women’s Professional Golf Association of Thailand said the season will begin with ThaiLPGA Tour Q School on March 18-19 at Royal Hua Hin, followed by the Singha-SAT Ladies Open from March 20-22. The opening tournament will offer 1.5 million baht in prize money. Continued …
Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan
A total of 54,000 methamphetamine pills were seized in Mueang district following a coordinated operation by police and provincial officials, according to authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
At a press conference held at the Border Patrol Police Subdivision 14 in Huai Sai subdistrict Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, outlined details of the arrest of two male suspects and the seizure of the drugs. Continued …
Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased in 2025
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
PRS figures for 2025 recorded 20,967 road accidents, a decrease of more than 11% from the previous year. Fatalities totaled 11,779, down more than 15%, while injuries fell by over 20% to 12,182 cases. Police said the reductions reflect proactive enforcement efforts by traffic officers nationwide. Continued …
EC announces 71% voter turnout in 2026 election, over 35 million valid votes
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. Continued …
Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home, Flee With B2 Million
Three hooded men armed with knives stormed a home in the Pattaya area, late yesterday, stealing a safe containing more than 2 million baht in cash from a British resident before fleeing in a black pickup truck.
The victims, a 32-year-old British national and his 34-year-old Thai partner, were left shaken but unharmed. Police have launched a manhunt following the robbery at Chokchai Village 9, off Soi Khao Noi. Continued …
AI-Driven Traffic Lights Launched in Bangkok
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
The BMA manages 746 intersections, with 578 having traffic lights. Currently, 433 of these use fixed signals, 71 have adaptive loop detectors, and 74 have been updated to the new adaptive real-time CCTV system. Fixed-time signals often cause inefficiencies, like green lights with no traffic or unnecessary red light waits. Continued …
Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise by up to 20% in Thailand
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
Samsung Electronics this week unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, positioning proactive, on-device artificial intelligence (AI) as the core differentiator in the premium smartphone segment. Continued …
BTS asks passengers to keep their hair in check
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
Passengers with long hair are urged to hold their tresses in place when turning their heads, walking past others, or boarding and alighting from trains. Continued …
Thai wife arrested for planting bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
A Thai woman attached explosive devices to the car of her husband’s mistress in an attempted killing, but the devices failed to fully detonate, causing only minor damage to the vehicle. The victim told police an explosive device fell from her car and exploded on the road, causing a loud noise and sparks.
Police went to the scene with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to examine the evidence. Officers said the device was a homemade improvised explosive device (IED) contained in four glass bottles, with only one bottle exploding. Continued …
Thailand faces high baht volatility from internal and external risks
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Patrick Poulia, deputy general manager and head of the financial markets function at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), stated that the overall economy and financial markets in 2026 face multidimensional challenges. Continued …
SCB predicts gradual baht decline
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
SCB forecasts the baht to ease to 31.50 per dollar in the first quarter, 31.70 in the second quarter, 32 in the third quarter, and 33 in the fourth quarter. Continued …
Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves to 2.1%, despite structural headwinds
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Private consumption remains under pressure from fragile consumer confidence and elevated household debt. The Consumer Confidence Index fell to 51.9 in December 2025 from 53.2 in November, following the dissolution of parliament. Meanwhile, household debt stood at 86.8% of GDP in the second quarter of 2025 — the highest level among ASEAN peers — continuing to weigh on spending. Continued …
Thai manufacturing index rises
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose 1.4% year-on-year to 101.58 points, compared with from 95.02 in December, said Supakit Boonsiri, the director-general of the office. He said campaign-related spending lifted sales of posters, food, paper, printing materials, and beverages.The index also benefited from rising sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), he said. Continued …
Thailand’s Emerging Role in Global Semiconductor Supply Chains
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Electronic chips are no longer merely key components of conventional electronic devices; they have become essential infrastructure of the modern economy, supporting a wide range of applications — from industrial systems and automation to security technologies. Continued …
Thai and Chinese governments reach 40,000-ton rice deal
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
The delivery is scheduled to gradually begin from February 2026 onward. This marks another significant step reflecting the strong relationship and long-standing rice trade cooperation between the two countries. Continued …
Trump’s Tariff Setback: Implications for China and Global Trade
US trading partners, including China and the EU, are responding to Trump’s recent tariff setbacks and warnings of potential new tariffs. They are likely adopting cautious or defensive strategies in light of these developments, reflecting concerns over economic stability and trade relations. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between the US and its trade partners over tariffs and trade policies.
The setback of Donald Trump’s tariffs marks a significant turning point in global trade dynamics. During his administration, tariffs were used as a tool to pressure China into changing trade practices, but these measures led to increased costs and tensions. The recent move to roll back or ease some tariffs suggests a shift toward more cooperative trade relations, which could benefit both China and the global economy. Continued …
Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive for foreign visitors?
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
If you come from a wealthy country like those in northern Europe, the US, Japan, Singapore, or even South Korea, where the average wage is several times higher than wages here, you should be complaining. Yes, things are probably somewhat cheaper in Ho Chi Minh City or Kathmandu than in Bangkok, but each destination has its own unique charm and appeal. Continued …
Dual pricing, who pays the price?
Dual-pricing, where foreigners pay more to enter certain places than local visitors, is common at major destinations in Thailand. When the double standard system blurs into confusion and exploitation, it could damage the country’s tourism.
This episode of ‘Why Bangkok: Dual Pricing, Who Pays The Price?’ explores the complexity of the double pricing system to find common ground between charging a nominal fee and exploiting the system to deliberately charge a higher price. Video …
Global Wellness Institute Releases New Data on Thailand’s Fast-Growing $42.7 Billion Wellness Market
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
In 2024, Thailand maintained its position as the world’s 24th largest wellness economy, ranking 9th in the Asia-Pacific region. The country is ranked 15th globally for wellness tourism, where spending surged by 36.4% between 2023 and 2024 — one of the fastest growth rates worldwide — bringing the market to $14 billion. Continued …
Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion baht in first year
Tomorrowland Thailand, the iconic electronic music festival, will debut in Pattaya this December. The event, organized by TAT, WE Are One World, and the Belgian Embassy, is expected to generate significant economic value, with over 5.5 billion baht projected in its first year alone, and 30 billion baht over the next five years.
The event will take place Dec. 11-13 at Wisdom Valley, in Chonburi, bringing a new international festival experience to Thailand. The event will feature six major stages, including the legendary Mainstage, and exclusive first-time showcases in Asia, including the CORE and Freedom stages. Continued …
Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 to Bangkok in October
Etihad Airways has announced it will bring its flagship Airbus A380 to Bangkok for the first time this October, increasing capacity on one of its most popular leisure routes. The airline will join four other carriers serving the destination with the superjumbo.
The airline’s A380 aircraft will operate on it’s evening daily service between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Bangkok (BKK). In its announcement, Etihad states that the A380’s launch, timed for the peak winter travel season, will support strong air travel demand between Thailand, the Middle East, and Europe. Continued …
Thailand’s salt making on the decline
The declining number of traditional salt-making activities in the region can be blamed on several factors, chief of which is the decreasing number of farmers who are interested in continuing the industry.
Many of them have left the traditional salt-making business and shifted to other trades and occupations, including farming, cattle-raising, and gardening, while a significant number have gone over to the tourism sector. Continued …
The best time to visit Thailand depends on where you go
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
The best time to visit Thailand depends on your destination, your travel style, and what weather you’re hoping to experience during your trip. Thailand’s climate is broadly divided into three main seasons: cool and dry, hot and dry, and the wet or monsoon season. Continued …
5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities in Thailand
Secondary cities — less-visited provinces that are not major tourist hotspots and typically attract fewer than four million visitors a year — are gaining popularity among Thai and foreign travelers looking to avoid crowds and seek new experiences.
The Kasikorn Research Center forecasts that the share of Thai domestic trips to secondary cities will edge up to 41.4% in 2025, from 41.3% in the first five months of the year, marking a sharp 32.3% rise from the same period in 2019 (pre-Covid-19). Continued …
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
When a destination is as affordable as it is beautiful, it will always make a compelling case for a relaxing holiday. For many people, that means heading to Thailand, specifically the Gulf of Thailand, where well-trodden islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan offer the ideal combination of stunning beaches, great dining, and luxury stays. Yet, it pays to keep your expectations in check.
In 2023, Koh Samui received 3.54 million travelers — a challenge for most destinations, let alone an island that measures just 25 kilometers from point to point. It’s a similar story on Koh Phangan, with an estimated four million annual visitors. Of course, serene pockets still exist, but finding them requires more than a little careful consideration. Continued …
Australian tourist dies from beating in Phuket, Swedish suspect detained
A 29-year-old Swedish man of Turkish descent was arrested by Phuket police yesterday over the assault and death of a 58-year-old Australian tourist in Patong on Wednesday. Alan Roger Joliffe was knocked to the ground by a blow from the suspect at about 5 pm. He died at 10.23 pm despite medical efforts, prompting a police investigation and manhunt. Continued …
- Immigration Police Arrest Two on Interpol Red Notices – Continued …
- Russian Man Arrested in Phangan Drug Bust – Continued …
- Chinese Man Held at Don Mueang Over VAT Fraud – Continued …
- CCTV Catches Foreign Woman Calmly Stealing Suitcase in Phuket – Continued …
- Tourist Leaves After Claiming Theft, Rejects CCTV Review – Continued …
US AI boom faces electric shock
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. 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.
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.
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. 
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. 
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 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
Arada Fueangthong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said Thailand’s utilization of trade preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand in January–November 2025.
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
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. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted that the summer of 2026 will be hotter than the previous year. The summer season is expected to begin later than usual, around the end of February (approximately two weeks later than typical), and will last until mid-May 2026.
Thailand is facing a “perfect storm”, as a low birth rate, persistent poverty, and a rapidly aging society place mounting pressure on the tax base, welfare system, and social structure, says the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).
Ahead of the Feb. 8 election, various political parties in Thailand have expressed their support for sex workers, pledging to enhance protection and dignity under the law in a nation where prostitution remains illegal.
Cambodia has carried out a massive raid on scammer gangs, detaining more than 2,000 people amid pressure from China to crack down on its online fraud industry. Nearly 1,800 Chinese nationals were among those held, according to the Cambodian Interior Ministry.
Private consumption indicators in Thailand climbed 2.5% month-on-month in December, rebounding from a 0.3% fall in November and marking the sharpest rise since April 2022. Gains were broad-based across all spending categories, with growth in services spending led by hotels and restaurants, partly supported by government stimulus measures.
The rapid emergence of instant commerce in Thailand, a retail evolution defined by delivery within a few hours, will become the new battlefield for on-demand players and e-commerce platforms, say brands.
Gold prices hit a record high above $5,500 due to US-Iran tensions, with expectations of the Federal Reserve moving to rate cuts, pushing the baht to strengthen below 31 baht per dollar, the strongest in almost five years.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling for Thailand to expand into new high-potential markets to support the country’s export and manufacturing sectors, as key trading partners face economic weakness amid a global slowdown.
Thai durian exports are expected to face several hurdles due to labor shortages and a lack of collection centers during the harvest season. Durian supply is forecast to reach 1.78 million tons this year, with the eastern region contributing 1.06 million tons, or 59.5% of total output.
Thai gold prices on Saturday were down by 1,200 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams), as a global and local correction continued after a surge to record highs earlier in the week.
Thailand’s tourism industry ended 2025 with mixed results. Official data released in early 2026 revealed a 7.2% decline in international arrivals, bringing the total to 32.97 million visitors.
This year is being seen as a “structural turning point” in business, as the combined pressures from the climate crisis, technological advancements, and demographic changes make the concept of “sustainability” no longer just a policy for improving image. It has become the new foundation for growth, competitiveness, and long-term survival for businesses.
Thai EV charging service provider Sharge has partnered with Grab to build a dedicated charging network for the company. It plans to invest over 400 million baht in the project.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman has warned that the rest of the world is starting to pull away from the United States, driven by frustration with President Donald Trump’s threats, and that the shift will ultimately leave Americans poorer. 
Japan will expand overtourism countermeasures from 47 to 100 areas nationwide as it positions inbound tourism as a core strategic industry after foreign visitor spending hit a record 9.5 trillion yen in 2025. 
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.”
Average headline inflation is expected to rise slightly in 2026, driven by increasing prices of agricultural products and the recovery of the tourism sector, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).
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.
Thailand’s New Year road safety crackdown has recorded nearly 4,000 cases entering the probation system over six days, with drink-driving accounting for the vast majority and Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan topping the provincial rankings.
The Ministry of Public Health is pushing to enact a new ministerial regulation on cannabis before the next government takes office, with the draft now under review by the Office of the Council of State.
Photographers at Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple have been accused of rudely shooing away tourists to photograph paying customers in rented Thai costumes, leading to social-media complaints and a response from the Tourist Police and temple officials to inspect the site and implement preventive measures for tourist safety and Thailand’s image.
The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, or DASTA, has launched the “The Soul of Thailand” campaign, inviting visitors to experience the spirit of Thai identity through nine travel routes across nine designated areas for sustainable tourism.
Hidden Bangkok Secrets for an Unforgettable Authentic Adventure
Thailand’s industrial sector has demonstrated resilience in the face of tightening European environmental standards, with exports of carbon-intensive goods to the European Union (EU) surging by nearly 55%.
The solar energy market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period 2025-2031, driven by global commitments to decarbonization, supportive government policies, and significant cost reductions in photovoltaic (PV) technology.
Thailand’s New Year holiday 2026 concluded with more than eight million people traveling across the country, while road accidents and transport disruptions declined compared with the previous year, according to the Ministry of Transport.
Thailand’s property sector endured its most punishing year in decades throughout 2025, with household debt, stringent lending conditions, and collapsing purchasing power battering the market. Yet, major developers are unveiling distinct 2026 strategies — from luxury pivots to multinational expansion — while economists warn that structural headwinds will persist.
With Thailand’s economy in 2026 projected to grow modestly at around 1.5%, several business sectors have begun preparing for potential headwinds – some persisting from last year and others emerging as new risks, particularly with a planned general election in February.
With global and domestic headwinds pressuring the Thai economy this year, the new government should consider “focused domestic intervention” measures to enhance tourism and attract foreign investments in specific sectors, says the Thai unit of German insurer Allianz.
The so-called “medical economy” championed by the government is being positioned as a new growth engine for Thailand. Policymakers describe it as a potential game changer for state-owned hospitals struggling under mounting financial pressure.
Climate change is no longer limited to shifting weather patterns, but is a growing force reshaping Thailand’s economic outlook in 2026, according to Treethep Palakavong Na Ayudhya, chief executive of Global Carbon Corp., a local greenhouse gas-management consultancy.
Thailand’s exports in 2026 are expected to face volatility and challenges due to a global economic slowdown that is dampening demand in key trading nations.
The first time I ever spent a night in the hospital was in Bangkok. A CT scan during my annual check-up revealed a condition requiring the opinion of a specialist. I was panic-stricken.
Thai food businesses in the United States are poised for growth in 2026, fueled by an increasing trend of dining out. Director-General Sunanta Kangvalkulkij of the Commerce Ministry’s Department of International Trade Promotion cited recent consumer behavior surveys as proof of this surge.
Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez is known for her anti-imperialist rhetoric, earning her the nickname “the tigress” from toppled leader Nicolas Maduro. A fierce defender of Maduro, who was snatched by US forces in an extraordinary raid early Saturday, Rodriguez is now seeking to portray herself as a steady hand to lead the country’s political transition. 
Denmark called on the United States to stop “threatening” Greenland yesterday as President Donald Trump told US media he “absolutely” needed the territory, a day after Washington seized the leader of Venezuela. 
The demonstrations began again in Iran last week, only two years after the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement convulsed the country for months. However, the current protests are potentially much broader than that episode because they are driven by the collapse in Iran’s currency, the rial (now 1,420,000 to the US dollar), and the explosive rise in the cost of living. 
Unsafe levels of smog in most of Thailand, including Bangkok
Thailand Post Raises EMS and eCo-Post Fees in 85 Areas
Five Arrests Made in Alleged Abduction and Killing
Finance Ministry seeks approval for online gold tax
Exit the Snake, enter the Horse
The Black Sea country on the European Union’s southeast frontier will become the 21st country to join the euro currency zone after it met the formal entry criteria this year, including for inflation, budget deficit, long-term borrowing costs, and exchange-rate stability. 
