Hua Hin strengthens flood prevention/Surfing in Hua Hin?/Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up/Breath test refusal equals drink-driving/Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots/AI Technology Reads X-Rays/Isan sausage drying criticism/Man arrested for burning dog/A Pet-Friendly Nation- ECONOMY: Exporters warned of market tariff turmoil/Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks/US warns partners to honor tariff deals/Asian economies weigh tariff moves/Reassess ‘chronic economic illness’/B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
- TOURISM: ‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend/Third in taxi scam complaints/Pattaya bustles/Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences/Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s backpacking expiration date/Among world’s 20 most liveable countries
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Rai: A Sustainable Tourism Revival/Bangkok launches new electric water taxi
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin strengthens its flood prevention plan
A new flood prevention plan for Hua Hin moved forward on Friday as the deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province led a multi-agency inspection aimed at reducing long-standing flood risks in the city.
On Saturday, Prateep Boriboonrat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, together with Royol Chitradon, secretary-general of the Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) Foundation under Royal Patronage, and the provincial water resource management working group, met officials at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course to review measures designed to strengthen flood prevention in Hua Hin City Municipality. Continued …
Surfing in Hua Hin?
Huahin Surf Paradise 2026 created a lively atmosphere at Hua Don Beach over the weekend, as surf lovers from across Thailand gathered in Hua Hin for two days of competition, music, and community activities aimed at strengthening the country’s water sports scene.
The event marked the festival’s fifth consecutive year and coincided with the 20th anniversary of Rising Creation Co. The event was originally initiated by the Pineapple Surf Club team to highlight Hua Don–Hua Hin Beach as a viable surf destination capable of standing alongside more established locations. Continued …
Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up milestone
Trash Hero Hua Hin marked its 500th clean-up on Feb. 15, reaching a milestone for one of the town’s longest-running volunteer-led environmental initiatives.
The 500th clean-up took place at Khao Takiab, in front of the Phra Yuen area, where 22 volunteers spent one hour removing litter from the shoreline and surrounding public spaces. In total, they collected 66 kilograms of waste, including five kilograms of recyclable materials. Continued …
Breath test refusal equals drink-driving
Police have warned that a refusal to take a breathalyzer test will be treated as equivalent to drink-driving.
Deputy national police chief Samran Nualma said the directive follows the 2026 traffic discipline policy, which prioritizes the rigorous enforcement of traffic laws nationwide. He said drink-driving poses severe risks to public safety and must be addressed with transparency and consistency. Continued …
Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots, Half Are In Forest Areas
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Regional hotspot levels in neighboring countries remain significantly higher, raising the risk of cross-border haze depending on wind direction. Continued …
Siriraj AI Technology Reads X-Rays With 95% Accuracy
The Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) program to interpret lung and chest X-rays with accuracy above 95%, comparable to specialist radiologists. The system has already been used in more than 500,000 real patient cases. It can deliver results in under 10 seconds per case, significantly speeding up diagnosis.
The innovation was created by Siriraj’s Department of Radiology and was first developed during the Covid-19 pandemic to manage high patient volumes. Work on the system has continued beyond the pandemic, refining its performance and expanding its clinical use. Continued …
Isan sausage drying outside draws online criticism
One of Thailand’s most popular northeastern dishes, Isan sausage, has become the focus of an online debate after photos of a roadside vendor’s drying process circulated widely on social media.
Yesterday, a Facebook user shared images showing sausages being hung out to dry in the sun at a relatively low height above the ground. The post questioned hygiene standards, noting that the stall was located at an event where other vendors were unloading goods, raising concerns about dust, ground-level contamination, and air pollution. Continued …
Thai man arrested for beating and burning Siberian Husky in Songkhla
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
The two-year-old female Husky, Molly, escaped from her home in Songkhla, along with another dog, Betsy. Betsy was later returned home safely. Molly was found in critical condition after being beaten and burned, before escaping to a water pond where she remained until she was discovered. Molly was taken for treatment under royal patronage in Bangkok but died from her injuries on Friday. Continued …
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Thailand is quickly becoming a pet-friendly country, as more young couples and city residents now choose pets over children, as birth rates fall and lifestyles change.
This trend, often called “pet parenting,” is reshaping daily life. As a result, the pet economy is growing fast, and brands, property developers, and advocacy groups are adjusting to keep up. Continued …
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Exporters warned of market turmoil after Supreme Court scraps Trump tariffs
The Thai Trade Center, Los Angeles, under the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, has assessed that Thai businesses linked to exports to the United States will face major disruption after the US Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, ruled that President Donald Trump’s executive order invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose “reciprocal tariffs” was unconstitutional and beyond the executive branch’s authority.
The Thai Trade Center said the ruling will force US-bound exporters, US importers and retailers to make significant adjustments to business processes to align with a court-ordered shift in the trading system. Businesses must also prepare for new forms of import-tariff policy that are expected to follow in the near future. Continued …
Thai Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks
The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to accelerate trade negotiations with the United States after President Donald Trump announced an increase in the global import duty from 10% to 15%.
Chamber Chairman Poj Aramwattananont warned that the US “tariff game” is not over and said higher duties would raise costs, increase planning uncertainty, and heighten currency risks for Thai exporters. The chamber said tariffs are likely to remain a strategic policy tool with spillover effects on exporters and global supply chains, including Thailand. Continued …
US warns partners to honor tariff deals as Trump shifts tactics
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
Those agreements — reached with partners including China, the European Union, Japan and South Korea — remain in effect, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said yesterday. He tried to distinguish those deals from the 15% global tariff Trump announced on Saturday. Continued …
Asian economies weigh latest Trump tariff moves
US trading partners in Asia started weighing fresh uncertainties on Saturday after President Donald Trump vowed to impose a new tariff on imports, hours after the Supreme Court struck down many of the sweeping levies he used to launch a global trade war.
The court’s ruling invalidated a number of tariffs that the Trump administration had imposed on Asian export powerhouses from China and South Korea to Japan and Taiwan, the world’s largest chip maker and a key player in tech supply chains. Continued …
Government warned to reassess ‘chronic economic illness’
Being labeled the “sick man of Asia” has forced Thailand to reassess the long-standing problems causing its “chronic economic illness”. However, as the new government is expected to mirror the previous administration, the business sector doubts whether the repackaged leaders can rouse the country from its economic slumber, particularly regarding needed structural reforms.
Thailand actually risks becoming a “dead man” if the new government bases its selection of cabinet members on political quotas, said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Continued …
SRT Approves B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
The decision was made at a board meeting lastw eeek. The proposal will be submitted to the Ministry of Transport before further consideration by the National Economic and Social Development Council and the Cabinet. Continued …
‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend Goes Viral with Tourists
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
Many travellers use the videos to summarize their experiences in detail. They recount how many days they spent in Thailand, how many steps they walked, and how much money they used during their stay. Some also specify the number of tuk-tuk and Grab rides they took, visits to 7-Eleven, Thai massages received, and plates of pad Thai and mango sticky rice consumed. Continued …
Thailand ranks third in taxi scam complaints
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
The study found that travelers are most likely to report problems in Turkey, which generated 4,224 comments — nearly double the figure for India in second place with 2,301 comments. Thailand ranked third with 2,169 comments, followed by Vietnam (1,741), Egypt (1,715), Australia (1,598), Mexico (1,367), Morocco (1,329), the United States of America (1,283), and Canada (995). Continued …
Pattaya bustles as foreign arrivals hit 130,000 a day nationally
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, foreign arrivals to Thailand have continued to rise since late 2025, reaching around 100,000 visitors per day before climbing further to approximately 130,000 daily in recent weeks. The increase reflects the impact of proactive tourism promotion, targeted marketing tailored to different source markets, and enhanced safety measures aimed at restoring traveler confidence. Continued …
Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences in 2026
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) confirmed the island will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026, the InterPride General Meeting & World Conference 2026, and the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026. Continued …
Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens in Phetchaburi
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by his wife Thananon Niramit, Saturday presided over the opening of the 39th “Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet” festival at Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park in Phetchaburi.
The annual event, held through March 1 at Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as Khao Wang, aims to promote tourism and celebrate the province’s cultural heritage under the theme “Heavenly Palace of Phra Nakhon Khiri, Gem of Siam.” Continued …
Thailand’s backpacking era now has an expiration date
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
As per a recent report, Thailand has been carefully recalibrating its pitch to the traveling demographic. Lisa of Blackpink being announced as the “Amazing Thailand Ambassador” is arguably the best specimen of this, followed by the tourist-led economy’s doubling down on wellness circuits and mega-scale events. Continued …
Thailand named among world’s 20 most liveable countries
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Architectural Digest’s round-up of the “best countries to live in” for design lovers uses the latest US News & World Report “Best Countries in the World” ranking as a starting point, selecting 20 countries viewed as the strongest for design from that broader list. Continued …
Due to toxic pollution, Chiang Rai switching rivers for tourism
The landscape of northern Thailand has long been defined by its arterial waterways, but the story of Chiang Rai tourism is currently being rewritten out of necessity. Following a challenging period of environmental degradation and recurring natural disasters, the Mae Yao Subdistrict Administration is implementing a strategic shift in travel focus.
While the region has traditionally focused its aquatic festivities on the prominent Kok River, a shift to the Mae Yao River — a clean, untainted tributary — is now being promoted. This initiative was formalized at a recent community leaders and stakeholders meeting, with the primary goal of transforming a contamination crisis into a sustainable tourism opportunity. Continued …
Bangkok launches new electric water taxi with free trial rides
Step aboard Bangkok’s new electric water taxi and experience a cleaner, greener way to move through the city! Enjoy FREE trial rides until Feb. 28 via the MUVMI app and be among the first to try this fresh urban travel option.
Operating daily from 9 am–5 pm. Up to 6 passengers per boat. Route: Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem–Bang Lamphu. 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
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 Fuel Fund Executive Committee decided today to freeze the retail price of diesel at 30 baht per liter by cutting refiners’ contributions to the fund by a further 15 satang per liter. Additionally, the committee agreed to provide a 30 satang per liter subsidy from the fund to maintain the domestic diesel price at 30 baht per liter.
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. 
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
Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced yesterday the passenger service charge (PSC) on outbound international travelers will rise to 1,120 baht per person from 730 baht from June 20.
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.
Most Asian equities fell and oil prices rose yesterday after Donald Trump ratcheted up Middle East tensions by hinting at possible military strikes on Iran if it did not make a “meaningful deal” in nuclear talks. The remarks put the brakes on a rebound in markets following an AI-fueled sell-off earlier. 
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.
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.
Three Israeli citizens in their 20s were attacked Tuesday night while spending time at a bar on the island of Koh Samui in southern Thailand. One of them sought medical treatment at a hospital, and another apparently managed to flee but has not been heard from since.
The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.
The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.
Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.
So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.
The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.
Prime Minister Mark Carney yesterday launched a multi-billion dollar plan to strengthen the Canadian military and rely less on the United States. Carney’s announcement of Canada’s first defense industrial strategy built on themes he has emphasized throughout his 11-month tenure as President Donald Trump rips through traditional US alliances. 
Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. 
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
Thai authorities say they have found clear evidence that Cambodia secretly planted landmines inside Thai territory, describing the act as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
Security has been raised to the highest level in Yala following a coordinated wave of seven bomb attacks in neighboring Narathiwat over the past 48 hours.
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
Elephants need space
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.
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
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.
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.
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
As Thailand enters the post-election period, many foreign tourists and long-term visitors say their expectations are not focused on political personalities or campaign rhetoric, but on practical changes that shape daily life, travel decisions, and confidence in Thailand as a long-stay destination. Conversations among foreign residents and repeat visitors consistently return to the same themes: clarity, fairness, and predictability.
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. 
Berlayar Estate, a boutique property developer specializing in refined, lifestyle-driven living, has announced the official launch of its newest premium villa collection under the theme “The Journey to Serenity.” This latest portfolio introduces a curated selection of private residential projects in Hua Hin and Pranburi.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said after chairing a meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee that the meeting had considered an agenda on relaxing controls on alcohol sales hours in the Eastern Aviation City Promotion Zone yesterday at the Ministry of Public Health.
High-street coffee chains across Thailand are set to undergo a radical transformation next week as the Department of Health launches a new nationwide standard for freshly brewed drinks. Beginning Feb. 11, any customer ordering a “normal sweetness” beverage will automatically receive a drink containing only 50% of the original sugar recipe.
Thailand will hold a general election on Sunday, in a three-way contest of major political parties to decide the leader of the Southeast Asian nation over the next four years.
The Ministry of Public Health has intensified preventive and surveillance measures against the Nipah virus, even as authorities stress that the risk of infection in the country remains very low.
Thailand is well-known for its wats (Buddhist temples), breathtaking beaches and islands, and vibrant night bazaars. Yet, one feature often overlooked is our convenience stores. Although not one of our cultural monuments, with more than 14,000 outlets nationwide as of 2024 – among the highest densities per capita globally – these stores have become iconic landmarks in their own right.
Park rangers are trying to keep wild elephants away from communities and tourist attractions during the dry season. The measures cover a bull elephant that has killed three people, including a camper, in this Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Krungthai researchers are warning that Thailand’s economy in 2026 could record its weakest growth outlook in three decades, as the country remains stuck in a low-growth trap with no new engines of expansion. They also caution that SMEs could remain mired in difficulties, with shrinking profits and mounting debt, risking a broad-based “downgrade” across the sector unless business structures are reshaped quickly.
Fresh research from MoneyTransfers.com has unveiled the planet’s most jam-packed tourist hotspots. The team’s findings reveal that Phuket in Thailand stands as the globe’s most congested tourist magnet. This Thai paradise boasts a staggering 118 tourists for every local inhabitant.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has released its “Tourism Business Confidence Index in Thailand, Q4 2025”, based on a survey of 302 foreign tourists using accidental sampling: 200 respondents in Bangkok and 102 in Chonburi.
A Thai family in Nakhon Si Thammarat province mistakenly hosted foreign tourists at a funeral, providing them with food when they believed it to be a restaurant. The tourists apologized after realizing they were at a funeral, not a dining venue.
Chinese New Year celebrations in the island province are expected to be particularly vibrant this year. The upbeat outlook is driven by a strong rebound in the Chinese tourism market and an increase in direct flights from China, according to the Phuket Tourist Business Assn. (PTBA).
Mae Hong Son officials on Monday launched a joint campaign aimed at preventing wildfires and reducing air pollution in the province, with multiple key leaders participating in a kick-off event held in front of the municipal office. The campaign was led by Mae Hong Son Gov. Wiboon Waewbandit, alongside Deputy Gov. Udomsak Khaonoona and Mae Hong Son Mayor Mallika Jeenakham.
Drainage contractor discharged black water into Jomtien sea
From field to forest, restoring rice in Ubon Ratchathani
Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market to gain momentum under the government’s new car tax policy set to take effect in 2026, aimed at promoting cleaner energy.
The last Russia-U.S. nuclear arms control treaty, known as New START, is due to expire tomorrow. We look at what the treaty does, what its expiration would mean, and what it may take to establish a new treaty. 
Spain will ban access to social media for minors under 16 and hold company CEOs criminally liable for illegal content, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said yesterday, as he announced several measures to guarantee a safe digital environment. 
France summoned billionaire Elon Musk to a “voluntary interview” as cybercrime authorities yesterday searched the French offices of his social media network X, the Paris public prosecutor’s office said. The operation, which involves the EU police agency Europol, is part of an investigation opened in January 2025 into whether X’s algorithm was used to interfere in French politics. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
The inaugural Hua Hin Ultra Marathon 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 23, marking the first time the city has hosted an ultra-distance running event of this scale. The race will start and finish at Rajabhakti Park and will offer four distances, ranging from a 10-kilometer evening run to a 100-kilometer ultra marathon.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been celebrated for its unique approach to wellness, commitment to excellence, and heartfelt care,. These awards recognize excellence not only in personal transformation but also in its pioneering commitment to corporate responsibility, environmental wellness, and strong local community engagement.
The Board of Investment (BOI) says Japanese investment applications surged 146% in 2025 to more than 119 billion baht, signaling growing confidence in an economic rebound in early 2026. The sharp rise reflects stronger sentiment among Japanese firms operating in Thailand and reinforces the country’s position as a key production base in ASEAN.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production said Friday it acquired full ownership of Block A-18 in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area from Chevron in a $450M deal. The Thai company said it signed the deal with Hess and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following the recently closed merger deal with Hess.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Italy’s Trevi Fountain launched a new ticketing system yesterday, making the famous Rome landmark the latest tourist site to charge entry in a bid to raise funds and battle overcrowding. People posed in the sunshine in front of the Baroque masterpiece after paying the €2 (US1.68) fee to access the now largely crowd-free area next to the basin. 
Unsafe levels of ultrafine dust has blanketed 57 provinces and Bangkok and one province, Samut Songkhram, faced a red level of harmful smog.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced a vehicle manufacturing target of 1.5 million units for 2026, a modest increase from 1.45 million units last year, driven by expectations of stronger domestic demand and growing production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
China aims to attract at least 1.5 million Thai visitors this year, up from more than 1 million in 2025, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to generate 35.4 billion baht from 1.25 million foreign tourists during the 10-day Chinese New Year holiday next month.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
I like to think I’m a pretty cautious and attentive person. So, when I first came to Thailand, I did some homework to avoid any social faux pas. Despite my efforts, there were still some things I didn’t catch until after I arrived.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing today, seeking closer trade ties while balancing sensitive issues of national security and human rights. This is the first visit to China by a UK prime minister since 2018 and follows a slew of Western leaders seeking support from Beijing recently, pivoting from an increasingly unpredictable United States. 
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected.