- Thai women leaders honored/Government Warns of Summer Drowning Risk/Raid Seizes 120,000 Gecko Carcasses
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil jumps above $100/10 vessels attacked in Hormuz Strait/Thai tourism faces severe volatility/May steer wealth to Thai luxury homes/Thailand advises all 77,000 nationals to evacuate/Commerce Ministry Reports Minimal Impact/Outlook for Thai vehicle exports/Fertilizer prices rise/Fuel price surge threatens Trat tourism/Iran’s new Supreme Leader named
- ECONOMY: Thailand faces fiscal strain/Consumer confidence biggest threat to property market/Strategy to Protect Thai Exports/Reducing Poverty in Northern Thailand
- TOURISM: B40-billion revenue collapse/Early trip planning urged/Songkran 2026 travel demand rises/What Pattaya is really about/Hostel association targets reform/Indonesia bans elephant riding
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Kui Buri – Thailand’s Hidden Eden/One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations/Lingering In Chiang Mai
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Phetchaburi marine farm’s sustainable legacy/Climate pressure spurs energy revamp
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Ten Thai women leaders honored at ‘Women of Power’ event
Ten prominent Thai women from across business, the arts, sport, and social advocacy were placed in the spotlight at the “BPWT… Women of Power” event, where they shared personal lessons on resilience, leadership, and success in a rapidly changing world.
The event, organized by the Business and Professional Women’s Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen (BPWT), was held to celebrate women whose achievements and life experiences have inspired others across generations. The speakers reflected on overcoming adversity, building confidence, leading with integrity, and creating opportunities from crisis. Continued …
Government Warns of Summer Drowning Risk, 10,000 deaths in 10 years
The government has warned the public to take extra precautions around water during the summer months, as nearly 10,000 people have drowned during the season over the past decade. Officials say the period from March to May consistently sees a rise in water-related fatalities across the country.
Airin Phanrit, deputy government spokeswoman, said on Saturday that statistics from 2016 to 2025 recorded an average of 964 drowning deaths each year. Data showed that the age group most affected was those aged 45–59, who accounted for 27.9% of fatalities. Continued …
Raid Seizes 120,000 Gecko Carcasses
Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.
The operation was carried out on riday following an investigation into a suspected wildlife and illegal timber trafficking network. Officers also arrested two suspects linked to the warehouse. Continued …
Oil jumps above $100
Global oil prices surged sharply in early-week trading after tensions from the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated, stoking market fears of tighter oil supplies and risks to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
In Monday morning trading, Brent crude jumped by as much as $18.35, or about 19.8%, to $111.04 a barrel — its highest level since July 2022 — before easing back to $107.07 a barrel, up $14.38 or 15.5%. Continued …
10 vessels attacked in Hormuz Strait
About 10 vessels in or near the Strait of Hormuz have come under attack since Iran blocked the strategic waterway in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes, data analysis groups report. The attacks throughout the week following the outbreak of war on Feb. 28 almost completely halted traffic through the strait, a crucial route for oil and other goods.
Britain’s maritime security agency UKMTO has issued around 10 alerts for attacks, as well as warnings of suspicious activity, but has released few details on the vessels involved. Continued …
Thai tourism faces severe volatility as Middle East conflict hits long-haul travel
Chai Arunanondchai, president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said that after one week of fighting in the Middle East, Thailand’s tourism sector had been directly affected and was facing severe volatility, both in terms of travel costs and tourist numbers.
The conflict in the Middle East has had a major impact on airlines, particularly flights from Europe that require transit stops and plane changes in several cities, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, and Doha in Qatar, which serve as aviation hubs. Airfares on long-haul routes, especially Europe-bound services, have risen by almost 100%. Continued …
Middle East war may steer wealth to Thai luxury homes
The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.
Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Assn., said the conflict in the Middle East remains difficult to predict and is already sending shockwaves through money and capital markets worldwide, including Thailand. Businesses therefore need to respond cautiously in terms of investment, liquidity management, and contingency planning. Continued …
Thailand advises all 77,000 nationals in the Middle East to evacuate
Thailand has advised all its nationals in the Middle East to leave high-risk areas immediately, as fighting across the region intensifies. The warning follows eight consecutive days of attacks involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
However, the confrontation has already expanded beyond those three countries. Missile and drone exchanges now involve multiple states across the region. Consequently, Thai authorities describe the situation as violent, tense, and uncertain. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the advisory yesterday. Continued …
Thailand’s Commerce Ministry Reports Minimal Impact from Middle East Unrest
The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.
In 2025, Thailand exported goods to the Middle East worth about 12.48 billion US dollars, accounting for 3.7% of the country’s total exports. Authorities reported no clear signs of canceled orders or delayed purchase orders so far. Continued …
Conflict clouds outlook for Thai vehicle exports
The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.
The first direct impact would be reduced car exports to the Middle East, as shipping is disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz, he said. “Changing transport routes will result in more expensive cars and longer delivery times,” Surapong said. Continued …
Fertilizer prices rise amid Middle East tensions
A survey in Khon Kaen on Friday has found the retail price of urea fertilizer to have increased by about 50 baht per sack as stocks at several distributors become depleted ahead of planting season.
At a major fertilizer and seed distribution center in Muang district, managers reported that several factories had suspended trading due to shortages of raw materials and rising import costs, said Teerakorn Wainiyom, sales and marketing manager at a fertilizer retailer. Continued …
Fuel price surge threatens Trat tourism industry
Concern over rising fuel prices is growing among tourism operators in Trat province, who are urging the government to stabilize prices before they can no longer bear the burden.
“A mere one-baht (per liter) increase in fuel prices immediately adds a huge cost burden,” said Atthaphon Klinthub, executive of Boonsiri High-Speed Ferries, a major operator of services between Koh Kood and Koh Mak. Continued …
Mojtaba Khamenei named as Iran’s new Supreme Leader following death of father
Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.
A mid-ranking cleric with formidable influence over Iran’s security apparatus and vast business interests, Mojtaba has long been considered the frontrunner to succeed his father. Continued …
Thailand faces fiscal strain as deficit rises and Middle East war weighs on economy
Thailand’s fiscal position is once again at a critical turning point in 2026, as pressure from several directions is converging. These include a persistently rising budget deficit burden, a global economy facing uncertainty from geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in the Middle East, as well as Thailand’s own structural economic challenges, with growth continuing to fall short of its potential.
These factors mean that the incoming government will face fiscal challenges that are more complex and more severe than at many points in the past. In recent years, warning signs from credit rating agencies have become increasingly clear. Continued …
Consumer confidence, not costs, now poses biggest threat to Thai property market
Weakening consumer confidence, rather than rising costs alone, has become the biggest threat to Thailand’s property market, as global uncertainty prompts buyers to delay major purchases, according to Pornnarit Chuanchaisit, president of the Thai Real Estate Assn.
Pornnarit said the conflict in the Middle East, although far from Thailand geographically, was having a significant indirect effect on the Thai economy. The first impact has come through higher oil prices, which are pushing up costs across the economy, from transport to construction materials. Continued …
Commerce Ministry Launches Strategy to Protect Thai Exports
The Commerce Ministry has launched a “Resilience” strategy aimed at protecting the country’s export sector from global risks, including geopolitical conflicts and trade polarization. The policy seeks to strengthen Thailand’s ability to maintain export growth while navigating an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.
Officials say the plan focuses on diversification, trade agreements, and adapting to emerging economic trends.The strategy encourages exporters to expand into new markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, reducing reliance on a limited number of major trading partners. It also prioritises accelerating Free Trade Agreement negotiations with key partners including the European Union and the United Arab Emirates. Continued …
From Opium to Opportunity: Reducing Poverty in Northern Thailand
During the 20th century, the Golden Triangle, the region where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, became infamous for its opium production. Northern Thailand’s farmers relied heavily on the opium poppy as the foundation of their livelihoods. Unfortunately, this dependence on opium also entrenched poverty in these rural communities.
To address this, the Thai government has worked to reduce poverty in the region and promote alternative livelihoods through agriculture, coffee cultivation, and tourism. The Royal Project Foundation, launched as the Royal Hill Tribe Assistance Project in 1969, has fundamentally transformed the way of life for the hill tribes and villages. Continued …
Thai tourism faces B40-billion revenue collapse
Thailand could lose more than 40 billion baht in tourism revenue in the worst-case scenario, assuming the Middle East airspace closure lasts for eight weeks, says the Tourism and Sports Ministry.
Natthriya Thaweevong, tourism and sports permanent secretary, said travelers from the Middle East and Europe have been greatly hampered by the airspace closure, as many flights are unable to operate. Continued …
Early trip planning urged as Mideast war sends airfares soaring
Passengers intending to travel between Asia and Europe will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure reasonable ticket prices, as the Middle East conflict has driven significant demand for a limited number of direct flights, says the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Based on travel trend monitoring, flight operation disruptions are expected to ease and sky-high ticket prices to fall from late March, the CAAT said. For now, though, most airlines based in the Middle East are unable to resume normal operations, except for some flights from Oman. Continued …
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
Following the Songkran festival in 2025, which generated more than B28.723 billion in nationwide economic circulation, up 17% from the previous year, the festival’s continued development into a global celebration is expected to further boost tourism spending in 2026, driven by the expansion of large-scale events and rising tourist participation.
The latest data from Traveloka shows that the top 10 most popular domestic destinations during Songkran are Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, and Koh Samet. Continued …
What Pattaya is really about, as foreign tourists share their good and bad experiences
For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.
Some foreign visitors voice concerns about safety and infrastructure. Online discussions occasionally highlight road accidents involving tour buses or incidents involving tourists in nightlife areas such as Walking Street Pattaya. Continued …
Hostel association targets reform and growth
The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.
Naree Suneta, president of the association, said the existing law is impractical for small operators, and the association wants a new regulation dedicated to different accommodation scales, such as rules for 1-20 rooms, 21-50 rooms, and more than 50 rooms, which is the threshold for regulation under the current Hotel Act. Continued …
Indonesia bans elephant riding
Ethical tourism has been gaining traction for years. One of the attractions that has consistently made headlines for all the wrong reasons is elephant rides. But now, elephants are getting a much-deserved reprieve with the banning of riding these massive mammals.
For decades, travelers to Indonesia could ride elephants as part of their experience in the country. What seemed like a fun attraction was actually quite stressful and harmful to the elephants. But because of the tourism revenue it generated, a blind eye was often turned to the plight of the elephants, who were left to suffer. Continued …
Kui Buri – Thailand’s Hidden Eden
This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. Trailer video …
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Nestled along a stunning stretch of Thailand’s Andaman Coast between Phuket and Krabi, Phang Nga province was recognized in the 2026 Booking.com Traveller Review Awards as one of the world’s most welcoming destinations, based on guest reviews. One could argue that this distinction applies to much of Thailand — long nicknamed the “Land of Smiles” – yet in Phang Nga, the hospitality often feels particularly authentic and unforced.
Phang Nga’s appeal goes beyond its scenery. The province is home to charming homestays, standout restaurants – several recognized in the Michelin Guide – and informative excursions into a wilderness teeming with waterfalls and wildlife, led by knowledgeable local guides eager to share their culture along with the landscape. Continued …
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai enchants with its intricate temple architecture, lush jungles threaded with waterfalls, a culinary scene rich in northern flavors, and its distinctive Lanna heritage. Yet, beyond its beauty and cultural depth, it offers something rarer — quiet moments away from the party crowds.
It is a destination suited equally to solo travelers seeking serenity and families in search of meaningful time together. I chose the latter — and the experience felt all the richer for it. Continued …
Phetchaburi marine farm showcases Queen Mother’s sustainable legacy
Aware of the need for rural communities to have more food sources for self-reliance, the late Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, initiated the establishment of model farms in various parts of Thailand to teach local villagers how to become self-sufficient in their food supply.
In Phetchaburi, a model marine farm was set up at Her Majesty’s initiative as a learning center where farmers can exchange knowledge on fishery development and fishing practices suited to local environmental conditions. Continued …
Climate pressure spurs Thailand’s energy revamp
Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.
These measures are seen as vital to Thailand’s pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions, a commitment reaffirmed at the UN climate summit in Brazil in November 2025. If approved later this year, the 2026 PDP will serve as a roadmap toward Thailand’s net-zero target for 2050, balancing emissions with carbon absorption. Continued …
- DBD Probes 15 Fruit-Packing Firms Over Thai Nominee Use – Continued …
- 11 Chinese Nationals Arrested in House at Mae Sai Border – Continued …
- British Man Arrested Over Cocaine Sales in Bangkok – Continued …
- Israeli Drug Dealer Arrested on Koh Phangan – Continued …
- Australian Drug Suspect Arrested in Bangkok Condo – Continued …
Venezuela topped 2025 global inflation table at 475%
Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. Continued …
Japan mulls abolishing face-to-face immigration checks amid tourism surge
The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. Continued …
Indonesia to restrict social media access for children under 16
Indonesia will restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, its communications and digital ministry said on Friday, making it the latest country to install online guardrails to reduce the risks of addiction and cyberbullying. 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
Foreign residents in Hua Hin who own property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders are being urged to review their legal position as enforcement intensifies across Thailand.
Thai massage industry set for overhaul
Today, amid escalating unrest linked to the Iran war in the Middle East, Shell and Chevron — which markets fuel under the Caltex brand — were cited as having sharply raised retail fuel prices yesterday.
Donald Trump is not just Benjamin Netanyahu’s glove puppet, but it is remarkable how much influence the Israeli prime minister has over the American president. If you are seeking a reason why Trump felt the need to attack Iran again, only nine months after he declared that he had eliminated any nuclear threat from that country, you need look no further.
Fighting in the Middle East, which began on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, has escalated into Iranian strikes on US bases in several countries and an Iranian announcement to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for transporting oil and natural gas from major producing sources such as Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.
As in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, the new war in the Middle East is exposing once again how far Europe and others lag in replacing imported fossil fuels with domestic solar and wind power, specialists say.
The price of flights between Asia and Europe has soared after the closure of key Middle Eastern hubs due to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, with airline websites showing tickets on many popular routes booked out for days. 
The recent decision by the US Supreme Court that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act in imposing broad tariffs marks an important institutional clarification in US trade governance. The court reaffirmed that tariff powers ultimately reside with Congress.
The immigration queue certainly takes the edge off the excitement of a new adventure into the world’s most visited city. This time, I threw some dollars at the problem. The result? It was just 30 minutes from the plane reaching the gate to me sitting in a taxi heading into the city. On my previous visit, the immigration queue alone took 70 minutes.
A rare astronomical event, a total lunar eclipse, will take place tomorrow, which also falls on Makha Bucha Day. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand says the Moon will appear brick-red across the entire disk.
A thunderstorm warning has been issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging residents to prepare for thunderstorms and strong winds across the province from tomorrow through Friday.
Food safety training was the focus of a workshop held in Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday, as local food business operators gathered to strengthen hygiene standards and protect consumer health.
Since the government canceled the long-standing prohibition on selling alcoholic beverages between 2-5 pm, in a move aimed at stimulating the economy and tourism, the early assessments indicate the change is likely to increase restaurant revenues by more than 20%, after aligning sales hours more closely with tourist behavior.
The rapid escalation of conflict in the Gulf region is once again reminding the world how closely geopolitics, markets, and tourism are intertwined. As military action involving the United States and Israel against Iran reverberates across the Middle East, reports of retaliatory strikes and heightened security alerts have created understandable concern well beyond the immediate region.
Thailand’s exports to Iran, led by canned and processed fruit and rubber-related products, could face disruption risks as fighting involving Iran, the United States, and Israel escalates, raising concerns over logistics, insurance costs, and payment channels for trade with the region.
Medical Tourism Corp. (MTC), a Dallas-based international healthcare facilitation organization, has released its Thailand Dental Tourism Market Research Report 2026, a comprehensive analysis of patient demand patterns, competitive positioning, and strategic growth opportunities across six major Thai cities.
Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Vacation in Thailand
Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash
Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday. 
A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.
Despite early signs of a rebound in Chinese arrivals during the first two months, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is downplaying expectations for a strong recovery, preferring to wait until May to assess whether demand has stabilized.
The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.
Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities
A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” 
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
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.
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
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. 
Thailand, often celebrated for its vibrant street food and laid-back lifestyle, is also facing a quieter health challenge. The country now ranks second in ASEAN for obesity after Malaysia, with an estimated 48% of the population classified as overweight or obese.
Thailand Riviera road construction boosted
In towns and cities across Thailand, a small, brightly colored pill is quietly tearing communities apart. Known as yaba — literally “crazy drug” — these tablets of methamphetamine and caffeine have become one of the country’s most pressing public health emergencies, cutting across class, age, and geography.
Sen. Veerapun Suvannamai has warned of a looming financial crisis in the healthcare system due to unpaid debts from the National Health Security Office (NHSO) under the universal healthcare scheme.
Canine distemper caused the deaths of 72 tigers at two animal parks in Chiang Mai earlier this month, not avian influenza, and there was no transmission to humans, it was announced yesterday.
The statistics of the kingdom have shown for 10 months inflation results lower than the experts’ statistical forecasts (these being on average negative for the whole of 2025 with -0.13% annual average, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Economic and Trade Forecast Center .
The Thai automotive industry has kickstarted the “Year of the Horse” with a 53.8% surge in year-on-year sales for January. The growth was primarily propeled by a record-breaking influx of electric vehicle (EV) deliveries, though the heavy-duty pickup sector continues to flounder amid tightening credit conditions.
Thailand’s car exports fell in January, dropping 6% year-on-year to 58,405 units – the lowest level since May 2022 – which was attributed to stricter environmental regulations and currency fluctuations, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The industrial and logistics property sector continues to outperform other segments, supported by robust demand and ongoing government backing despite prevailing uncertainties, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.
Phuket’s tourism recovery has surpassed pre-Covid levels, with daily flights setting a new record and visitor numbers reaching around 71,000. Provincial authorities expect arrivals to hold steady and are targeting 14 million tourists this year.
The planned new waste-management plant for Phuket is still at least two years away because of delays in receiving approval from state agencies, according to the provincial governor. Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn aired his frustration over the delay in construction of the second waste incinerator,
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to India this week pushing to double trade and mend fractured ties, his first stop on an Asia-Pacific tour that also includes Australia and Japan, as he seeks to reduce reliance on the United States. 
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.
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.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
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%.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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?”
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
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?
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.
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.
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 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.
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.