- Makha Bucha and total lunar eclipse/Unstable weather for PKK/Family of woman murdered will receive 140,000 baht/PKK food businesses food safety training/Hua Hin Championship Road Race/Run for Salesian Centenary/Revenues Increased After Alcohol Sales Ban Lifted/Reprieve for salt tax/Thai Woman Marries Two Austrians/Gold rush hits Loei
- NEW MIDEAST WAR: ‘Peace’ prsident vows to avenge US deaths/combat operations in Iran will continueIsraeli forces launched strikes on Lebanon/110,000 tHAI Nationals on Alert/Aircraft to Standby to Evacuate Thais/Thailand rolls out energy crisis plan/Urgent Economic Review in Thailand/Oil jumps 13%/What Escalation in the Gulf Could Mean/Strait of Hormuz: why it matters/Thai exports to Iran face risk/Global aviation chaos/AOT says 134 flights affected/Iran’s Search for a Third Supreme Leader
- ECONOMY: Back to the drawing board on US tariffs
- TOURISM: Increased Vigilance at Pai, Chiang Mai Sites/stricter checks at Thai airports/Thailand dental tourism market/Tourism surge meets reality check
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok vendors: lives on the street front/Essential Tips for Summer Vacation in Thailand/Five Southern Gems for Nature Lovers
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Makha Bucha night to bring a rare total lunar eclipse over Thailand tomorrow
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.
If you miss this viewing, the next one will not happen again until the New Year period, from the night of Dec. 31, 2028, into Jan. 1, 2029. Continued …
Unstable weather for PKK through Friday
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.
The Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office said all districts could be affected by unstable weather conditions during the four-day period. Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates and announcements closely. Continued …
Family of woman murdered in Hua Hin will receive 140,000 baht
The family of a woman who was murdered at a hotel in Hua Hin will receive 140,000 baht in compensation, following a decision by a provincial subcommittee last week.
The compensation for the murder victim was approved during a meeting of the Provincial Subcommittee on Compensation for Injured Persons and Compensation and Expenses for Defendants in Criminal Cases, chaired by Sakorn Sitthisak, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Continued …
PKK food businesses receive food safety training
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.
The session, organized by the Restaurant and Street Food Vendors Association of Thailand, Prachuap Khiri Khan chapter, took place yesterday at Pranburi Cabana Resort in Sam Roi Yot district. It aimed to raise food safety standards among restaurant owners, street food vendors, and food handlers across the province. Continued …
Hua Hin Championship Road Race attracts 600 cyclists
The Hua Hin Championship Road Race attracted more than 600 Thai and international cyclists yesterday morning, underlining the growing profile of road cycling in Prachuap Khiri Khan and reinforcing Hua Hin’s position as a sports tourism destination.
The second edition of the Hua Hin Championship Road Race was held at Wat Huay Mongkol, which served as the start and finish point for the event. Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, presided over the opening ceremony. Continued …
Run for Salesian Centenary draws more than 2,000 runners
The Run for Salesian Centenary drew more than 2,000 runners to Hua Hin Wittayalai School yesterday morning, marking 100 years of the Salesian congregation’s mission in Thailand. The charity event aimed to raise funds for scholarships for underprivileged students, as well as new learning equipment to modernize teaching at the school.
Participants competed in 10km, 5km and 3km categories. The route started at Hua Hin Wittayalai School, continued along Soi 88, passed Hua Hin Railway Station and Hua Hin City Municipality, and followed Phetkasem Road toward Amari Hua Hin before returning to the school. Continued …
Revenues Increased After Alcohol Sales 2–5pm Ban Lifted
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.
Information from the Ministry of Public Health, shows that during a two-month evaluation period for December and January, the average hourly rate of drink-driving between 3-5 pm was significantly lower than during the same period last year. The accident-occurrence graph remained stable and did not spike, despite the New Year festival period and heavy travel. Continued …
One-year reprieve for salt tax on snacks
Food manufacturers will be given a one-year adjustment period to reformulate their products to reduce salt content if a sodium tax is introduced, according to the head of the Excise Department.
Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the department, said the proposal for a sodium tax is being considered by the agency. Relevant stakeholders were invited to jointly design the tax measure to ensure the policy is carefully developed, he said. Continued …
Thai Woman Marries Two Austrians in One Ceremony
A 37-year-old Thai woman has drawn widespread attention after marrying two Austrian men in a single ceremony in Prakhon Chai district, Buriram province.
Duangduan Ketsaro, also known as Gig, wed Roman, a retired Austrian police officer and Macky, who is currently serving in the Austrian police force. The trio said they agreed to build a life together after both men fell in love with her. Continued …
Gold rush hits Loei as Mekong villagers pan for treasure amid record prices
A gold rush has swept along the Mekong River in Pak Chom district after gold prices surged to a record 78,400 baht per baht-weight, prompting villagers to flock to newly exposed sandbanks in search of the precious metal.
Over the weekend, more than 150 panning spots were set up along a 10- to 20-meter stretch of riverbank in tambon Pak Chom, including Ban Sri Phuthorn and Ban Hat Bia. With the Mekong’s water level dropping significantly, wide sandbars have emerged, allowing residents to access sediment long buried beneath the river. Continued …
‘Peace’ president vows to avenge first US deaths as Iran war intensifies
US President Donald Trump vowed yesterday to avenge the first US deaths in the war he launched to topple Iran’s cleric-run state, which fired missiles across the Middle East even as the headquarters of its elite Revolutionary Guards was reduced to rubble.
Trump said he was planning for around four weeks of conflict after Saturday’s massive US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Continued …
Trump says combat operations in Iran will continue until all objectives achieved
U.S. President Donald Trump warned yesterday that combat operations in Iran were continuing and would carry on until all of Washington’s objectives are achieved.
Trump confirmed three U.S. service members had been killed and said there would likely be more casualties, vowing to avenge the deaths of Americans. Continued …
Israel hits Lebanon after Hezbollah fire, expanding Iran war
Israeli forces launched strikes on Lebanon including the capital Beirut today, the military said, after Tehran-backed militant group Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader. The Israeli military said it had “begun striking targets of the Hezbollah terrorist organization across Lebanon”.
The Israeli strikes followed rocket and drone launches from Lebanon, the first attack on Israel claimed by Hezbollah since a November 2024 ceasefire agreement that followed more than a year of war between them. Continued …
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry Puts 110,000 Nationals on Alert as Middle East Crisis Deepens
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs convened an urgent press conference on Sunday yesterday to address the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, following Israeli air strikes on Tehran, retaliatory Iranian missile attacks on American military installations across the Gulf, and the confirmed death of Iran’s supreme leader.
Panidone Pachimsawat, deputy director-general of the Department of Information and acting spokesman for the ministry, told reporters that the Thai government is “closely monitoring the situation with grave concern” and has activated a dedicated emergency operations center — dubbed the “War Room” — to track developments around the clock. Continued …
Anutin Orders Aircraft to Standby to Evacuate Thais From Iran
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Air Force commander to prepare aircraft to evacuate Thai nationals stranded in Iran, placing all relevant agencies on 24-hour standby. The order was issued yesterday as tensions in the Middle East escalate.
Anutin warned that the conflict in the Middle East is likely to intensify and could affect the global economy, including Thailand. Although Thailand is not a party to the conflict, he noted that many thousands of Thai citizens live and work in countries across the region. He said Iran and Israel are of particular concern. Continued …
Thailand rolls out energy crisis plan: export curb, alternative supplies
The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began Saturday, and is expected to continue, has caused oil-price volatility. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil-shipping route, affecting supply equivalent to 20% of global demand.
At present, Thailand has four crude-oil import shipping routes: 1, Upstream source: Middle East (United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait), via the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, the Arabian Sea, the Strait of Malacca, and the Gulf of Thailand. Continued …
Middle East Tensions Spark Urgent Economic Review in Thailand
As direct military confrontations between the US, Israel, and Iran escalate, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) has joined an emergency briefing with the prime minister to mitigate the fallout for domestic businesses and consumers. Speaking prior to the meeting today, TCC Chairman Poj Aramwattananont issued a stark warning regarding global economic stability.
He noted that significant volatility in energy and financial markets was already being felt and that the private sector was entering the discussions with a clear view of the “grave risks” facing the Thai economy. Continued …
Oil jumps 13% at the open as Middle East war intensifies
Crude oil prices jumped more than 10% on Monday, surging about 13% at the market open as the escalating war in the Middle East rattled global markets. US stock index futures opened sharply lower, while gold climbed alongside oil as investors moved into perceived safe havens.
Bloomberg’s morning market wrap said S&P 500 futures fell nearly 1% at the open and Nasdaq 100 futures dropped 1.2%. Australian equities also opened lower as traders fled risk. Continued …
What Escalation in the Gulf Could Mean for Asia, Thailand, and Global Markets
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.
While the human and humanitarian implications must always come first, there are also clear economic consequences that merit careful examination, particularly for travel, tourism, and investor confidence across Asia and Thailand. Continued …
Strait of Hormuz: why it matters to global shipping and energy
The rising Middle East tension triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran has intensified to the point of wider fighting, and is now causing turbulence across the global economy — particularly in global exports and the shipment of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has declared the route closed and has banned the United States from sending warships through the Persian Gulf sea lane, following the attack on Iran. Continued …
Thai exports to Iran face disruption risk as conflict escalates; fruit, rubber shipments most exposed
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.
Trade data from the Ministry of Commerce shows Iran is a relatively small trading partner for Thailand, but Thai exporters still ship a range of consumer and industrial products to the country. Continued …
Global aviation chaos as Middle East airspace shuts for second day
The conflict involving Iran has sent shockwaves through the global aviation industry after large swathes of Middle East airspace remained closed for a second consecutive day, triggering thousands of cancellations and reroutes and leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded worldwide.
Major Gulf transit hubs — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha — were shut or severely restricted, disrupting one of the world’s most important east-west travel corridors. Dubai, the world’s busiest international hub, remained closed for a second day, with ripple effects felt as far as Bali, Kathmandu, and Frankfurt. Continued …
AOT says 134 flights affected by Middle East tensions
Airports of Thailand (AOT) said unrest linked to Israel-Iran clashes led some airlines to adjust flight plans, affecting 134 flights across AOT-managed airports. AOT said all six airports remain open and passenger assistance is in place.
AOT said it has been closely monitoring the situation across its six main airports — Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai — and has been informed that a total of 134 flights were affected during the period. Continued …
Iran’s Search for a Third Supreme Leader Amid the Fires of War
The Islamic Republic of Iran has entered its most precarious era of political transition since its inception in 1979. Following the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli strike on Saturday, the nation’s unique “theocratic democracy” faces an existential hurdle: appointing a third supreme leader while under active military bombardment.
For nearly four decades, Khamenei ruled without ever publicly designating an heir. Now, the Assembly of Experts — an elite body of 88 senior clerics — must convene to select a successor who meets the strict constitutional requirements: a male cleric of high moral standing with proven political competence and absolute loyalty to the revolutionary system. Continued …
Back to the drawing board for Thailand on US tariffs
A new wave of uncertainty is sweeping through global trade as US President Donald Trump has announced a 10% global tariff, with a potential increase to 15%. This move follows the Supreme Court ruling Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs, started last year, are unconstitutional.
For Thai goods, the US tariff is reduced from 19% to 10%, but the strong baht places Thailand at a disadvantage, with the competitiveness of Thai exports in the US market hinging on production costs. Continued …
ISOC Urges Increased Vigilance at Pai, Chiang Mai Sites
Authorities have stepped up security at symbolic sites in Pai and Chiang Mai following the conflict between Israel and Iran. Col. Phumirat Dusadee, director of the Mae Hong Son office of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), said yesterday that heightened monitoring was under way to prevent potential incidents.
Security has been tightened at the Chabad House in Pai, as nearly 4,000 Israelis are currently residing in the area, and at US-affiliated locations in Chiang Mai. Phumirat said northern Thailand hosts locations associated with Israeli and US interests and attracts large numbers of tourists. Continued …
Passengers advised to prepare for stricter checks at Thai airports
Stricter checks of passengers’ belongings have been implemented at all Thai airports in compliance with safety standards and requirements imposed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has therefore issued a notice this week advising all air passengers to be aware of and well prepared for stricter automated screening of their belongings at checkpoints. Continued …
Thailand dental tourism market reaches 972,000 patients annually
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.
The study reveals Thailand’s position as the undisputed leader in Southeast Asian dental tourism, with 972,000 international dental patients annually — a market volume 12 times larger than Vietnam’s emerging sector. Continued …
Tourism surge meets reality check as Pattaya expats warn of premature optimism
Optimism is never in short supply in Pattaya. Every long weekend is called a “boom.” Every busy flight is the start of a “record year.” Every crowded night on Beach Road signals the return of the golden days. But not everyone is convinced.
Following reports of a holiday air travel surge and renewed interest from international markets, some business owners have declared that Pattaya is on the brink of a major comeback. Yet, a growing number of long-term expatriates remain skeptical — especially with escalating tensions in the Middle East clouding global travel confidence. Continued …
Bangkok vendors: lives on the street front
For decades, street vendors have been Bangkok’s heartbeat — feeding office workers, day laborers. and night wanderers alike. Bustling roads and alleys have long been a familiar sight in the city, recognized by many international travel blogs and tourism rankings for its street food culture.
People in the profession, however, have faced recurring challenges. Sivarod is a second-generation owner of Hia Hui Soy Milk in Khlong Toey, a shop that has been serving customers for more than 40 years. The shop once stood on the sidewalk of Ratchadaphisek Road but was recently forced to relocate about 450 meters away under city regulations. Continued …
Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Vacation in Thailand
Thailand’s hot weather often sends people straight to the beach. Whether you are after high-energy activities such as diving and jet skiing, or you would rather unwind by the sea and snap the perfect holiday photos, it is the ideal time to make the most of summer.
Thailand’s summer typically falls between March and May, though the Thai Meteorological Department forecasts that this year’s season will run from late February to mid-May. Continued …
Five Southern Gems for Nature Lovers and Slow Life Enthusiasts
Thailand’s southern region offers travelers an escape into nature and authentic local experiences. From Ranong to Songkhla, these five provinces blend scenic landscapes with community culture, while supporting the regional economy.
Ranong, a tranquil province rich in natural wonders, rewards those seeking wellness and rejuvenation. The renowned Raksawarin Hot Springs (Raksa Warin), located just 2 kilometers from the town center, features natural mineral water reaching 65°C — considered the purest hot spring water in Thailand with no sulphur content. Continued …
- Four Brits Arrested Over Pattaya 2-million-baht Safe Raid – Continued …
- Pattaya Police Arrest Two Indians in Sex Trafficking Case – Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Hua Hin 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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?
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. 
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.
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