- Fuel shortages start to hit Hua Hin/PTT clarifies B500 refueling cap/Petrol prices revised/Motorists drain pumps dry/Border petrol stations suspend services/Commerce holds prices until tomorrow/Cha Am Crab Festival underway/Hua Hin Wine Expo/Songkran Pran Beach Festival/Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon/Singha-SAT ADR Hua Hin championship/Bangkok Restrict Phones in Schools/Social Media Erodes Critical Thinking/America’s Food ‘Upside-Down Pyramid’/More Than 437,000 Illegal Websites Closed/
- THE IRAN WAR: Economic toll of war grows/War impact on Thailand/Manufacturers Vow to Freeze Prices for Three Months/Thailand Urges ASEAN Unity/ASEAN working on fuel-sharing/Thai refiner makes rare purchase/Trump seeks Hormuz help/Conflict disrupts global flights
- ECONOMY: Commerce Ministry maps export strategy/Small firms under pressure/Price of eggs goes up/BYD Denies Evading US Tariffs/He was once called Britain’s naughtiest kid
- TOURISM: Thailand’s a Top Medical Tourism Location/Pattaya’s secret charms/Middle East conflict hits Phangnga/How common are falls from hotels/Thai Women Fight Over Tourists
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thai destinations make World’s Greatest Places/Abandoned floating hotel in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Dams, mining threaten Mekong/Factory opens doors to sustainable environment
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Iran war caused fuel shortages start to hit Hua Hin
A gas station in Hua Hin has introduced a 500-baht fuel limit as operators respond to increased demand linked to tightening global energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Yesterday morning, customers at the Caltex service station in Hua Na were informed that refueling purchases were temporarily capped at 500 baht per vehicle. Notices displayed at the forecourt also stated that filling reserve tanks or fuel containers would not be permitted while the measure remained in place. Separately, the Caltex service station in Hin Lek Fai was reported to be closed yesterday. Continued …
PTT clarifies B500 refueling cap, confirms fuel supplies remain sufficient
Following PTT’s announcement on Saturday regarding fuel sales at PTT Station service stations and limits on refueling volumes, motorists became concerned about the possibility of a repeat of an energy crisis.
Most recently, PTT moved quickly to clarify all issues, stressing that the situation remains manageable. It stated clearly that the measure is only a “recommended guideline” to prepare for continued unusually high fuel demand during this period, in order to ensure fuel is distributed thoroughly. Continued …
Petrol prices revised across major stations
Thailand’s Energy Policy and Planning Office has updated fuel prices covering five major petrol stations: PTT, Bangchak, PT, Caltex, and Shell. Diesel B7 is uniformly priced at 29.94 baht per liter across all five stations. Standard Gasohol 95 is also consistent at 31.05 baht per liter at PTT, Bangchak, PT, and Caltex, while Shell prices it higher at 32.35 baht per liter.
At PTT, Gasohol E20 is 27.84 baht per liter, Gasohol E85 is 25.79 baht per liter, Gasohol 91 is 30.68 baht per liter, premium Gasohol 95 is 40.04 baht per liter, Benzene 95 is 39.64 baht per liter, and premium diesel is 43.44 baht per liter. Continued …
Plenty of fuel, government insists, as motorists drain pumps dry
Government officials have rushed to reassure motorists that “out of stock” signs reported at some petrol stations were caused by private motorists and public transport operators panicked into topping up by the Middle East war, not by a shortage of fuel reserves in Thailand.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said people worried about price rises were rushing to buy fuel at local petrol stations where there were no stored emergency reserves of fuel. Continued …
Border petrol stations in Mae Sot suspend services as fuel runs out
Several petrol stations along the Thai-Myanmar border in Mae Sot district, Tak province, were forced to temporarily suspend services yesterday after running out of fuel amid a rise in price and demand.
Large numbers of vehicles, including cargo trucks, agricultural transport vehicles, private cars, and motorcycles, were queuing for fuel along Asian Highway 12, where many petrol stations are located. The long lines caused traffic congestion in several areas, prompting police to step in to manage traffic after vehicles blocked parts of the road. Continued …
Commerce holds prices until tomorrow as diesel support under review
The Ministry of Commerce has urged businesses to hold prices on consumer goods until tomorrow, the same day the Energy Ministry’s 15-day diesel price support measure is set to expire.
The ministry said decisions on whether to allow price increases will depend on whether the government extends the diesel support scheme, which has capped fuel costs during the recent surge in global oil prices. Continued …
Cha Am Crab Festival underway
Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 starts Thursday
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
The decision to move the event to March was made to align with the new vision and leadership team. This shift provides a “longer runway” to transition the expo into a landmark international-standard showcase. By moving the dates, the event gains the necessary preparation time to match an ambitious new scale and deliver the high-caliber experience that local and international guests expect. Continued …
Songkran Pran Beach Festival 2026 and Bikini Run April 11
The Songkran Pran Beach Festival 2026 and Bikini Run is set to take place on April 11 at the 24 Rai Ground, Pak Nam Pran, in Pranburi district, promising a mix of music, sports, and beachside celebrations during the Songkran holiday.
The event is organized by Panathanya Sermboonpaisarn (Hannah) and Anusorn Sermboonpaisarn of Fantastic Roadway, in collaboration with the Pak Nam Pran Municipality. The festival aims to promote tourism in the area, boost the local economy, and encourage environmentally responsible travel, while providing a unique entertainment experience for visitors. Continued …
Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon set for May 23
The Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon 2026 has been officially launched, with organizers aiming to strengthen the town’s reputation as a sports tourism destination while inviting runners to sign up for the endurance event.
Scheduled to take place on May 23 at Rajabhakti Park, the Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon will feature four race distances of 10, 25, 50, and 100 kilometers. Officials say the event is expected to attract Thai and international participants, along with supporters traveling to the area, helping to stimulate activity in Hua Hin and Cha Am’s tourism and service sectors. Continued …
Singha-SAT ADR Hua Hin Championship April 23-26
The Thailand Professional Golf Assn. (TPGA) announced its partnership with the Asian Tour to organize an Asian Development Tour (ADT)-level event — the Singha-SAT ADT Hua Hin Championship 2026 — between April 23-26 at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course.
The tournament will offer World Ranking Points (OWGR), giving Thai golfers opportunities to climb the ranks to the Asian Tour. – Bangkok Post
Bangkok Restricts Phones in 437 Schools
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a policy restricting the use of mobile phones and electronic devices during lessons at 437 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
The initiative, titled “Phone Off, Learning On”, will take effect from the next academic year beginning May 18. The measure aims to improve classroom learning, student well-being, and cyber safety. Continued …
Two-Thirds of Thai Youth ‘Can Read but Not Comprehend’ as Social Media Erodes Critical Thinking
Thailand is facing a burgeoning literacy crisis, with approximately 65% of 15-year-olds unable to comprehend or analyze the content they read, despite being technically literate.
The warning comes from Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), who highlighted a “shocking” trend in recent Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results. Continued …
Nutrition Warning: Why America’s ‘Upside-Down Pyramid’ Could Be a Health Risk for Thais
Thai health officials are sounding the alarm over a growing trend of adopting American dietary habits, warning that the latest “Upside-Down Pyramid” model from the United States may be ill-suited to the Thai physique and could lead to chronic health issues.
The Bureau of Nutrition, under the Department of Health, recently addressed the 2026 US dietary guidelines, which shifted focus toward high protein intake — including red meat, butter, and full-fat dairy — while placing plant-based proteins at the bottom. Continued …
Thai Government Shuts Down More Than 437,000 Illegal Websites
The government has reportedly blocked more than 437,000 illegal website URLs over the past five months as part of expanded efforts to combat online crime. Authorities said most of the blocked sites were linked to online gambling activities.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society carried out the enforcement between Oct. 1, 2025, and Feb. 28, 2026, removing a total of 437,473 illegal URLs. In February alone, authorities blocked 132,842 links across social media platforms and websites. Continued …
Economic toll of war grows
The escalating war between the US-Israel alliance and Iran is entering a more dangerous phase, raising concerns the conflict could trigger a wider economic shock via surging energy prices, disrupted trade routes, and weakening global demand.
Since hostilities erupted on Feb. 28, the confrontation has moved beyond the initial wave of air strikes. Recent attacks on Iran’s ballistic missile production facilities and border outposts suggest the possibility of further escalation, including potential ground operations. Continued …
War impact on Thailand likely to unfold in phases
Thailand’s economy and equity market could face mounting pressure if tensions between the US-Israel alliance and Iran escalate, with risks evolving from short-term financial market volatility to a deeper economic slowdown, says InnovestX Securities.
Piyasak Manason, head of economic research at InnovestX, said the impact on Thailand would likely unfold in phases, beginning with immediate shocks to energy prices and capital flows in the short term, followed by broader structural economic risks if the conflict drags on. Continued …
Essential Goods Manufacturers Vow to Freeze Prices for Three Months Despite Soaring Fuel Costs
Leading Thai manufacturers of essential consumer goods have pledged to hold their retail prices steady for the next three to four months, despite intensifying pressure from global oil prices.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sent crude prices climbing above $100 per barrel, threatening to trigger a surge in the cost of living through increased transport, electricity, and production expenses. Continued …
Thailand Urges ASEAN Unity on Middle East Energy Crisis
Thailand has urged ASEAN countries to strengthen cooperation to address a potential energy and economic crisis triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East, while confirming that 20 Thai crew members rescued from the cargo ship Mayuree Naree will return home today.
Panidarn Pachimsawat, acting director-general of the Department of Information and deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the situation in the Middle East had expanded beyond military targets. Iranian authorities have reportedly escalated attacks against energy infrastructure, shipping routes, and cyber systems linked to the United States and Israel. Continued …
ASEAN states working on fuel-sharing deal
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will expedite the enforcement of an energy-sharing mechanism that will allow member states to support each other’s oil and gas needs during supply disruptions.
This measure, through which ASEAN countries can provide petroleum supplies to neighbors facing shortages of at least 10% of their requirement, comes as the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate further. Continued …
Thai refiner makes rare purchase of North Sea crude
A Thai oil refiner has made a rare purchase of North Sea crude oil as Asian processors scramble to find alternatives to Middle Eastern supplies stuck in the Persian Gulf.
The commodities trader Trafigura Group sold one cargo of about 700,000 barrels for late March loading, a trader with knowledge of the matter said on Friday, asking not to be identified as they’re not authorized to speak to the media. Continued …
Trump urges world powers to secure Iran shipping lane
US President Donald Trump urged other nations to help secure a vital shipping lane choked off by the war with Iran that showed no signs of slowing, as strikes hit the US embassy in Baghdad and a major Emirati energy facility.
Two weeks after the United States and Israel attacked Iran, the entire Gulf region remained in the grip of a conflict that had sent shockwaves through the global economy. The war has also spilled into Lebanon, where the health ministry said Israeli strikes have killed hundreds of people, as Israel fought the Tehran-backed Hezbollah once again. Continued …
Thousands stranded as Middle East conflict disrupts global flights
The conflict in the Middle East has disrupted international flights, causing a growing backlog of stranded travelers, especially in Thailand, with over 400 affected flights.
Globally, around 20,000 flights have been canceled, impacting 400,000 passengers. Limited airline communication and regional route disruptions may take weeks to resolve, threatening future tourism. Continued …
Commerce Ministry maps 2026 export strategy
The Ministry of Commerce held a meeting last week to draw up Thailand’s 2026 proactive international trade promotion plan, chaired by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun together with directors of Thailand’s overseas trade promotion offices — commercial attachés in 58 offices across 43 economic areas worldwide — to take an in-depth look at global trade and set strategies to drive Thai exports.
The Department of International Trade Promotion said its assessment indicates the direct impact on exports to the Middle East is limited, as Thailand exports only 3.7% to the region, with key markets being the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. Continued …
Small firms under pressure as costs soar
Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a wall of negative sentiment this year, as geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and tighter access to loans weigh on the sector, raising questions about how businesses can navigate these tumultuous times.
Consumer spending power in Thailand is expected to remain weak, inevitably affecting SMEs’ revenue streams. High energy and logistics costs pile more pressure on entrepreneurs, said Sangchai Theerakulwanich, strategy chairman for the Federation of Thai SMEs. Continued …
Farm-gate price of eggs goes up
The egg farmers’ cooperative network has raised the farm-gate price of mixed chicken eggs from 3.20 baht to 3.40 baht per egg, or six baht more per tray, effective today.
Chanuwat Siwamok, CEO of Kings Eggs (Thailand) Co., said the price increase is due to several factors, including low prices for an extended period and rising production costs, especially from higher animal feed costs that add pressure on small and medium businesses. Continued …
BYD Denies Using Thai Plant to Evade US Tariffs
Chinese automaker BYD has denied allegations from the United States that its manufacturing facility in Thailand is being used to bypass American trade tariffs. The company said its Rayong plant is focused on domestic demand and exports to other regions, confirming that no vehicles from the site have been shipped to the United States.
The response follows an investigation by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) under Section 301 of the Trade Act. The probe is examining whether Southeast Asian countries are being used for the final assembly of surplus Chinese electric vehicles to circumvent US trade tariffs. Continued …
He was once called Britain’s naughtiest kid – now he runs a six-figure Thailand business
A man once dubbed “Britain’s naughtiest kid” is now raking in six figures through his personal development school in Thailand.
Tom Roberts was just 11-years-old when he featured on the Channel 4 program Mr. Drew’s School For Boys back in 2014. During his time on the show, he faced ongoing behavioral challenges and repeatedly found himself in hot water for fighting and using abusive language toward adults – behavior which he now acknowledges was “awful”. Continued …
Russians Lead Thailand’s Rise as a Top Medical Tourism Location
Thailand has strengthened its position as a leading global destination for medical tourism, with new data showing the country is now among the top three worldwide for international patients seeking treatment abroad. The surge has been driven largely by Russian travelers, who are increasingly choosing Thailand for elective procedures, preventative care, and wellness treatments.
According to the Medical Tourism Overseas Q4 2025 report by Yango Ads, Thailand recorded an 8% year-on-year increase in medical-related search queries. The data highlights growing international interest in the kingdom’s healthcare services, reflecting the country’s reputation for combining modern medical infrastructure with established tourism appeal. Continued …
Pattaya’s secret charms still draw visitors despite challenges
Under the neon glow of Pattaya’s nightlife, the rhythm of the city continues much as it always has. Music pours from open doors, tourists drift between bars, and performers dance beneath bright lights in entertainment venues along the city’s famous nightlife streets.
For many visitors, it is a familiar scene — one that has defined Pattaya for decades. Yet, behind the spectacle lies a city navigating a far more complicated reality. Continued …
Middle East conflict hits tourism in Phangnga
The war in the Middle East is affecting the tourism industry, with Phangnga province reporting a sharp decline in European arrivals and estimated losses of nearly 1.7 billion baht, the Phangnga Hotel Assn. said.
Hotel operators in Phangnga said they are struggling to retain European guests, with postponements and cancellations exceeding 20% compared with the same period last year. Continued …
How common are falls from hotels globally
Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
Each year, an estimated 684 000 individuals die from falls globally, of which over 80% are in low- and middle-income countries. Adults older than 60 years of age suffer the greatest number of fatal falls. 37.3 million falls are severe enough to require medical attention occur each year. For more information …
- Dutch Man Falls to Death at Jomtien Condo – Continued …
- Foreign Woman Seriously Injured in Pattaya Hotel Fall – Continued …
Thai Women Fight Over Tourists on Phuket’s Bangla Road
Two Thai women were filmed fighting in the middle of Bangla Road in Patong, Phuket, late on last night after an argument reportedly erupted over competing for tourist customers. The altercation unfolded in front of numerous shocked visitors and was captured on video by a tourist.
The footage shows the two women arguing intensely before the situation escalates into a physical fight in the middle of the street. Tourists can be seen standing around watching the confrontation unfold, while several foreign men move in and attempt to break up the fight. Continued …
Five Thai destinations make TIME’s World’s Greatest Places
Five experience-led destinations in Thailand have been named among TIME’s World’s Greatest Places 2026, a list of 100 standout destinations. The Thai entries were DaiDib DaiDee in Nan, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, The Blue Jasmine Train, Khao Yai Art Forest, and Dib Bangkok.
DaiDib DaiDee, a small farm stay in Pua district of Nan, stood out for offering visitors a close-to-nature experience rooted in local life and community traditions. The TIME entry described the retreat as an intimate off-grid stay where guests can join daily farm activities and immerse themselves in a slower rural way of life. Continued … https://www.nationthailand.com/news/tourism/40063811
This abandoned floating hotel in Thailand is straight out of a horror film
The project promised to be a unique addition to Thailand’s hotel offerings: a seven-story luxury floating hotel on a series of idyllic, protected lakes. At least that was real estate magnate Olan Assavaritthikul’s plan in the early 1990s.
He would convert a cruise ship into a hotel with nearly 200 rooms and locate it on a 23.5-hectare site in the southern part of Koh Chang, an island in the Gulf of Thailand. The cruise ship would be the centrepiece of the Grand Lagoona Resort and it would offer peaceful crossings across the site’s artificial lakes, promising its passengers shimmering sunsets over perfectly smooth waters and nights when they would be lulled to sleep by the quiet lapping of waves against the hull. Continued …
Dams, mining threaten Mekong, activists say
Activists in the Mekong region have called on governments and agencies to take urgent action to protect the river from worsening environmental damage caused by hydropower dams and mining activities.
Decades of large-scale development have transformed the river — long regarded as a lifeline for millions — into a system increasingly affected by pollution and ecological disruption, the Mekong People’s Network said on Saturday. Continued …
Factory in Bangkok opens doors to sustainable environment
Sonite Innovative Surfaces Co. has opeed its factory in Bangkok, showcasing recyclable materials like rice husks, coconut fiber, eggshells, discarded bottled water, and even old money., Sonite President Nitiphan Darakananda said that people have become more conscious of the environment, with many customers asking for sustainable items to be used in their hotels and restaurants. Video …
98th Academy Award Winners Announced
The Dolby Theater in Los Angeles witnessed a night of long-awaited coronations and historic firsts yesterday, as the 98th Academy Awards celebrated the finest in cinema. Paul Thomas Anderson’s political dark comedy, One Battle After Another, emerged as the evening’s heavy hitter, securing six Oscars, including best picture, best director, and best adapted screenplay. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will take place from March 14-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
Thailand marks National Elephant Day amid a crisis of coexistence
Bangkok Ranked 8th Best City in the World for 2026
Crude oil prices closed above the $100-a-barrel mark yesterday after Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz shut, signaling that markets may be facing a prolonged supply disruption.
For the second time in four years, energy markets in Asia dependent on imported fossil fuels find themselves at the mercy of global commodity markets. Although each country’s immediate exposure to the Iran conflict varies, all face the indirect threat of higher costs driven by tighter fossil fuel markets and elevated geopolitical risk premiums.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has confirmed that the government is prepared to challenge a looming US investigation into “unfair trade practices.” Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, the Thai government has developed a robust strategic framework to address the Section 301 probe initiated by the Trump administration.
The foundation of modern employment – study hard, secure a job, build a stable life – is eroding fast. Technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, is breaking down the old economic model that tied individual effort to secure, long-term work.
Medical tourism has gained attention as a growing segment within the travel market, with high potential for expansion. According to the Medical Tourism Assn. (MTA), it is estimated that over 14 million people travel abroad for medical services annually.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
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.
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.
Indonesia bans elephant riding
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. 
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
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.
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. 
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. 
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. 
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
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.
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. 
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 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%.
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.