Category Archives: pattaya

exports, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand beaches, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Jan 3

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  • Fatal Assault at Hua Hin Fishing Pier/Teen Gunman Opens Fire at PKK Market/145 killed in first three ‘dangerous days’/Cold surge from China
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand denies Cambodia ‘land grab’/Displaced families stranded on border
  • ECONOMY: The Thai real estate crisis/Exporters face another tough year
  • TOURISM: Viral Airport Queue Claims/Phuket tourism outpaces infrastructure/Beach paradise or dumping ground/Patong Beach Buried Under Trash/Trat tourism revenue/Singapore–Chiang Rai Flights
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: What makes an elephant abandon her calf?Thailand on the World Dessert Map
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Your Turnkey Energy Provider

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
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Three Arrested After Fatal Assault at Hua Hin Fishing Pier

A 20-year-old Myanmar national has died following a violent assault at Hua Hin fishing pier, with police arresting three teenage suspects within hours of the incident. The victim succumbed to severe injuries at Hua Hin Hospital after being attacked late on New Year’s Eve, prompting a swift investigation by local authorities.

The incident occurred shortly before midnight on Dec. 31 at the fishing pier in Hua Hin subdistrict, Hua Hin district. Police from Hua Hin Police Station were called to reports of a serious assault and later confirmed that the injured man, identified as Her Hai Yin, aged 20 and a Myanmar national, had died from his wounds. Officers attending the scene found numerous broken liquor and beer bottles scattered across the ground, along with bloodstains. Continued …

Teen Gunman Opens Fire at PKK Market

A three-month-old baby injured during a shooting at Bang Saphan market in Prachuap Khiri Khan province has been confirmed safe, while police have taken a 17-year-old suspect into custody. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Jan. 1, left three people injured and caused panic among shoppers in a busy community area.

The shooting followed a confrontation between two groups of teenagers at a local market in Bang Saphan district. An argument escalated into violence, with a firearm being discharged three times, resulting in injuries to an adult male, a 14-year-old boy and the infant, who was initially believed to have been struck by a bullet. Continued …

145 killed in first three ‘dangerous days’

A total of 145 people were killed and 769 injured in road accidents during the first three days of the New Year holiday travel period, with Bangkok recording the highest number of deaths and Phuket topping the list for the number of accidents, authorities said yesterday.

Jirapong Thepphitak, deputy permanent secretary for transport, announced the latest figures from the Road Safety Directing Center during the New Year holiday. Continued …

Cold surge from China to bring cooler, windier weather

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said yesterday that another moderate to fairly strong high-pressure system from China is extending over upper Thailand and the upper south, bringing cool to cold weather and strong winds in many areas.

Temperatures in the Northeast are expected to fall by 2-4°C, while the rest of upper Thailand — excluding the lower south — is forecast to see temperatures drop by 1-3°C, with cool mornings. Continued … 

Thailand denies Cambodia ‘land grab’

Thailand has rejected foreign media accusations that it has seized Cambodian territory or blocked Cambodian villagers from returning to their homes, insisting all Thai operations remain strictly within its jurisdiction.

The Joint Press Center on the Thailand–Cambodia border situation said recent descriptions by some foreign media outlets of Thailand “occupying” Cambodian land misrepresented both the facts on the ground and the legal status of the disputed areas. Continued …

Displaced families stranded on Thailand–Cambodia border despite ceasefire

Despite the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand holding temporarily, new realities have emerged on the ground that are difficult to reverse. A Cambodian village, Chalk Chai, is now under Thai control, with Thai troops visibly present inside the village, although Cambodia maintains that no territorial change has legally occurred.

The Cambodian authorities emphasize that troop positions since the ceasefire do not alter the existing borders, which are defined by treaties and international law. Nonetheless, civilians remain cut off from their homes, with many unable to access personal belongings and fearing military threats if they attempt to return. Continued …

The Thai real estate crisis: When domestic purchasing power collapses

In a situation where the Thai economy faces challenges on all sides, especially the high level of household debt, reaching 90% of GDP, and the slowdown in nationwide residential property transfers, projected to fall by 6% in 2026, the Thai real estate market is inevitably dependent on foreign investment.

The question of whether aggressively promoting the sale of real estate to foreigners, particularly luxury condominiums and villas in strategic areas, constitutes “selling out the nation” is therefore not just a moral issue, but a complex matter of policy and economic mechanisms. Continued …

Exporters face another tough year

Thailand’s exports in 2026 are expected to face volatility and challenges due to a global economic slowdown that is dampening demand in key trading nations. High household debt will curb purchasing power, while a sluggish recovery in the global labor market, geopolitical uncertainties, and rising trade protectionism will continue to influence this sector, noted the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC).

Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of TNSC, said shipments this year will be gradual and uneven, rather than a clear upward trend, because of the fragility of the global economy. Continued … 

Thai Immigration Hits Back at Viral Airport Queue Claims

The Thai Immigration Bureau has refuted viral claims of extensive wait times at Suvarnabhumi airport, asserting that passengers are processed within 30 minutes even during peak travel seasons.

The controversy ignited with a social media post by a Japanese tourist, who mocked the lengthy queues experienced at the airport’s immigration counters, dubbing the situation “amazing.” This criticizm has gained traction, with other Japanese netizens voicing similar grievances and advising travelers to anticipate up to two-hour waits during busy holiday periods. Continued …

Phuket tourism surge outpaces island’s infrastructure

Phuket’s tourism industry is calling on the government to urgently resolve what it describes as a deepening infrastructure crisis, warning that the island’s rapid tourism growth is outstripping its ability to cope.

The Phuket Tourist Assn. said that while tourism and the city’s expansion have continued year after year, infrastructure has not kept pace and cannot adequately support the scale of growth. The association urged the state to move from discussion to delivery, saying the problems have been talked about for years without meaningful implementation. Continued …

After the countdown, tourists question whether Pattaya is a beach paradise or a dumping ground

The fireworks had barely faded when Pattaya Beach revealed a very different New Year scene. As tourists woke on Jan. 1 expecting soft sand and sea views, many instead found piles of plastic cups, food containers, bottles, and cigarette butts scattered across the shoreline.

For first-time visitors especially, the contrast was jarring. Overnight, a globally marketed beach destination appeared to some less like a tropical paradise and more like a dumping ground after the party moved on. Continued …

Patong Beach Buried Under Trash After New Year Revelry

A shocking scene awaited early risers at Patong Beach as the first day of the year dawned. The iconic Thai tourist hotspot was engulfed in a sea of rubbish following the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Instead of its usual pristine sands, piles of waste covered the shore, left behind by revelers who welcomed 2026 with reckless abandon.

Photos highlighted the enormity of the environmental damage. An array of litter, including alcohol bottles, beer cans, and single-use plastics like water bottles and cups, was strewn across the coastline. Abandoned camping chairs and festive items added to the mess, creating a daunting task for cleanup crews. Continued …

Trat tourism revenue set to top Bt413 million

About 413 million baht in tourism revenue is expected during the New Year holiday, despite earlier cancellations linked to Thai-Cambodian border clashes, according to the local office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Korakot Opas, director of TAT’s Trat office, said bookings during the five-day holiday from Dec. 31 to Jan. 4 showed encouraging signs of recovery, with an average occupancy rate of 77.3% and an average stay of 1.98 nights. Continued …

Direct Singapore–Chiang Rai Flights Launch Until March 2026

Direct international flights between Singapore and Chiang Rai have officially begun, marking the first such service since the Covid-19 pandemic and strengthening air connectivity to northern Thailand.

The new route is expected to boost tourism arrivals to Chiang Rai and support Thailand’s wider goal of increasing visitor numbers from Singapore beyond one million in 2026. Local authorities and tourism officials welcomed the inaugural flight, highlighting its immediate economic and travel impact. Continued …

What makes an elephant abandon her calf – and is it a problem?

Khao Tom, a two-month-old elephant, plays with a wildlife officer, nudging his face and curling her trunk around his wrist. When she lifts her trunk in the air, signaling that she is hungry, the team at the rescue center seems relieved – she has not been eating well. A vet prepares a pint-sized bottle of formula, which she gulps down impatiently.

Khao Tom has been in the care of Thailand’s national parks and wildlife department since September, when rangers rescued her from a farming area inside Lam Khlong Ngu national park. Born with a congenital disorder affecting her knees, she struggled to keep up with the herd. Within days of her birth, her mother had moved on without her. Continued …

Mango Sticky Rice and Khanom Khrok Put Thailand on the World Dessert Map

Two of Thailand’s most loved traditional desserts have earned international recognition after being named among the Top 100 Best Desserts in the World for 2025 by TasteAtlas, a global food and culture website.

The ranking, based on more than 97,000 user ratings, celebrates the world’s most popular sweet dishes — and this year it placed khanom khrok at number 24 and mango sticky rice at number 64. Continued … 

Contaminated water kills 9 and hospitalizes 200 in India

At least nine people have died and more than 200 ?have been hospitalized in the central Indian city of Indore after a diarrhea outbreak that officials said was linked to contaminated drinking water, according to a lawmaker and local ?health authorities. Continued …

China’s BYD Surpasses Tesla as Top Global EV Seller

China’s BYD has surpassed Tesla to become the world’s largest seller of electric vehicles (EVs) in annual sales. This marks the first time BYD has outpaced its American competitor, with BYD’s sales increasing by nearly 28% to over 2.25 million vehicles in 2025. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales dropped by almost 9% to 1.64 million vehicles globally. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

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

bangkok, cha am, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Friday’s news-Jan 2

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  • Tourists being overcharged in Cha Am/Stunning fireworks show in Bangkok/Bottled water – up to 90,000 extra microplastics per year/Double cold front to hit Thailand/157,624 Traffic Offenses in Two Days/Bangkok world’s 14th largest city
  • ECONOMY: 11 megaprojects for 2026/Taking the wind out of Thai economy/Co-pay stimulus ends
  • TOURISM: Thailand tourism slips in 2025/When the golden goose disappeared/BBC snubs Thailand/CAAT to raise passenger entry-exit fee
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Ayutthaya’s ruins show off
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand water quality assessment/Renewables facing fresh challenges
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

It’s not just Pattaya: tourists being overcharged even in Cha Am

Every time a complaint about tourism scams or inflated prices goes viral, Pattaya is usually the first name dragged into the conversation. Beach chairs, jet skis, taxis, drinks — Pattaya has long been portrayed as the poster child for tourist rip-offs. But the latest outrage coming from Cha Am tells a different story, and it is one Thailand should not ignore.

During the recent holiday period, social media lit up with angry reactions after visitors reported being charged 100 baht per beach chair, or forced into “sets” costing 500–600 baht just to sit by the sea. One widely shared post described a family of six being told that the price was high simply because it was a festival period. Even when they explained they were locals from Phetchaburi, the price barely moved. Continued …

Thailand puts on stunning fireworks show in Bangkok

Thailand ushered in the New Year with a grand fireworks show across the Chao Phraya River bend. The show, which spanned 1,400 meters in the heart of Bangkok, also included a 4D aerial performance, a fusion of drone and pyrotechnic displays, under the theme ‘In Eternity Reverance’ to honor the late-Queen Mother, Sirikit, who passed away in October. Video …

A person who drinks bottled water ingests up to 90,000 extra microplastics per year

The microplastics derived from bottles represent an invisible risk to human health, according to a recent study. The most alarming data from the analysis reveals that those who consume bottled water daily can incorporate up to 90,000 plastic particles more per year than those who drink from the tap.

The research, led by the Concordia University in Canada, reviewed more than 140 international studies to reach this conclusion. The data measured the global scope of a phenomenon that transforms the daily consumption of water into a silent threat. Continued …

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Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

Double cold front to hit Thailand after New Year

The “Thailand Weather Forecast” page has issued a fresh advisory for the first half of January, predicting two distinct waves of cooler weather that will sweep across the country. Residents should prepare for temperature drops between Jan. 4–11 and a second wave on Jan. 14–15.

For the capital, the forecast indicates a steady decline in morning temperatures starting from the first week of the year. The data predicts the mercury will hit its lowest point at 18.4°C on Jan. 9. Continued …

Police Report 157,624 Traffic Offenses in Two Days

Police have urged motorists to drive with care after more than 157,000 traffic offenses were recorded during the first two days of the New Year road safety campaign, highlighting ongoing risks as holiday travel continues nationwide.

The enforcement forms part of the annual “seven days of intensive control” aimed at reducing accidents during the New Year period, when traffic volumes are high and crash risks increase. Continued …

Jakarta ranks world’s largest city, Bangkok 14th

Jakarta ranked as the world’s largest city with 41.9 million inhabitants followed by Dhaka, while Tokyo slipped to third, a recent United Nations (UN) report shows.

The population of Japan’s capital has grown more slowly than those of Indonesia and Bangladesh, and consequently, its rank among the world’s most populous cities dropped from first in 2000 to third by 2025, according to the report. Continued …

Transport Ministry unveils 11 megaprojects for 2026 worth over Bt359.8 billion

The Nakhon Pathom–Cha-am Motorway project is among 11 megaprojects, valued at over Bt359.8 billion, that Thailand’s Transport Ministry has prepared for Cabinet approval in 2026.

The projects are divided into three main categories: six road and expressway developments, three double-track railway sections, and four major airport expansions. Continued … 

Political instability taking the wind out of Thai economy sails

Since the last general election in May 2023, Thailand has been in the throes of political turbulence. Two prime ministers have served short terms in office while the third PM would have had barely four months in office. The country is now preparing for its next general election, scheduled for Feb. 8.

After serving for just about two months, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul made the decision to dissolve Parliament on Dec. 12. The move was prompted by the opposition People’s Party attempting to launch a no-confidence motion against his minority government, triggered by a conflict over constitutional amendments. Continued …

Co-pay stimulus ends with Bt84B spent, lifting GDP by 0.2%

 

Pongnakorn Pochakorn, assistant spokesperson for the Finance Ministry, said preliminary figures showed spending under the Khon La Khreung Plus scheme reached 84.19 billion baht before it ended on Dec. 31. A total of 19.76 million people used the scheme.

The total comprised two parts: Public spending: 42.81 billion baht, including 41.25 billion baht spent at general participating shops and 1.55 billion baht spent via food delivery platforms. Government co-payment: 41.37 billion baht, including 39.89 billion baht co-paid for purchases at general participating shops and 1.47 billion baht co-paid via food delivery platforms. Continued …

Thailand tourism slips in 2025 despite domestic growth

Thailand’s tourism performance in 2025 declined, with foreign arrivals falling and total tourism revenue edging lower, even as domestic travel continued to rise, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

In a year-end summary released yesterday, the ministry said Thailand generated total tourism revenue of 2,703,335 million baht from both international and domestic visitors in 2025, down 1.26% from the previous year. Continued … 

When the Thai baht rose and the golden goose disappeared

For decades, Thailand’s tourism economy thrived on a simple formula: affordable prices, strong foreign spending power, and constant turnover. Visitors arrived for a few weeks, spent freely on hotels, food, tours, bars, shops, and transport, then went home — replaced almost immediately by the next wave. Money flowed, jobs were created, and local businesses survived.

Across Pattaya and other tourist centers, the streets may still look busy. Beaches appear crowded in photos shared by tourism promoters. Arrival numbers remain high. Yet, bar owners, restaurateurs, shopkeepers, and service workers tell a very different story: fewer customers, lower spending, and thinner margins than ever before. Continued …

BBC snubs Thailand, picks Phnom Penh for 2026 travel List

In a surprising shift for Southeast Asian tourism rankings, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has excluded Thailand from its prestigious feature, “The 20 Best Places to Travel in 2026.“

Meanwhile, neighboring Cambodia has secured a spot, with its capital, Phnom Penh, praised for its modern transformation and commitment to sustainable urban culture. Continued …

CAAT to raise passenger entry-exit fee to 25 baht from Feb 1

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a notification setting the rate, collection period, and remittance method for the fee levied on passengers entering or leaving the country at 25 baht per person per trip, effective from Feb. 1.

The move follows a resolution of the Civil Aviation Board’s meeting on Dec. 3, which approved collecting the fee from air operators, calculated based on the number of passengers traveling into or out of the kingdom. Continued …

Ayutthaya’s ruins show off their soul

As day fades into night along the Chao Phraya River, the ruined temples of Ayutthaya begin to glow. Brick chedis and riverside temples, usually explored under the midday sun, are illuminated after dark, revealing a more beautiful and soulful side of Thailand’s former capital.

This winter, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ayutthaya is inviting visitors to experience that transformation through the Ayutthaya Nawa Festival. Continued …

2025 Thailand water quality assessment

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has released its 2025 Thailand Water Quality Situation Report, revealing positive trends. Most coastal and surface water resources nationwide remain in “fair to good” condition.

Data from the past decade suggests that water quality is either stabilizing or slightly improving, reflecting progress in national monitoring and resource management, though certain areas require continued vigilance. Continued …

Renewables expansion facing fresh challenges

Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s decision to dissolve the House adds challenges to the state push for a transition to clean energy in 2026.

The caretaker premier announced in late September Thailand would make more serious efforts to achieve a net-zero target, a balance between carbon dioxide emissions and absorption, by 2050, 15 years earlier than previously planned. Continued …

  • British Tourist Arrested After Assault on Bolt Rider in Pattaya – Continued …
  • Kazakh National Arrested in Phuket With Cocaine and Drug Stickers – Continued …
  • Naked Norwegian Arrested After New Year Booze Binge in Udon – Continued …
  • Army Intercepts 18 Ethiopians at Mae Sot Border – Continued …

Around 40 killed as fire ravages Swiss ski resort New Year party

Dozens were killed and over 100 injured when a fire ripped through a crowded bar in the luxury Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday, as young revellers rang in the New Year. Horrified bystanders described “panic” as people tried to break the windows of the bar to escape, and others, covered in burns, poured into the street. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

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

bangkok, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand islands, tourism

Wednesday’s news-Dec 31

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  • Illegal Hua Hin Milk Factory/Five Behaviors Now Count as Harassment/Unsafe levels of smog
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Containers Placed at Nong Chan Border/Full services at border district hospitals
  • ECONOMY: New Year celebrations/Co-payment scheme ends/BoT flags prolonged manufacturing slump/2026 inflation target
  • TOURISM: Koh Chang ferry traffic jams/Hat Yai Hotels Struggle
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The best New Year’s eve dinners
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: 1,000 electric truck tractors
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Police Smash Illegal Hua Hin Factory Rebranding Expired Milk for Sale

Consumer Protection Police have dismantled an illegal factory accused of altering expiration dates on expired milk cartons and selling them online, seizing more than 13,000 items valued at over 1.5 million baht.

The operation took place yesterday in Hua Hin district, and was ordered by Police Major Gen. Kongkrit Lertsittikul, commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD). Continued …

Thailand’s New Law: Five Behaviors Now Count as Harassment

A recent amendment to Thailand’s Criminal Code, effective yesterday, now includes a broader range of behaviors under sexual harassment, encompassing verbal, gestural, stalking, and online actions.

The law aims to address increasing awareness of personal rights with tougher penalties for offenders, as published in the Royal Gazette. This change acknowledges the evolving understanding of harassment beyond just physical contact, ensuring stricter consequences for actions causing distress or fear. Continued …

Your Turnkey Energy Provider

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

Unsafe levels of smog in Bangkok and 48 provinces

Unsafe ultrafine dust (PM2.5) levels exceeded Thailand’s safety limit in Bangkok and 48 of the country’s 76 provinces this morning, with the highest concentration recorded in Nong Khai.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency reported hat unsafe levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 37.8 to 74.0 micrograms per cubic metet (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 48 provinces. The government-set safe threshold for PM2.5 is 37.5µg/m³ in Thailand.. Continued …

Containers Placed at Nong Chan Border in New Year Gesture

Thai troops have installed 60 shipping containers along the border at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province, formally marking the area in line with the 1:50,000 map and declaring the move a New Year gift to the Thai people and local residents.

The containers were placed after Thai forces reclaimed the area from Cambodia, with the Thai national flag raised to signal control and the delineation of territory. The action has had an immediate symbolic impact for villagers in Ban Nong Chan, reinforcing Thailand’s claim over the area. Continued …

Public Health Ministry to resume full services at border district hospitals

The Ministry of Public Health announced it will resume full medical services at district hospitals in Sa Kaeo and other border provinces after the ceasefire entered its third day yesterday, provided it continues to hold.

Dr Ekkachai Piansriwatchara, deputy permanent secretary for public health, said there were signs of improvement after two days of the ceasefire. As a result, it would consider resuming full services at district hospitals in Sa Kaeo and other provinces, which were closed after fighting broke out on Dec. 8. Continued …

New Year celebrations expected to generate over 7O billion baht revenue

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is expecting New Year celebration revenue to reach 70-76.5 billion baht, while anticipating approximately 1.4 to 1.5 million foreign tourists to fly here to ring in 2026.

Thapanee Kiatpaiboon, TAT’s governor, said income from foreign tourists during this festive season is expected to reach 51.6- 58 billion baht, while that from 4.96 million Thai holidaymakers will likely reach 18.5 billion baht, with the latter surging by 7% in both total number of tourists and revenue. Continued …

Co-payment scheme ends today

The cabinet has urged the public to spend “Khon La Khrueng Plus” funds before the program’s deadline expires today.

The Thai cabinet is urging citizens to use their remaining “Khon La Khrueng Plus” balances under the “Let’s Go Halves” co payment scheme before the deadline, hoping the spending will stimulate the economy. Only seven million out of 20 million eligible participants have spent their allocations, leaving about six billion baht unused. Continued …

BoT flags prolonged manufacturing slump as competitiveness fades

Thailand’s economy showed clearer demand-side improvement late in 2025, supported by continued growth in goods exports and tourism. However, the recovery remains uneven, as industrial production has continued to contract, reflected in broad-based declines across the manufacturing production index (MPI), amid both temporary factors and deeper structural weaknesses.

The baht’s strength and intensifying competition from imported goods remain key risks to watch in the period ahead. Chayawadee Chai-anant, assistant governor of the Corporate Relations Group and spokesperson for the Bank of Thailand (BoT), said the ongoing weakness in manufacturing had, in the near term, been driven by several temporary factors. Continued …

2026 inflation target set at 1%–3%

Thailand’s cabinet approved the monetary policy target for 2026 yesterday, keeping the headline inflation target range at 1%–3%, following a joint agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand (BoT). The range is unchanged from 2025.

The cabinet also instructed four key economic agencies — the Finance Ministry, the BoT, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), and the Budget Bureau — to closely monitor inflation to ensure it remains within the target range. Continued …

Koh Chang ferry traffic jams stretch 1 kilometer

The New Year Festival atmosphere in Trat province has returned to full vibrancy. Reports from the Laem Ngop Ferry Terminal yesterday indicate a surge of tourists heading to the islands, resulting in significant traffic congestion. Meanwhile, operators and tourists confirm that Koh Kood and Koh Mak remain safe destinations despite border concerns.

Both Thai and international tourists arrived in large numbers by car and motorcycle, queuing to purchase ferry tickets to Koh Chang. The influx caused a traffic tailback stretching over 1 kilometer. Despite the congestion, local business operators view this bustle as a positive economic signal for the area. Continued …

Hat Yai Hotels Struggle to Recover, Long Road to Rehabilitation

Only about half of hotels in Hat Yai have reopened after severe flooding, while others remain closed for cleanup, repairs or permanent shutdown, the local hotel association said.

Sittipong Sithiphatprapha, president of the Hat Yai–Songkhla Hotel Assn., said many operators are still assessing whether they can afford to reopen. One long-established hotel that had operated for decades has decided to close permanently, citing high renovation costs and concerns that flooding could return in 2026. Continued …

The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand

New Year’s Eve dinner in Thailand is never just about eating. It’s about sitting somewhere you actually want to stay, ordering another drink without checking the time, and letting the night go by until midnight sneaks up on the table.

This list is for people who want their last meal of the year to feel like a moment. Big buffets, skyline rooftops, beachfront lawns, and hotel dining rooms that know how to throw a proper finale. Dress up if you want, stay seated longer than planned, and let dinner carry you into the countdown. Continued …

U Power signs deal for up to 1,000 electric truck tractors in Thailand

U Power Limited announced Monday it has entered a strategic partnership with Whale Logistics (Thailand) Co. to deploy commercial battery-swapping electric trucks in Thailand. The micro-cap company, currently valued at just $8.38 million, is pursuing growth opportunities despite facing financial challenges with a negative EBITDA of $5.11 million in the last 12 months.

Under the agreement, U Power’s wholly-owned subsidiary, U SWAP Co., has secured an order for up to 1,000 battery-swapping electric vehicles. The first batch of 30 units is scheduled for delivery in April, marking the beginning of U Power’s commercial operations in Thailand. Continued …

Myanmar’s opium cultivation reaches record high

Opium cultivation in Myanmar has reached a record high in 10 years, and opium plantations are also increasing in opium-growing areas, according to a statement from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Opium cultivation in Myanmar has increased by 17% compared with last year, with the area under cultivation increasing from 45,200 hectares to 53,100 hectares, the statement said. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

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

bangkok, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Monday’s news-Dec 29

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  • Expat Thailand 2025/2,000-firework display for Hua Hin’Hua Hin fishing pier for fireworks/Rotary donates to Hua Hin Hospital/Black leopards at Pa La-U waterfall/How to Treat a Herniated Disk/SMS scam reporting service/Woman survives 25th-floor fall/SEA Games medals
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand, China Discuss Ceasefire/Ceasefire holding/Ddiplomacy to replace fighting
  • ECONOMY: Winners and losers for 2026/Fiscal decline expected/China Leads in EEC Projects/Thailand No.1 in export diversity
  • TOURISM: New Year 2026 nationwide countdowns/Bangkok Leads New Year Bookings/Tourism still a stalled engine/Indian Boycott Calls Grow/Lifeguard Revives Dutch Tourist/39 free camping sites
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s Worst Flood Crisis in Decades
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar panel buyers putting safety first/EV insurance demand surges
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Expat Thailand 2025: Open Doors, Uneven Rules

By the end of 2025, Thailand presents a curious contradiction. The country is tightening its grip on some foreigners while quietly waving others through the door. On paper, this is about visas. In reality, it is about who is questioned and who is not. Visa runs scrutinized, Questions asked.

For many expats, the message from Thai Immigration has become unmistakable. visa runs are no longer routine. Visa exemption entries are limited typically to no more than two per calendar year. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) now allows officers to see travel history, patterns of stay, and intent at a glance. Continued …

2,000-firework display on the beach for Hua Hin

The Hua Hin Beach Countdown 2026 will welcome the New Year with a large-scale fireworks display on Hua Hin beach, with more than 2,000 fireworks set to light up the sky at 10 pm Wednesday evening. The free-entry event is expected to draw large crowds to the beachfront in front of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.

The year-end celebration, titled “Chang Countdown present Hua Hin Beach Countdown 2026,” is organized by Proud Group in partnership with Chang Natural Mineral Water, Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand), Toyota Motor Thailand, Thai Life Insurance, and InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. Continued …

Hua Hin fishing pier promoted for fireworks watching

Saphan Pla night market, held along Hua Hin’s fishing pier, is being positioned as one of the city’s easiest places to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks, with spectators able to look back along the beachfront and follow displays set off from several points throughout the evening.

While the market itself is not hosting a fireworks show, its location on the seafront means visitors can see much of the fireworks activity taking place along Hua Hin beach as 2025 draws to a close. Continued …

Hua Hin Rotary donates anesthesia technology to Hua Hin Hospital

The Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin has donated new anesthesia technology to Hua Hin Hospital, strengthening the hospital’s capacity to carry out complex and time-critical medical procedures as demand for advanced care continues to rise.

The handover ceremony took place on Dec. 27 and was jointly presided over by Nopporn Wutthikul, mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality, and P. Brian Anderson, president of the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin. Representatives from the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin, partner organizations and hospital staff attended the ceremony. Continued …

Black leopards spotted at Kaeng Krachan’s Pa La-U waterfall

Kaeng Krachan National Park has confirmed the presence of two black leopards in the Pa La-U waterfall area for the first time, marking a significant milestone for wildlife conservation at the World Heritage site.

The discovery was announced last week by Mongkol Chaipakdee, head of the national park, following a wildlife survey carried out by park rangers. According to Chalong Thongsong, head of Management Zone 5, camera traps installed in the Pa La-U–Huai Chonnat forest area captured the first confirmed photographic evidence of black leopards in this part of the park. Continued …

How to Treat a Herniated Disk

If you’ve ever experienced the sudden, sharp agony of a back issue, you know how quickly it can derail your life. A common culprit for this severe pain is a herniated disk, a condition that affects millions and often leads to discomfort, numbness, and weakness.

Understanding what a herniated disk is, what causes it, and the various available herniated disk treatments is the first step toward recovery and a return to your daily activities. This guide breaks down the essential information about this spinal issue and outlines the paths to pain relief and healing. Continued …

AIS launches simple SMS scam reporting service via 1185

Advanced Info Service (AIS) has launched a new “1185 Snap and Share” service allowing customers to report fraudulent SMS messages through a simplified process, providing a fast, free-of-charge solution for users to flag scammers, with results promised within 24 hours for both Android and iOS users.

AIS customers can report suspicious messages by following a straightforward four-step process. Continued …

Pattaya woman survives 25th-floor fall after argument with foreign husband

A Thai woman miraculously survived after falling from the 25th floor of a condominium in Pattaya yesterday, following an argument with her foreign husband.

Rescuers received an emergency call from a security guard at a luxury condominium on Pattaya Sai Sam Road. The caller reported that a woman had fallen from a high floor of the building. Continued … 

Thailand, China Discuss Ceasefire After Border Agreement

Thailand and China held high-level talks yesterday to review the situation along the Thailand–Cambodia border following a ceasefire agreement, with Thailand signaling it will release 18 prisoners after a 72-hour observation period.

The discussions highlighted China’s supportive role and outlined immediate steps aimed at stabilizing the situation and facilitating civilian movement in border areas. Continued … 

Ceasefire holding, evacuees start returning home

Evacuees living in shelters in two northeastern border provinces started returning to their homes yesterday as the temporary ceasefire signed by Thailand and Cambodia appeared to be holding.

Buri Ram and Surin provinces permitted people who had fled the deadly clashes along the contested border to go back home. Their return in Surin was approved by provincial governor Jumreon Wanhpetch. Continued …

Thailand expects diplomacy to replace fighting with Cambodia

Thailand now expects Cambodia to leave the battlefield and focus on diplomacy in restoring peace and settling differences between the two countries.

ACM Prapas Sonjaidee, director of Thailand’s Joint Press Center on the Thailand-Cambodia border situation, expressed this expectation yesterday. He said that with the truce that began at noon on Saturday, the fighting and use of provocative statements would be replaced with diplomatic forums and use of international mechanisms to restore good ties. Continued …

Survey highlights winners and losers in Thailand’s business outlook for 2026

As people say goodbye to 2025 and move into 2026 with renewed hope, a recent survey has revealed a trend of rising and declining business clusters ahead for Thailand.

The survey, conducted by the Bangkok-based University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), identified promising trends across 10 business groups in the Thai economy and scored them as follows: Continued …

Fiscal decline expected to pressure Thailand over the medium term

In 2026, the incoming government is likely to face a host of internal and external challenges, with Thailand’s fiscal position a longstanding problem that has become more strained amid sluggish economic growth.

This mounting pressure already prompted Moody’s and Fitch Ratings to revise the country’s outlook from stable to negative. Continued … 

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China Takes the Lead in Thailand’s EEC Projects, Japan Dominates Nationwide

Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) has seen a significant surge in foreign investment, with China leading the way. According to Thailand’s Department of Business, Chinese investment in the EEC has been on the rise, with a notable increase in foreign business approvals from January to November 2025.

This growth is a testament to the attractiveness of the EEC as a hub for foreign investment, with its strategic location and favorable business environment. The EEC has been a key driver of Thailand’s economic growth, with a focus on industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and technology. Continued …

Thailand Ranked No.1 in export diversity in the Global South

The International Institute for Trade and Development, or ITD, has highlighted findings from UNCTAD’s Trade and Development Report 2025, saying Thailand stands out as one of the most resilient economies in the Global South thanks to its exceptionally diverse export base and wide range of trading partners — an advantage it says can help cushion the impact of tariff shocks and global financial volatility.

ITD Director Suphakit Charoenkul said developing economies in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, are facing growing uncertainty from global trade policy shifts and intensifying geopolitical tensions — especially the increased use of tariffs as a form of trade restriction. Even so, he said ASEAN continues to demonstrate strength and an important role in global supply chains. Continued …

TAT welcomes New Year 2026 with nationwide countdowns

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is ushering in the New Year 2026 with vibrant celebrations across the nation, spotlighting Phayao and Narathiwat as up-and-coming hotspots and fresh countdown destinations. By supporting festivities from north to south, TAT aims to spark travel excitement and generate income for local communities, with New Year tourism revenue expected to soar to 70–76.5 billion baht.

TAT is elevating Phayao Countdown Flora Fest 2026 (28–31 Dec. 28-31) and Amazing Thailand Su-ngai Kolok Countdown 2026 as signature events, each with immersive light displays, cultural showcases, and modern performances that reflect the spirit of their communities. Continued …

Bangkok Leads New Year Bookings, Chinese Tourists Dominating Arrivals to Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi

Bangkok is emerging as the dominant destination for both international and domestic travelers over the New Year holiday. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the country is set to experience a surge in bookings, with China leading the way in international arrivals. With a projected revenue of 70.1 to 76.5 billion baht, the upcoming New Year period is expected to deliver a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector.

With its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and world-class shopping and dining experiences, Bangkok continues to be the crown jewel of Thailand’s tourism industry. The city will not only see the highest number of international visitors but will also attract 502,400 domestic travelers during the New Year holidays, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. Continued …

Tourism still a stalled engine

In 2025, the Thai tourism industry faced its first contraction since the pandemic, with several setbacks consistently hampering tourist confidence.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand downgraded its forecast for the year to only 33 million arrivals, ending the rising trend from 2021 to 2024, when numbers surged from 430,000 to 35.5 million. Continued …

Indian Boycott Calls Grow After Hindu Statue Damage Near Thai Border

A social media backlash has emerged after a video showing the partial demolition of a Hindu deity statue near the Thai–Cambodian border went viral, prompting online calls by some Indian users to boycott Thailand as a tourist destination.

The reaction spread rapidly across X and Instagram, with hashtags such as “Boycott Thailand” and “Boycott Pattaya” trending and urging travelers to cancel bookings. Continued …

Pattaya Lifeguard Revives Dutch Tourist After Sea Rescue

A Pattaya lifeguard successfully resuscitated a Dutch female tourist who lost consciousness while swimming at Jomtien Beach, restoring her pulse with CPR before she was rushed to hospital, where she was reported to be stable.

The incident occurred yesterday behind the police booth at Dongtan curve. The immediate intervention prevented a fatal outcome and allowed advanced medical care to continue. Continued …

Thailand offers 39 free camping sites for new year holidays

The Department of Highways has announced the availability of 39 complimentary camping sites across Thailand for locals and tourists planning to enjoy the new year holidays.

The camping sites will be open from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5. These sites, distributed across the morth, northeast, central, and south Thailand, are situated in areas managed by the highway division. Amenities at these sites include parking, drinking water, and restrooms, all provided free of charge.  Continued …

How Record Rainfall and Fragmented Governance Delivered Thailand’s Worst Flood Crisis in Decades

The final weeks of November witnessed a devastating flood crisis sweep across Thailand’s southern region, culminating in the near-total inundation of Hat Yai, Songkhla, the nation’s fifth largest city and primary commercial hub in the south.

The disaster, triggered by extraordinary meteorological events, brought the bustling city to a grinding halt and exposed profound vulnerabilities within Thailand’s national disaster preparedness framework. Continued …

Solar panel buyers putting safety first

As electricity prices remain volatile and climate concerns intensify, rooftop solar panels have become an increasingly attractive option for Thai households.

By 2026, the market is expected to be more mature, competitive, and technologically advanced. Yet, for homeowners, the decision is no longer just about price or panel size. Safety and performance have emerged as the defining factors that separate a reliable long-term system from a costly mistake. Continued …

EV insurance demand surges amid expensive claims

Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) insurance market is expanding at an unprecedented pace, tracking rapid growth in EV sales dominated by Chinese brands, which have overtaken Japanese automakers in market share.

The strong growth momentum is accompanied by persistent underwriting pressure, with insurers facing loss ratios exceeding 80% and repair costs 50% higher than those for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, reflecting upward pressure on insurance premiums in 2026. Continued …

‘Unfair election’: Young voters absent from Myanmar polls

The droves of young people who queued to cast ballots in past elections in Myanmar were conspicuous by their absence from yesterday’s military-run poll, with older voters dominating the turnout. Legions have left the war-ravaged country since the military seized power five years ago, including many men of conscription age – up to 35 – or youngsters seeking better livelihoods away from Myanmar’s moribund economy. Continued …

Brigitte Bardot, Iconic French Actor and Activist, Dies At 91

Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist and far-right supporter, has died. She was 91. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

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

baht, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-Dec 22

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  • Holiday immigration office hours/Hua Hin Jazz Festival/Smog rising in Thailand/’Operation Bad Guys Out’ Crackdown/Loan Shark Arrested Over 2,400% Interest/Thailand’s Chearavanont Family Among World’s Wealthiest/Thailand rewrites SEA Games/Southern Thailand Flooding/Series of Earthquakes Felt Near Thailand
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand and Cambodia’s deadliest border year/Two Weeks of Needless Thai-Cambodian War/Heavy Border Clashes/F-16s Bomb Cambodian Positions/Thailand sets three ceasefire terms/Hun Sen’s war/Cambodian Migrant Workers Face Uncertain Future
  • ECONOMY: The sick man of Southeast Asia?/Big C shuts 170 Big C Mini outlets/US trade talks still on course/US trade deal must wait/Deloitte forecasts 3% growth/Thai brands eye China/Automaker ramps up Thai EV production
  • TOURISM: Firmer Baht May Be Good for Tourism
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand is quietly changing/The incident that never existed/Chinese Vs Thai Fried Rice
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: New era of extreme weather/Importers face EU carbon restrictions/Mekong arsenic levels deemed safe
  • HUA HIN LINKS

Hua Hin holiday immigration office hours

Immigration offices in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi have confirmed their opening arrangements over the Christmas and New Year period, with services continuing on key dates before a short year-end closure.

The Immigration Bureau said offices will be closed from Dec. 31 to Jan. 4, reopening as normal after the New Year break. However, immigration services will remain open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, as these are not official public holidays in Thailand. Continued …

Hua Hin Jazz Festival draws crowds to the beach

The Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2025 drew strong crowds over the weekend, with large numbers of residents and visitors gathering along the beachfront for two evenings of live music. The festival opened on Friday evening with performances on a stage set up on the sand in front of Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Now in its 19th year, the event was held under the theme “Eternally in Our Hearts”. (HHT)

Unhealthy smog rising in Thailand throughout this week

People in Thailand have been warned of experiencing higher levels of harmful smog throughout this week, according to Pollution Control Department (PCD). The overall levels of particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter (PM2.5) have begun to increase in several areas, the PCD reported.

The orange level that starts to affect health was detected mainly in the northeast (Nong Khai, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, and Yasothon) and the Central Plains (Sing Buri, Saraburi, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, and Samut Songkhram). Continued … 

Police Launch Nationwide ‘Operation Bad Guys Out’ Crackdown

Police have launched a nationwide operation targeting foreign nationals who have violated immigration and criminal laws, resulting in hundreds of arrests on its first day.

The campaign, titled “Operation Bad Guys Out”, involved coordinated raids across the country beginning Saturday. The immediate impact was the arrest of 870 suspects in a single day, most for illegal entry into Thailand. Continued …

Nonthaburi Loan Shark Arrested Over 2,400% Annual Interest

Police have arrested a 28-year-old man accused of operating an illegal lending business in Nonthaburi province, charging borrowers interest rates of more than 2,400% per year and publicly shaming those who paid late.

The suspect was detained in Pak Kret district following complaints from victims who said they were threatened and humiliated online. Authorities said the case highlights the ongoing harm caused by unregulated loan sharks targeting financially vulnerable people. Continued … 

Thailand’s Chearavanont Family Among World’s Top 25 Wealthiest

Thailand’s influential Chearavanont family, behind the giant Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, has been spotlighted as Southeast Asia’s sole representative in Bloomberg’s 2025 list of the world’s 25 richest families.

They boast a wealth of $53.3 billion (approximately 1.92 trillion Thai baht), amid an exclusive list typically dominated by the U.S., Middle East, and Europe. Continued …

Thailand rewrites SEA Games history with record-breaking gold rush

As the SEA Games conclude today, Thailand is set to put the icing on its success in reclaiming the overall title with a new record total of gold medals after their athletes continued to win one title after another on the penultimate day of the 33rd SEA Games on Friday.

The Kingdom already shattered the previous best overall haul of 205 gold medals set by Vietnam when it hosted the Covid-delayed Games three years ago after another profitable day for Thai athletes propeled the country to a tally of 232 titles. Continued …

Southern Thailand Flooding: Travel Conditions Stabilize Across the Region

Travel conditions across southern Thailand have largely returned to normal following recent flooding, with steady improvements reported in all affected provinces, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Authorities say transport access has stabilized, tourism services have resumed, and most destinations are fully operational.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand said it continues to coordinate closely with local authorities, consulates, airlines, and tourism operators to support travelers and provide verified, up-to-date information. Assistance remains available for visitors who experienced delays returning home during the flooding period, while officials urge travelers to stay alert to weather-related changes and monitor official updates. Continued …

Series of Earthquakes Felt Near Thailand as Regional Seismic Activity Intensifies

Thailand’s Earthquake Monitoring Division has issued a cautionary update after a series of earthquakes were recorded in and around the country in the early hours yesterday, underscoring heightened seismic activity across the region.

According to the division, tremors were detected multiple times overnight and into the morning, with the strongest nearby activity occurring close enough to be felt in parts of northern Thailand. While no major damage or injuries have been reported, authorities warned residents to remain alert, particularly in the north, northeast, and south. Continued …

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As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

Temples, tanks, and landmines: Thailand and Cambodia’s deadliest border year

This year witnessed renewed border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia that sparked deadly armed clashes in July and December, opening fresh wounds in a centuries-old dispute. Relations have deteriorated so badly that a return to normality appears unlikely anytime soon.

This year’s two rounds of border fighting were described as the deadliest since the 15th century, when the Ayutthaya kingdom ousted the Khmer Empire as the region’s dominant power. Continued …

Two Weeks of Needless Thai-Cambodian War or War for Votes

Two weeks of needless Thai-Cambodian border war with no end in sight is depressing, particularly when very few Thais — especially public figures or semi-public figures — are willing to publicly call for an end to this tragic madness.

​The war is so “popular” among ultranationalist Thais to the point where one risks being accused of being pro-Cambodia, or even being Cambodian or a spy for Cambodia, for calling for an end to the war. Continued …

Thai Army Reports Heavy Border Clashes Over Past 24 hours

The Thai Army’s Second Army Region reported intense fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border over a 24-hour period, marked by heavy weapons fire and drone strikes, with no confirmed Thai casualties.

The update summarized security conditions yesterday, highlighting sustained exchanges of artillery, mortars, and drones in several frontier areas. The military said the clashes affected multiple provinces in the lower northeastern region, prompting heightened security measures. Continued …

F-16s Again Bomb Cambodian Positions Amid Border Clashes

Thai fighter jets carried out air strikes against Cambodian military positions early today, intensifying clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border and prompting evacuations in nearby communities.

The Royal Thai Air Force deployed F-16 aircraft to drop four bombs on targets in the Ta Phraya–Bueng Takuan area, as fighting on the ground escalated with heavy artillery exchanges. Residents near the frontier were forced to flee to shelters as the violence spread across several locations. Continued …

ASEAN meets in Kuala Lumpur as Thailand sets three ceasefire terms

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow arrived in Kuala Lumpur yesterdayto attend a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting today convened by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in his capacity as ASEAN chair.

Sihasak travelled with Nikorndej Plangoon, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as regional diplomats gather to discuss the Thailand–Cambodia situation amid international attention over whether the talks could help pave the way for a ceasefire. Continued … 

Hun Sen’s war is his last gasp

Hun Sen, the patriarch of Cambodian politics and Senate president, has seemingly dusted off an old playbook: the “externalixation of internal problems.” By instigating a series of sharp and unprovoked armed attacks against Thailand, the regime is attempting to wrap itself in the national flag to obscure a far more dangerous reality – the rot consuming Cambodia from within.

For decades, the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) has traded on stability and control. But as 2025 closes, that narrative is fracturing. The recent, intense skirmishes – involving airstrikes and evacuations of hundred thousands – are conveniently timed. They distract a restless population from a cratering economy and, more critically, from the deluge of exposés revealing the grotesque, unfounded wealth of the Hun family empire. Continued …

Nearly Half a Million Cambodian Migrant Workers in Thailand Face Uncertain Future

As the border war between Thailand and Cambodia enters its second week today, and thevcrackdown specifically targeting unregistered migrant workers from Cambodia is on the rise, Thai-based Cambodian labor right activist Saing Ry reported about how she and the more than 400,000 migrant workers are coping and their future.

QUESTION: What is the overall current situation of Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand like? Do they feel afraid or unsafe?

Saing Ry: I feel confused, anxious, scared, and unable to think clearly about which path to take, because the (Thai) prime minister has announced an indefinite postponement of the registration and renewal process for Cambodian migrant workers. Many workers’ permits will expire, and there is still no clear solution. Continued … 

Thailand, the sick man of Southeast Asia?

Thailand is confronting a convergence of economic and political pressures that threaten to lock in prolonged stagnation caused by weak growth, demographic decline, and low productivity. Decades of political instability, repeated intervention by unelected ‘tutelary’ powers and the blocking of reformist forces have undermined policy continuity, discouraged investment and diverted spending away from long-term growth drivers like education and public investment.

Renewed border tensions with Cambodia and looming elections now compound these structural weaknesses, leaving Thailand trapped in a cycle of political uncertainty and economic underperformance that erodes its regional standing. Continued …

Big C shuts 170 Big C Mini outlets as growth falters

BJC Big C, the consumer goods and retail arm of Berli Jucker Plc (BJC), is still grappling with growth challenges as Thailand’s economy expands only slowly.

Over the first nine months of 2025, performance across BJC’s business groups was mixed. In the third quarter, its key pillars — packaging manufacturing, healthcare, and technical supplies and services, and retail — all contracted, driven by multiple factors. Continued …

US trade talks still on course

Trade talks between Thailand and the US remain on track even as Thailand operates under a caretaker government. According to Chotima Iemsawasdikul, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations, Thailand is continuing technical negotiations with the US regarding the tariffs, which she reaffirmed remain at 19%.

“The issues in the technical negotiations are similar to those in trade liberalization talks, covering market access for goods and services, as well as investment,” Chotima said. “The US raised issues cited in its ‘National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers’, particularly non-tariff measures, which the US views as affecting trade and its economic security.” Continued …

Any US trade deal must wait for new parliament and cabinet

A top official at the Ministry of Commerce on Friday warned that the United States could raise tariffs if peace is not quickly restored between Thailand and Cambodia, while the director-general of the Department of International Trade Negotiations confirmed that technical talks with the U.S. Trade Representatives’ office are ongoing.

As things stand, Thailand cannot sign any trade deal until a new government is formed, likely in May 2026, because the caretaker government is barred from making binding commitments, and any agreement will also require approval from the House of Representatives, dissolved by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Dec. 12. Continued …

Deloitte forecasts 3% growth under stable government

Thailand can accelerate economic growth to nearly 3% if it secures a stable post-election government and implements targeted investment policies, says Deloitte Thailand, while reaffirming the nation’s strong potential to emerge as a regional data center hub.

Metinee Jongsaliswang, country managing director at Deloitte Thailand, said the firm projects economic growth in 2026 at around 2% under its base-case scenario, factoring in multiple uncertainties beyond the country’s control. Continued …

Thai brands eye China’s booming premium health and beauty market

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), citing information from the Thai Trade Center in Kunming, China, reports that China’s premium health and beauty market is continuing to grow, particularly in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. Consumers in these top-tier markets increasingly prioritize high-quality products, modern design, and brands that reflect their individual lifestyles.

Recent indicators suggest that premium consumption in China remains a meaningful economic opportunity for Thai entrepreneurs and international businesses, even as the broader economy faces headwinds. Continued …

Chinese automaker ramps up Thai EV production

Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand), a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned automaker Chery Automobile, has announced plans to produce 28,000-30,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) locally in 2026, as demand for electric mobility continues to rise among Thai consumers.

Company President Cedric Cui said 85%-90% of production will serve the domestic market under the government’s EV incentive schemes, while 10%-15% will be exported to Australia, Europe, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Continued …

Why a Firmer Baht May Be Good for Thailand’s Tourism Future

Thailand’s strengthening baht is back in the spotlight as the peak travel season gathers pace. Trading in the range of 31.4–31.8 baht to the US dollar, the currency has firmed in recent weeks, prompting renewed debate across the tourism sector.

Does a stronger baht discourage visitors, or does it signal a more fundamental shift in how Thailand positions itself globally? On the surface, the answer appears to be no. Arrival numbers remain healthy, flights are full and hotels in major destinations continue to report strong occupancy. Yet spending patterns tell a more nuanced story. Continued …

From tourists to residents, Thailand is quietly changing

Thailand has always been good at attracting people. For decades, visitors have come for the obvious reasons: climate, affordability, food, and a lifestyle that feels lighter than the one they left behind.

What is different now is not the attraction itself, but who is staying and for how long. In 2025, Thailand recorded just over 30 million foreign arrivals, generating an estimated 1.4 trillion baht in tourism revenue. These figures are often quoted, usually to demonstrate recovery or growth. They matter but they do not tell the whole story. A quieter change is taking place beneath the headline numbers. Continued …

Pattaya and the incident that never existed

There is a story one of the lawyers in our office likes to recount. It always brings a knowing smile – not because it is humorous, but because it captures something deeply and unmistakably Thai.

An Indian man had arranged to purchase sexual services from a person he believed to be a woman in Pattaya. The terms were agreed upon: a price, a place, and a mutual understanding. The encounter took place as arranged. Trouble began afterward, when the man refused to pay. His explanation was blunt: “You are transgender, not a real woman. I paid for a real woman.” Continued … 

Chinese Vs Thai Fried Rice: What’s The Difference?

We dare foodies to name a more versatile comfort food than fried rice. When epicures are yearning for a taste of something warming, nourishing, and easy on the stomach, chances are, they’re picking up the phone or taking a walk down the block to secure the bag (it’s also wicked easy to whip up a killer batch of fried rice at home, for the record).

Maybe folks are headed toward the plexiglass window of their go-to local Chinese restaurant, beaming softly like an everyman’s “Nighthawks.” Or maybe they’re headed to their local Thai joint and unfolding a paper takeout menu. For foodies hungry for a taste of the truth, what’s the actual difference between Chinese and Thai-style fried rice? Continued …

2026 may bring Thailand’s new era of extreme weather

Tara Buakamsri, director of the Climate Connectors program, says Thailand is entering a period of rapidly shifting climate conditions — and that global heating is no longer just an environmental issue, but the backdrop shaping economic security, public health, energy stability, and people’s quality of life.

Thai politics, he argues, can no longer respond with slogans or by brushing aside scientific evidence. Tara cited the latest outlook from the UK Met Office, which forecasts that average global temperatures in 2026 are likely to be more than 1.4°C above pre-industrial levels (1850–1900). Continued …

Thai importers face EU carbon restrictions

Thailand’s exports to Europe face fresh pressure from the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which enters its definitive phase on Jan. 1.

The EU has also rolled out Regulation (EU) 2025/2083, described as a CBAM “simplification” package, aimed at reducing complexity and easing the burden on small importers ahead of full implementation. Continued …

Mekong arsenic levels deemed safe

Recent water quality tests have confirmed the Mekong River is safe, with arsenic levels within acceptable limits, according to a senior local environmental official.

Tests of samples collected between Nov. 12 and 17 in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, and Nakhon Phanom found arsenic levels below 0.010 milligrams per liter (mg/L) at monitoring stations, said Saichon Laophakdee, director for environment at the provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment. Continued …

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Friday’s news-Dec 19

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  • Law Bans Alcohol Sales to Intoxicated Customers/Flood alert in Hat Yai
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Sa Kaeo remains tense/3 terms for ceasefire/Jets strike Poipet/Civilian areas endure more strikes/China defends weapons sales
  • TOURISM: Bangkok world’s most visited city/Pattaya tourists slam strong baht and bank fees/Thailand Targets 6.7 Million Chinese Tourists
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai businesses on path to sustainability
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

New Thai Law Bans Alcohol Sales to Intoxicated Customers

A new law banning the sale of alcohol to intoxicated people is now in effect across the country. This law holds sellers jointly responsible for any resulting harm, including property damage, injury, or death. This regulation forms part of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, Amendment No. 2, B.E. 2568 (2025), aiming to enhance public safety by imposing stricter controls on alcohol sales.

Article 29 of the new amendment explicitly states that sellers or shops selling alcohol to intoxicated individuals will face joint liability, including financial compensation for any damages caused. This measure is designed to encourage responsible sales practices and reduce alcohol-related incidents. Continued …

‘Yellow flag’ flood alert at four Hat Yai communities

A “yellow flag” flood alert has been declared at four communities in Hat Yai after two consecutive days of heavy rain led to retention ponds and reservoirs nearing full capacity.

The Hat Yai Municipality Flood Prevention and Mitigation Center said heavy rain that started Wednesday night and is still continuing reached 140 millimeters at Khlong Mae Rian retention pond station with downpour expected to continue until evening. Continued …

Sa Kaeo remains tense: First Army summarizes Day 11 clash

The First Army has summarized the situation yesterday regarding the border clashes in Sa Kaeo Province. The clash is now entering its 8th day with heavy artillery attacks from the Cambodian side.

The First Army’s Eastern Operations Center reported that heavy fighting took place in three key areas: Continued …

Thailand sets 3 terms for ceasefire

Thailand has stipulated three conditions for a ceasefire: Cambodia must officially declare it first, the ceasefire must be continuous and observed in practice, and Cambodia must cooperate in joint demining operations.

These terms have been set ahead of a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting, which was postponed at Thailand’s request to allow its military to secure a tactical advantage. Continued …

Air force jets strike Poipet

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has stepped up air operations along the Thai-Cambodian border, insisting the response is defensive and proportionate.

The RTAF confirmed that it had carried out air strikes using F-16 fighter jets to hit military targets outside the city of Poipet in Cambodia, after detecting the movement of heavy weapons in the area, particularly BM-21 multiple rocket launchers that have been repeatedly used in attacks on Thai territory. Continued …

Thai civilian areas endure more Cambodian strikes, says military

Cambodia is increasingly firing rockets and shells at Thai civilian areas along its border with Thailand and the Thai military has vowed to do its best to stop it.

On Wednesday alone, Cambodia fired over 120 rockets from its BM-21 launchers at civilian targets in the eastern province of Sa Kaeo, according to Rear Adm. Surasant Kongsiri, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense. Continued …

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China says defense trade with Cambodia, Thailand unrelated to border conflict

China’s long-standing defense cooperation, including arms trade, with Cambodia and Thailand is fully in line with international law and practice and is unrelated to their recent border conflict, a Chinese defense spokesman said yesterday.

Ministry of National Defense spokesman Jiang Bin made the remarks in a statement responding to media reports that Thai forces had seized Chinese-made anti-tank missiles, rocket launchers, and other equipment from Cambodian positions during the conflict. Continued …

Bangkok world’s most visited city with 30 million arrivals

In 2025, Bangkok emerged as the world’s most visited city with 30.3 million arrivals, according to Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. This underscores Bangkok’s robust tourism ecosystem and its capability to offer enriching visitor experiences.

Euromonitor evaluated 100 cities using over 50 indicators, considering factors like tourism performance, sustainability, and safety. Despite global economic challenges, Bangkok’s strong fundamentals supported it as the most visited city. Continued …

Pattaya tourists slam strong baht and bank fees

As the Thai baht edges closer to 31 baht to the US dollar, frustration among foreign visitors and long-term residents in Pattaya is becoming harder to ignore. What was once marketed as unbeatable value for money now feels, to many, like a destination where currency strength and banking fees quietly drain holiday budgets before the first beer is even ordered.

For years, Pattaya thrived on affordability. Today, tourists arriving from Europe, North America, and Australia are discovering that exchange rates and ATM fees are cutting deeply into spending power. The standard 250-baht foreign ATM withdrawal fee, combined with unfavorable bank exchange rates, has become a recurring point of anger — often described as excessive, outdated, and out of step with modern tourism economies. Continued …

Thailand Targets 6.7 Million Chinese Tourists in 2026

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set an ambitious target to attract 6.7 million Chinese visitors in 2026. This goal follows a significant downturn in Chinese arrivals this year, driven by negative sentiment and unforeseen events. TAT is actively working to restore confidence through various partnerships, including agreements with a leading Chinese travel agency and the Haikou tourism authority.

In 2025, TAT anticipates welcoming 4.5 to 4.6 million Chinese tourists, a noticeable drop from the 6.7 million recorded in 2024. Challenges such as the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing and natural disasters affected tourist sentiment this year. Continued …

Accelerated climate goals put Thai businesses on path to sustainability

With the Thai government accelerating its net-zero emissions target, local businesses are now positioned to gain competitive advantage by embracing sustainable practices. Transitioning to greener operations not only aligns with global market expectations but also opens access to new financing, partnerships, and innovation-driven growth.

Pisal Kattiyothaivong, head of investment banking at UOB Thailand, said the bank has long supported Thai businesses in their transition to sustainability, in line with government policy and international standards. Continued …

  • Police bust Indian-run online black market in Pattaya – Continued … 
  • British Man Arrested For Illegal Birdwatching Tours – Continued …
  • Uzbek Woman Held in Pattaya on Interpol Red Notice – Continued …

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Friday’s news-Dec 12

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  • Brit visiting Hua Hin learns about Thai ‘escorts’/PM Anutin Dissolves House/Bt6.5 billion in Southern Flood Relief/Alcohol’s Role in Cancer Surge/Thailand leads SEA Games
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Clashes Persist on 13 Border Fronts/Thailand steps up strikes on drone bases/Heavy losses on Cambodian side/Cambodia still blocking Thai returnees/’Sovereignty before peace talks’/Foreigners Suspected Behind Drone Attacks/Cambodia’s long range rocket threat
  • ECONOMY: Snap Election Threatens Economic Stimulus/Property Market Faces ‘Mortgage Rejection Crisis’/Seven Challenges to Digital Economy
  • TOURISM: Tourist Arrivals Fall to 32M/Israeli visitors to Thailand plummet/Pattaya’s roads are becoming ‘Unmanageable’/New realities of global travel
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Annual seasonal opening/closure of national parks/24 Thai Food Favorites/Bangkok’s Lush Oasis
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Call for speedy passage of clean air bill/EV bookings at record levels/November 3rd warmest
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Brit visiting Hua Hin learns Thai ‘escorts’ can play pool

During an investigation in Thailand’s Hua Hin, I discovered the secret skill “escorts” have learned while waiting in bars for rich British men to “pick them up”. Video …

PM Anutin Dissolves House, Calls for February Elections

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dissolved the House of Representatives, announcing a general election for the second Sunday of February. This abrupt decision follows a surprise shift by Bhumjaithai-led lawmakers toward constitutional amendment legislation, which was consequently aborted after prolonged debate. The move precludes an impending censure motion by the opposition People’s bloc.

The Bhumjaithai party, under the leadership of Anutin and de facto boss Newin Chidchob, reversed its stance by endorsing a requirement for one-third of the 200 senators to approve constitutional amendments. This shift came during a joint House/Senate session after months of a legislative struggle, just before the final reading scheduled for Dec. 26. Continued …

Government Pays Over Bt6.5 billion in Southern Flood Relief

The government has disbursed more than 6.5 billion baht in flood-relief payments to households across nine southern provinces, providing immediate support to communities affected by the 2025 rainy-season flooding.

A total of 730,932 households have now received the 9,000-baht lump-sum assistance. Officials say the payments are intended to help families cover urgent expenses as recovery efforts continue. Continued …

Most Thais Unaware of Alcohol’s Role in Cancer Surge

A recent survey by ThaiHealth reveals alarming ignorance among Thais regarding the link between alcohol consumption and cancer. This oversight plays a significant role in the escalating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) crisis in Thailand.

According to Dr. Pairoj Saonuam, deputy CEO of ThaiHealth, the NCD crisis, fueled by obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, is exacerbated by the country’s alcohol consumption habits. He pointed out that four out of five respondents experienced harm from others’ drinking, with alcohol-related economic losses surpassing 165 billion Thai baht in 2021 alone. Continued …

Thailand leads SEA Games with 41 golds

On the second day of the 2025 SEA Games, Thai athletes earned 22 more gold medals. Thailand now leads the medal table with 41 gold, 24 silver, and 14 bronze medals.

Vietnam is in second place with 14 gold medals, followed by Indonesia in third with 13. Singapore is fourth with nine gold medals. Philippines is fifth with five gold medals, and Malaysia is sixth with three. Continued …

Clashes Persist as Thai Forces Confirm Action on 13 Border Fronts

The Second Army Region has reported continued clashes along 13 border fronts across four northeastern provinces, confirming ongoing Cambodian counterattacks and at least 125 Cambodian soldiers killed. The situation covers Ubon Ratchathani (2 fronts), Si Sa Ket (5), Surin (5) and Buri Ram (1), with Thai forces stating the areas remain under controlled monitoring.

The update coincided with heightened tension in Buri Ram’s Ban Kruat district, where earlier reporters and local defense volunteers were forced to take shelter after a suspected explosive drone appeared overhead. Continued …

Thailand steps up strikes on Cambodian drone bases

Thai military personnel have been coming under heavy attack from Cambodian drones, prompting Thailand to step up efforts to destroy drone launch sites, many of which are located at casino buildings just across the border.

Rear Adm. Surasant Kongsiri, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense, said rockets, mortar rounds, and kamikaze drones were all being used by Cambodia against Thai military positions and personnel. Continued …

Thai army reports heavy losses on Cambodian side

The Second Army’s Operations Center updated the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border yesterday, highlighting significant damage to Cambodian forces since operations began on Dec. 7.

Key points from the report include: Cambodian casualties: 102 soldiers killed; armored losses: six T-55 tanks destroyed in Phanom Prasitso; artillery damage: one BM-21 multiple rocket launcher destroyed; drones neutralized: 64 drones; anti-drone system loss: one system destroyed in Huai Ta Maria. Continued …

Army says Cambodia still blocking Thai returnees as Sa Kaeo clashes kill 2, injure 34

The First Army has reported two Thai soldiers killed and 34 wounded in Sa Kaeo since Dec., and says Cambodia has yet to allow Thai nationals to return via Poipet.

The First Army Area Operations Center yesterday issued an update on the Thai-Cambodian border situation in Sa Kaeo province, reporting continued clashes and confirming that Cambodia has yet to release Thai nationals wishing to return home. Continued …

‘Sovereignty before peace talks’

Now is not the right time for Thailand to engage in peace talks with Cambodia, as priority must be to restore stability and protect national sovereignty, said Thammasat University academics yesterday.

They urged the government to refine its international communications to frame Thailand’s response as necessary self-defense against an immediate threat – not merely retaliation. Continued …

Foreigners Suspected Behind Cambodian Bomber Drone Attacks

The Thai army has raised concerns that foreigners may be operating Cambodian bomber drones used in ongoing border clashes. Radio exchanges during drone attacks reportedly featured English, raising suspicions about who might be controling these aerial assaults.

This announcement from the 2nd Army Area raised suspicions that Cambodian soldiers may not be the ones operating the drones. At key moments, the word “finished” was noted during the exchange, and just as drone attacks paused, motorcyclists were spotted leaving hills near the Chong An Ma area in Ubon Ratchathani. Continued … 

Thailand is ready to counter Cambodia’s long range rocket threat

The Thai Air Force is prepared to conduct deep-strike defensive operations should Cambodia deploy heavy weaponry, such as its PHL-03 multiple-rocket launcher systems, which have a maximum range of 130 kilometers, an air force spokesman said.

“We already have operational plans in place. The question is whether Cambodia intends to escalate. The air force can respond to any threat against Thailand’s sovereignty and civilian population,” said Air Marshal Chakkrit Thammavichai, who also serves as deputy air force chief of staff. Continued …

Thai Snap Election Threatens Economic Stimulus

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has sounded the alarm, expressing concerns that the recent dissolution of Parliament and the subsequent transition to a caretaker government could derail critical economic recovery efforts.

The FTI warned that the estimated 60-day caretaker period risked stalling major economic stimulus measures, notably the “Quick Big Win” package, which is deemed vital for supporting the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in the final quarter of the year. Continued …

Thailand Property Market Faces ‘Mortgage Rejection Crisis’

A stark divide is emerging in Thailand’s real estate sector, with soaring loan rejection rates among lower-income buyers forcing developers to pivot toward the affluent luxury market. Analysts warn of a “mortgage rejection crisis” that threatens the affordability of housing.

According to a report by Bussakorn Phoosae in Krungthep Turakij, citing data from Terra Media and Consulting, the property market is grappling with a severe downturn in purchasing power. For homes priced under 3 million baht, the mortgage rejection rate has hit an unprecedented high of 70%. Continued …

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Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

Seven Challenges Hindering Thailand’s Digital Economy

A recent World Bank report has pinpointed seven critical shortcomings hindering Thailand’s digital economy, urging urgent reforms to enhance the sector’s potential. The report emphasizes the need for government intervention to address issues that could unlock significant economic opportunities for the Southeast Asian nation.

Although internet access is generally high, the World Bank reports that fixed broadband penetration stood at 18% in 2022, indicating a significant disparity in connectivity. Additionally, Thailand is behind its ASEAN counterparts in terms of advanced digital skills, with only 6% of the population utilizing Generative AI (as measured by ChatGTP usage in March 2024). Continued …

Thailand Expected Tourist Arrivals Fall to 32M

Thailand’s tourism industry is bracing for a decline in foreign arrivals this year, with officials projecting about 32 million international visitors by year-end, down 9.8% from 35.5 million in 2024.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand attributes the drop to flooding in southern provinces during peak season and tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border that have dampened tourism sentiment in recent months. Continued …

Israeli visitors to Thailand plummet as ‘Unwelcome’ signs come out

Visitor arrivals from Israel to Thailand plunged from 45,182 in September to 28,773 in November, just a little higher than 26,797 visitors in November 2024. This fall comes in the wake of multiple news reports about the misbehavior of and illegal activities by Israel “visitors” setting up large swathes of occupied enclaves in a number of Thai provinces.

The sharp fall in Israeli visitors in November was the second this year, after an earlier collapse in June due to the Iranian attack on Israel. It shot up again after the hostilities ceased. Continued …

Foreign tourists and long-term visitors say Pattaya’s roads are becoming ‘Unmanageable’

Growing numbers of foreign tourists and long-term visitors are voicing frustration over what they describe as rapidly deteriorating road behavior across Pattaya, calling it more chaotic, unpredictable, and dangerous than at any time in recent memory.

One long-time resident recently recounted an incident that has now become a familiar story. While overtaking a slow-moving car whose driver was distracted by a mobile phone, he noticed a motorbike pull out ahead of the vehicle. There was plenty of space, no conflict, and no aggressive maneuver — until the rider suddenly stopped at a 90-degree angle across the lane, blocking both the overtaking vehicle and the car behind. The rider then turned around and drove off in the opposite direction, leaving both drivers stunned. The kicker? It was an off-duty police officer. Continued …

Navigating the new realities of global travel

In our increasingly turbulent world, traveling for many no longer unfolds as a straightforward endeavor.

From geopolitical conflicts leading to flight suspensions to certain countries, to carriers ceasing operations prompting travelers to rebook flights, to natural disasters upending meticulously planned itineraries – there are now more unexpected disruptions than before, influencing travel planning, behaviors, and experiences. Continued …

Annual seasonal opening/closure of attractions of Thailand’s national park system

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has advised tourists on the opening/closed status of Thailand’s national parks to ensure they can best enjoy the picturesque natural beauty and abundant flora and fauna on offer around the country.

This is normal practice, as Thailand’s national park system closes several attractions every year for a certain period, depending on weather and park conditions. Dates are varied, and the closure is often due to extreme weather, especially during the rainy months, that may create unsafe conditions and allows for some ecological recovery time. Thailand currently has a total of 156 national parks. Continued …

24 Thai Favorites Ranked From Mild to ‘Why Is My Face on Fire?’

Thai cuisine is renowned for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. This list ranks 24 beloved Thai dishes from the mildest to those that pack the most fiery punch. Whether you’re a fan of subtle spices or intense heat, there’s something for every palate among these favorites.

Pad Thai is the national dish of Thailand and for good reason. It features stir-fried rice noodles, shrimp, bean sprouts, and a hint of tangy tamarind sauce. The dish balances sweet, sour, and savory, often topped with crunchy peanuts and fresh lime. This harmony of flavors makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Continued … 

Bangkok’s Benchakitti park

Discovering Bangkok’s Lush Oasis

In Bangkok, parks like Lumphini and Benchakitti are vital green spaces offering solace and ecological innovation. They showcase the city’s commitment to nature, connecting residents with history and urban life.

In any new city, especially in a vibrant city like Bangkok, parks are insightful, showing locals at ease, enjoying life. Bangkok’s parks are more than green spaces; they’re the city’s vital lungs, offering a connection from athletes to tai chi enthusiasts. Continued …

Call for speedy passage of clean air bill

Tourism operators hope senators can complete the reading of the clean air bill before the House dissolution in order for it to be enacted during this high season, as northern regions brace for smog.

Punlop Saejew, vice president of the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce, said the unstable political situation has led tourism operators to worry about possible delays to the clean air bill, long-awaited as one solution to help combat the smog problem in the north. Continued …

EV bookings at record levels at Motor Expo

Electric vehicles ( stole the spotlight at the 42nd Thailand International Motor Expo, pushing total car bookings to record levels and underscoring their growing foothold in the domestic market.

Organizers reported that bookings during the 12-day event, which concluded yesterday at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, in Nonthaburi province, surged to 75,246 units, up from 54,513 units last year. Including motorcycles, total vehicle reservations reached 80,599 units, compared with 62,495 units in 2024. Continued …

November 2025 3rd warmest on record, keeps hot global streak going

November 2025 was Earth’s third-warmest November in analyses of global weather data going back to 1850, NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information, or NCEI, reported yesterday. NASA and the European Copernicus Climate Change Service also rated November 2025 as the third-warmest November on record, behind only 2023 and 2024.

November marked the sixth month in a row that has ranked third-warmest for that calendar month across the past 176 years. While “third-warmest” may not sound eye-poppingly impressive, this comes without a planet-warming El Niño event, whose presence helped fuel the record-warm years of 2023 and 2024. Continued …

  • QR code drug delivery network run by Russian duo smashed in Bangkok – Continued … 
  • Immigration Arrests Foreign Fugitives and Scam Suspects – Continued …

Vaccines do not cause autism: WHO

A new analysis by the World Health Organization reaffirmed there is no link between vaccines and autism — contrary to theories being propagated in the United States. Years of research demonstrate that there is no causal link between vaccinations and autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Continued …

Airstrike on a Hospital Leaves 34 Dead and 80 Injured in Myanmar

An airstrike by Myanmar ’s military destroyed a hospital in an area controled by a leading rebel armed force, killing 34 patients and medical staff, according to a local rescue worker and independent media reports. About 80 other people were injured in the attack Wednesday night. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Dec 4

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Rainmaking operations in Hua Hin/Crackdown on black-smoke vehicles/Bangkok Chokes: Dangerous Smog Levels in Bangkok/Family attraction at Bluport/Car insurance to go digital/Tougher Measures Against Scams/Nine Dead as Vehicle Falls Into Canal/$110M to Acquire Miss Universe Organization

  • THAILAND FLOOD NEWS: Hat Yai flood exposes failures/Deadly Asian floods are climate warning/Government Apologizes for Flood Relief Chaos/Panel to Address Flooding Woes/Flood income loss at Bt30 billion/Flood relief drowning in red tape
  • ECONOMY: Thai Economy Faces Severe Slump/Automotive Sector at a Crossroads
  • TOURISM: Domestic Airfare Prices Plunge/Tourism Hinges on Affordability/Passenger service charge to increase/Thailand Ranks in Top 10 Destinations/Phuket, Surat Thani events recognized/Pattaya International Jazz Festival/AirAsia Starts 5 New Routes
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Puy Roti Lady Bangkok/Sato Rice Wine Going Global
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Siemens Thailand Chief Warns of Climate Urgency/EGAT Unveils Strategy to Hit Net Zero/Levanta Renewables acquires 10 solar sites/BYD has produced 70,000 electric vehicles
  • HUA HIN LINKS 

Rainmaking operations launched in Hua Hin to combat air pollution

Thailand has commenced a new royal rainmaking operation in Hua Hin to tackle hazardous PM2.5 air pollution affecting Bangkok, its surrounding provinces and northern regions. The initiative, led by the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation, officially began yesterday. Authorities aim to reduce airborne particulate matter and protect public health ahead of the busy year-end period.

The Royal Rainmaking Department conducts weather modification not only to combat drought and increase water resources but also to mitigate haze, forest fires, and fine particulate pollution. The 2026 fiscal year plan includes operations in Hua Hin and Rayong for Bangkok and surrounding areas using five aircraft. Continued …

Thai police crack down on black-smoke vehicles as PM2.5 rises

In a significant move against rising PM2.5 pollution, Thai police have initiated nationwide inspections of vehicles for black smoke emissions, arresting over 9,000 offenders. The initiative includes setting up 15 stringent checkpoints across Bangkok to combat this escalating environmental issue, particularly pressing during the winter months.

PM2.5, a hazardous air pollutant, primarily originates from three sources: diesel engine emissions, open-field burning, and low atmospheric pressure. Due to these factors, traffic police have partnered with Bangkok authorities and other agencies to enforce strict measures against polluting vehicles. Continued …

Bangkok Chokes: Dangerous Smog Levels Grip City Again

Bangkok and 10 nearby provinces are once again engulfed in hazardous air pollution levels, with PM2.5 particulates recorded at dangerous concentrations yesterday. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported figures ranging from 78.6 to 91.9 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) of air, far surpassing the safe threshold of 37.5µg/m³ set by the government. The highest measurement was in Samut Sakhon province.

Orange levels, which start affecting health, were recorded in 30 provinces, with figures between 38.9 to 72µg/m³. Provinces facing these conditions include Ayutthaya, Phetchaburi, Prachin Buri, and Chanthaburi, among others. Meanwhile, 23 provinces enjoyed good or very good air quality, mostly located in the north and south, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 9.7 to 25µg/m³. Continued …

Multiple opportunities to climb PKK’s Khao Lom Muak in December

More dates have been confirmed for those looking to climb Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Khao Lom Muak in December, giving hikers another opportunity to visit one of the area’s most popular viewpoints. The peak will be open on Dec. 5-7, Dec. 9-10, and again on Dec. 31.

Khao Lom Muak is known for its panoramic views over Ao Manao and typically opens only on long weekends or national holidays, meaning these dates are among the final chances to make the climb this year. The summit reaches 902 feet, and hikers must tackle 496 steps before reaching its rope-assisted sections near the top. Personnel from Wing 5 supervise the trail and are positioned along the route to support visitors. Continued …

New family attraction opens at Bluport

Hua Hin has a new family attraction with the opening of HarborLand Bluport Hua Hin on the second floor of Bluport Hua Hin shopping mall. The world-class indoor playground spans more than 3,500 square meters and has been designed to offer a safe, engaging space for children aged five months to 15 years.

HarborLand Bluport Hua Hin features five core play zones — Little Ville, Toys Land, Harbor Town, Kids Island, and Junior Jungle — each created to match the needs and abilities of different age groups. The site also introduces several new activities making their first appearance in Hua Hin. Continued …

Car insurance to go digital next year

Insurers in Thailand will be required to offer compulsory motor insurance policies in fully digital format from Jan. 1, according to the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC). The move to mandatory e-policies aims to provide the public with faster, more transparent services aligned with digital lifestyles, the regulator said yesterday.

The e-policy system enables insured individuals to present proof of insurance quickly and easily using their phones, reducing the risk of lost or damaged paper documents, and supporting a smoother claims process. Continued …

Tougher Measures Against Scams as Thailand Seizes Bt10 billion in Assets

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed to intensify Thailand’s crackdown on scams following a major asset seizure totaling 10 billion baht linked to Cambodia.

Speaking at a press conference in Bangkok, Anutin stressed the government’s zero-tolerance approach, promising continuous action against anyone involved in scams. He emphasized that investigations would rely on evidence, with legal proceedings applied impartially. Continued …

Nine Dead as Vehicle Falls Into Irrigation Canal in Ratchaburi

Authorities in Ratchaburi province yesterday discovered a Toyota Fortuner vehicle submerged in an irrigation canal behind Wat Rat Samarnchanat in Nong Krathum subdistrict, Pak Tho district, with nine occupants found dead. The victims included eight men and one woman, all reportedly of Myanmar nationality.

PPreliminary investigations suggest that a tire may have blown out, causing the driver to lose control and the vehicle to plunge into the canal. Officials continue to examine the scene to confirm the exact cause of the crash and are expected to release further updates once the investigation is complete. Continued …

Thai Media Firm Offers $110M to Acquire Miss Universe Organization

A Thai media company has offered to buy the Miss Universe Organization for 3.5 billion baht ($110 million), as the pageant’s current owners face legal and financial turmoil.

Jakkrit Tanee, founder and CEO of TCG Social Media Group Co., said Tuesday his company has submitted an offer to acquire 100% of MUO. He announced the proposal at a press conference in Bangkok, describing it as an effort to “rescue” creditors of JKN Global Group, the Thai firm that owns the pageant. Continued …

Hat Yai flood exposes failures in Thailand’s crisis response

Flooding that engulfed the southern city of Hat Yai last month, killing over 100 people, also exposed deadly gaps in Thailand’s disaster-management system, experts say. They warn that unless lessons are learned from the massive floods, the ongoing cycle of preventable tragedies will continue.

“If governance doesn’t improve and people are not alerted, disasters like this will keep recurring,” said Assoc. Prof. Seree Supratid, director of Rangsit University’s Center for Climate Change and Disasters. Continued …

Deadly Asian floods are no fluke. They’re a climate warning, scientists say

Southeast Asia is being pummeled by unusually severe floods this year, as late-arriving storms and relentless rains wreak havoc that has caught many places off guard.

Deaths have topped 1,400 across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, with more than 1,000 still missing in floods and landslides. In Indonesia, entire villages remain cut off after bridges and roads were swept away. Thousands in Sri Lanka lack clean water, while Thailand’s prime minister acknowledged shortcomings in his government’s response. Continued … 

Government Apologizes for Flood Relief Chaos, Extends Deadlines

The Thai government has apologized following a major disruption in flood relief efforts after a crucial website crashed. This shutdown hindered registration for relief payments for flood victims in the south. The process has now been simplified to require only an ID card, bypassing the need for community consultations as per the latest cabinet resolution.

Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat expressed regret over the registration issues, emphasizing the urgency of getting financial help for those in need. The aim has been to act swiftly, but regulatory hurdles caused delays. In a move to expedite relief, ministers decided to exempt Songkhla from community consultations due to the severity of the flood crisis there. Continued … 

Anutin Assembles Panel to Address Flooding Woes Across Thailand

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has formed a special committee to address Thailand’s recurring flood issues, drawing lessons from the devastating floods of 2011 and this year. The committee, featuring over 30 members, aims to devise strategies to mitigate future disasters and swiftly aid affected regions.

The committee, chaired by Anutin, will reflect on how flooding in different regions, exacerbated by climate change, could cause future devastation, thereby necessitating robust preventive measures. Continued …

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Flood income loss at Bt30 billion this month

The private sector estimates the deadly floods in the south have caused income losses of 20-30 billion baht, weighing on GDP growth in the final quarter of this year.

Speaking at the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) meeting yesterday, Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, said the floods in southern Thailand are expected to result in 20-30 billion baht worth of income losses in December alone, reducing fourth-quarter GDP by 0.1%-0.2%. Continued …

Hat Yai flood relief drowning in red tape

Once a thriving southern trading post, Hat Yai has been swamped not only by muddy water but by the kind of hard, bitter lessons disasters bring. The failures have been endless, from inefficient warning systems and uncoordinated responses and rescue efforts, to the current chaos of claiming flood compensation.

Time and again, bureaucracy has failed to save the public. Instead, it has proven itself absurdly cruel, hindering aid and actively piling suffering onto the disaster victims. Continued …

Thai Economy Faces Severe Slump in 2026 as China Overcapacity and Floods Bite

Thailand’s business committee has issued a warning that the nation’s economy is set for a severe slowdown in 2026, with growth projected to fall as low as 1.6%. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) yesterday attributed the bleak outlook to two primary factors: escalating competition from China’s industrial overcapacity and the crippling financial toll of the recent southern floods.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), stated that the global economy is slowing, with China being a key drag. Weak domestic demand is forcing Beijing to rely heavily on exports, intensifying competitive pressures on Thai businesses, especially in manufacturing. Continued …

Thailand’s Automotive Sector at a Crossroads

Thailand, Southeast Asia’s leading automotive hub, is undergoing a profound transformation, as the global shift from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates. Once a pillar of the economy contributing more than 10% of GDP and employing over half a million workers, the sector now faces both short-term disruption and long-term opportunity.

Under the government’s “30@30” vision, Thailand aims for 30% of domestic vehicle production to be EVs by 2030. To achieve this, policymakers have rolled out two major incentive packages focused on stimulating demand through subsidies, tax cuts, and a 1:1 local production requirement. Continued …

Domestic Airfare Prices Plunge as China Routes Cut

Domestic airfares in Thailand are seeing a notable decrease as airlines withdraw from underperforming Chinese routes to bolster domestic flights. This shift comes amid complaints over high fares for routes like Bangkok-Hat Yai, where tickets reportedly reached nearly 10,000 baht. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is investigating, as low-cost carriers have a price ceiling of 7,266 baht for this route.

Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth of Bangkok Airways reported a 2.2% drop in average airfares year-on-year for the third quarter, with a further 1.1% decline over nine months. This reduction is credited to increased competition among local airlines, leading to discounted fares. Meanwhile, weak demand from foreign travellers has pushed Thai AirAsia’s average fares down by 12% to 1,633 baht. Continued …

Tourism Success Hinges on Affordability as Middle-Class Travel Expands

The ultimate factor determining tourist destination choices is affordability, with expanding middle-class purchasing power reshaping global travel patterns, according to Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda, speaking at a media briefing yesterday.

“In the end, what really makes travelers decide to come is cost,” Morgenshtern said. “When middle-class people have more disposable income, they can spend more. In the past, they might have traveled domestically, but now they can travel internationally. If it’s cheaper than traveling at home, they’ll go abroad.” Continued …

Passenger service charge to increase from 730 to 1,120 baht starting 2026

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced that the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) approved an increase in the passenger service charge (PSC) for international departures at six airports under Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT). The charge will rise from 730 baht per person to 1,120 baht per person, effective from early 2026.

It is expected that AOT will take some time to gather data and consult with the CAAT before presenting the proposal for approval. Once approved, the new charge will come into effect approximately four months later, meaning passengers departing Thailand in early 2026 will pay an additional 390 baht. Continued …

Thailand Ranks in Top 10 Destinations for Asia-Pacific Travelers

Thailand has secured a place in the top 10 travel destinations for all major Asia-Pacific markets in 2026, according to the world’s largest accommodation consumer research conducted by SiteMinder.

The kingdom ranks fifth among Singaporean travelers (16%), eighth among Indian (12%), Indonesian (12%), and Chinese tourists (6%), and ninth among Australians (7%). Continued …

Phuket’s vegetarian festival and Surat Thani’s Chak Phra win global event awards

Thailand has once again made a mark on the global stage as Phuket’s “Vegetarian Festival” won the Outstanding Economic Impact Award at the Host City Awards 2025.

Meanwhile, Surat Thani’s “Chak Phra” (Pulling the Buddha) festival was named a Top 4 finalist in the Best Event Engagement & Fan Growth category, competing alongside major global events in Glasgow, UK. Continued …

Pattaya Set to Host Biggest Ever International Jazz Festival

Pattaya City is ramping up its bid to become a “World Class Event City,” confirming an expanded lineup for the Pattaya International Jazz Festival 2025 on the weekend of Dec. 12-13.

The free music festival, held on the central Pattaya beachfront from 4 pm to midnight, promises a harmonious blend of stunning seaside views and world-class musical talent under the theme “Jazz Harmony Wth Nature”. Continued … 

AirAsia Thailand Takes Off with 5 New Routes this December

AirAsia is kicking off December in full swing with five new routes being launched by AirAsia Thailand and AirAsia X Thailand. The new routes are giving travelers more choices than ever from Thailand.

Started yesterday, Thai AirAsia X (XJ) introduced three direct international routes from Bangkok Don Mueang. New routes serve Sendai (Japan) with four flights weekly (Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun), Almaty (Kazakhstan) with four flights weekly (Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun), and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), also with four flights weekly (Tue/Thu/Sat/Sun). Continued …

Puy Roti Lady Bangkok Famous Roti Seller Thai Street Food

Puy Roti Lady in Bangkok is one of Thailand’s most beloved roti street food sellers. Watch as she skillfully prepares crispy, flaky roti with classic Thai flavors, drawing long queues of locals and tourists alike. Experience the vibrant Bangkok street food scene, must-try roti varieties, and the warm charm that makes her stall so popular. Video …

Sato, an Ancient Thai Rice Wine, Is Going Global

Visit any Lao family on New Year’s, and you’ll likely find a jar of sato in the fridge. Cloudy, sweet, and low in alcohol, sato is the traditional rice wine made for centuries in Isan, Thailand’s northeastern region, where the culture is predominantly Lao. In Laos, the same drink is called lao hai and is often brewed in earthen jugs.

Khamphone Jot Voraphaychith, founder of Seattle-based sato brewery Village Ghost, has childhood memories tied to the rice beverage. “The thing with sato, when it’s freshly brewed, it’s very fragrant,” he says. Continued …

 

Siemens Thailand Chief Warns of Climate Urgency as Nation Faces Extreme Weather Events

Thailand’s increasingly severe weather patterns underscore the urgent need for industrial transformation to combat climate change, according to Ross Colon, president and CEO of Siemens Thailand, speaking at the Sustainability Forum 2026 yesterday.

Addressing attendees at the event, Colon highlighted how recent extreme weather events have demonstrated the immediate impact of climate change on the kingdom. Continued …

Thai Power Giant EGAT Unveils ‘Triple S’ Strategy to Hit Net Zero by 2050

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has outlined its decisive path toward achieving carbon neutrality, committing the nation’s power sector to a net zero emission goal by 2050.

Speaking at the SUSTAINABILITY FORUM 2026 Shift Forward: Overcoming Challenges yesterday, Eakarat Samintarapanya, EGAT’s assistant governor for power plant planning, unveiled the organization’s “Triple S” strategy, designed to fundamentally restructure Thailand’s energy mix. Continued …

Levanta Renewables expands presence in Thailand, acquires 10 solar sites

Levanta Renewables (Levanta) has completed the acquisition of a fully operational 91 MWp+ ground-mounted solar portfolio in Thailand.

Spanning across 10 sites in the Suphanburi and Kanchanaburi provinces, the portfolio generates approximately 155 GWh of renewable electricity annually for the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) under long-term power-purchase agreements (PPAs). Continued … 

BYD has produced 70,000 electric vehicles in Thailand in 16 months

BYD has produced 70,000 cars at its manufacturing plant in Rayong Province.

The Rayong-based BYD CKD plant began operations in July 2024. In November 2024, the automaker shared that it assembled 10,000 vehicles in Thailand. This facility produced 60,000 units in the next 12 months. BYD reached the milestone of the 70,000th vehicle rolling off the production line on Nov. 27. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Nov 22

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Please welcome returning sponsor: Hua Hin Visa Services/Amari Hua Hin recognized/Flu Explodes in Thailand/Bangkok Prison Probed: VIP Perks and Sex Workers/Corrections Department transfers Chinese inmates/Major Thai Citizenship Fraud Network/Thailand wins Global Wellness Summit 2026/Songkhla declares disaster zones/Miss Mexico crowned Miss Universe/Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul grabs 3-shot lead

  • ECONOMY: Four major risk signals for economy/Shifting global trade trends/Thailand’s economy shaped by 45 key trends/Reducing taxes for workers/Thai rice market surges
  • TOURISM: Long-haul tourism to hit 11.66 million/Pattaya fractured by nationality clusters/14 tourists rescued after boat capsizes
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s last hunter-gatherers
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s green manufacturing/SPCG Performance Driven by Solar Rooftops/Interra Resources Expands Renewable Energy Footprint
  • HUA HIN LINKS

Please welcome returning sponsor:

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We provide a wide range of services, including all types of Thai visas, passport renewals (British, US, Irish), Yellow House Book & Pink ID cards, embassy certifications, company setup, accounting, and more. Our mission is straightforward: to simplify complex processes and make them smooth and stress-free, while ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

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Amari Hua Hin recognized for spa excellence

Amara Hua Hin and its Breeze Spa, a property of the ONYX Hospitality Group, a prominent management company in Southeast Asia specializing in hotels and resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences, have been honored with two awards for spa excellence by the Department of Health Service Support, Ministry of Public Health, recognising outstanding service, quality and professional standards.

The award-winning categories include: 2025 Thai Premium Massage Award and the Platinum Thai Premium Spa Award. Breeze Spa is distinguished by its signature “Mood Therapy” concept, which allows guests to select treatments tailored to their current mood. Continued …

Flu Explodes in Thailand: 160K Cases in One Month, Deaths Rise

Thailand is witnessing a rise in seasonal illnesses, with influenza cases soaring to 161,940 between Oct. 19 and Nov. 15. This surge has raised the total number of cases this year to 940,869, alongside 100 fatalities predominantly among unvaccinated, elderly individuals with underlying health conditions. Health officials urge the public to stay vigilant and emphasize the importance of vaccinations to mitigate further risk.

Significant risk factors related to recent deaths: 94% were unvaccinated individuals, the majority with pre-existing health issues such as kidney disease and hypertension. The median age of those who died was 61, highlighting the vulnerability of older age groups. Continued …

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Bangkok Prison Probed for VIP Perks and Sex Workers for Inmates

An investigation is underway as the director of Bangkok Remand Prison (BRP) and several guards are accused of giving preferential treatment to Chinese inmates. Allegations include access to electric appliances and arranging visits from Chinese sex workers. Thai prisoners reported these practices, claiming that Chinese inmates had a more comfortable existence within the prison.

Complaints detailed that Chinese prisoners hired Thai inmates who could speak Chinese as servants. Allegations further included that the inmates paid for unauthorized access to items such as microwaves and air conditioners, and influenced prison staff to suit their needs. Accusations involved the arrangement of sex worker visits, with a hidden room beneath a staircase used for these purposes. Continued …

Corrections Department transfers Chinese inmates after luxury items found in Bangkok prison

The Corrections Department has confirmed the transfer of several Chinese inmates from the Bangkok Remand Prison to a more suitable facility following a raid that uncovered prohibited and luxury items inside the prison.

The department said a recent surprise inspection at the prison led to the removal of the prison chief and several staff members pending investigation. The raid was conducted following complaints that certain Chinese inmates wielded undue influence over others behind bars. Continued …

Crackdown Exposes Major Thai Citizenship Fraud Network

Authorities launched a sweeping crackdown on a criminal network accused of issuing fraudulent Thai citizenship documents to foreign nationals linked to “gray Chinese” syndicates, resulting in multiple arrests across northern Thailand and beyond.

The operation led to the surrender of the Wiang Haeng district chief and the seizure of firearms, forged documents and financial records, signaling the immediate depth of the corruption uncovered. Officials confirmed that 12 suspects were detained during coordinated raids, while several brokers and three Chinese nationals connected to the case remain at large. Continued …

Thailand wins hosting rights for Global Wellness Summit 2026

Thailand has secured the rights to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026 (GWS 2026), marking a major milestone in the country’s ambition to become a global wellness hub and generate multi-billion-baht economic value.

The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine confirmed it had officially obtained the hosting rights under the theme “The Symphony of Wellness”, reinforcing Thailand’s strengths in Thai massage, wellness tourism, and holistic health services that meet international standards. Continued …

Songkhla declares 7 emergency disaster zones, hospital in Pattani underwater

Songkhla province has declared an emergency disaster zone in seven districts after days of heavy rain triggered widespread flooding, affecting nearly 18,000 households. No injuries or fatalities have been reported.

Continuous heavy rain caused by a monsoon trough over the south and a strong northeast monsoon have inundated large areas in this southern province since Nov. 19. The affected districts are Rattaphum, Muang Songkhla, Khlong Hoi Khong, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, and Hat Yai. Continued …

Miss Mexico crowned Miss Universe 2025, Thai finishes runnerup

The 74th Miss Universe pageant concluded on a dramatic note as Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 yesterday in Bangkok, triumphing over global favorites and navigating a week marked by controversy. Thailand’s Praveenar Singh secured first runner-up, followed by Stephany Abasali of Venezuela, Ahtisa Manalo of the Philippines, and Olivia Yacé of the Ivory Coast.

The event, themed “The Grand Universe: The Power of Love. The Power of Thailand,” showcased Thailand’s cultural and creative strengths to a worldwide audience. It was the fourth time Thailand has hosted the competition, held this year at IMPACT Challenger Hall 2 in Muang Thong Thani. Continued …

Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul grabs 3-shot lead at Tour Championship

The two best players in the world were the two best players on the course at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group Tour Championship yesterday.

Thailand’s Atthaya “Jeeno” Thitikul fired a 9-under-par 63 to vault into a three-stroke lead at the Ladies Professional Golf Association’s (LPGA) season finale at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida. And Nelly Korda made a charge with an 8-under 64 to move into a tie for fifth, within shouting distance of Thitikul at the midpoint of the tournament. Continued …

Four major risk signals for Thailand’s 2026 economy

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has released its latest economic assessment, highlighting four major risk signals that could weigh on Thailand’s economic performance in 2026. The council noted that the economy is likely to lose momentum, in line with an expected slowdown in exports after exceptionally high growth last year.

The outlook also reflects the global economic and trade slowdown amid rising US tariff measures, which are expected to continue limiting Thailand’s industrial production and private investment. Meanwhile, high levels of private-sector debt, combined with tighter financial conditions, remain a significant constraint on domestic demand. Continued …

Shifting global trade trends keep Thailand on its toes

The Ministry of Commerce has a mission to ensure that exports, the most powerful engine of the Thai economy, return to full power and align with emerging global standards, according to minister Suphajee Suthumpun.

“The diversity of our offerings and openness are key advantages for Thailand. We can foster trade with all nations,” she said at the Bangkok Post Economic Forum 2025 yesterday. To formulate trade policy in a challenging world, global trends must be considered, she said. Continued …

Thailand’s 2026 economy shaped by 45 key trends, led by digital, electronics, EVs, and smart farming

Thailand’s economy remains fragile going into 2026, but key industries — digital, electronics, electric vehicles, energy, agriculture, and wellness — are expected to anchor new growth. A comprehensive review by Thansettakij and insights from government agencies reveal 45 trends in investment, exports, agriculture, consumer behavior, marketing, and tourism that are set to shape the country’s economic trajectory next year.

GDP expanded just 2.4% in the first three quarters of 2025, with full-year growth forecast at around 2%. For 2026, the IMF and the Bank of Thailand project growth of only 1.6%, citing structural weaknesses, geopolitical risks, US trade policy uncertainty, and high household debt. Continued …

Government mulls reducing taxes for workers

The government is considering reducing the tax burden for salaried workers and low-income earners. According to Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, the government’s medium-term fiscal framework (MTFF) does not focus solely on raising value-added tax (VAT) – it also includes measures to ease the tax burden on salaried workers and low-income earners.

For the MTFF covering 2027-2030, he said it includes a consideration of increasing tax allowances for salaried workers and those in lower tax brackets, while tax allowances for the wealthy or those in higher tax brackets would be reduced. Continued …

Thai rice market surges as jasmine rice hits 16,100 baht per ton

Wittayakorn Maneenetr, director-general of the Department of Internal Trade (DIT), said yesterday that prices for main-crop paddy in the 2025/26 season have improved markedly, aligning with the government’s policy to prioritize key agricultural commodities — particularly rice, a vital source of income for farmers nationwide.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed all agencies to implement proactive, on-the-ground measures immediately to prevent prices from collapsing during the months when large volumes of rice enter the market toward the end of the year. Continued …

Long-haul tourism to Thailand to hit 11.66 million in 2026

Thailand’s long-haul tourism market is entering a new period of robust growth, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasting another record high in 2026, driven by stronger airline capacity, rising demand from Europe and the United States, and new traveler motivations shaped by the global “WhyCation” trend.

According to Chiravadee Khunsub, TAT deputy governor for international marketing – Europe, America, Middle East, and Africa, the long-haul segment has been one of the brightest engines of Thai tourism throughout 2025, helping offset sluggish recovery in short-haul Asian markets, particularly China and South Korea. Continued … 

Pattaya fractured by nationality clusters as segregated tourism drains city’s soul

Pattaya, long hailed as Thailand’s playground for all, is increasingly losing its charm, as tourists self-segregate into nationality-specific enclaves. Europeans dominate certain streets, Koreans stick to others, Indians and Russians claim their own corners, creating isolated pockets rather than a unified city experience.

Critics argue this fragmentation has stripped Pattaya of its eclectic energy. “The town used to feel alive because everyone mingled,” says a long-term visitor. “Now it’s like each nationality has built its own mini-city. It kills the authenticity and the excitement.” Continued …

14 tourists rescued after boat capsizes off Pattaya

All 14 passengers were rescued after a chartered fishing boat capsized off the coast of Pattaya yesterday, with the skipper found unconscious but alive and brought ashore for emergency treatment.

The incident occurred when the vessel carrying 14 Thai tourists sank near Koh Man Wichai, about 20 kilometers off the coast of Pattaya city in Chon Buri, after being hit by strong waves and high winds. Continued …

Thailand’s last hunter-gatherers seek land rights

Deep in a Thai forest a young man sprints through the undergrowth, blowpipe in hand, before pumping a poisoned dart at a monkey. The group closes in, shouting out to each other, and the animal falls to the ground.

The kill was in keeping with centuries of tradition for the Maniq, one of Thailand’s smallest ethnic minorities, who are the country’s last hunter-gatherers. But the lures of a settled home, among them education and healthcare, mean their way of life is changing. Continued …

Thailand’s green manufacturing at the sharp edge of geopolitics

Thailand is moving to align its low-carbon goals with geopolitical and industrial realities, as rising US–China trade frictions, critical mineral shortages, and the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism reshape manufacturing competitiveness.

While electric vehicle investment and clean-power plans show momentum, gaps in carbon pricing, small- and medium-sized enterprise readiness, and grid modernization threaten to slow progress, making decisive policy coordination essential if Thailand is to turn climate ambition into a strategic advantage. Continued …

SPCG Delivers Robust Q3 2025 Performance Driven by Solar Rooftop Momentum

SPCG Public Co. reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2025, recording a 23% year-on-year increase in sales and service revenue and confirming an interim dividend payment to shareholders.

According to Wandee Kunchorayakong Juljarern, CEO of SPCG, the company generated and distributed 78.8 million units of solar power in Q3, a decrease of 5.3 million units from last year. Despite the decline in production — attributed to the expiration of the Adder subsidy periods for all 36 solar farm projects — SPCG maintained stable financial performance due to the strong momentum in its solar rooftop installation business across residential, commercial, and industrial segments. Continued …

Interra Resources Expands Renewable Energy Footprint in Thailand

Interra Resources has announced that its subsidiary, Interra Renewable Energy (Thailand) Co., has entered into a joint venture agreement with Royal Manor Group Co. to develop a solar power plant in Thailand.

The joint venture will create a new company to build a solar farm with a capacity of up to 10 megawatts, aiming to generate electricity for both internal use and sale to the Thai government. This strategic move is expected to enhance Interra’s presence in the renewable energy sector and strengthen its market position in Thailand. Continued …

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Tuesday’s news-Nov 18

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Red flags in Hua Hin/Waghor Super Mini Marathon/Thailand Flood Crisis/Thaksin Ordered to Pay Tax Bill/Easing ride-hailing registration/Illegal Villa Still Operating on Samui

  • ECONOMY: Economy ‘Stuck in a Rut’/Economy risks falling behind ASEAN/Thailand upbeat on exports/Chinese metropolis fuels trade boom/Tariff impact on GDP/Food shops benefit from co-payment scheme/Data center services to earn Bt14.2 billion
  • TOURISM: The uncrowded, affordable alternative to Koh Samui/Businesses Welcome Eased Alcohol Rules/AirAsia X plans long-haul European routes/Warning After Henna Disaster/Pattaya gives foreign tourists what they want/Thai airlines target China tourist surge/Thailand links with Chinese payment giants/Court overturns rule allowing foreign pilots
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Is Life Getting Better for Thais?/Follow these 6 unspoken rules
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

 

‘No swimming’ red flags out in Hua Hin

Hua Hin authorities have banned swimming along the main beach after red flags were raised today following warnings of strong winds and rough seas in the Gulf of Thailand.

According to the Meteorological Department’s forecast for Nov. 17-23, the Gulf is experiencing waves of 2–3 meters as the northeast monsoon strengthens and an easterly wind surge moves across the south. The system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to parts of the southern provinces and hazardous sea conditions throughout the week. Continued … 

Waghor Super Mini Marathon set for Sunday

The Waghor Super Mini Marathon 2025 will take place on Sunday at King Mongkut’s Science Park at Waghor in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The event aims to promote local tourism while raising scholarship funds for three schools in the area: Ban Waghor School (Friendship 72), Ban Khlong Wan School, and Ban Nong Hin School.

The event offers four categories: Super Mini Marathon (14 km) – Bt550; Fun Run (5 km – Bt450 THB; Family Beach Run (3.5 km) – Bt350; and Fancy Run (5 km) – Free entry. Continued … 

Thailand Flood Crisis: Northern Runoff Slows, But 13 Provinces Remain Submerged

Although northern runoff in the Chao Phraya River Basin is slowing, allowing authorities to actively drain floodwater, 13 provinces remain submerged.

The number of affected households has slightly increased due to large amounts of stagnant “field water” trapped in low-lying areas, even as main river levels recede. Continued …

Supreme Court Orders Thaksin to Pay 17.6-Billion-Baht Tax Bill

The Supreme Court has ordered Thaksin Shinawatra to pay 17.6 billion Thai baht in taxes, fines, and fees relating to the sale of Shin Corp. shares in 2006. This overturns the earlier decisions by Thailand’s Central Tax Court and the Special Appeals Court, which had sided with Thaksin, previously canceling the Revenue Department’s tax assessment due to illegality.

The origins of this case trace back to a 2017 tax assessment by the Revenue Department, demanding payment from Thaksin following the sale of Shin Corp. shares. In 2023, Thaksin managed to initially win his case in both the Tax Court and Appeals Court. However, the Revenue Department challenged these rulings, leading to the Supreme Court’s recent reversal. Continued …

Cha-am Hash House Harriers

What Are You Doing Saturday? Well, do this instead. Adventure, Exercise, a Social Event and Community – what more do you need in a Saturday afternoon and evening? How about mountains, temples, jungles, farms, caves, wooden bridges, boats, sunsets, beer (if you like) – and some new friends of all ages, from all over? Click HERE for more information, or EMAIL us at chaamhash#gmail.com.

Ministries agree to ease ride-hailing registration

The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry and Transport Ministry have reached an agreement to ease some of the burden drivers face when registering to provide a service via ride-hailing platforms.

The move follows a request from a group of drivers for support regarding this matter from both ministries. DES Minister Chaichanok Chidchob said the two ministries reached a conclusion to respond to the eight requests regarding the easing of the registration process. Continued …

Illegal Villa Still Operating Despite Demolition Orders on Samui

“Citizens for Samui,” a local civic group, reported yesterday that a luxury villa project in Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, continues to operate despite repeated demolition orders.

The project had previously been ordered for demolition under the Building Control Act, B.E. 2522, with deadlines first set for October 2019. Authorities had placed official notices and barriers to prevent occupancy, but the site remains open to guests. Continued …

Thailand’s Economy ‘Stuck in a Rut or Falling Off a Cliff,’ Warn Senior Officials

Senior Thai policymakers have issued stark warnings about the country’s economic trajectory, with the deputy prime minister describing Thailand as either “stuck in a rut” or potentially “falling off a cliff.”

Veerathai Santiprabhob, chairman of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) and former Bank of Thailand governor, quoted Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, who stated last month that “Thailand’s economy is facing a stuck situation or may be falling off a cliff.” Continued …

TDRI warns Thai economy risks falling behind ASEAN

The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has warned that Thailand is at risk of being overtaken by its ASEAN neighbors if the country fails to reform its economic model, stressing the need to develop “Good Jobs” and overhaul the nation’s production system to boost competitiveness.

TDRI Presiden Somkiat Tangkitvanich said during the annual seminar, “Reimagining Thailand’s Development Model”, that the Thai economy has entered a prolonged period of “chronic slow growth” lasting more than three decades. Thailand, once capable of expanding 7% per year, is now growing at only about 2%, placing it near the bottom of Asia — ahead of only Japan. Continued …

Thailand upbeat on exports to US

Businesses and economists are optimistic that the US will not be tough on trade negotiations with Thailand following Bangkok’s suspension of its peace accord with Cambodia, saying US President Donald Trump is feeling domestic pressure to lower taxes to ease rising inflation.

Burin Adulwattana, managing director of Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), said Trump is expected to lower taxes on additional imported items to avoid the impacts of high tariffs on US consumers. Continued …

Southern Chinese metropolis fuels China-Thailand trade boom

A shipment of fresh Thai coconuts glided into Shenzhen’s Shekou container terminal and was swiftly cleared by customs before reaching supermarket shelves across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, while robotic arms at BYD’s assembly line completed the final touches on new energy vehicles (NEVs) bound for the bustling streets of Bangkok.

This seamless exchange epitomizes the deepening trade ties between Shenzhen and Thailand, with trade volume hitting 92.82 billion yuan (about 13.1 billion U.S. dollars) in the first 10 months of 2025, a 4.4% year-on-year increase, cementing Shenzhen’s position as China’s top city in trade volume with Thailand. Continued …

Council warns of tariff impact on GDP growth

The Thai economy must brace for the impact of the US’s reciprocal tariff policy, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), which projects next year’s GDP growth will slow to 1.7%, down from an estimated 2% this year.

For 2026, the NESDC expects Thailand’s economic growth to be lower than this year, largely due to the effects of America’s tariff measures, which are expected to weigh on global trade volume. Global trade is projected to expand only 2.3% in 2026, while global GDP is projected to grow 2.8%. Continued …

Food shops get benefit boost from co-payment scheme

Food shops participating in the Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment scheme and completing the government’s online delivery upskilling program will be eligible to receive benefits of up to 2,000 baht if they secure at least five delivery orders during the campaign period, deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Prertwiwatana said.

She said that the co-payment scheme is designed not only to ease living costs and stimulate economic activity, but also to help small food vendors expand into the rapidly growing online delivery market. Continued …

Data center services to earn Bt14.2 billion in 2026

Thailand’s data center service business is projected to post 14.2 billion baht in revenue in 2026, marking a 9% increase from the estimated 13.1 billion baht in 2025.

The Thai data center service business has experienced an annual total revenue growth rate of 11.1% over the past five years, primarily fueled by demand from the private sector, which accounts for roughly 95% of the need for data storage services in Thailand, said Theeraphoom Vuthipramote, a researcher at K-Research. Continued …

The uncrowded, affordable alternative to Koh Samui for winter sun

Gazing out of the train window at fields filled with palm trees, I daydreamed about wandering along Hua Hin’s four-mile-long, pale beach, feeling sand crunch beneath my feet as the sun set.

Video 

I’m not sure how I ended up going straight from the train to an ice bath, but then wellness is a growing attraction in Hua Hin. I let out a sigh of relief as Katie, my spa therapist at The Standard hotel, said my five Baltic-cold minutes were complete, and that I could thaw out in the sauna. Continued …

Thai Businesses Welcome Eased Alcohol Rules, See Boost for Tourism

Thailand’s private sector expects tourism to benefit from a government decision to relax alcohol restrictions, even as health officials warn of potential risks.

The National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee on Nov.13 approved lifting the ban on drinking between 2 pm and 5 pm and extending on-premise alcohol service by one hour past midnight. The new rules are expected to take effect within 15 days. The move follows lobbying from business groups and pressure from opposition parties. Continued …

Low-cost carrier AirAsia X plans new long-haul European routes

Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia X, which recently launched flights to Istanbul, is planning to establish more long-haul routes to Europe sometime next year, its CEO Benyamin Ismail said yesterday.

AirAsia X began flying direct to Istanbul from Kuala Lumpur on Nov. 14. The route marked a return to Europe for the airline, which underwent a corporate restructuring after its operations were hit hard during the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

American Tourist Issues Warning After Henna Disaster in Bangkok

An American tourist, Nick Nayersina, has issued a stark warning after his holiday in Bangkok took a painful turn due to a black henna face tattoo. The impromptu decision during a night out with friends led to a severe allergic reaction, causing blistering and oozing on his face, which may result in permanent scarring.

Nayersina was unaware that black henna, unlike traditional henna, contains chemicals harmful to the skin. Black henna is popular for its dark pigment, resembling a real tattoo. However, it contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical legal in hair dye only under strict conditions. When applied directly to the skin, PPD can cause severe burns and infections. Continued …

Pattaya gives foreign tourists what they want, not what they can keep

Few places blur the line between fantasy and reality quite like Pattaya. Beneath the glow of neon bars and the gentle sway of palm-lined beaches, foreign tourists often feel they’ve stepped into a world where affection is abundant and romance seems just a conversation away.

But as visitors lean into the warmth of Thai hospitality, a deeper question lingers: are these connections signs of genuine long-term love, or simply carefully crafted moments designed to give tourists the happiness they want while they’re here? Continued … 

Thai airlines target China tourist surge amid Japan tensions

Although the airline sector has been suffering from sluggish tourism and a declining number of Chinese arrivals since the beginning of the year, Thailand should still have a robust high season during the fourth quarter, as well as opportunities for more Chinese demand, following China’s warning to its citizens to not visit Japan.

Tensions between China and Japan have escalated, fueling a sharp drop in Japan’s retail and tourism stock pricing, as China issued a travel warning over visits by its citizens to Japan, after the Japanese prime minister commented about the possible use of military force in any Taiwan conflict. Continued …

Thailand links with Chinese payment giants for cross-border QR PromptPay

Thailand’s NITMX has teamed with UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay to enable seamless cross-border QR PromptPay payments for Chinese tourists and boost digital-payment connectivity with Asia.

National ITMX Co. (NITMX), Thailand’s national payment infrastructure operator and the country’s designated interbank transaction management and exchange, has entered into a strategic partnership with three of China’s largest payment providers, UnionPay International, Ant International (via Alipay under the Alipay+ system), and Tenpay Payment Technology (operator of WeChat Pay). Continued …

Court overturns Labor Ministry rule allowing foreign pilots to fly in Thailand

Thailand’s Administrative Court has ruled to annul a Labor Ministry announcement that authorized foreign pilots to operate flights within the Kingdom, finding the decision to be an unlawful exercise of ministerial discretion.

The decision, issued yesterday, arose from a lawsuit brought by the Thai Pilots Assn. and its president against the Labor Ministry and other government bodies. The court’s order annuls the ministry’s announcement allowing foreign nationals to serve as flight crew on wet-leased aircraft operating within Thailand. Continued …

Is Life Getting Better for Thais?

Thailand has seen a dramatic transformation from its agricultural roots to a bustling industrialized nation over the past five decades, with marked improvements in healthcare, education, and living standards. Despite these advancements, many Thais nostalgically recall a simpler, safer past.

While this nostalgic sentiment is strongest among Baby Boomers and Gen X, the younger generations, like Gen Z, are more open to today’s opportunities for innovation and progress, though they too hesitate to declare the present superior. This nuanced perspective, balancing heritage with the demands of modernity, significantly impacts Thai society and consumption patterns. Continued …

If you follow these 6 unspoken rules in Thailand, locals will go out of their way for you

I spent three weeks in Thailand a few years back, and within the first two days, I realized something important: the guidebooks tell you what to see, but they rarely tell you how to actually connect with people.

There’s this moment I remember vividly. I was at a small street food stall in Chiang Mai, attempting to order pad Thai with my terrible Thai pronunciation. The vendor smiled, corrected me gently, and then spent the next 10 minutes teaching me how to say it properly. By the end of the week, she was saving me the best spot at her cart and throwing in extra spring rolls.That wasn’t luck. That was the result of understanding something deeper than tourist etiquette. Continued …

UK toughens asylum system with radical overhaul

The UK government yesterday unveiled dramatic changes to its asylum system, including drastically cutting protections for refugees and their children, seeking to stem a wave of irregular migrants that has fueled rising anger on the far-right. Continued …

China warns people to avoid travel to Japan amid spat

Chinese airlines have recorded about 491,000 cancellations of tickets to Japan since Saturday – roughly 32% of their total bookings to the typically popular destination – after Beijing advised citizens to avoid traveling there amid a diplomatic spat. Continued … 

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