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Saturday’s news-Dec 13

December 13, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Golf course for flood control/Hua Hin wins Friendly Design Award’/25/General Election in Thailand/Hat Yai flood clean-up/Thailand at SEA Games
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Agree on new ceasefire/Anutin vows to keep fighting/Three leaders’ statements diverge/So Who Is Lying?/Guns still blazing despite Trump/Tenth Thai soldier killed/F-16s Bomb Bridge/Cambodian Rockets Hit Temple/Cambodia demands bribes
ECONOMY: Key economic measures on hold/Top Business Opportunities in Thailand/Airport high-speed rail delay
TOURISM: Top tourist body concerned about war’s impact/Steps to stimulate tourism/New Year promotion to travelers/Thai Airways’ Baggage Piece Concept
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Siblings find man who watched over them/Thailand’s Food Delivery Trends/Koh Phayam keeps Thailand car-free
CLIMATE THAILAND: Global EV Fleet to Hit 116 Million
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Hua Hin golf course may be used for flood control

A meeting on flood defense planning was held on Thursday to assess the potential use of part of the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course as a water-retention area to help reduce flood risks within the city. The session focused on how existing open land could support a wider flood defense system for Hua Hin.

Discussions were held on site at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, where officials examined the terrain and surrounding drainage patterns. The aim was to identify suitable areas that could temporarily store excess water during periods of heavy rainfall and release it in a controled manner, reducing pressure on drainage systems and nearby communities. Continued …

Hua Hin wins something called the ‘Friendly Design Award’

Hua Hin City Municipality has won the Friendly Design Awards 2025, recognizing it as a model city for inclusive design that supports an aging society and helps reduce social inequality.

The award is presented to local administrative organizations that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in reducing social inequality, developing urban environments that are accessible to everyone, supporting an aging population, and promoting tourism for all. It reflects Hua Hin City Municipality’s commitment to inclusive design and its efforts to improve quality of life for all groups of people, particularly in terms of health, safety, facilities, and equal access to tourism in one of Thailand’s key tourist cities. Continued …

Feb 8, 2026, Targeted for General Election in Thailand

Narong Klunwarin, the newly appointed chairman of Thailand’s Election Commission (EC), has highlighted Feb. 8 as a potential date for the general election following the recent dissolution of the House of Representatives. This announcement comes amid rising tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, posing potential challenges for the electoral process.

The EC is set to meet on Dec. 15-16 to finalize the election date, aligning with legal mandates requiring a decision after the House dissolution. Preparations are well underway, with the EC having anticipated the dissolution, thereby completing the redistricting of constituency boundaries in advance. Continued …

Hat Yai flood clean-up reaches over 83% completion

Thailand’s government reports strong progress in the clean-up and recovery operation in Hat Yai district, Songkhla, with over 83% of the restoration work now completed.

As of Thursday, recovery efforts had reached 83.6% completion, with authorities and volunteers working around the clock for 11 consecutive days. In total, 95,307 tons of garbage have been removed from the area, with 9,796 tons cleared on Thursday alone. Road cleaning has covered a total of 329.4 kilometers. Continued …

Thailand extends gold medal lead at SEA Games

Thailand enjoyed another profitable day, scooping a haul of 24 gold medals to take its overall tally past the half-century mark at the 33rd SEA Games in Bangkok and Chon Buri yesterday.

The day started with romance for the Thai contingent after Ratcharat Yimprai and Kunsatri Kumsroi, a married couple, combined to snatch the gold medal in the mixed duo show event of the jujitsu competition. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia agree on new ceasefire

In a significant diplomatic move, the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to renew a ceasefire following several days of deadly clashes. The renewed truce aims to halt all shooting and adhere to the original peace accord facilitated by Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

An escalation in cross-border violence threatened the original ceasefire that Malaysia brokered in July. Despite the initial agreement, Thailand and Cambodia engaged in a propaganda war and minor skirmishes persisted. The conflict stems from long-standing territorial disputes related to a 1907 map drawn during Cambodia’s French colonial period, which Thailand disputes. Continied …

Anutin rebuts Trump, vows to keep fighting

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul today publicly rejected comments by US President Donald Trump, who had claimed that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to a ceasefire and described the landmine incident that killed and injured Thai soldiers as an “accident”.

Responding in English, Anutin posted: “It’s definitely not a roadside accident. Thailand will continue to perform military actions until we feel no more harm and threats to our land and people. I want to make it clear. Our actions this morning already spoke.” Continued …

Three leaders’ statements diverge: US, Thai, and Cambodian tones don’t match

Statements from the three leaders — Donald Trump, Anutin Charnvirakul, and Hun Manet — show “mismatched tones”, foreign media report, following their telephone calls yesterday.

Following the call US President Donald Trump and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, and a separate call between Trump and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, all three leaders have now either held press conferences or issued statements. International media note that the tone of the US president and the Thai premier does not fully align. Continued …

So Who Is Lying—Anutin or Trump? Or Did They Simply Misunderstand Each Other

While Thai PM Anutin, speaking after his discussion with Trump, stated that if there were to be a request for a ceasefire, it would have to be conveyed to Cambodia first, and only then could matters proceed.

About a little over two hours later, Trump posted on social media shortly after midnight Bangkok time yesterday (the morning of Dec. 12 in Washington, DC) that the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to “CEASE all shooting effective this evening.” “This evening,” when accounting for the 12-hour time difference between Washington, DC, and Bangkok, would still most likely mean Saturday night in Bangkok. Continued …

Guns still blazing as Thai–Cambodian border war enters Day 6 despite Trump call

Clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border continued overnight in Trat province despite calls by Donald Trump with both leaders. Thai forces shelled artillery bases in Koh Kong and deployed F-16s at dawn to bomb a key bridge after detecting a Cambodian troop and weapons build-up.

In Trat province, clashes raged throughout the night and into the early hours, expanding as far as Hat Lek in Khlong Yai district. Thai forces struck artillery positions in Koh Kong and later called in F-16 fighter jets to bomb a strategic bridge after intelligence indicated that Cambodian troops and heavy weapons were moving up close to the frontier. Continued …

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Tenth Thai soldier killed as clashes intensify

Another Thai soldier has been confirmed killed in combat at Hill 677 in Ubon Ratchathani, raising the military death toll to 10 amid escalating clashes with Cambodian forces. The Internal Security Operations Command announced the loss yesterday, expressing sorrow on behalf of the Thai people.

Deployed with Second Army combat units, the sergeant with the 1st Special Forces Regiment was serving as a field radio operator when an explosive device struck him directly, killing him instantly on the contested hill in Nam Yuen district. Continued …

F-16s Bomb Bridge Near Trat Border

The Royal Thai Air Force carried out an air strike early yesterday, deploying two F-16 fighter jets to bomb the Chai Chum Nia Bridge in Pursat Province, Cambodia. The operation followed reports of troop reinforcements and the movement of heavy weapons near Thailand’s border in Trat Province, with the bridge identified as a key logistical route.

Thai security officials said the decision to target the bridge followed several days of monitoring military movements in the area. Naval forces had detected a continuous build-up of troops and the movement of heavy weapons close to the Thai border in Trat Province. These developments raised concerns about potential security threats and prompted coordination between naval and air force units. Continued …

Cambodian Rockets Hit Ta Kwai Temple, 11 Thai Troops Hurt

Fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border in Surin province intensified early yesterday, with Cambodian forces firing BM-21 multiple rocket launchers toward the Ta Kwai Temple area, injuring 11 Thai soldiers. The exchanges began in the early morning and continued across several flashpoints, forcing local leaders and villagers to shelter in bunkers for safety. This marked the fifth consecutive day of clashes along the border.

In the latest violence, Cambodian troops opened fire with artillery, followed by the first salvo of BM-21 rockets, alternating with further artillery strikes. Thai forces returned fire intermittently before fighting resumed along the entire border line. Continued …

Cambodia demands bribes from Thai citizens to return home

Thai nationals in Cambodia face challenges returning home through the Ban Khlong Luek border checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province. Reports indicate that Cambodian authorities prevented their crossing without providing an explanation. Relatives allege demands for payments of 12,500 baht per person to allow passage.

These developments occur against a backdrop of increased security measures along the Thai-Cambodian border due to rising tensions between the two nations. On Dec. 10, Thai officials ordered Cambodian nationals in Thailand to return home over security concerns, citing suspicions of espionage activities. Following this, Cambodian authorities reportedly blocked Thai citizens from crossing back, prompting a halt in the repatriation of Cambodian nationals from Thailand. Continued …

Election could put key economic measures on hold

The second phase of the popular “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme for another 10 million Thai consumers is among the key economic measures that will probably have to be put on hold as the country prepares to go to the polls.

Under the law, a caretaker government cannot carry out any projects or introduce measures that would create obligations for the next administration, according to an official at the Ministry of Finance. Continued …

Top Business Opportunities in Thailand for 2026

Thailand is prioritizing structural enhancements and targeting high-value investments, unlocking substantial opportunities across key sectors, especially in digital transformation, sustainability, and premium services. Thailand’s economic vision for 2026 is crystal clear: a strong focus on high-value industries, digital transformation, and sustainable growth.

Backed by robust government incentives, a more competitive Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), and innovative tools like Thailand FastPass, the investment landscape is evolving toward greater speed, innovation, and long-term strategic value. Continued …

Three-airport high-speed rail hit by fresh delay

Thailand’s flagship high-speed rail project linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao faces further delays after the House dissolution pushed the government into caretaker status, preventing approval of key amendments to the CP-led PPP contract.

Large-scale investment schemes under the Ministry of Transport that were queued for Cabinet approval must now be held back for the next government. Among them is the high-speed rail link in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumim and U-Tapao airports, where the state is preparing to seek Cabinet approval to amend the public-private partnership (PPP) contract. Continued …

Top tourist body concerned about Thai-Cambodian war’s impact on foreign tourism

A leading tourism industry body has raised concern over the Thai-Cambodian conflict and its impact on Thailand’s foreign tourism industry, with the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) saying in recent days that foreign tourists visiting Udon Thani and Pattaya are voicing concern about military clashes along Thailand’s long border with Cambodia, a conflict now making international headlines and expected to influence how foreign tourists decide where to holiday,.

ATTA Secretary-General Mr. Adit Chairattanannon also warned that the dissolution of parliament and the presence of a caretaker government could negatively affect planning and budget preparation for foreign tourism in the period ahead. Continued …

Ministry to push forward steps to stimulate tourism

The Tourism and Sports Ministry still plans to push forward two tourism stimulus measures and leave it to the caretaker administration to decide whether to continue them, while the private sector is more concerned with restoring flood-affected communities and maintaining peace along the Thai-Cambodian border.

Tourism and Sports Minister Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn said the government still retains the authority to pursue tourism policies, even though the dissolution of the House of Representatives has taken effect. Continued …

The Transport Company offers New Year promotion to travelers

Travelers heading away for the New Year may be in for a pleasant surprise as Thailand’s Transport Company has announced a special promotion to make holiday journeys easier and more affordable.

The state-owned Transport Company Limited is offering a New Year’s gift to passengers with a 20% discount on tickets purchased under the “Go Before – Return Later” promotion. This initiative is a part of the Ministry of Transport’s “New Year Gift 2026” campaign under the theme “H.N.Y 2026 – Happiness of All.” Continued …

Thai Airways Cracks Down On Baggage Allowance, Introduces Piece Concept

Thai Airways has announced a far-reaching overhaul of the baggage allowance system and is moving to a “piece concept” for both international and domestic flights starting March 2.

Currently, THAI has a weight-based system, which allows passengers to check in several pieces of baggage until the weight limit is reached, and for some reason, the airline decided that doesn’t work (for them) anymore. Continued …

Siblings return to Thailand after 50 years seeking to find the man who watched over them in 1975

Three American siblings whose father was stationed in Thailand with the US military in a media role in 1975 returned to the kingdom this week. Their mission was to find a Thai man who had cared for them as children.

The three, two brothers and a sister, carried sharp memories of Poon Pong-aree, who watched over them in northern Thailand. Armed only with memories, a few images, a name and a rough idea of their father’s old post, they still managed to locate him. A stark and emotional reunion followed. The siblings later confirmed that their sole purpose in returning to Thailand was to meet their childhood guardian. Continued …

Thailand’s Food Delivery Trends Reveal Nation’s Evolving Palate

Matcha has officially conquered Thailand’s beverage scene in 2025, with orders surging 300% to reach 6.5 million cups on Line Man’s platform, while spicy papaya salad with pickled crab (tum pu pla ra) claimed the crown as the nation’s most-ordered dish with over 8 million servings.

The dramatic rise of matcha reflects a growing appetite for what industry insiders are calling “affordable luxury” – premium products that feel indulgent without breaking the bank. Despite individual cups often costing upward of 100 baht, and some specialty versions reaching 250 baht, Thai consumers have embraced the Japanese green tea powder as more than just a trend. Continued …

Forget Phuket, where 12 million tourists crowd beaches, while Koh Phayam keeps Thailand car-free

Phuket’s Patong Beach drowns under 12 million annual visitors. Hotels demand $150 nightly. Traffic jams stretch 45 minutes between beaches. Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi limits 3,500 daily visitors after coral destruction from overtourism.

What Thailand offered 30 years ago exists nowhere now. Except one place. Koh Phayam preserves authentic island Thailand where 1,287 residents guard empty beaches, $25 bungalows, and zero cars from mass tourism’s reach. Continued …

Global EV Fleet to Hit 116 Million in 2026, up 30%

The worldwide adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is set for a substantial acceleration in 2026, with the total installed base of cars, buses, vans, and heavy trucks projected to reach 116 million units, according to a new forecast from Gartner.

This represents a robust 30% year-on-year increase from the 89.6 million vehicles in use in 2025. This growth is maintained despite policy headwinds, including the removal of subsidies in many markets and the introduction of tariffs on vehicle imports by the US government. Continued …

19 Indians Arrested in Pattaya in Illegal Online Work Raid – Continued …
Tourist Police Arrest Myanmar Man Smuggling 9 Foreigners – Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Dec 11

December 11, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Heavy rain for Prachuap Khiri Khan/Digital systems n Hua Hin/Cape Nidhra Hotel ranked 14th best/Support network for French in Hua Hin/Sportsworld opens at Bluport/Thailand wins 19 golds in SEA Games
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Fighting becomes more entrenched/Army hits targets in Sa Kaeo/Two Thai Soldiers Killed/Thailand will strike any imminent threat/Half a million into shelters
ECONOMY: Thailand’s Debt Crisis Deepens/Competition to limit restaurant growth
TOURISM: Border Clashes Threaten Tourism/Publicize Updated Entry Rules/European Flight Increase/Plan to Rescue South After Floods/Phuket on high alert for floods
CLIMATE THAILAND: Phuket beach among 10 most polluted/Asia Faces $4-Trillion Water Crisis/Mining boom threatens the Mekong
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Heavy rain forecast for Prachuap Khiri Khan

Prachuap Khiri Khan is expected to see heavy rain today and tomorrow as national disaster officials warn of a period of unsettled weather affecting large parts of the south and the central region. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) said the province is among the areas most at risk of flash floods, runoff, and localised flooding during this period.

The DDPM urged Prachuap Khiri Khan and eight southern provinces to stay alert as an easterly wind surge is forecast to increase rainfall from yesterday. The Thai Meteorological Department’s latest bulletin noted that heavy rain is likely in many areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon, with very heavy rain expected further south. Continued …

Digital systems take on bigger role in Hua Hin operations

Hua Hin is taking steps toward becoming a data-driven city following a presentation on the proposed Smart Liveable City Development Project. The meeting, held Tuesday at Hua Hin City Municipality, outlined how digital systems could be used to support decision-making and improve local services.

A representative from Siam Inno City Co. briefed municipal officials on the My City platform, which links data from air-quality sensors, CCTV, public Wi-Fi, communication tools, and digital service accounts into a single system. Continued …

Hua Hin’s Cape Nidhra Hotel ranked 14th best resort in Thailand

Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin, a 5-star beachfront retreat from Cape & Kantary Hotels, has been ranked 14th among Thailand’s Top 15 Resorts in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 by Condé Nast Traveler.

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards honor the best in travel across various categories, including hotel, resort, spa, airline, cruise, rail, and city and country rankings based on reader votes. The 15 resorts in Thailand were recognized in the best resorts across Thailand, including Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, and Hua Hin. – HHT

New support network for French residents launched in Hua Hin

UFE Hua Hin, the local branch of the Union des Français de l’Etranger (UFE), has been officially launched in Hua Hin, offering a new point of contact and support network for French citizens and other French speakers living in Hua Hin and the surrounding area.

The UFE, founded in 1927, is a non-political and non-religious organization that represents French citizens abroad. With more than 120 delegations worldwide, UFE Hua Hin becomes the latest delegation in Thailand, joining Bangkok and Phuket. Continued …

Sportsworld opens at Bluport Hua Hin

Sportsworld, one of Thailand’s leading sports retail chains, has opened a store at Bluport Hua Hin. Sportsworld is widely recognized among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious shoppers nationwide.

Today, the brand operates over 50 branches nationwide, offering a full assortment of apparel, footwear, sports gear, fitness equipment, team sports items, racket sports products, outdoor and camping essentials, and more. – HHT

Thailand tops medal table with 19 golds in early SEA Games action

Thailand launched its bid to reclaim the elusive SEA Games overall title in emphatic fashion by bagging 19 gold medals in the 33rd SEA Games yesterday.

Since the inauguration of the region’s most prestigious sporting event in 1959, the kingdom has finished atop of the medal standings 13 times, the most among all 11 ASEAN countries. Continued …

Fighting becomes more entrenched across key battlegrounds

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia continued to intensify and expand yesterday on the third full day of renewed fighting between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

Official sources from both countries reported artillery and small-arms fire exchanges, as well as strikes from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions. Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) airstrikes on Cambodian military infrastructure also intensified, as did engagement from naval forces. Continued …

Army hits targets in Sa Kaeo as Cambodia pounds area with rockets

Thailand 1st Army has reported heavy Cambodian BM-21, dronem and artillery attacks in Sa Kaeo, with 14 Thai troops injured, and 180,000 residents evacuated to shelters.

The Burapha Task Force continued its mission to defend Thailand’s sovereignty amid the ongoing Thai–Cambodian conflict for the third consecutive day. Operations were conducted across five areas, as follows: Continued …

Two Thai Soldiers Killed in Separate Border Clashes

Two Thai soldiers have been confirmed killed in ongoing clashes along the Thailand–Cambodia border, bringing the military death toll in the current escalation to nine.

The fatalities occurred today in two separate combat zones, where both men were struck by mortar fire during intensified engagements. The losses add to growing concerns over the mounting human and structural damage reported in recent days. Continued …

Thailand will strike any imminent threat, anywhere: Thai general

Lt. Gen. Wanchana Sawasdee, an adviser at the National Defense Studies Institute under the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, said yesterday that an analysis of the terrain along the line of contact shows that the Thai side consists of forests and mountainous areas, which naturally places Thai military bases within forested terrain.

In contrast, the Cambodian side has deliberately built civilian houses right next to the border. As a result, Cambodian military bases are embedded within civilian homes and buildings, using them as firing positions and weapons-control centers, effectively using civilians as human shields. Continued …

Border clashes send half a million into shelters

Half a million evacuees in Cambodia and Thailand were sheltering in pagodas, schools, and other safe havens yesterdayy after fleeing renewed fighting in a century-old border dispute.

At least 11 people, including Thai soldiers and Cambodian civilians, have been killed in the latest spate of fighting, officials said, while more than 500,000 have fled border regions near where jets, tanks, and drones were waging battle. Continued …

Thailand’s Debt Crisis Deepens: Non-performing Loans Spread to Large Firms

Non-performing loans (NPLs) are spreading from small and medium-sized enterprises to larger corporations, with the overall NPL ratio approaching a critical 3% level.

Total credit in Thailand is projected to contract for a third consecutive year, driven by a sharp decline in retail credit and slowing demand from businesses. Sectors identified with the highest risk of loan defaults include real estate, hospitality/tourism, and manufacturing, which are all under strain from an economic slowdown. Continued …

Competition to limit growth of restaurant sector

Competition in Thailand’s restaurant sector is intensifying, setting the stage for slower growth next year, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

K-Research forecasts that the restaurant sector will expand by 3.4% in 2026, down from 7.8% in 2025. The slowdown is primarily driven by heightened competition from both domestic and international operators. The number of restaurants in Thailand is projected to rise to 690,000 in 2025, up from 660,000 in 2024, an increase of 4.5%. Continued …

Border Clashes Threaten Tourism During Peak Season

Thailand’s tourism industry is bracing for economic fallout, as renewed fighting with Cambodia disrupts the country’s crucial high season, with businesses warning of mounting losses and foreign governments issuing travel alerts.

The border conflict has forced the closure of key trade checkpoints and prompted evacuation of residents in frontier districts, raising concerns about both immediate tourism revenue and longer-term investment confidence. Continued …

Thailand Faces Calls to Publicize Updated Entry Rules

Amid increasing cases of travelers being denied entry to Thailand, tourism operators are urging the government to consistently publicize updated rules and enhance pre-screening measures, as the nation clamps down on multiple visa runs.

Recently, the Immigration Bureau launched four strategies to stop foreigners from entering as tourists while engaging in unlawful activities, including cybercrime and money laundering. Restrictions on multiple 90-day visa-exempt entries have been tightened, limiting foreigners to two visa runs, with excess runs leading to denial of entry. Continued …

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European Flight Increase Set to Boost Thai Tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced a major boost in its tourism efforts with Norse Atlantic Airways introducing five new European routes to Bangkok and Phuket. With these additions, TAT aims to attract a larger number of European visitors as the tourism high season approaches.

These new routes are part of TAT’s airline-focused tourism promotion plan, targeting increased flights to Thailand. The goal is to meet the growing demand from European tourists. From October to December, Norse Atlantic Airways launched key routes: Stockholm-Bangkok, London Gatwick-Bangkok, and Manchester-Bangkok. Continued …

Tourism Authorities Launch Massive Plan to Rescue South After Floods

Thailand’s tourism authorities are launching an extensive, multi-agency offensive to revive the crucial southern tourism market following severe floods and economic crises in 2025.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading a confidence-building campaign, while the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) focuses on recovering the region’s valuable MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) sector. Continued …

Phuket on high alert for floods, landslides, and strong waves

Phuket has issued a warning for flash floods and landslides, as heavy to very heavy rain is forecast across southern Thailand from today to Dec. 16.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) announced that intense rainfall is expected throughout the south, prompting Phuket to order all relevant agencies to remain on full alert for floods, flash floods, landslides, and strong waves along the coast. Continued …

Phuket beach among 10 most polluted beaches in the world

Freedom Beach in Thailand has been ranked as the fifth dirtiest beach worldwide, with 52% visitor complaints about cleanliness. Phuket’s popular tourist hotspot suffers severe plastic pollution from nearby boat activities. Monsoon season washes additional ocean waste onshore, creating visible accumulation zones.

Water quality concerns deter swimming during peak pollution periods affecting tourism. Limited waste-management infrastructure struggles handling thousands daily visitors. Nearby restaurants and resorts contribute disposable packaging waste reaching the shore. Continued …

Asia Faces $4-Trillion Water Crisis as Climate Change Ravages Infrastructure

Asia stands at a critical crossroads, as climate change systematically dismantles the region’s water and power infrastructure, threatening the livelihoods of billions and demanding unprecedented investment to prevent catastrophic service collapse, according to two authoritative reports released this week.

The stark financial reality: Asian nations must mobilize $4 trillion for water and sanitation infrastructure between 2025 and 2040, approximately $250 billion annually, yet current funding meets only 40% of this requirement, leaving a dangerous $150 billion annual gap, the Asian Development Bank revealed. Continued …

Hidden mining boom in Laos threatens the Mekong

Satellite analysis has identified 517 suspected riverbank mines in Laos, many likely illegal, with clusters along key Mekong tributaries, raising fears of widespread, unmonitored contamination. Officials in Attapeu province confirmed illegal mining remains pervasive despite crackdowns, with most operations missing from official records and many linked to Vietnamese or Chinese supply chains.

The mining surge, including gold and rare earth extraction, poses major risks to ecosystems and communities in the Mekong Basin, where water testing capacity is weak and signs of declining fish populations and polluted rivers are emerging. Continued …

Foreigner Accused of Poisoning Pets in Chon Buri – Continued …
Police Halt ‘Gray Chinese’ Transport Ring Linked to Scammers – Continued …
Russian Hookah Haven Busted: Phuket Police Seize Illegal Stash – Continued …
Russian Overstayer Living on The Street Detained in Pattaya – Continued …

US plans to order foreign tourists to disclose social media histories

The administration of US President Donald Trump plans to order visa-exempt foreign tourists to disclose their social media histories from the last five years before entering the country, according to an official notice. The proposal would apply to visitors from 42 countries, including Britain, France, Australia, and Japan, who do not need a visa to enter the United States. Continued …

Ukraine sends US new plan to end the war as Trump blasts Europe

Ukraine has sent Washington an updated plan for ending Russia’s invasion, Ukrainian officials said yesterday, as US President Donald Trump laid into European leaders in the latest sign of a growing transatlantic rift. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Dec 10

December 10, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Intensifies Military Response/Cambodia Unleashes Artillery, Rocket Barrage/Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight/Thailand unlikely to ease up/Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks/Conflict Threatens Thailand PM Seeks Full War Powers/Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared/5 Thai soldiers killed/7 Cambodia civilians/61 Cambodian Troops Killed/Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base/Marines launch offensive n Trat/US and UN Call For Halt/Thailand-Cambodia Economic War/Cambodian withdraws from 33rd SEA Games/990 schools being closed
Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16/Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal
ECONOMY: The Baht’s Risky Rise/10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht/Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk/Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into EV project/Online shoppers value-conscious
TOURISM: 30 million Tourist Arrivals/9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025/The transformation of wellness tourism/Another tourist ‘falls’ from hotel balcony/Minister Pitches Park and Stadium/Indian tour groups cancel trips
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The Thailand food experience/Is it better to travel before or after the New Year?
CLIMATE THAILAND: The greening of power/Prices of BEVs set to rise
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Thailand Intensifies Military Response as Border Conflict with Cambodia Escalates

Thai military forces engaged in sustained combat operations along the Thailand-Cambodia border yesterday, responding to what officials described as intensified attacks by Cambodian forces across multiple strategic positions. Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri briefed reporters at the Joint Press Center on Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, detailing significant military activity in the preceding hours.

In the Second Army area, Thai positions came under sustained bombardment from Cambodian BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, explosive drones, and kamikaze drones throughout the morning. Continued …

Cambodia Unleashes Heavy Artillery and Rocket Barrage

Full-scale hostilities have resumed along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, with Cambodian forces launching a sustained bombardment against four provinces in Thailand’s southern Isaan region since the early hours of this morning.

The Second Army Area Command confirmed that Cambodian soldiers initiated the attack at approximately 5:20 am local time, firing artillery shells and BM-21 rockets into Thai territory along the entire border. Continued …

Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight Against Thailand

Cambodia’s powerful Senate President Hun Sen yesterday vowed that his country would carry out a fierce fight against Thailand as a second day of widespread renewed combat between the Southeast Asian neighbors drove tens of thousands of people to flee border areas.

Hun Sen claimed that his country had refrained from firing back on Monday, but overnight began to shoot back at Thai forces. He wrote that a strategy of concentrating on where Thailand was advancing would allow Cambodia to “to weaken and destroy enemy forces through counterattacks.” Continued …

Thailand unlikely to ease up on military actions – at least for now

Judging from statements from the prime minister down to the army generals and the country’s top diplomat, it’s quite clear that Thailand is unlikely to ease up on its military operation against Cambodia any time soon, as fighting along several border areas continues for the fourth day today.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday reaffirmed that his government fully supports the armed forces in their operation in response to Cambodian aggression. “There is no stopping now. We have pledged our full support for the armed forces to proceed with their operation,” he said in response to a reporter’s question about whether his government might agree to a pause in the military operation as the last government did at the height of the previous round of border skirmishes in late July. Continued …

Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks to end conflict, PM adviser says

Cambodia is open to immediate bilateral talks with Thailand to halt their border conflict, a top adviser to its prime minister said yesterday, after the neighbors accused each other of violating a truce.

The countries fired at each other, including using artillery, along much of their 817-km (508-mile) land border on a second day of sustained hostilities. At least 13 people have died and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes on both sides of the border in the two days since the heaviest fighting resumed. Continued …

Border Conflict Threatens Thailand’s Political Timetable as PM Seeks Full War Powers

The renewed eruption of conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border is poised to redraw Thailand’s domestic political timeline, placing significant pressure on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his government’s tenure.

The hostilities may compel the government to postpone the dissolution of Parliament, ensuring it retains the full executive authority necessary to manage a state of war and potentially leverage a wave of nationalist fervor to recoup political popularity diminished by recent flooding crises. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared Amid Border Clashes

Thailand has launched air strikes along its disputed border with Cambodia, escalating tensions after both countries accused each other of violating a ceasefire. The Thai military confirmed the strikes on Monday, marking a sharp deterioration in an already volatile situation. The immediate impact has heightened regional concerns as military activity intensifies on both sides of the frontier.

The latest confrontation follows Thailand’s suspension of de-escalation measures last month after a Thai soldier was maimed in a landmine incident. Bangkok alleges the mines were newly laid by Cambodian forces, a claim that Cambodia rejects. Tensions have been simmering for weeks as both nations trade accusations over responsibility for repeated border incidents. Continued …

5 Thai soldiers killed amid escalating clashes with Cambodia

Five Thai soldiers have been killed in ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, with fresh confrontations reported this morning, the fourth consecutive day of fighting since hostilities resumed.

Prime Minister Anutin expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, promising that the government would ensure their relatives received proper support. Continued …

7 Cambodia civilians killed in border clashes

At least seven civilians have been killed and approximately 20 others have been injured in Cambodia amid renewed border clashes with neighboring Thailand, according to the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense.

This week’s Thai attacks, which stem from a long-running border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations, have also forced more than 20,000 from their homes in several communities, the Cambodian ministry said, along with destroying infrastructure, damaging templesm and disrupting public services. Continued …

Thai Army Reports 61 Cambodian Troops Killed in Border Clashes

Thai Army Region 2 reported yesterday that Cambodian forces launched heavy cross-border attacks between 9 am and 5 pm, resulting in intense clashes and significant casualties on both sides.

The operations center confirmed that Thai forces have lost four soldiers killed in action and 68 wounded, while Cambodian forces suffered 61 deaths, with their number of wounded still being assessed. The most heavily affected sectors included Chong An Ma and Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani, Thiang Ta Mok in Sisaket, and Chong Kana and Ta Kwai Temple in Surin. Continued …

Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base as Cambodia Fires rockets

Thai military forces launched coordinated air and artillery strikes yesterday against a scam-operating base in Cambodia’s O Smach area, causing significant damage to an under-construction building and prompting further cross-border escalation.

The attack involved a Gripen fighter jet dropping bombs and self-propeled artillery targeting sites east of the Or Smach Resort Casino community in Uddar Meanchey Province, close to Thailand’s Chong Chom permanent checkpoint in Kap Choeng District, Surin. Explosions were heard across nearby Thai villages and fires were reported at the struck construction site, with initial reports indicating one guard dead pending confirmation. Continued …

Marines launch offensive to regain occupied Thai territory in Trat

Thai navy marines launched an operation against Cambodian troops yesterday to reclaim a border area seized by Cambodian forces. The fighting in Trat leaves neighboring Chanthaburi as the only border province free of armed clashes between the two countries.

Capt. Thammanoon Wanna, commander of the Trat Marine Task Force, said the operation to regain an area of Ban Nong Ri in tambon Chamrak, Muang district, started at 5.30 am. Three houses in the area were the prime target. Continued …

US and UN Call For Halt to Thailand–Cambodia Border Clashes

The United States and the United Nations have issued urgent appeals for an immediate halt to armed clashes along the Cambodia–Thailand border, as fighting entered its fourth day and casualties continued to rise.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a statement yesterday expressing deep concern over “continued fighting and casualties in multiple locations” and urging both sides to protect civilians. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced alarm, warning that renewed hostilities risk escalating further unless both countries recommit to dialogue. Continued …

Thailand-Cambodia Economic War Paralyzes $5 Billion Trade, Threatens Vast Gas Reserves

The escalating border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has transcended a mere territorial dispute, morphing into a full-scale “economic, political, and geopolitical war.” The clashes have inflicted profound and deepening economic wounds on both nations, with the indefinite halt of cross-border trade and the dark prognosis for a multi-trillion-baht energy project threatening regional stability.

The conflict’s immediate consequence was the paralysis of trade at the vital Klong Luek–Poipet crossing, generating immense economic damage and disrupting established regional supply chains. Continued …

Cambodian athletes withdraw from 33rd SEA Games

The Cambodian team announced its withdrawal from the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand and will return home tomorrow, citing safety concerns arising from the Thai–Cambodian border conflict.

The team was reportedly planning to submit an official letter confirming its withdrawal to the organizers today. The Cambodian delegation had taken part in the opening ceremony at Rajamangala National Stadium. Continued …

Escalating border clashes lead to 990 schools being closed

Almost 1,000 schools along the Thai-Cambodian border have been ordered closed as a precaution following renewed armed clashes, Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat said yesterday.

The closures increased from just over 600 on Monday to 990 by yesterday afternoon, according to the Office of the Basic Education Commission. The ministry is now awaiting clearance from local security agencies before allowing schools to resume operations. Continued …

Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for heavy to very heavy rain in the south and strong winds and waves in the Gulf of Thailand, with impacts expected from Dec. 11–16. Upper Thailand will also see unstable weather, with thunderstorms followed by a sharp drop in temperature.

From Dec. 11–13, rain will increase across the south, with heavy rain in many areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun, and heavy to very heavy rain in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal

Teenage fighter Watcharakul Limjittrakorn has won Thailand’s maiden gold medal of the 33rd SEA Games, with a victory in the women’s freestyle Poomsae event of the taekwondo competition today. The 19-year-old delivered a performance in front of the home crowd at the Fashion Island shopping mall, scoring 7.900 points to take the title.

The silver and bronze medals went to Nicole Alethea Khaw of Singapore and Phouttavan Chanthakhammany of Laos, respectively. Continued …

The Baht’s Risky Rise: Can the BoT Curb Its Momentum?

The rapid appreciation of the Thai baht, up nearly 7% year-to-date and now trading significantly below the 32-per-dollar mark, presents a mixed signal that Thailand’s economy may struggle to accommodate.

This sharp currency appreciation could potentially hinder export competitiveness, a critical driver of Thailand’s economy, while benefiting importers and dampening inflationary pressures. However, it also raises concerns for industries reliant on tourism and foreign investment, as a stronger baht makes Thailand a more expensive destination and investment option. Continued …

10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht Under Khon La Khrueng Plus2

The government is preparing to approve the second phase of the Khon La Khrueng Plus scheme, which will provide 2,000 baht to 10 million eligible recipients, with spending expected to begin in January 2026.

The initiative aims to maintain economic momentum into the new year. According to government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat yesterday, the Ministry of Finance will submit the proposal to the Cabinet next week. Continued …

First Alert in 50 Years Over Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk in Gold and Stocks

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has sounded the alarm over an unprecedented “double bubble” risk, noting that the prices of both gold and global stocks have surged simultaneously for the first time in at least 50 years. The rare warning from the BIS, often referred to as the central bank of central banks, questions the resilience of the current “risk-on” environment across global financial markets.

While the stock market has been propeled by the hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) technology, gold prices have soared by 60% this year, putting 2025 on track to be the metal’s biggest annual price leap since 1979. Continued …

Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into new mild hybrid EV project

Mazda Motor Corp. is preparing to spend 5 billion baht early next year on building a new mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) production base in Thailand, marking a major step in the country’s transition toward electric mobility, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

The project will have a production capacity of 100,000 units annually, with operations scheduled to begin in 2027. Vehicles manufactured in Thailand will be exported to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asian markets. Continued …

Thai online shoppers more value-conscious

The Thai e-commerce market has been growing rapidly, with a high usage rate among Thais, but platforms still need to close the satisfaction gap for buyers, a survey by the market research firm Milieu Insight has found.

The report highlights five missions that e-commerce platforms must dynamically adapt to, and which Thai consumers and businesses should closely monitor for future developments. Continued …

Thailand Surpasses 30 million Tourist Arrivals

Thailand has exceeded 30.2 million foreign tourist arrivals for 2025, according to new data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The milestone reflects strong short-haul demand and steady revenue generation, with visitors contributing more than 1.4 trillion baht so far this year. However, despite the high volume, total arrivals remain 7.2% lower than during the same period in 2024.

Malaysia and China were the top two source markets, each surpassing 4 million arrivals. India followed with 2,280,823 visitors, while Russia and South Korea contributed 1,685,931 and 1,438,827 arrivals, respectively. These five countries formed the backbone of Thailand’s inbound tourism throughout 2025. Continued …

Foreign tourism sector in crisis, visitor decline accelerates, 9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025

Thailand is heading for a steep plunge in foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, driven by a disastrous chain of events that began with the high-profile kidnapping of a Chinese actor earlier in the year and has only worsened since.

A surging Thai baht, conflict with Cambodia, and the Hat Yai flooding disaster have all compounded the damage, while political instability continues to erode confidence. Vietnam, meanwhile, is racing ahead with fresher experiences and far better value for money. Continued …

From pampering to purpose: the transformation of wellness tourism

For three decades, Asia’s first wellness resort, Chiva-Som, has been welcoming guests with wellness in mind. Chiva-Som Hua Hin General Manager Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen says over that time the luxury traveler’s demands and overall behavior have seen a dynamic change in terms of knowledge, innovation, and a lifestyle shift.

“The biggest change we have seen is a shift from passive pampering to proactive, personalized transformation. It has shifted from an eat-drink-relax style to a more purposeful and meaningful holiday. In the past, they purely sought physical relaxation – sun, spa treatments, and indulgence.” Continued …

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Another tourists ‘falls’ from hotel balcony, this time in Phuket

A Mexican-Canadian tourist died yesterday afternoon just hours after checking into a Phuket hotel. She was due to check out the next day. She fell from the balcony of her ninth-floor suite.

The death is the latest in a series of foreign tourist fatalities from hotel heights in Thailand. Similar incidents occur regularly in Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok. The southern island, along with Pattaya, is notorious for such cases. Police confirmed her room was undisturbed. Her sandals were left on the balcony, suggesting she stepped out moments before the fall. Continued …

Minister Pitches Disneyland-Scale Park and 80,000-Seat Stadium

The Transport Minister has unveiled proposals for two major “magnet projects” in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), outlining plans for a world-class amusement park and a new 80,000-seat national stadium.

The developments are designed to boost tourism and investment in the region, particularly to support the financial viability of the high-speed rail (HSR) project linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. The announcement signals a significant push to transform the Pattaya-Chonburi area into a regional hub for entertainment, sports and international events. Continued …

Indian tour groups cancel trips after flight chaos at home

Travel agents say 20% of Indian tour groups to Thailand have canceled following massive flight cancellations by IndiGo, India’s largest airline, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) views the impact as short term, expecting the market to still reach 2.4 million arrivals this year.

Meanwhile, TAT says the overall number this year might drop by 9.8% year-on-year to 3.2 million. IndiGo has canceled thousands of flights since last week after it failed to plan for new pilot rest rules, creating chaos for air travel in India over the past several days. Continued …

The Thailand food experience

You can have your food delivery riders. Even better are food vendors who come to your front door to make meals while you watch. Here, a noodles with pork soup is prepared for a Thai woman in front of her house. Want Thailand’s popular, and spicy, som tom green mango salad? They come by also, or a phone call brings them to your door. At night, cart vendors can be found selling grilled seafood or sausages, roti with different ingredients (banana, peanut butter, etc.), fried chicken, dried squid, and many other options. (HHEN)

Is it better to travel before or after the New Year in Thailand?

Thailand’s year-end holiday period presents travelers with a dilemma: join the festive chaos of late December, or wait until January when things calm down?

With the 2025 to 2026 season approaching, this decision carries more weight than usual. The Thai government has declared an extended five-day holiday from Dec. 31 to Jan. 4, creating a double-peak where international tourists and domestic travelers converge simultaneously. Continued …

The greening of power

‘It is full of concrete. Dry and barren.” That was his first impression of Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road when Nalikatibhag Sangsnit took the helm at Dhanarak Asset Development (DAD).

Supervised by the Treasury Department, DAD, a state enterprise, is the administrator of the country’s largest bureaucratic hub, as well as other public assets. Covering 378 rai, Government Complex in Bangkok’s Lak Si district houses more than 50 agencies, serving over 40,000 staff and visitors daily. Continued …

Prices of BEVs set to rise next year

The prices of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Thailand are expected to rise by an average of 200,000 baht next year, following the expiration of the government’s EV3.0 incentive scheme, a move that could dampen domestic demand for BEVs, which has grown steadily over recent years, warns the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).

Introduced to promote BEV consumption and production, the EV3.0 scheme offered automakers reduced excise tax and import duties, along with subsidies to support sales. Continued …

Nightclub Owners Flee to Phuket After Deadly India Fire

A tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa, India, resulted in 25 fatalities, prompting the club’s owners, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, to flee to Phuket. The brothers left on an IndiGo flight shortly after the incident on Sunday, escaping before police could apprehend them. Indian authorities are now seeking Interpol’s assistance to locate and arrest the duo. Continued …

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Saturday’s news- Dec 6

December 6, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Donation drive – 1,300 kg of rice/Myanmar Workers Win Lottery/Blackpink’s Lisa in new Neflix film

THAILAND FLOOD NEWS: Lessons from Songkhla flood/increased rainfall in south/Bt4.9-billion flood aid
ECONOMY: Corporates Warn of Severe Economic Risks/Thailand Fights to Cool Baht/Failings Stalling Thailand’s Digital Economy/Strong Growth in Digital Economy/Global money-laundering hub
TOURISM: Thai tourism sector still resilient/Over 2,500 people flock to Phu Kradueng National Park/Bangkok more developed than Kuala Lumpur/Phuket City sounds alarm
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Family Day at Black Mountain Water Park/Discover Bangkok’s temples
CLIMATE THAILAND: Andaman oil to lure global investors
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Hua Hin Ladies’ food donation drive – 1,300 kg of rice

The Hua Hin Ladies’ annual Rice Would Be Nice donation drive has delivered another strong outcome this year, supporting Jungle Aid and several villages in need across the region. The 2025 campaign, which brings together members of Hua Hin’s community along with local businesses and major hotels, collected more than 1,300 kilograms of rice and a wide range of essential household goods.

According to organizers, the collection will help supply food and basic necessities to partner villages, including a school that uses around 300 kilograms of rice each month to provide lunches for 200 children. The latest donations will support the school for almost three and a half months. Continued …

Myanmar Workers Hit by Hat Yai Floods Win 12M Baht Lottery

Two Myanmar brothers living in Thailand have overcome misfortune to win 12 million baht in the Thai lottery. Severe floods in Hat Yai devastated the brothers’ home, but Thai rescue teams miraculously saved them.

The two brothers faced dire circumstances when the entire building they lived in was swept away by the floodwaters. Their lives took an unexpected turn thanks to a female rescue worker who gave them 500 baht each for a meal. As they sought refuge at Hat Yai airport, a providential encounter with a lottery seller led them to purchase a discounted ticket that would change their fortunes. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa cast in new Neflix action film

Following weeks of intense speculation, Netflix has officially confirmed that Blackpink’s Lisa (Lalisa Manobal) is set to join the cast of their new action feature, TYGO. The film is confirmed to be part of the same cinematic universe as the streaming giant’s highly successful Extraction franchise.

Lisa, who recently made her acting debut in the third season of the HBO series The White Lotus, will star alongside two of South Korea’s most formidable actors: veteran action star Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee) and Lee Jin-wook. Continued …

Government learns lessons from Songkhla flood

The government has established five subcommittees tasked with improving the country’s disaster preparedness in the wake of the floods that struck the country’s southern provinces, Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno announced on Thursday.

The goal is to develop an integrated system covering forecasting, early warning, and relief mechanisms that can be applied nationwide, as well as to rebuild public confidence in the government, he said. Continued …

TMD warns of increased rainfall in the south

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reported today that a moderate high-pressure system from China has expanded to cover the upper north, northeast, and the South China Sea, bringing easterly winds that transport significant moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand into the country.

This weather pattern will result in more rain across Thailand, with isolated heavy rainfall expected in the south, while the upper regions will see scattered showers. Cool morning temperatures are likely in the upper country. Continued …

Households get Bt4.9-billion flood aid money

The government has disbursed flood relief worth more than 4.9 billion baht to over 500,000 households, according to Prime Minister’s Office Minister Paradorn Pattanananthakul.

Paradorn said yesterday that, following the government’s decision to lift the state of emergency in Songkhla province, all flood-relief operations will now be coordinated through the forward command of the Defense Disaster Relief Center. Continued …

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Thai Corporates Warn of Severe Economic Risks in 2026

Entering the final month of 2025, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) expects Thailand’s 2025 GDP to grow by 2.0%, while 2026 growth is anticipated at around 1.7%.

Current growth is supported by recovering exports, domestic consumption, and tourism. However, downside risks include a global slowdown, U.S. trade tariffs, geopolitical uncertainty, climate volatility, and high household and business debt. Continued …

Thailand Fights to Cool Rapid Rise of the Baht

The Bank of Thailand is set to counteract the rapid appreciation of the baht, which has surged nearly 7% this year, placing it at a competitive level against the US dollar. Central bank measures, including tax reforms, enhanced gold transaction oversight, and an expected interest rate cut, aim to relieve pressure on the baht. Such actions are crucial as the baht strengthens to levels exceeding 32 per dollar, affecting exports and tourism.

In a strategic shift, the Finance Ministry plans to increase the foreign income limit, exempt from mandatory repatriation, to US$10 million (฿357 million) per transaction from the current US$1 million. This change, happening this month, provides businesses with more leeway in handling foreign revenues while controling forex inflows into the country. Continued …

World Bank Report Flags Seven Failings Stalling Thailand’s Digital Economy

Thailand faces major structural impediments to achieving a full digital economy transition, according to a stark assessment released by the World Bank. The new Thailand Digital Data Infrastructure Roadmap (DDIR) Report serves as an alarm bell, highlighting structural challenges that prevent the country from fully leveraging data to drive innovation and enhance public services.

The bank has outlined “Seven Lock-in Issues” obstructing the nation’s digital data infrastructure development and proposed an urgent five-year policy roadmap (2025–2029) for reform. Continued …

New Google Thailand Chief Sees Strong Growth in Digital Economy

Rafael Scislowski, who took over as Google Thailand’s country manager two months ago, said the nation’s digital economy is positioned for continued expansion despite broader economic headwinds.

Thailand’s digital economy is projected to reach $56 billion in 2025, a 16% increase from the previous year, making it Southeast Asia’s second-largest, according to the e-Conomy SEA 2025 report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. Continued …

Thais affected by risk of country becoming global money-laundering hub

With Thailand now facing a risk of becoming a global money-laundering hub due to multiple loopholes that facilitate the flow of gray money, this inevitably impacts the economy and national confidence, with ordinary Thais directly and indirectly vulnerable to this gray money cycle.

Despite 2025 not having ended, the Technology Crime Suppression Centre revealed that as of Dec. 3 total loss from online crimes amounted to over 23.668 billion baht, with an average of 899 reports being filed each day. This statistic further reflects the diverse range of fraud Thais face, particularly scams, call center gangs, and investment scams, which pose a higher risk than other forms of fraud. Continued …

Agoda says Thai tourism sector still resilient

Thailand’s tourism sector remains resilient, with its top three source markets accounting for only 35% of total arrivals, lower than other Asian destinations, according to online travel platform Agoda.

Omri Morgenshtern, chief executive of Agoda, said in a climate of heightened geopolitical tensions and rapid change, diversifying travel sources is crucial. “If your country depends heavily on tourists from just one market, then you face risk,” said Morgenshtern. Continued …

Over 2,500 people flock to Phu Kradueng National Park

Phu Kradueng National Park, in the northeastern province of Loei, was bustling yesterday, which is “Father’s Day” in Thailand. More than 2,500 tourists streamed into the popular mountainous retreat to sample the cool weather and to feel the embrace of the pristine natural environment.

Phuvanai Moonwaeng, the park’s chief, said that at this time of year the national park is an ideal destination for sight-seeing, camping, watching the sun rise and set, or a leisurely walk through nature, when temperatures average 13°C. Continued …

Tourist says Bangkok is 400 times more developed than Kuala Lumpur

A Thai tourist recently claimed that Bangkok is 400 times more developed than Kuala Lumpur, triggering mixed reactions from netizens.He posted photos of Bangkok’s skyline and praised its development on a social media platform last month. His post quickly went viral with 4,700 likes and 4,100 comments, with some criticizing his viewpoint in a sarcastic tone.

“You are absolutely correct. Malaysia is 50 years behind Bangkok. We in Kuala Lumpur live in treehouses. No malls, no hotels, no airport. We travel with cows and buffalo,” a netizen wrote. Continued …

Phuket City sounds alarm over mounting waste

Officials in Phuket City are alarmed by the increasing amount of waste that now exceeds its capacity to handle, urging other local administrations to abandon their complacency and join the fight against garbage.

Phuket Mayor Supachok La-ongpetch expressed frustration over obstacles to proper waste management on the tourist island in a meeting with Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn on Thursday. The meeting was arranged amid concerns about more garbage being piled on the island when the municipality is also struggling to get rid of it. Continued …

How to Make the Most of a Family Day at Black Mountain Water Park

One of the best ways to combine fun, relaxation, and adventure into a family trip in Thailand is to visit Black Mountain Water Park in Hua Hin. It is located about 10 kilometers west of Hua Hin town. The park has plenty of slides and pools with family-friendly attractions. With a little planning, your day will go smoothly from start to finish.

To make the most of your visit, go at opening time, usually around 10 am. Coming early means you can avoid the midday rush and get easier access to the changing rooms and sunbeds. Because the park is a little out of town, transport should be arranged in advance. Continued …

Discover Bangkok’s temples

Bangkok, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers an abundance of spiritual landmarks. But what if the journey to explore these temples could start with something as simple as a Thai coin?

Each coin in your pocket can guide you to one of the city’s most iconic and sacred sites. Take a journey where the flip of a coin leads to some of Bangkok’s most revered temples, revealing not only their beauty but also their hidden stories. Continued …

Andaman oil to lure global investors

Thailand’s oil and gas exploration and production scheme in the Andaman Sea is expected to draw leading international petroleum investors within two years, according to the Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF).

The initiative is part of Thailand’s energy security plan, aimed at offsetting declining domestic oil and gas supplies. The DMF will call for bids for exploration and production (E&P) in the Andaman Sea by January. Continued …

Netflix announces $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros

Netflix announced yesterday it has reached an agreement to acquire key assets of Warner Bros. Discovery, marking the rapid conclusion of an intensely contested bidding process. Paramount, Skydance, and Comcast had all previously attempted to acquire Warner, but Netflix ultimately secured the deal. Continued …

Contenders plot path to 2026 World Cup glory

The path to glory at the 2026 World Cup has now been laid out after the contenders discovered their tournament fate at yesterday’s draw ceremony in Washington, DC. The draw for the first 48-team World Cup offered kind starts to the tournament for holders Argentina and much-fancied Spain, in particular. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Dec 4

December 4, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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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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Tuesday’s news-Dec 2

December 2, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Electricity prices likely to dip/Free concert Saturday/Thailand Closes Border Crossings.Giant Python Swallows Dog

THAILAND FLOODING: Death toll claims stoke concerns/Flood damage exceeds Bt500 billion/Economy to escape major hit/Floods Devastate 10,000 Shrimp Farmers/Hat Yai Hospital restoration/How cyclones and monsoon rains combined
ECONOMY: Property Market Faces Extended Slowdown/More FTA deals needed/Firms post 886.8-billion-baht profit/Alarm about Vietnam/Plan for the silver economy
TOURISM: Foreign arrivals to Trat/Phuket upbeat on high season/More Direct Flights to Phuket/Air Arabia Sharjah–Krabi service
CLIMATE THAILAND: Climate crisis batters Thailand/Bangkok chokes as PM2.5 turns red/Two Thai Solar Farms Go Live
HUA HIN LINKS

Electricity prices likely to dip early next year

Electricity prices are set to become slightly cheaper early next year as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) resolved to reduce the power tariff by 0.06 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) to 3.88 baht a unit, thanks to a projection of lower gas prices.

The existing tariff rate, which is used to calculate power bills, is 3.94 baht a unit, applicable between September and December. The ERC based the new rate mainly on a proposal by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), said Poonpat Leesombatpaiboon, secretary-general of the ERC. Continued …

Thailand Closes Border Crossings for 7 Days Amid Mae Sot Fighting

Thailand has closed all border crossings in Mae Sot for seven days, except the first Thai–Myanmar Friendship Bridge, following intense fighting across the frontier in Myanmar’s Myawaddy district.

The clashes between the Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 6 and Myanmar military Division 22 escalated sharply on Sunday and continued through the night, with gunfire audible in Mae Sot. Thai authorities also reported that artillery rounds had crossed into Thai territory, prompting an immediate readiness to respond. Continued …

Giant Python Captured After Swallowing Dog

A giant python measuring about three meters was captured in Muang Phon district after swallowing a dog. The snake, found near Charoensuk Road, had become sluggish and was easily caught by a team from the Muang Phon Foundation. The python was later released back into the wild.

The python had been spotted over several days slithering around the area. Locals in the northeastern province shared images online of the rescue. District chief Kittichote Triamvejwutikrai stated that police and rescuers were notified of its presence, due to its frequent appearances on and off the road. Continued …

Death toll claims stoke concerns over true scale of disaster

Growing discrepancies between the official flood death toll and claims from rescue volunteers have intensified public concern over the true scale of the Hat Yai disaster.

The Public Health Ministry confirmed yesterday that the death toll from flooding in eight southern provinces had reached 170, with the highest number recorded in Songkhla with 140 deaths. Deputy Permanent Secretary Sakda Alapach said the figure was expected to “increase only slightly” as residents returned to their homes. Continued …

Southern flood damage exceeds Bt500 billion

Catastrophic flooding in the south has inflicted economic losses exceeding 500 billion baht, the Finance Ministry has estimated. Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas provided these figures yesterday about the flood situation in the south. The flooding has affected 2.9 million people across the eight southern provinces, with Hat Yai in Songkhla province being the hardest hit.

Initial aid was rolled out to Hat Yai district on Sunday, including survival kits, food and drinking water, while officials surveyed widespread damage impacting both small and large businesses. The new support package spans financial aid, tax measures, insurance support, livelihood restoration, and repairs to critical infrastructure. Continued …

Economy to escape major hit from floods

Deadly flooding in the south has had a limited impact on the national economy, with the Bank of Thailand estimating it will reduce national GDP growth by no more than 0.2%.

Speaking after a seminar hosted by the Thammasat Economics Assn. yesterday, Bank of Thailand Gov. Vitai Ratanakorn said while Hat Yai typically contributes about 2.6% of Thailand’s GDP, the overall impact of the floods on the national economy will be limited. The central bank estimates the effect on GDP growth at 0.1%-0.2%. Continued …

Southern Thailand Floods Devastate 10,000 Shrimp Farmers, $31M in Damages

Severe flooding across southern Thailand has devastated the region’s shrimp industry, causing more than 1 billion baht (about $31 million) in damage and wiping out production in several provinces, the Thai Shrimp Assn. said yesterday.

Association President Ekapoj Yodpinit said the floods have affected an estimated 10,000 shrimp farmers, with total losses reported in Songkhla, Phatthalung, and Pattani. The southern region normally produces about 11% of Thailand’s annual output, or roughly 270,000 to 280,000 tons of shrimp. Continued …

Hat Yai Hospital to restore 70%–80% of services within two months

The Public Health Ministry said yesterday that Hat Yai Hospital, heavily damaged by the recent flooding, is expected to restore 70%–80% of its medical services within one to two months.

Public Health Permanent Secretary Somrerk Chungsaman said the hospital sustained severe damage to critical systems, including electricity, water supply, control boards, and power generators. Repairing these systems will take at least one to two months to bring services back to 70%–80% capacity. Continued …

How cyclones and monsoon rains combined to devastate parts of Asia

Tropical cyclones have combined with heavy monsoon rains to lay waste to swathes of Asia, killing close to 1,000 people and leaving many more homeless.

Parts of the Indonesian archipelago have been particularly hard hit, with the death toll reaching 442 following flooding that began about a week ago, a number that is expected to rise. Nearly 300,000 people have been displaced and nearly 3,000 houses damaged, including 827 that were flattened or swept away. Continued …

Thailand’s Property Market Faces Extended Slowdown, Developers Urged to Embrace Niche Strategies

Thailand’s real estate sector is bracing for a prolonged period of adjustment rather than a cyclical downturn, according to analysts at Kiatnakin Phatra (KKP) Financial Group, who outlined a sobering assessment of the market’s trajectory at a media briefing yesterday.

According to Vissarut Panyapinyopon, real estate lending head at KKP Bank, and Kornthip Puckprasurtdee, the bank’s real estate industry data researcher, the era of mass-market, large-scale projects is over, and survival depends on financial prudence, hyper-specific targeting, and a willingness to think smaller. Continued …

More FTA deals needed to offset US tariffs

The government should prioritize concluding free trade talks with various nations to increase competitiveness and reduce dependency on the United States, academics say.

Assoc. Prof. Juthathip Jongwanich, a lecturer at the Center for International Competitiveness and Development Studies (ICDS) at the Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University, said Thailand can pursue free trade agreements (FTAs) in other nations, apart from ongoing negotiations with the European Union (EU), Canada, and South Korea. Continued …

Thai listed firms post 886.8-billion-baht profit in first nine months despite weaker sales

The Thai stock market reported a nine-month net profit of 886.8 billion baht in 2025, supported by gains from mergers, business restructuring, and increased investment — despite slowing revenue in both the first nine months and the third quarter due to economic headwinds.

Soravis Krairiksh, chief markets officer of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), said that 817 companies, or 98.7% of all 828 listed companies on the SET and mai required to submit financial statements for the period ending Sept. 30 (excluding property funds and infrastructure funds), had reported their results. Of these, 602 companies, or 73.7%, posted net profits. Continued …

Thai chamber sounds alarm about Vietnam

The Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam (ThaiCham) has called on the Thai government to streamline regulations and improve the country’s ease of doing business, warning that Thailand risks losing its position as a manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia.

Jongjarern Jomjakra, assistant chairman of ThaiCham, said foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand fell to US$32 billion in 2024, trailing Vietnam’s $38 billion. Continued …

Agency preps plan for the silver economy

The government planning unit is crafting a comprehensive strategy for the “silver economy”, a market valued at 2.45 trillion baht and projected to grow significantly as the nation transitions to an aged society.

The silver economy refers to all economic activities, goods, and services designed to meet the needs and harness the purchasing power of older adults. According to Onfa Vejjajiva, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), Thailand became an aging society in 2024, with 14 million people aged 60 or older, roughly 20% of the population. Continued …

Foreign arrivals to Trat on the rebound

Tourism in Trat province has entered its high season, with foreign arrivals showing a clear rebound since late October, says Wichit Sukasuyanont, president of the Trat Tourism Business Assn.

“Both Thai and foreign visitors are returning in increasing numbers, particularly on Koh Chang, which now welcomes 3,000–4,000 tourists per day on weekdays and over 5,000 on weekends and holidays,” he said. Continued …

Phuket upbeat on high season outlook

Phuket tourism operators anticipate this high season running through the first quarter of 2026 will deliver the strongest performance in five years, driven by increased tourist spending, longer stays, and the introduction of new long-haul flights to southern Thailand.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said Phuket posted high growth for arrivals this year, particularly from long-haul markets, which generate enormous spending. Daily arrivals average 60,000-80,000, with 400 flights per day. Continued …

Air France and KLM Launch Direct Flights to Phuket

Air France and KLM are offering a new direct flight between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Phuket.

The direct flight will be operated with a Boeing B777-200 aircraft, configured to carry 328 passengers. The service will be offered daily, with two-way flights for easier access between Phuket and Europe. This new route is part of Air France and KLM’s ongoing strategy to improve global connectivity, making it easier for travelers to get to important destinations both in Southeast Asia and Europe. Continued …

Air Arabia starts direct Sharjah–Krabi service

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated the inaugural Air Arabia daily direct service from Sharjah to Krabi, marking a major step forward in expanding Thailand’s air links with the Middle East and meeting rising demand from high-value travelers.

Air Arabia will operate one flight per day on the Sharjah–Krabi route, adding more than 5,220 seats per month into the destination and further expanding its Thailand network alongside 14 weekly flights each to Bangkok and Phuket. All services to Thailand are operated with Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, offering 174–215 seats per flight. Continued …

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Climate crisis batters Thailand, threatening long-term economic stability

The severe flooding in Hat Yai district, Songkhla, has caused extensive damage to property and loss of life. In response, the government declared a state of emergency in the province, while the prime minister elevated the disaster-management level to the highest severity (Level 4) under the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act BE 2550 (2007).

Modern rainfall patterns are no longer merely “heavy” — they now come as high-intensity downpours, hammering cities for hours and overwhelming drainage systems. Daily rainfall of 300–400 millimeters has exceeded all previous models, breaking the city’s defensive thresholds and surpassing the limits of aging infrastructure. Continued …

Bangkok chokes as PM2.5 turns red in 48 districts, public urged to mask up

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) issued a warning yesterday morning after its “Check Foon” application recorded hazardous PM2.5 levels nationwide.

Five provinces were found to be in the red zone, indicating pollution well above safe limits and posing risks to respiratory health, while 41 provinces were in the orange zone, where air quality is beginning to affect vulnerable groups. Continued …

Gulf Development Expands Renewable Portfolio as Two Thai Solar Farms Go Live

Gulf Development Public Co. has announced that two solar farms under the ompany’s group of subsidiaries, in which the company indirectly holds a 100% equity stake through Gulf Renewable Energy Co, successfully commenced commercial operations with a total contracted capacity of 85.8 megawatts (installed capacity of 113.2 megawatts) and commenced the sale of generatedc electricity to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). Continued …

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Monday’s news-Nov 17

November 17, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Please welcome our newest sponsor: Cha-am Hash House Harriers/Feedback Re: Hua Hin Hospital/Nakhon Pathom–Chumphon double-track line/Hua Hin-Pran Buri excursion/Thai–Chinese cultural exchange program/Public Anger Over Alcohol Sales/Cold spell to grip upper Thailand/Growing Rats for Profit

ECONOMY: Thai GDP drops 0.6%/Concern over tariff talks/US stance on Cambodia a betrayal/Is the minimum wage enough?/nside the battle for Thailand’s future/Thailand Seeks to Finalize Canada FTA
TOURISM: Tourism operators seek to build trust/Malaysians warned about southern Thailand/Phuket Cracks Down on Dodgy Taxis/Speedboat Incident in Krabi
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Watch the Leonids meteor shower/Termite mounds in Thailand/Thais can’t live without Namprik
CLIMATE THAILAND: Hopes for clean air/Low-carbon economy looms/Koh Mak’s strict local rules
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Please welcome our newest sponsor:

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?

At the Cha-am Hash – which is based out of Hua Hin – we bring together runners and walkers, young and old, Thai and foreign, men and women, to go on a one-time adventure out of town on Saturdays. Show up with some trail-running clothes to run, or some comfortable trail hiking clothes to walk, and you’ll find new friends and some markings on the ground leading to a trail.

Follow the trail markings with your pack until the markings run out, then try to solve the puzzle of where the trail goes next, together. It’s not always easy, but it’s always fun, and when you solve all the puzzles you get to go back to the beer – or water and snacks if you prefer.

It’s like the movie The Martian, with a much lower probability of dying in space. After a bit, we form a circle, say hello to new and returning friends, then we take turns making fun of people in the middle of the circle for whatever dumb thing they did (or were falsely accused of doing!) on the trail that day.

Once we finish, and say goodbye to any departing friends, we head to dinner as a group – which is quite often at an out-of-town restaurant you might otherwise never have seen, let alone eaten at.

Every Saturday is unique, with new trails, new territory, new challenges and puzzles, and a new place to eat – but the community of people you’ll meet are consistently friendly, fun, and welcoming. Anyone who gets out of line is summarily executed, which maintains order.

Anyway, the founders of hashing, a century back, laid out four rules – to summarize: Get together and exercise to burn off hangovers and build up a thirst, quench that thirst afterward with friends, and make sure the event allows everyone involved – of whatever skill level – to feel young. What’s not to love about that?

Also last week we had a free BBQ and live bluegrass music, but they didn’t know about bluegrass in Colonial Malaya, or BBQ probably, so they left that out – but we didn’t. We look forward to hashing with you!

Click HERE for more information, or EMAIL us at chaamhash#gmail.com.

Re: Hua Hin Hospital Premium Clinic

“We also wondered why the clinic had closed, since we had used it several times in the past. As to why, my guess is this: Each time we went, there were a few people there, meaning that the space was underused. When we went recently and discovered it was no longer a premium clinic, we saw that it was being used for general medical care by Thai people; the place was full of patients being cared for. To me, it made sense and was a better use of space.

“As for “very very” expensive, perhaps, as an American, I should not comment because of our ludicrously expensive healthcare costs. However, I just went into the Bangkok Hospital emergency room thinking I had broken my thumb, and was immediately seen by an orthopedic doctor, who immediately had an X-ray taken of my thumb. Fortunately, it was not broken, but the entire ordeal took no longer than an hour, and-here’s the important point – the entire bill was 1,400 THB, or about 33 Euros. That is not expensive.

“So, in summary, in my opinion, Hua Hin Hospital thought that using the space to serve Thais was a better use than to serve a small population of Farangs.” – PMB

SRT pushes southern Nakhon Pathom–Chumphon double-track line

Anan Phonimdaeng, acting governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), said the SRT is accelerating its infrastructure development to meet scheduled timelines, with the core objective of reforming Thailand’s rail transport system, enhancing passenger and freight efficiency, reducing national logistics costs, and improving punctuality.

For the southern double-track project (Nakhon Pathom–Chumphon) — a key route connecting major tourist destinations such as Cha-am and Hua Hin — the entire double-track section is now operational using an electronic token system. Although overall project progress stands at 72.5%, full completion is expected in 2026, significantly shortening travel time to the south. Continued …

Tourism train welcomed for Hua Hin-Pran Buri excursion

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Prachuap Khiri Khan office staff welcomed a large group of travelers arriving in Hua Hin on the KIHA 183 excursion train on Saturday, marking the start of a two-day rail tourism program along the Hua Hin–Pran Buri route.

For November and December, the program features two overnight trips to Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. The first focuses on the Hua Hin–Pran Buri route under the theme “Relax by the Water, Explore Hua Hin–Pran Buri.” The second, scheduled for Dec. 13-14, will highlight Prachuap town and nearby communities under the theme “Joyful Journeys Through Local Communities, Discover the Charms of Prachuap.” Continued …

Thai–Chinese cultural exchange program concludes in Hua Hin

A three-day Thai–Chinese cultural exchange training program has concluded at Suan Dusit University Hua Hin, bringing together community enterprises and educators to strengthen cross-cultural understanding and support local tourism development.

Hosted by the Confucius Institute at Suan Dusit University, the program combined classroom sessions with hands-on activities designed to help participants better understand Chinese culture and apply that knowledge within their communities. Training covered language, music, art, and tourism-related practices, delivered through informal and lifelong learning models. Continued …

Public Anger Grows Over Extended Alcohol Sales Hours

Public criticism has intensified following the government alcohol control committee’s decision to extend alcohol sales and drinking hours, with campaigners warning that the move lacks legitimacy and poses public health risks.

Concerns have been raised that the decision was made without a full quorum and may undermine efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm. Critics argue that despite being legal under the new Alcohol Control Act, the decision could have severe consequences for communities. Continued …

Cold spell to grip upper Thailand as temperatures set to plunge 4–7°C

The Meteorological Department has warned of a sharp drop in temperatures across the country’s upper regions between Nov. 17-23, with the northeast expected to see the most dramatic fall of 4–7°C. The central region, including Greater Bangkok, along with the north and east, will see temperatures fall by 2–4°C.

The south will see increased rainfall, with heavy to very heavy showers expected in some provinces, due to a strengthening northeast monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the south, coupled with an easterly wind surge moving into the region. Continued …

Lampang Farmer Growing Rats for Profit

A 37-year-old farmer in Lampang has turned a relatively unknown rodent called “Onn” (bamboo rat) into a lucrative economic animal over the past eight years.

Ekachai Saiyot initially spent two years studying the species before purchasing breeding pairs for 8,500 baht each in 2017. Since then, he has successfully bred and sold the animals, which are prized for their ease of care, high reproductive rates, and resistance to disease. There is international demand for their meat, particularly from Vietnam and Laos. Continued …

Thai GDP drops 0.6% in Q3, NESDC keeps 2025 growth forecast at 2%

Thailand’s economy contracted by 0.6% in the third quarter of 2025 from the previous quarter after seasonal adjustment, with growth slowing to 1.2% year-on-year from 2.8% in the second quarter, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported today.

NESDC Secretary-general Onfa Vejjajiva said the economy expanded 2.4% in the first nine months of the year. Unemployment stood at 0.76%, down from 0.88% in the previous quarter and 1.02% a year earlier. Headline inflation remained negative for the second consecutive quarter at – 0.7%, while core inflation averaged 0.8%. Continued …

Concern over US move to suspend tariff talks

Poj Aramwattananon, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, said that following the United States trade representative’s (USTR) announcement to suspend bilateral tariff negotiations between Thailand and the United States, the chamber and the private sector are closely monitoring the situation and awaiting full clarity.

Meanwhile, Thanakorn Kasetsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said the chances of new tariff talks moving forward have weakened significantly after the USTR explicitly stated that it would “pause further negotiations under the bilateral tariff framework” until Thailand demonstrates full compliance with the Joint Declaration. Continued …

US stance on Cambodia a betrayal

There is an ancient proverb that says: “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” If so, what if my friend is a friend of my enemy? Can he still be trusted as my friend, or has he turned into an enemy?

These disturbing questions emerged in my mind when the administration of US President Donald Trump suspended tariff talks with Thailand until Thailand agrees to revive the Joint Declaration with Cambodia, signed in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed by Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Oct. 26. Continued …

Is the minimum wage enough to cover the cost of living in Bangkok?

Although the minimum wage in Bangkok was increased to 400 baht a day in July, the metropolis is very expensive with the cost of living seen to be higher than this for many workers. While it is a city full of opportunities, income streams, and new experiences, the cost of living is excruciatingly high, making it hard to resist complaining, “Bangkok is so expensive!”.

Even with 400 baht a day minimum wage, which is higher than many provinces, the sky-high cost of living, whether it is food, housing, or transportation, the total almost outstrips the minimum wage for many. Continued …

Work, air, and industry: Inside the battle for Thailand’s future

Three draft laws intended to improve living conditions for all Thais have run into strong resistance from the private sector, which says they would lead to higher costs and reduced competitiveness.

The three bills – on labor protection, air quality, and factory oversight – would place huge burdens on employers, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), says the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB), which represents major business groups. Continued …

Thailand Seeks to Finalize Canada FTA to Unlock North American Market

Thailand’s Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has met with the Canadian Ambassador to Thailand Ping Kitnikone to discuss strengthening bilateral economic, trade, and investment ties, with a clear focus on expediting a crucial free trade agreement (FTA).

Suphajee stated that Thailand is prepared to collaborate closely with Canada to advance economic relations, particularly in areas where Canada holds expertise, such as clean energy, digital and biotech technologies, electric vehicles (EVs), and advanced fields like AI and quantum computing. Continued …

Tourism operators seek to build trust among travelers

Tourism operators have launched the “Trusted Thailand” mark in an effort to restore confidence among travelers, while urging the government to prepare marketing campaigns ahead of Chinese New Year 2026 and address recurring issues such as the Thai-Cambodian border conflict.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to attract at least 5,000 operators to enroll in the government’s certification scheme for safety and security standards, allowing them to earn the credential by January. Continued …

Malaysians warned to avoid night travel in southern Thailand

Malaysians traveling to the southern Thailand provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani have been advised to avoid going out at night due to rising violence in the area.

Malaysia’s consul general in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, said this is only a travel advisory, not a ban on entering Thailand. “When there is a rise in violence in these three provinces, we issue a travel advisory asking Malaysians to be more cautious in their movements. Continued …

Phuket Cracks Down on Dodgy Taxis to Protect Tourism

Phuket’s provincial administration is tackling the rise of fake taxi registrations on ride-hailing apps, a threat to its tourism industry. Gov. Saransak Srikruanet recently held discussions on the troubling use of false IDs and the emergence of “black plates”— personal vehicles illegally operating as taxis in tourist areas.

The Phuket Provincial Land Transportation Office has identified over 100 illegal taxi operators using these apps. Saransak has vowed legal action against offenders and plans to launch a public awareness campaign to combat the issue. Continued …

Speedboat Incident in Krabi: 35 Tourists Evacuated Safely

A speedboat carrying tourists from Phuket faced a critical situation near Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, on Saturday when water began flooding the vessel shortly after departing Koh Mai Phai. The boat, carrying 39 people, including 35 tourists, one captain, two crew members, and a guide, was at risk of sinking before being safely returned to shore. No injuries were reported.

The incident occurred just 10 minutes after leaving Koh Mai Phai, when water unexpectedly entered the hull, causing the boat to list and creating immediate danger. The captain acted swiftly upon noticing the breach and steered the boat back to Koh Mai Phai. Continued …

Watch the Leonids meteor shower as it peaks at up to 15 meteors per hour

Skywatchers will be able to enjoy the Leonids meteor shower tonight, according to the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT).

The phenomenon will occur from tonight into the early morning of tomorrow, with a projected peak rate of around 15 meteors per hour. The radiant — the point in the sky from which the meteors appear to originate — lies in the constellation Leo. Continued …

Sacred belief behind termite mounds in Thailand

In Thailand, nature is often intertwined with cultural beliefs, and some of the most fascinating connections come from everyday creatures and phenomena.

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One such example is the humble termite, a tiny wood-munching insect that, for centuries, has been considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Thai culture. But what’s the story behind this fascinating belief? And why are termite mounds, known as จอมปลวก (Chom Pluak), seen as sacred messages from the Earth Goddess herself? Continued …

Why Thais can’t live without Namprik

Namprik may look simple at first glance, a small bowl of spicy dip surrounded by fresh vegetables, perhaps a piece of fried fish, or even just warm rice.

But for Thais, this humble dish is far more than a condiment. It is a cornerstone of home cooking, a cultural symbol, and a daily necessity that brings balance, flavor, and identity to the table. Continued …

Hopes for clean air

The so-called “winter” is making its way into the country and into Bangkok. Regardless of what the mercury says, winter also heralds the arrival of PM2.5 – the fine dust that blankets the sky.

This year brings some hope that air quality may improve. On the policy front, Thailand will ban imported maize from sources that burn fields during harvest – a practice that worsens air pollution. Continued …

Low-carbon economy looms

Thailand’s carbon-intensive industries are under growing pressure to fast-track their green transition after the new government announced an ambitious plan to accelerate the country’s net zero goal by 15 years, from 2065 to 2050.

Local research centers warned the earlier timeline will test the nation’s industrial readiness, but could also open new opportunities in the emerging low-carbon economy. Continued …

Koh Mak’s strict local rules shield the island from big investors and foreign encroachment

In recent months, the issue of foreign tourists has drawn widespread public attention in Thailand — from the situation in Pai, where locals have faced religious gatherings, covert businesses, and creeping cultural intrusion, to growing concerns in Koh Phangan, where locals have warned they must “protect the island before it is swallowed”. In several places, inappropriate or disrespectful tourist behavior has slowly affected community life.

Amid these rising concerns, one island has taken a very different path: Koh Mak in Trat province — a small island that has never been “taken over”. It is officially recognized as one of the Green Destinations Top 100 sustainable tourism sites in the world. Continued …

Armed foreign illegal miners arrested in gold-digging raid

A brazen illegal mining gang has been caught secretly digging for gold in Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi, with soldiers and police raiding the site and arresting four armed foreign nationals. Continued …

Russian Student-Visa Holder Arrested in Phuket Cocaine Sting – Continued …
Israeli Man Arrested on Koh Samui Over Online Ticket Fraud – Continued …
Pattaya pub raided, Chinese men and Vietnamese women arrested – Continued …
Second Russian man arrested over drug sale QR code stickers in Phuket – Continued …
Bangkok Raid Uncovers Crypto Scam Base; 15 Eastern Europeans Arrested – Continued …

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Tuesday’s news-Nov 11

November 11, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Stepfather Arrested for Killing of Boy in Cha-am/19 Rai park makeover/WARN Asia Conference on Wildlife/Western Seaboard & Christmas Dinner/Dusit Ajara Hua Hin Targeting World-Class Standards/Thailand’s Air Pollution Worsens/Surge in Non-Communicable Disease/Rainfall filling up many dams/Turning leftovers into new dishes/Army says Cambodia violated peace/PM suspends activities with Cambodia/Growing Demand for Long-Term Visa
ECONOMY: Upcoming electricity tariff/E-commerce group weighs new duty rules/Thai Investment Board Launches ‘FastPass’/Turning neutrality into opportunity/$3.1 billion data center investments
TOURISM: White Temple to Double Entry Fee for Foreigners/Baht swings don’t deter tourists/Nakhon Phanom Becomes Spiritual Tourism Powerhouse
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Vijit Chao Phraya 2025/Thailand’s iconic three-wheeled legend/Bangkok’s Vibrant Flower Market/5-Star Thai Noodle Recipe
CLIMATE THAILAND: ERC updates community solar plan/Hydrogen and nuclear strategy
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Indian Stepfather Arrested for Killing of 8-Year-Old Boy in Cha-am

Police in Cha-am have arrested an Indian man suspected of brutally killing his eight-year-old stepson at their home in Hua Sai Tai community. The man, identified as Kanthoran Singh, aged 33, was taken into custody on suspicion of assaulting the boy, who was found dead with multiple injuries. The suspect has denied all charges.

The child’s body was discovered on Sunday inside the house he shared with Singh. Police responding to the scene found the boy lying motionless with foam around his mouth, bruising on his body and bloodstains on the bed. His body was sent to Phra Chom Klao Hospitalfor a detailed autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Continued …

19 Rai public park to get a makeover

Hua Hin City Municipality has announced plans to upgrade the 19 Rai public park at Suan Luang Queen’s Park. The park, widely used by residents for walking, exercise, and leisure, is considered an important green space in the city.

According to the municipality, the project will prioritize maintaining existing trees to preserve shade throughout the park. Additional trees will also be planted to expand green coverage. The two existing beach access pathways, which have been damaged by coastal erosion, will be repaired, while three more access points are planned to provide safer and more convenient entry to the beachfront. Continued …

WARN Asia Conference on Wildlife opens in Hua Hin

The WARN Asia Conference opened in Hua Hin yesterday, bringing together more than 50 organizations from 20 countries working in wildlife rescue, protection, conflict mitigation, and habitat conservation.

The three-day event, held through tomorrow and hosted by Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), is taking place with the theme “To Protect and Manage Wildlife.” The program features presentations, case studies, and discussions focused on practical solutions to challenges facing wildlife across Asia, including urban expansion, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal wildlife trade. Continued …

Dusit Ajara Hua Hin: Asia’s First Low-Rise Residential Project Targeting World-Class Standards

Dusit Ajara Hua Hin, a low-rise, low-density residential development in Hua Hin, offers multi-generational living. The development integrates well-being and sustainability as core principles. It aims to become the first real estate project in Asia designed in alignment with the globally recognized low-rise residential standard.

La-ead Kovavisaruch, managing director of Dusit Estate Co., said, “Dusit Ajara Hua Hin is developed with a singular vision: to create a new way of life centered on ‘happiness’ and high-quality living in every dimension. The project ensures that families from children to adults, elderly residents, and pets can live and spend meaningful time together in an environment that fosters physical, mental, and social well-being.” Continued …

Thailand’s Air Pollution Worsens Amid Continued Crop Burning

Air pollution across Thailand is intensifying as open-field burning of farm waste persists, marking the onset of another smog-heavy winter. Despite public warnings, the practice remains prevalent due to its cost-effectiveness and convenience for farmers.

(Editor: Expat News publishes a link daily to Thailand’s air pollution index. It can be found at left for PC/laptopn users, and in the Hua Hin Links section.)

The recurring air pollution crisis is closely tied to Thailand’s cool season. Over the past decade, seasonal winds have consistently transported a mix of dust and fine particulate matter from surrounding regions into Thailand’s airspace. As the winds weaken early in the year, pollutants become trapped in low-lying areas, leading to a range of respiratory health issues for millions. Continued …

Thailand Faces Surge in Non-Communicable Disease Risks

Thailand is witnessing a concerning rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), according to the latest National Health Examination Survey (NHES). Health experts emphasize the urgent need for early prevention, particularly among the youth, to mitigate long-term health and economic consequences. The survey indicates significant increases in obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes across the country.

The study, conducted between August 2024 and April 2025 by Mahidol University in collaboration with Thai Health and the Health Systems Research Institute, involved 30,057 participants nationwide. The data reveals alarming growth in NCD risk factors since 2004: obesity rates have escalated from 28.6% to 45%, hypertension from 22% to 29.5%, high cholesterol from 16.5% to 19.8%, and diabetes from 6.6% to 10.6%. Continued …

Excessive rainfall filling up many dams nationwide

Many large dams and reservoirs across Thailand are currently close to or exceeding their full water-storage capacities due to continuous rainfall, the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) announced yesterday.

The department said the dams and reservoirs include Mae Ngat Sombun Chon Dam in Chiang Mai – 102.5% of capacity, Mae Kuang Udom Thara Dam in Chiang Mai – 94.1% of capacity, Kiew Kho Ma Dam in Lampang – 115.3% of capacity, Thap Salao Dam in Uthai Thani – 93.3% of capacity, and Pasak Jolasid Dam in Lop Buri – 96.9% (ofcapacity. Continued …

Thai restaurants are turning leftovers into new dishes

“Gaeng Ho,” a traditional northern Thai dish made from combining leftover curries after religious offerings and turning them into a new meal priced at 120-200 baht per plate, is an example of how the food upcycling business model is reshaping Thailand’s restaurant industry.

The concept focuses on reusing surplus ingredients and adding value by transforming what would otherwise be discarded into new, marketable products that enhance both profitability and sustainability. Continued …

Army says Cambodia violated peace agreement by laying landmines

The Thai army has condemned Cambodia for newly laying landmines that seriously injured Thai soldiers in Thailand’s Si Sa Ket province, breaching a peace agreement both countries recently signed.

Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree said that forensic officials inspected the landmine explosion site near the Huai Ta Maria stream in Kantharalak district, Si Sa Ket, yesterday afternoon and found an explosion pit and three more anti-personnel mines nearby. Continued …

Thai PM suspends activities with Cambodia following landmine blast

Thailand’s prime minister has suspended all work with Cambodia under KL declaration, following yesterday morning’s landmine blast and serious injuries caused to Thai soldiers.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered the immediate suspension of all activities and cooperation with Cambodia under the Joint Declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur. Continued …

Phuket Law Firm Reports Growing Demand for Thailand Long-Term Visa Services

Siam Legal Phuket reports a steady rise in visa consultation services due to increasing interest from international retirees choosing Thailand’s Phuket. The island’s tropical climate, modern healthcare, and vibrant expatriate community attract clients from Europe, Australia, and North America. Many are drawn by affordable living costs, stunning beaches, golf courses, and quality medical facilities.

The firm notes strong demand for retirement visas, including the popular Thai Retirement Visa and Long-Term Resident Visa, which offer flexible options for long-term stays. Continued …

Public opinion sought on upcoming electricity tariff

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is seeking public input on whether to maintain the current electricity tariff at 3.94 baht per kilowatt-hour or raise it to 4.58 baht, with the new rate set to take effect from January to February.

The tariff consists of a base rate of 3.78 baht and a fuel tariff (Ft), which adjusts for fuel costs and policy-related expenses. The ERC reviews the Ft every four months to align electricity prices with economic conditions. Continued …

E-commerce group weighs new duty rules

There are two sides concerning the Customs Department’s preparations for the imposition of import duties on goods valued less than 1,500 baht on Jan. 1, according to Kulthirath Pakawachkrilers, president of the Thai e-Commerce Assn.

On the one hand, it will benefit Thai manufacturers and domestic sellers who have been paying full import duties and value-added tax (VAT) on higher-value goods, she added. This change enables fairer competition with foreign sellers, especially those shipping low-value items from China or other countries that previously entered Thailand duty-free. Continued …

Thai Investment Board Launches ‘FastPass’ to Unlock $8.2 Billion in Major Projects

The Thai Board of Investment (BOI) has secured approval for the first phase of its ‘FastPass’ system, a major initiative aimed at accelerating investment in large-scale projects across the country. The core objective is to rapidly propel investment under the government’s “Quick Big Win” policy by tackling persistent bureaucratic hurdles.

The initial phase of the FastPass system involves a collaborative effort between seven crucial government agencies: the BOI, the Department of Industrial Works, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), the Immigration Bureau, the Department of Employment, and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) office. Continued …

Thailand’s future: turning neutrality into opportunity

Thailand stands at a defining moment. The world around us is changing fast – in trade, technology and geopolitics. Yet amid this flux, Thailand’s enduring strengths remain clear: a strategic location at the heart of Asia, strong logistics and industrial networks and a steady hand in diplomacy.

These qualities have long underpinned our success. Now, they can become the foundation for our next phase of growth — if we use them wisely. Continued …

Thailand approves $3.1 billion of data center investments

Thailand yesterday approved four data center projects worth $3.1 billion in investment, as well as new measures to kickstart projects that have already been approved, the Board of Investment said.

The investments include an 84-megawatt (MW) data center valued at 26.7 billion baht from Dubai’s DAMAC Digital and another hyperscale data center project with an IT load of 200 MW from a local investor valued at 54.9 billion baht. Continued …

White Temple in Chiang Rai to Double Entry Fee for Foreigners

The White Temple in Chiang Rai, officially known as Wat Rong Khun, will raise admission fees for foreign visitors from 100 baht to 200 baht starting Jan. 1. Temple officials said the increase will support maintenance, facility upgrades and preservation efforts at one of northern Thailand’s most visited cultural landmarks.

Thai nationals will continue to enjoy free entry, maintaining the government’s practice of encouraging citizens to engage with national heritage sites. Continued …

Baht swings don’t deter tourists, as food and hotels bite harder

While the Thai baht has fluctuated over the past decade, foreign tourists say the currency swings rarely impact their vacations. One long-time visitor recalls arriving in Thailand in 2015 when the exchange rate was about 30 baht to the USD. Today, it hovers around 32. Over the years, it has peaked at 38 and dropped as low as 29.

“I find it hard to believe that baht fluctuations significantly impact tourism,” the visitor said. “You’d have to be a broke backpacker staying in a hostel to worry about a few percentage points when planning a vacation, especially considering airfare from Europe or the States. Once you get here, everything is a bargain compared to home.” Continued …

Wat Phra That Phanom, one of the most important spiritual sites in Thailand

Thai Border City Nakhon Phanom Becomes Spiritual Tourism Powerhouse

Once considered a quiet, transitional province on Thailand’s border, Nakhon Phanom has rapidly emerged as one of the country’s most significant destinations for “Mū Tourism” (spiritual travel and seeking blessings).

A surge in visitors, driven in part by a desire for spiritual solace following the pandemic, is generating a huge economic boom, leading to packed hotels, flourishing restaurants, and an explosion in local commerce. Continued …

Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 transforms Bangkok’s river into 45-night light spectacle

Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn, minister of tourism and sports, presided over the opening ceremony of “Vijit Chao Phraya 2025” on Sunday. The grand riverfront spectacle is organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with public- and private-sector partners, running nightly from 6 pm–10 pm between Nov. 9 and Dec. 23.

The 45-night festival features dazzling light, color, and sound shows at 15 iconic riverside locations, turning the Chao Phraya into a world-class stage under the theme “The Light of Siam: Mother of the Land.” The event pays tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, for her lifelong contributions to the nation and celebrates Bangkok as a global creative city. Continued …

Tuk-tuk tales: Thailand’s iconic three-wheeled legend

When you picture Thailand, chances are the bustling streets of Bangkok, the smell of street food, the magnificent temples, and of course, the tuk-tuk, that colorful, three-wheeled motorized rickshaw, come to mind.

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But did you know that the tuk-tuk didn’t originally hail from Thailand? Its journey from Italy to the streets of Bangkok is as fascinating as the ride itself. The story begins in 1948, in post-war Italy, with the Piaggio Ape, a small, three-wheeled vehicle designed to help Italian shopkeepers transport goods in the aftermath of the war. Continued …

Explore Pak Khlong Talad: Bangkok’s Vibrant Flower Market

Nestled by the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the heart of Bangkok, Pak Khlong Talad stands as Thailand’s largest wholesale flower market and the fourth largest in the world.

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Known for its vibrant blooms, fresh produce, and bustling atmosphere, it has become an essential destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re in search of the perfect bouquet, curious about the local culture, or simply looking for an Instagram-worthy shot, Pak Khlong Talad offers something for everyone. Continued …

The 5-Star Thai Noodle Recipe You Need to Save

Craving a fast, flavorful dinner with serious staying power? This version of drunken noodles (known in Thailand as pad kee mao, which translates to “drunkard’s stir-fry”) brings bold, spicy comfort to the table.

Originally crafted by Thai street vendors, pad kee mao is a beloved stir-fried noodle dish known for its balance of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors. Traditionally made with fresh rice noodles, chilies, Thai basil, and a mix of sauces, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies late-night cravings and morning-after hunger alike — hence the “drunken” name, not because it contains alcohol, but because it’s said to revive even the most bleary-eyed eaters. Continued …

ERC updates community solar plan, eyes power below 2.25 baht

Poolpat Leesombatpaiboon, secretary-general of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), provided an update on the progress of the 1,500-megawatt community solar farm project under the Energy Ministry’s “Quick Big Win” policy.

He said the project is currently in the stage of technical, pricing, and community consultations, pending the ministry’s final decision on how to proceed, including assessments of advantages, disadvantages, and feasibility. Continued …

Energy minister pushes ahead with hydrogen and nuclear strategy

Thailand Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon says he will pursue long-term clean energy projects, including hydrogen and nuclear development, despite the limited time under the current government’s term.

Auttapol said he aims to lay the groundwork for initiatives that may not be completed before the administration steps down. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pledged to dissolve Parliament early next year, leaving only four months for immediate policy rollouts. Continued …

German Fugitive Arrested on Koh Phangan After Reckless Driving – Continued …
Chinese man arrested for fatally stabbing friend in Bangkok condo – Continued …

5 More Bodies Recovered After Migrant Boat Sinks off Malaysia

Malaysian rescuers searching for dozens of people still missing after a boat carrying migrants from Myanmar capsized last week recovered five more bodies yesterday, bringing the death toll to 12. An estimated 70 people were on board the capsized boat. Of those, 13 have been rescued over the past two days, with dozens still missing. Continued …

Typhoon Fung-wong Leaves Damage in the Philippines, 1.4 million Displaced

Typhoon Fung-wong blew out of the northwestern Philippines yesterday after setting off floods and landslides, knocking out power to entire provinces, killing at least eight people, and displacing more than 1.4 million others. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Nov 8

November 8, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Cha-am beach erosion project/New Thai alcohol rules/Thailand’s plan to restore global influence/Tropical storm batters Thailand/Flooding leaves 13 dead/Trafficking 12-Year-Old Thai Girl/Pickup Race Turns Deadly/Man Battles Python to Save Pet Cat/ECONOMY: Supreme Court Skepticism Fuels Tariff Uncertainty/Retailers ramp up for 11.11 sale/TOURISM: Unpacking the tourism tax/Inside Thailand’s Biggest Tourism Shake-Up/Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve/Trat tourism set for revival/Phuket boat taxi trial hits delay/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The heart of Thailand/Blackpink delivers/CLIMATE THAILAND: River pollution from Myanmar mines/Rooftop Solar Project in Rayong/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Cha-am beach erosion project to receive 249-million-baht funding

The Marine Department is preparing to allocate more than 249 million baht for a sand-nourishment project to prevent coastal erosion along Cha-am Beach. The initiative is part of efforts to restore the beach, which has been affected by long-term erosion linked to natural processes and coastal development. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.

Kittirat Methee, acting director of the Engineering Division of the Marine Department, said that erosion along Cha-am Beach has been ongoing for many years, worsened by shoreline development, including hotels, housing, shops, and structural encroachment. The Marine Department has received repeated complaints from residents and businesses regarding the loss of beach space and its impact on tourism. Continued …

New Thai alcohol rules put drinkers on the hook for fines

People in Thailand wanting to quench their thirst with an afternoon tipple risk steep fines from today under amended alcohol-control legislation that strengthens enforcement and significantly tightens restrictions around marketing and advertising.

Alcohol sales in Thailand have been banned at most retail outlets and supermarkets between the hours of 2 pm and 5 pm since 1972, but changes to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act that take effect today now mean individuals can be fined 10,000 baht (US$300) or more for drinking or being served alcoholic beverages during prohibited times or in prohibited places. Continued …

Thailand’s Foreign Minister outlines plan to restore global influence

Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand’s minister of foreign affairs, shared insights into the country’s diminishing global image and explained why Thailand is currently perceived by many as just a destination with good food, kind people, and beautiful tourism.

Sihasak noted that Thailand’s role on the world stage has declined significantly. “Currently, we are viewed simply as a country with good food, kind people, and attractive tourism, but there is much more to Thailand,” he said. He pointed out that European countries often associate the Indo-Pacific region with nations like Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam, yet Thailand is often overlooked. Continued …

Tropical storm Kalmaegi batters Thailand with heavy rain

A powerful tropical storm is sweeping across Thailand, bringing heavy rain and flash flood risks to dozens of provinces as residents brace for worsening weather.

From 6 pm yesterday, to 6 pm today, the weather across Thailand is expected to remain unsettled, with widespread thunderstorms and cooler mornings in the north, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). Continued …

Heavy flooding affects 15 provinces; 13 dead in central and northern regions

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) yesterday reported that heavy flooding continues to affect 15 provinces across Thailand, impacting over 3,000 villages and affecting more than 470,000 people. As of now, 13 fatalities have been confirmed.

The central region remains the hardest-hit, with over 97,000 households in nine provinces suffering. Particularly, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is severely impacted by the release of water from the Chao Phraya Dam. The water level in the Chao Phraya River at station C.35 has risen 1.12 meters above the riverbank, with expectations for further increases. Continued …

Tokyo Police Arrest Man for Trafficking 12-Year-Old Thai Girl

Tokyo police have arrested 51-year-old Hosono Masayuki on suspicion of forcing a 12-year-old Thai girl to work in his massage parlor. Authorities are looking into the possibility that this case may be linked to human-trafficking activities, as the girl was allegedly coerced into providing sexual services to customers.

In late June, the girl and her mother entered Japan under a 15-day “temporary visitor” status. Her mother left in mid-July, leaving the child alone and vulnerable. During her time there, the child was reportedly made to sleep in the massage parlor’s kitchen. Continued …

Pickup Race Turns Deadly in Phitsanulok, 4 Killed, 7 Injured

A street race between two pickup trucks on Mittraphap Road in Phitsanulok province ended in deaths Thursday evening, leaving Four people dead and seven others injured. The vehicle drivers reportedly lost control during the race, colliding with a motorcycle before one truck slammed into a parked construction vehicle. Police have detained both drivers for questioning and legal proceedings.

Rescue workers from the Prasat Boonsathan Foundation arrived to find a severely damaged Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. Inside the vehicle were three injured passengers and one deceased elderly woman. The injured, three adults and one child, were rushed to hospital, where one, an elderly woman later succumbed to her injuries. Continued …

Man Battles Python to Save Pet Cat in Chonburi

A 20-year-old man in Chonburi fought off a large python that was moments away from swallowing his pet cat early yesterday. The encounter occurred at a rented room in Village 5, Huai Kapi subdistrict, Mueang district.

Firefighters from Saensuk Municipality responded to an emergency call and managed to capture the snake, which measured nearly three meters long and weighed around 15 kilograms, before releasing it safely back into the wild away from residential areas. Continued …

Supreme Court Skepticism Fuels Tariff Uncertainty

The US Supreme Court appears skeptical of President Trump’s global tariffs, suggesting he may have exceeded his authority. These tariffs, primarily taxes imposed on Americans, traditionally fall under Congress’s core power, raising questions about the legality of presidential actions in foreign affairs.

During the hearing, justices like Chief Justice John Roberts and justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch expressed concerns, indicating that the court might challenge the Trump administration’s justification for these tariffs. Although a definitive ruling may take time, the questioning signals potential legal hurdles that could prevent these tariffs from being upheld. Continued …

Retailers ramp up for 11.11 sale to boost year-end spending

November has become a crucial time for assessing consumer spending in the final stretch of the year, as major retailers in Thailand, led by department stores and specialty retailers, elevate their 11.11 campaign into full Omnichannel strategies to drive traffic and stimulate spending that has been delayed throughout the year.

The competition is no longer just about prices but has expanded to include a seamless shopping experience and deep customer insights through multiple platforms. The entry of major players into the 11.11 arena reflects their efforts to leverage this period as a critical moment to recover purchasing power before the year-end festivals. Each retailer is bringing its own strategies to the battle. Continued …

Unpacking the tourism tax

While the cabinet approved the National Tourism Policy Committee’s proposal to collect a tourism tax from inbound travelers in February 2023, the program has still not been implemented. There have been several delays primarily driven by political decisions, rather than a lack of readiness in terms of implementation.

On his first day in office last month, the new tourism and sports minister expressed an interest in advancing the fee collection, but it now seems unlikely the tax will be collected during the four-month timeline promised by the current government. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s Biggest Tourism Shake-Up in a Decade

In a move that acknowledges the gravity of the challenge ahead, the government of Thailand is shifting its tourism strategy to lean more heavily on domestic travelers and higher-value visitor segments. Once a magnet for millions of international holiday-makers, Thailand now finds itself racing to recoup lost ground amid waning foreign arrivals and a changing global travel landscape.

According to official data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the number of international visitors entering Thailand from Jan. 1 to Nov. 2 dipped by roughly 7.2% compared to the same period the year before.That drop has prompted the government to acknowledge that the outbound boom of previous years cannot simply be resumed by pressing the same buttons. Continued …

Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve Sets the Standard for Ethical Tourism in Thailand

Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve (PENR) has been hono red as Tour Operator of the Year at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Thailand. It is recognized for redefining responsible wildlife tourism.

Founded in 2019 and nestled within 30 rai (12 acres) of lush jungle just minutes from Phuket’s famous beaches, PENR is Phuket’s leading ethical elephant sanctuary — a place where elephants rescued from riding camps, circuses, and street begging can finally live freely in peace and dignity. Continued …

Trat tourism set for revival as UK ends travel ban

The UK has lifted its travel advisory against non-essential trips to Trat, allowing tourism operators to receive more bookings, but they criticized a government move to subsidize tour groups in the provinces that border Cambodia.

Wichit Sukrasuyanon, president of the Trat Tourism Assn., said European markets including the UK have helped to boost the average occupancy rate to 80%-90% from November this year until March 2026. Continued …

Phuket boat taxi trial hits delay but promises smoother trips

The pilot run of Phuket’s boat taxi service, a project touted as a game-changer for the island’s notorious traffic problems, has been pushed back to mid-December. The trial, originally scheduled to launch earlier, will now take place from Dec. 15 to 30, according to Phuket Gov. Saransak Srikruanet.

The service will initially run along Phuket’s bustling west coast, connecting Nai Yang Beach, near Phuket International Airport, to Patong Beach. Long-term plans envision a full network of 14 stops at major tourist hotspots, including Bang Tao, Kamala, Karon, Kata, and Nai Harn beaches. Continued …

A voyage through the heart of Thailand

Leave Bangkok behind and hit the open road north. In just three hours, skyscrapers give way to open sky, the air grows softer, and the city life fades into wind-swept rice paddies and temple bells.

This is Uthai Thani — a central province stitched together by rivers, temples, and quiet countryside lanes, where the pace of life is as slow and soothing as the Sakae Krang River that runs through it. Continued …

Blackpink delivers

Tickets for “Blackpink World Tour In Bangkok”, which was held at Thailand’s largest stadium Rajamangala National Stadium, sold out for all three concert days. The concert attracted fans and non-fans who did not want to miss the performance of this K-pop phenomenon.

The four members of Blackpink – Jennie, Jisoo Lisa, and Rose – did not disappoint the high expectations of the audience and proved to the world that they are indeed the most popular girl group. The main reason for their popularity includes excellent songs, unique and talented members, great chemistry between the members, and natural interaction with fans. Continued …

Urgent action said needed on river pollution from Myanmar mines

The Thai government needs to do more to engage Myanmar and its autonomous ethnic states to combat mounting cross-border pollution in the Salween and Mekong rivers from arsenic contamination, says a prominent academic.

Communities and ecosystems on both sides of the border are under threat from the pollution created by mining, says Assoc. Prof. Surasak Boonrueang of the Natural Resources and Environmental Law Center at Thammasat University in Bangkok. Continued …

GCME Partners with Peak Energy for 500 kWp Rooftop Solar Project in Rayong

GC Maintenance and Engineering Co., part of the PTT Global Chemical group, has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Peak Energy for a 500 kWp rooftop solar project at its Rayong facility in Thailand. Under the long-term agreement, Peak Energy will design, finance, install, and operate the system.

Once operational, the project is expected to generate about 730 MWh of clean electricity annually, reducing approximately 350 tons of CO₂ each year. Structured as an on-site PPA, it allows GCME to source renewable power without any upfront investment. Continued …

French Villa Owners on Koh Phangan Caught Running Illegal Hotels – Continued …
Thais and Nigerian arrested in Bt114-million romance scam online fraud ring – Continued …
Malaysian Man Arrested for Scam Posing as Treasury Officer – Continued …
Israeli Tourist Arrested in Phuket for Ammunition Possession – Continued …

Scam centers in Southeast Asia are on the rise despite crackdowns

It often starts with a text message asking if you are available on weekends, looking for a part-time job, or you get a simple “hello” from an unknown number. Halfway across the world, a laborer is usually pulling in 12-16 hour days, sending non-stop messages, hoping someone will take the bait. The ultimate goal is always to take your money. Continued …

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Friday’s news-Oct 31

October 31, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Kaeng Krachan Land Grab/Charn Issara Development’s Cha-am project/Bus crashes in Hua Hin/Super Full Moon on Loy Krathong/Heavy rain forecast/Man Trampled to Death by Wild Elephant/Firms suspected in money-laundering scams/Michelin Guide Thailand 2026/ECONOMY: Call for longer leases/PM asks for ‘better’ trade deal/Thailand’s rare-earth elements/Thailand’s automotive and auto parts industry/Thai Kun Circuit’s New Factory/TOURISM: Sustainable growth in Thai tourism/Are Thai resorts and hotels overcharging?/Top Countries for Affordable Medical Tourism/Pattaya 8th Worst for Pickpockets and Scams/Virgin Atlantic To Begin London–Phuket (HKT) Service/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: ‘We left UK for Thailand/Eco Travel Guide to Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand unites to fight PM2.5/China and green progress in Asia/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Forest Taskforce Probes Kaeng Krachan Land Grab

A special taskforce from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) has launched an investigation into alleged forest encroachment and destruction in Kaeng Krachan National Park and adjacent state land in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan. The probe follows reports that investors have cleared forested hillsides and excavated soil in protected zones.

The taskforce is examining claims of land ownership under Nor Sor 3 Kor documents allegedly covering 3,162 rai — 2,016 rai of state property and 1,146 rai within the national park. Investigators found new evidence of encroachment beyond these documents, totaling 914 rai, 81 rai within the park and 833 rai of state land. The area shows extensive soil removal, hill excavation, and unauthorized blockage of public waterways. Continued …

A look at Charn Issara Development’s Cha-am project

Charn Issara Development’s Hua Hin developments continue to redefine Thailand’s luxury coastal living, expanding from Bangkok’s skyline to the shores of Hua Hin and Cha-am.

When CEO Songkran Issara reflects on his family’s roots in Cha-am, the story goes beyond property development. He recalls how the company’s first project in the area — Jindarak — was named after his wife’s great-grandfather, a former governor of Phetchaburi and a survivor of a WWII torpedo attack in the North Sea. Continued …

Bus crashes in Hua Hin, 8 students injured

Eight student cadets were injured when a Hua Hin–Pranburi route bus skidded on a rain-soaked road and crashed into a power pole while descending Khao Dang Pass yesterday. Police have charged the driver with reckless driving and damaging government property.

The accident occurred at around 6 pm. Police at Hua Hin Police Station received a report of a crash near the downhill section of Khao Dang Pass on the Hua Hin–Nong Phlab Road. Rescue teams from the Sawang Hua Hin Foundation were dispatched to the scene. Continued …

Super Full Moon to Grace Loy Krathong Night

Thailand will experience a spectacular celestial event on Nov. 5, coinciding with the Loy Krathong festival. The Super Full Moon, the closest the moon will be to Earth this year, will be visible in the sky.

The moon will be only 356,966 kilometers away from Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual. This astronomical phenomenon occurs due to the moon’s elliptical orbit, reaching its nearest point, or perigee, with an average distance of 357,000 kilometers from Earth. Loy Krathong participants can enjoy the visual treat as the moon rises at around 5:30 pm and remains visible throughout the night. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast across Thailand as low-pressure system strengthens

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reported today that an active low-pressure cell covering the upper Gulf of Thailand is drawing moisture-laden easterly winds into the upper part of the country, while a weak high-pressure system lingers over northern areas. The confluence of easterly and southeasterly winds across the north is expected to bring increased rainfall, including isolated heavy showers in several regions.

Scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rain are forecast in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon. Minimum temperature 23-25 °C. Maximum temperature 29-34 °C. Continued …

Man Trampled to Death by Wild Elephant in Phu Wua Forest

A 55-year-old man was found dead after being attacked by a wild elephant in the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary in Bueng Kan province. The discovery followed a three-day search after the man was reported missing by his relatives.

Authorities believe he encountered the elephant at close range while collecting forest produce and was trampled to death. Preliminary examinations indicated that the man sustained fatal injuries consistent with being attacked by a wild elephant. His body was discovered deep within the sanctuary where he had been foraging for forest products. Continued …

Seven listed firms suspected of involvement in Khmer-based, money-laundering scams

The House Committee on Money-Laundering & Drugs Suppression confirmed yesterday that seven listed firms on the Stock Exchange of Thailand have been reportedly suspected of being involved in money-laundering activities of the transnational rogue scammers and that representatives of those firms will be summoned to testify over the issue.

The committee chair declined to identify the suspected firms currently listed in the stock market or say how soon their executive officials or representatives will be summoned for testimony before his panel at parliament. Continued …

Michelin Guide Thailand 2026 Selection To Be Unveiled Nov 27

Culinary stars are set to dazzle at the Michelin Guide Ceremony Thailand 2026, officially scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 27 − marking the announcement of the highly anticipated full restaurant selection at the press conference and the celebration of Thailand’s talented culinary community.

The Bib Gourmand selection will be revealed a week prior to the award ceremony. This latest edition covers Bangkok and surrounding provinces, Phuket and Phang-Nga, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Isan (Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen), Koh Samui and Surat Thani, and Chon Buri. Continued …

Call for longer leases to boost home ownership

Three real estate associations have asked the next government to extend the lease period for residential properties from 30 years to 60 years, as a new generation of potential homebuyers can no longer afford to purchase them.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Assn., said extending the leasehold period would enable tenants to obtain mortgages covering up to 100% of the property value, compared with the current 60%-70%. Continued …

PM asks Trump for ‘better’ trade deal

Thailand has asked US President Donald Trump for a “better” trade deal as the two countries press ahead with tariff talks, following the signing of a peace agreement between Bangkok and Phnom Penh.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul made a direct plea to Trump during an informal chat after a dinner with other leaders at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit late Wednesday in South Korea, according to a Thai government statement. Continued …

Where are Thailand’s rare-earth elements that US seeks found?

Amid the international focus on rare-earth elements (REE), with the US rapidly rebuilding its supply chain in a move to end decades of dependence on China as tensions between the two powers persist despite a temporary trade truce, there is strong public interest about this within Thailand.

According to the Department of Mineral Resources, rare earths are extremely rare elements used as crucial upstream raw materials in the production processes of various high-tech industries, both current and future, such as metal alloys, catalyst and chemical process in automotive and petrochemical industries, ceramics/glass industry, phosphors with examples being LED bulbs, fluorescent lamps and flat-panel displays, rechargeable solid-state batteries (Ni-MH), fiber optics, and more. Continued …

Thailand’s automotive and auto parts industry is facing multiple major challenges

The Kasikorn Research Center says Thailand’s automotive industry must brace for US import tariff measures, intensifying competition from Chinese automakers, and seek more stringent environmental and safety standards of trading partners, all of which pose challenges to the industry’s long-term adaptation and competitiveness.

Dr. Rujipun Assarut, KResearch assistant managing director, said, “Although Thailand’s automobile exports to the US account for a small share, the US import tariff measure under Section 232 is likely to indirectly affect Thai car exports to global markets. This is because major producers such as Japan and South Korea may diversify their exports to other markets to reduce reliance on the US, thereby intensifying global competition. Concurrently, the may directly hurt Thailand’s auto parts measure exports to the US, which account for around 26 percent of the total value of Thai auto parts exports.” Continued …

Thai Kun Circuit Expands PCB Manufacturing with New Factory

Thai Kun Circuit has broken ground on a new factory at 304 Industrial Park in Prachinburi as part of its plan to expand production capacity and strengthen its position in the global electronics supply chain.

The facility will enable Thai Kun Circuit to meet rising demand for high-precision, double-sided, and multilayer PCBs across key sectors, including automotive electronics, industrial and safety control systems, consumer electronics, and communications. The investment underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing technology, enhancing product quality and increasing R&D capabilities. Continued …

5 proposals offered for sustainable growth in Thai tourism

Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and former prime minister, delivered a keynote address on “Tourism and the Future of Thailand” at the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) meeting yesterdy.

He painted a grim picture of Thailand’s economic situation, which has stagnated for over a decade. With growth currently at 2% annually — among the lowest in the region — he warned that economic improvement and a better quality of life for Thai people will remain unattainable unless the country breaks free from its slow-growth cycle. Continued …

Are Thai resorts and hotels overcharging tourists?

The post-pandemic world has witnessed a significant resurgence in global tourism, with Southeast Asia being one of the regions that have seen a rapid rebound in visitors. However, this revival of the tourism sector has also brought to light concerning practices in the luxury hotel industry in countries like Thailand and Vietnam.

Allegations of overcharging, inflated prices, and declining service standards are making headlines as these destinations continue to attract international travelers. With the rise in travel costs and the diminishing quality of service, the question arises: are luxury hotels in these countries exploiting tourists to maximize profits, or is this a natural consequence of the tourism industry’s post-pandemic recovery? Continued …

Top Countries for Affordable Medical Tourism

As healthcare costs continue to rise across many Western nations, more and more patients are opting for treatment abroad — the process of traveling internationally to receive medical care, often at substantially lower cost· With the aid of platforms like the AiroMedical platform, patients can compare options, coordinate logistics, and find accredited providers·

Here we shine a spotlight on the leading destinations for affordable medical tourism in 2025-2026, highlighting their strengths, typical savings, and things to consider· Continued …

Pattaya Ranks 8th Worst Globally for Pickpockets and Scams

Pattaya has been identified as the eighth worst city globally for pickpocketing and scams, according to a report by Compare the Market, a U.K.-based insurance price comparison site. The city scored 44.43 out of 100 points, with about 3.1 scam mentions per 1,000 visitor reviews. Visitors are particularly advised to be cautious in street vendor areas and nightlife districts.

This ranking comes as part of a study analyzing over 75 cities worldwide based on the frequency of theft and scam mentions in tourist reviews. The report highlighted Pattaya’s vibrant party atmosphere as a magnet for opportunists. Notably, street vendors and nightlife hotspots are common places where travelers often report security concerns. Continued …

Virgin Atlantic To Begin London–Phuket (HKT) Service Next October

Virgin Atlantic is launching new services between London Heathrow and Phuket for winter 2026. The three times a week service will operate from Oct. 18, 2026, capturing the growing demand for luxury winter escapes.

As the only direct route from London Heathrow to Phuket, travelers will now be able to enjoy a seamless journey to one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations. Customers will be able to book package holidays with Virgin Atlantic Holidays from Oct. 30, 2025, with prices starting from £999 per person. Flights will also be available to book from Nov. 26, 2025, on virginatlantic.com. Continued …

‘We left UK for Thailand after feeling burnt out – now we save £1k a month on rent’

A British couple who felt “burnt out” by a poor work-life balance in the UK have now relocated to Thailand, saving themselves £1,000 a month in rent and paying just £2.76 for their water bills. Roshni Ward, 30, and her fiancé Louis Hunt, 33, began contemplating a move overseas after growing “fed up” with life in the UK, citing rising crime rates and the dreary weather as key factors.

The pair, who previously rented a flat in Rye, East Sussex, were working gruelling 11-hour days, as well as overtime, leaving them feeling exhausted and burnt out. In search of a slower pace of life, they made the decision to move to Chiang Mai in September. Continued …

The Eco Travel Guide to Thailand

Thailand is no longer just a destination of tropical fantasia; it has evolved into a place where refined luxury intersects with environmental and cultural consciousness. From Bangkok’s green-inflected skyscrapers to Chiang Mai’s regenerative lodges and the sequestered beaches of the south, travelers who demand comfort and meaning are finding both.

Landing in Bangkok means entering a metropolis of high energy and even higher possibilities for sustainable luxury. Here, daytime can be devoted to temple visits via electric tuk-tuks, rooftop dinners where the produce is sourced from regional farmers, and conversations about how luxury hospitality in Bangkok is embracing water recycling and solar technology. Continued …

Thailand unites to fight PM2.5 as smog season looms

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s Pollution Control Department, in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Automotive Industry Group of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), is moving forward with efforts to tackle the small dust particle (PM2.5) issue during the end-of-year season.

This initiative, driven by the “Green List Plus: Fight Dust, Reduce PM2.5” project, was announced Wednesday and aims to promote public participation in reducing pollution from various sources and to stimulate cooperation from the business sector through incentive measures. Continued …

China and green progress in Asia

For the past two decades, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, has been reshaping the Asia-Pacific’s approach to growth. Since the 2011 Honolulu Leaders’ Declaration, APEC has placed “green growth” at the heart of its agenda, showing progress and environmental sustainability don’t have to be at odds.

Energy lies at the core of this transformation. As the foundation of both economic expansion and environmental protection, improving energy efficiency has become central to APEC’s collective commitments. Continued …

Trump shaves China tariffs after Xi meeting

US esident Donald Trump said yesterday he had agreed with Chinese President Xi Jinping to trim tariffs on China in exchange for Beijing cracking down on the illicit fentanyl trade, resuming US soybean purchases, and keeping rare earths exports flowing. Continued …

King Charles III Strips Prince Andrew of Titles and Evicts Him from Royal Residence

King Charles III yesterday stripped his disgraced brother Prince Andrew of his remaining titles and evicted him from his royal residence after weeks of pressure to act over his relationship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Buckingham Palace said. Continued …

5 More Arrests as Louvre Jewel Heist Probe Deepens

The dragnet tightened around the Louvre thieves yesterday. Five more people were seized in the crown-jewels heist — including a suspect tied by DNA — the Paris prosecutor said, widening the sweep across the capital and its suburbs. Continued …

























25 Dec	Thu	Christmas Day *
31 Dec	Wed	New Year’s Eve