Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash- ECONOMY: Thailand economic plan targets 3%-5% GDP growth/Border Trade Crisis/European business eyes Thai rail investment/Global labor crunch
- TOURISM: Dual pricing as tourism dilemma/Too soon to predict China tourism rebound/Why Tomorrowland’s Chose Thailand/MotoGP 2026 Season Starts
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Soi ranks second in world noodle list/Thailand’s Night Markets and Street Eats/Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities/How Thais Will Holiday in 2026
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Oil Spill Near Phuket/Similan divers lift ‘ghost nets’
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin 4th best choice in Thailand for Chinese tourists
Chinese New Year is one of the most important times in many Asian countries, particularly in China, where people travel back home, go sightseeing, and spend to celebrate the lunar new year. According to China’s People’s Daily, Chinese consumers tend to spend more during the holiday across six key industries: restaurants, accommodation, transportation, tourism, personal goods, and entertainment.
The top popular destinations in Thailand for Chinese travelers during Chinese New Year were: Ao Nang Beach, Krabi; Koh Samet, Rayong; Koh Lipe, Satun; Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan; Chiang Mai; Kata Beach, Phuket; Karon Beach, Phuket; Patong Beach, Phuket; Bangkok; and Phuket Town. Continued …
PROUD posts record revenue of B6.4 billion, up 183%
Pasu Liptapanlop, director of Proud Real Estate Public Co. (PROUD), revealed the company achieved its highest success in history, setting an all-time high with total revenue of 6,407 million baht, up from 2,268 million baht in the same period last year, representing growth of 183%, and net profit of 168 million baht, up from 57 million baht a year earlier.
This performance was driven by continuous recognition of ownership transfers from three key projects: Nue District R9, which recorded the highest revenue of 4,706 million baht; VEHHA Hua Hin at 1,267 million baht; and VI ARI at 294 million baht. Continued …
Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target
Central Plaza Hotel Public Co., parent company of Hua Hin’s Centara’s Grand Beach Resort and Villas, is setting robust growth targets for 2026, aiming for total revenue of T35 billion, a subsubstantial 14%-15% increase from the previous year, according to CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat.
This growth will be driven by both hotel and food business segments — hotels are projected to contribute between B15.7-15.9 billion, while the food business is forecast to bring in approximately B19.1-19.3 billion, each reflecting around 14%-15% growth. Continued …
Thai Red Cross urges urgent blood donations as reserves fall
The Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS) is appealing for blood donations from the public, as reserves in its blood bank have dropped drastically below acceptable levels, posing a direct threat to patients who require transfusions.
The TRCS says that blood reserves at its blood bank and at hospitals normally fall to their lowest levels during February and March each year. However, accidents and emergencies can occur at any time, requiring blood to be readily available. Continued …
Repair of Bangkok sinkhole to cost 1 billion baht, reopening in March 2027
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has unveiled its plan to repair the sinkhole on Samsen Road, caused by the ongoing construction of the Purple Line from Tao Poon to Rat Burana.
The repair work, which involves a series of complex engineering tasks, is expected to cost at least 1 billion baht, with the private contractor responsible for the expenses. Continued …
Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash to 1–2 Baht
Farm-gate prices for Thailand’s Nam Hom (aromatic) coconuts have fallen sharply to just 1–2 baht per fruit, pushing growers toward financial ruin. The slump has prompted urgent action from Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun.
Has ordered officials to closely monitor the situation and assist farmers and entrepreneurs across the supply chain. Authorities are also expanding export efforts and investigating nominee firms accused of distorting the market. Continued …
Thailand economic plan targets 3%-5% GDP growth
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday.
He said the NESDC is currently drafting Thailand’s 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2027-2032), with a focus on restructuring the Thai economy to deliver quality growth, while also putting in place mechanisms to cope with risks stemming from a rapidly changing global context and rising uncertainties. Continued …
Border Trade Crisis: Businesses Seek Government Help
Businesses along the Thai-Cambodia border are urging the government to intervene as prolonged checkpoint closures cause significant financial losses. The ongoing tensions have halted cross-border trade, impacting local economies and export revenues.
Before the closures, border trade was a vital economic activity, generating substantial income. However, the estimated losses in 2025 have reached around 30 billion baht. Industries like construction materials are particularly affected, with annual losses of at least 100 million baht due to halted exports of concrete products and cement. Continued …
European business group eyes Thai rail investment
A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.
The interest was conveyed during a meeting yesterday between the Ministry of Transport and an EABC delegation led by Roderich Hoffmann, head of the working group on transport, rail systems, and logistics. Continued …
World Bank warns of global labor crunch: 1.2B entrants chasing just 400M jobs
Melinda Good, the World Bank’s country director for Thailand and Myanmar, outlined the challenges facing the global and Thai economies from a labor-market and investment perspective at the “Futuready Dinner Thought” event. She said the world is entering an era of the highest uncertainty on record — akin to a “tax” that drags on private-sector investment decisions — amid the rapid advance of AI and robotics, which are significantly reshaping the global value chain.
She said that over the next decade, 1.2 billion people worldwide are expected to enter the labor market, but forecasts suggest there will be only 400 million jobs available. The resulting gap of more than 800 million jobs represents a major crisis for young people globally, who will face intense competition and a shortage of opportunities. Continued …
Dual pricing as Thailand’s tourism dilemma
Thailand welcomed 32.9 million foreign visitors in 2025, a 7.23% decline from the year before. While no single factor explains the drop in visitor numbers, the question of whether tourists feel fairly treated is one the industry cannot afford to ignore, and it is a debate that cuts deeper than the price gap alone.
Dual pricing is not unique to Thailand. The Taj Mahal in India and Petra in Jordan both charge foreign tourists more than local visitors, typically framed as a maintenance fee. In Thailand, public attractions like temples and national museums operate under ministerial regulations, while private operators are overseen by the Department of Internal Trade, though the latter are considerably harder to regulate. Continued …
Too soon to predict China tourism rebound
Despite early signs of a rebound in Chinese arrivals during the first two months, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is downplaying expectations for a strong recovery, preferring to wait until May to assess whether demand has stabilized.
Chinese arrivals rose 0.3% to 991,718 as of Feb. 23, up from 988,451 year-on-year. According to the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the total number of Chinese arrivals for the first two months is projected to tally 1.08 million, increasing 4.5% year-on-year. Continued …
Tomorrowland’s CEO on Choosing Thailand for First Asian Launch
WEAREONE.world (Thailand) Co. has received approval from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) to host “Tomorrowland Thailand,” marking the festival’s first venture into Asia. Scheduled for Dec. 11-13, the event will take place at Wisdom Valley in Pattaya and aims to attract 50,000 attendees per day. This move is expected to significantly boost the local economy and tourism industry.
Tomorrowland, a renowned electronic music festival, chose Thailand due to its strong cultural appeal, excellent tourism services, and supportive infrastructure, according to CEO Bruno Vanwelsenaers, who noted Thailand’s readiness in terms of transportation and amenities. The government’s facilitation in areas like visas and taxes has also played a crucial role in making Thailand an attractive destination for the festival. Continued …
MotoGP 2026 Season Starts in Thailand
The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.
This race marks the last year of the 1,000cc engines before transitioning to 850cc in 2027. Fans can view the new bikes as part of the season’s “kick-off.” Participants include Marc Márquez with Ducati Lenovo, Álex Márquez from Gresini Racing, and Marco Bezzecchi from Aprilia Racing. Continued …
Khao Soi ranks second in TasteAtlas world noodle list
Thailand’s Khao Soi has been ranked No.2 in the 2026 “Best Rated Noodle Dishes in the World” by TasteAtlas, placing the northern Thai specialty among the top noodle dishes globally.
The coconut curry noodle soup is known for its rich broth made with coconut milk and red curry paste, served with egg noodles and a choice of chicken, beef, or pork. It is topped with crispy fried noodles and accompanied by condiments such as lime, pickled cabbage, shallots, and chilies. Continued …
Thailand’s Night Markets and Street Eats
There’s something magical about Thailand after sunset. Lemongrass, charcoal, something frying in oil nearby, and underneath it all, that warm evening air that Thailand does better than almost anywhere. Travelers talk about the temples and the beaches and the sunsets, which are all deserved, but ask anyone who has spent real time in Thailand, and nine times out of 10, the food memories are what they actually go on about.
Bangkok is a city of contrast, with all its different faces and styles. If you’ve only seen it during the daylight, then you haven’t seen the “real” Bangkok – perhaps just half of it. At about 7 pm, it becomes a very different city, as the temperature drops ever so slightly and the streets, which were previously gridlocked and filled with chaos, start to loosen and feel more like a fabulous party to which you didn’t know you had been invited. Continued …
Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has invited tourists to embark on a journey to discover the meaning of nature and local wisdom, while enjoying the happiness of the UNESCO Creative Cities Thailand routes.
Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), along with one aspiring creative city, is preparing special pilot activities in three provinces to raise awareness and encourage travel. The first province to kick off the initiative is Sukhothai, a city renowned for its handicrafts and folk arts. Continued …
Three Generations, Three Travel Styles: How Thais Will Holiday in 2026
A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.
From how far ahead they book to what they’re willing to pay extra for, the differences between Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y (Millennials) are shaping how Thailand will be traveled in 2026 — especially within the country, as more Thais chase experiences that fit their lifestyles, budgets and time. Continued …
Oil Spill Near Phuket Raises Environmental, Tourism Concerns
A sunken Panama-flagged cargo ship has caused large oil slicks to wash ashore near Phuket, posing threats to marine life and tourism. The incident began when the vessel sank off Koh Kaew Noi on Feb. 7. Since Feb. 25, oil clumps have been seen on Koh Hey’s beaches, heightening concerns.
The ship carried 297 containers and over 90 tons of fuel oil, leading to environmental worries as oil-coated marine life has been observed. Crabs along the shores are visibly impacted, with some appearing weakened, reflecting growing ecosystem damage. The threat to Phuket’s tourism industry is also significant, given its reliance on clean and safe beaches. Continued …
Similan divers lift ‘ghost nets’ from deep-sea coral reef
Divers have recovered abandoned fish aggregating devices (FADs) tangled around deep-sea coral reefs, preventing serious harm to marine life, including turtles, dolphins, and dugongs in Mu Ko Similan National Park.
Rangers spotted two large FADs drifting near Koh Payan (Similan No.3) during a patrol on Thursday. The devices are believed to have dragged lost or abandoned fishing nets — known as ghost nets — into a sea fan coral formation about 45 meters below the surface, park chief Siriwat Suebsai said yesterday. Continued …
- Chinese Fraud Suspect Arrested in Chiang Mai – Continued …
- Chinese Man Held in Songkhla for 335-Day Overstay – Continued …
Pakistan is in ‘open war’ with Afghanistan after latest strikes
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” Continued …
Court orders Greenpeace to pay $345 million to US oil pipeline company
Greenpeace must pay US$345 million in damages to the operator of the US oil pipeline it protested, a North Dakota court ordered yesterday. The decision finalizes this phase of the explosive, years-long case that has pitted the environmental organization against the company Energy Transfer, opening the door to an appeals process in the closely watched legal saga. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Thailand, often celebrated for its vibrant street food and laid-back lifestyle, is also facing a quieter health challenge. The country now ranks second in ASEAN for obesity after Malaysia, with an estimated 48% of the population classified as overweight or obese.
Thailand Riviera road construction boosted
In towns and cities across Thailand, a small, brightly colored pill is quietly tearing communities apart. Known as yaba — literally “crazy drug” — these tablets of methamphetamine and caffeine have become one of the country’s most pressing public health emergencies, cutting across class, age, and geography.
Sen. Veerapun Suvannamai has warned of a looming financial crisis in the healthcare system due to unpaid debts from the National Health Security Office (NHSO) under the universal healthcare scheme.
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for today, announcing a “stormy day” in Thailand. The northern and northeastern regions will be the hardest hit, with heavy rainfall expected in 40% of these areas.
Canine distemper caused the deaths of 72 tigers at two animal parks in Chiang Mai earlier this month, not avian influenza, and there was no transmission to humans, it was announced yesterday.
US President Donald Trump’s new global tariffs have come into effect at 10% despite a pledge to introduce them at a higher rate. After the Supreme Court blocked many of his sweeping import taxes on Friday, the president said he would introduce a 10% global rate. He then said on Saturday that the rate would be 15%.
The statistics of the kingdom have shown for 10 months inflation results lower than the experts’ statistical forecasts (these being on average negative for the whole of 2025 with -0.13% annual average, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Economic and Trade Forecast Center .
The Thai automotive industry has kickstarted the “Year of the Horse” with a 53.8% surge in year-on-year sales for January. The growth was primarily propeled by a record-breaking influx of electric vehicle (EV) deliveries, though the heavy-duty pickup sector continues to flounder amid tightening credit conditions.
Thailand’s car exports fell in January, dropping 6% year-on-year to 58,405 units – the lowest level since May 2022 – which was attributed to stricter environmental regulations and currency fluctuations, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The industrial and logistics property sector continues to outperform other segments, supported by robust demand and ongoing government backing despite prevailing uncertainties, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.
Phuket’s tourism recovery has surpassed pre-Covid levels, with daily flights setting a new record and visitor numbers reaching around 71,000. Provincial authorities expect arrivals to hold steady and are targeting 14 million tourists this year.
The planned new waste-management plant for Phuket is still at least two years away because of delays in receiving approval from state agencies, according to the provincial governor. Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn aired his frustration over the delay in construction of the second waste incinerator,
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to India this week pushing to double trade and mend fractured ties, his first stop on an Asia-Pacific tour that also includes Australia and Japan, as he seeks to reduce reliance on the United States. 
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to accelerate trade negotiations with the United States after President Donald Trump announced an increase in the global import duty from 10% to 15%.
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
US trading partners in Asia started weighing fresh uncertainties on Saturday after President Donald Trump vowed to impose a new tariff on imports, hours after the Supreme Court struck down many of the sweeping levies he used to launch a global trade war.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.
The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.
Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.
So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.
The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.
Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. 
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
Thai authorities say they have found clear evidence that Cambodia secretly planted landmines inside Thai territory, describing the act as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
Security has been raised to the highest level in Yala following a coordinated wave of seven bomb attacks in neighboring Narathiwat over the past 48 hours.
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
Elephants need space
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
Arada Fueangthong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said Thailand’s utilization of trade preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand in January–November 2025.
If the incoming coalition government implements its IT policies as pledged during the campaign, it should increase revenue growth of system integrator and data center businesses by 5.8% year-on-year to 260 billion baht this year, says Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
As Thailand enters the post-election period, many foreign tourists and long-term visitors say their expectations are not focused on political personalities or campaign rhetoric, but on practical changes that shape daily life, travel decisions, and confidence in Thailand as a long-stay destination. Conversations among foreign residents and repeat visitors consistently return to the same themes: clarity, fairness, and predictability.
If people used to talk about tourism in the past, it may have meant a short break and a change of scenery from everyday life, a brief moment of happiness that recharged the body before returning to normal routines. Today, however, tourism is shifting from “temporary rest” to “a long-term investment in health”.
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
The Bhumjaithai Party of caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has won 174 House constituency seats, followed by the People’s Party with 87, and 58 for the Pheu Thai Party, according to the Election Commission.
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective Jan. 15. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
Berlayar Estate, a boutique property developer specializing in refined, lifestyle-driven living, has announced the official launch of its newest premium villa collection under the theme “The Journey to Serenity.” This latest portfolio introduces a curated selection of private residential projects in Hua Hin and Pranburi.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said after chairing a meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee that the meeting had considered an agenda on relaxing controls on alcohol sales hours in the Eastern Aviation City Promotion Zone yesterday at the Ministry of Public Health.
High-street coffee chains across Thailand are set to undergo a radical transformation next week as the Department of Health launches a new nationwide standard for freshly brewed drinks. Beginning Feb. 11, any customer ordering a “normal sweetness” beverage will automatically receive a drink containing only 50% of the original sugar recipe.
Thailand is well-known for its wats (Buddhist temples), breathtaking beaches and islands, and vibrant night bazaars. Yet, one feature often overlooked is our convenience stores. Although not one of our cultural monuments, with more than 14,000 outlets nationwide as of 2024 – among the highest densities per capita globally – these stores have become iconic landmarks in their own right.
Park rangers are trying to keep wild elephants away from communities and tourist attractions during the dry season. The measures cover a bull elephant that has killed three people, including a camper, in this Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Krungthai researchers are warning that Thailand’s economy in 2026 could record its weakest growth outlook in three decades, as the country remains stuck in a low-growth trap with no new engines of expansion. They also caution that SMEs could remain mired in difficulties, with shrinking profits and mounting debt, risking a broad-based “downgrade” across the sector unless business structures are reshaped quickly.
Fresh research from MoneyTransfers.com has unveiled the planet’s most jam-packed tourist hotspots. The team’s findings reveal that Phuket in Thailand stands as the globe’s most congested tourist magnet. This Thai paradise boasts a staggering 118 tourists for every local inhabitant.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has released its “Tourism Business Confidence Index in Thailand, Q4 2025”, based on a survey of 302 foreign tourists using accidental sampling: 200 respondents in Bangkok and 102 in Chonburi.
A Thai family in Nakhon Si Thammarat province mistakenly hosted foreign tourists at a funeral, providing them with food when they believed it to be a restaurant. The tourists apologized after realizing they were at a funeral, not a dining venue.
Chinese New Year celebrations in the island province are expected to be particularly vibrant this year. The upbeat outlook is driven by a strong rebound in the Chinese tourism market and an increase in direct flights from China, according to the Phuket Tourist Business Assn. (PTBA).
Mae Hong Son officials on Monday launched a joint campaign aimed at preventing wildfires and reducing air pollution in the province, with multiple key leaders participating in a kick-off event held in front of the municipal office. The campaign was led by Mae Hong Son Gov. Wiboon Waewbandit, alongside Deputy Gov. Udomsak Khaonoona and Mae Hong Son Mayor Mallika Jeenakham.
Drainage contractor discharged black water into Jomtien sea
From field to forest, restoring rice in Ubon Ratchathani
Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market to gain momentum under the government’s new car tax policy set to take effect in 2026, aimed at promoting cleaner energy.
The last Russia-U.S. nuclear arms control treaty, known as New START, is due to expire tomorrow. We look at what the treaty does, what its expiration would mean, and what it may take to establish a new treaty. 
Spain will ban access to social media for minors under 16 and hold company CEOs criminally liable for illegal content, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said yesterday, as he announced several measures to guarantee a safe digital environment. 
France summoned billionaire Elon Musk to a “voluntary interview” as cybercrime authorities yesterday searched the French offices of his social media network X, the Paris public prosecutor’s office said. The operation, which involves the EU police agency Europol, is part of an investigation opened in January 2025 into whether X’s algorithm was used to interfere in French politics. 
A recent seminar in Hua Hin has highlighted growing legal risks for foreign residents who bought property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders, as Thailand intensifies a nationwide crackdown on structures used to bypass land and business ownership laws.
Italian-Thai Development Public Co. (ITD) is facing its heaviest pressure in years, following a string of serious incidents on major construction projects, alongside a large debenture debt burden, an operating recovery that has yet to prove sustainable, and credit risks reflected in rating downgrades. The company’s financial position and market confidence are now being closely watched by both the capital market and regulators.
Academics and activists said over 40 million workers in Thailand remain stuck in low-paid, unsafe jobs with inadequate healthcare and social protection, urging parties to draft policies that ensure labor protection and fair employment.
The tiny shopfront of Gu Long Bao in Bangkok’s Chinatown has seen a lot of history unfold over its century of operation, from the creation of Thailand as a nation to its rise as a cultural and tourism hotspot. The shop has a fan following for its pillowy buns, with fillings such as barbecued pork and black sesame.
Sugarcane farmers are using bundled incense sticks as slow starters to illegally burn off cane trash in their fields when they are not there, in a ploy to deny accountability for the resulting increase in air pollution.
The collective wealth of the planet’s billionaires soared to a record level in 2025, charity Oxfam reported today, warning of “highly dangerous” political consequences as the global elite gathers for the World Economic Forum. 
Italian-Thai Development Public Co. (ITD) issued an official statement expressing condolences and accepting responsibility following a crane collapse that struck a passenger train in Nakhon Ratchasima province on Tuesday morning.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
Amazing Three Bays City Prachuap Khiri Khan festival set for late April
The United States has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand, aiming to prevent the entry of individuals deemed likely to become a public charge. This decision, effective from Jan. 21, results from the US State Department’s reassessment of its screening and vetting procedures under current immigration law. The suspension aims to block applicants potentially dependent on public benefits in the US.
The Thai real estate market is experiencing its most severe downturn in nearly three decades, since the 1997 financial crisis. The stock of unsold residential properties has skyrocketed, with new project launches falling sharply. Consumer purchasing power has weakened due to high household debt, and the mortgage lending situation is tighter than ever before.
The next government is urged to reform investment strategy and streamline working processes to lift economic growth, including attracting high-value sectors such as wellness tourism, high-tech industry, and green infrastructure.
Chartsiri Sophonpanich, president of Bangkok Bank, pointed out that in 2026 the world will continue to face risks, volatility, and uncertainty, driven by five key factors that will serve as both obstacles and opportunities in shaping ASEAN’s future. He made this remark during the opening of the AEC Business Forum 2026 yesterday.
Thai business giants Saha Group and Central Restaurants Group (CRG) are aggressively expanding their restaurant portfolios. Despite a competitive landscape, both groups see the Thai food market, valued at Bt572 billion, as a high-growth sector where “Capital, Brand, and Culture” create long-term value.
Thailand has set a target to increase revenue from foreign film productions by at least 10% in 2026, building upon a record-breaking performance in the previous year, the Department of Tourism said yesterday.
Gold and silver prices reached historic highs yesterday, driven by mounting geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Gold surged to a record $4,641.40 per ounce, and silver followed with a 5.2% rise, touching $92.23 per ounce.
Riding on a record-breaking 2024 and strong momentum in 2025, Thailand is setting an ambitious target of welcoming 2.5 million Indian visitors this year. With more than 1.3 million Indians having already traveled to the country by July, the market is emerging as one of Thailand’s most important growth drivers, underpinned by a strategic shift from volume-led recovery to value-focused tourism.
Three political parties – the People’s Party, Democrat, and Pheu Thai – have pledged to put cannabis back on the narcotics list and allow its use only for approved medical purposes, while operators urged the future administration to eliminate foreign businesses using nominees and unfair competition from illegal businesses.
Thailand dominates global night market rankings with 3 markets in the top 10
Bangkok has been ranked 12th in the world for the worst air quality, as PM2.5 levels soar to dangerous levels. According to the IQAir real-time air quality index on Wednesday, the capital’s air quality index (AQI) hit 161, marking it in the red zone, which is unhealthy for all groups.