- Hua Hin Songkran celebration/Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival/Cha Am fresh market prices being checked/Swedish drug suspects caught in Hua Hin/Hip fracture can change your life/Hua Hin has new pickleball facility/Influenza still spreading/Thai tax filing 2026/Tolls Waived for Songkran/’Aem Cyanide’ Acquitted/Thai Billionaire Wanted for Crypto Scam
- THE IRAN WAR: Middle East war escalates/Trump keeps telling America he’s winning/Overview of the US-Israel war with Iran/Thai-Flagged Cargo Ship attacked/Twenty Thai Seafarers Rescued/Iran sets two oil tankers ablaze/Minister Claims Iran War Won’t Affect Consumers/Fears over rising cost of goods/Thailand’s Inflation Prospects/Survey shows concern/Homebuyers advised to decide quickly/Government plans diesel rise/Thai Airways hikes fares/Night Petrol Station Closures Planned/Plastic shortages loom
- ECONOMY: US launches probe into Thailand/Employment trends fuel motorbike sales
- TOURISM: Thailand sends 40,000 stranded tourists home/Hospitality Giants Bet on Expansion/Merger of Tourism and Culture Ministries/Phuket at a tourism crossroads/Tourists Blame Monkeys
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Are Thai women truly equal?/Thailand’s ‘green season’/Massilia Bangkok best pizzeria in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai data center boom sparks fears/Global Urbanism Returns the Streets to the People
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin selects April 12-13 for Songkran celebration
Hua Hin Songkran 2026 will take place on April 12-13, with city officials planning a mix of large-scale water-based entertainment and traditional Thai New Year activities at Pone Kingphet Park and along Damnoen Kasem Road.
This year’s event will be held under the theme “Hologram”, with the municipality aiming to give the festival a more modern look through light, color, and sound displays, while keeping key traditional elements of Songkran in place. Continued …
Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival set March 14-21
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will take place from March 14-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
Phetchaburi Province, in collaboration with Cha Am City Municipality and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, is organizing the event. Visitors will be able to enjoy menus featuring fresh blue swimming crab and seafood sourced directly from local fishermen, alongside crab-release activities and evening entertainment. Continued …
Cha Am fresh market prices being checked
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
The Phetchaburi Provincial Commerce Office, working with Cha Am City Municipality, recently inspected the Cha Am municipal fresh market, instructing more than 137 vendors to install clear and visible price signs. Authorities warned that businesses failing to comply could face fines of up to 10,000 baht. Continued …
Two Swedish drug suspects caught at Hua Hin villas
Three Swedish men accused of running major online drug sales from Thailand are now being held by Thai authorities and are expected to be sent to Sweden for detention hearings.
According to Swedish and Thai police, the men had been living a life of luxury in Thailand while allegedly controling drug sales aimed at the Swedish market through websites and darknet platforms. Two of them were arrested in an exclusive residential area in Hua Hin, where Thai police said they lived in villas with swimming pools. The third was arrested in Bangkok. Continued …
Hip fracture from fall can change your life
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
Dr. Waipop Pothiwong, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in trauma and orthopedic surgery at Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, explains that as we age, our bodies undergo several changes that increase the risk of falls and fractures. Bone mass decreases (osteoporosis), making bones more fragile and prone to fracture. Muscles weaken, balance declines, and coordination becomes less steady than in younger years. Vision, hearing, and reflexes may also deteriorate, making it easier to lose balance. Continued …
Hua Hin has new pickleball, tennis facility
A new tennis and pickleball facility in Hua Hin has opened its doors to players, adding to the town’s growing range of sports and recreation options. Sports Life Hua Hin, located in Thap Thai just off Soi 112, is now operating daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
The venue features four ITF Class 4 tennis courts and two pickleball courts, all fully under cover, allowing play throughout the day regardless of weather conditions. Operators say there are also plans to expand the number of pickleball courts in the future in response to rising demand. Male and female changing facilities are available on site, while a café is also due to open soon. Continued …
Influenza still spreading: 137,276 cases, 8 deaths recorded so far this year
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) at the Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning urging the public to be especially vigilant against influenza, after an upward trend in cases. Between Jan. 1 and March 9, Thailand recorded 137,276 cumulative cases and eight deaths.
DDC Director-General Montien Kanasawat said the cumulative total of 137,276 influenza cases represents an illness rate of 211.48 per 100,000 people. The three age groups with the highest rates were: 5-9 years: 753.20 per 100,000 (26,806 cases); 0-4 years: 596.20 per 100,000 (16,992 cases); 10-14 years: 534.20 per 100,000 (20,812 cases). Continued …
Thai tax filing 2026: What expats should clarify before the April 8 deadline
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
Under Thai law, individuals who spend 180 days or more in Thailand within a calendar year are considered tax residents. A filing obligation arises once assessable income exceeds the minimum thresholds. These thresholds are relatively low. Even modest levels of income can require a return to be submitted. Continued …
Motorway Tolls Waived for Songkran
The Department of Highways has proposed a ministerial regulation to waive motorway tolls for seven days during the Songkran festival in 2026, from 12.01 am on April 10 to midnight on April 16. This decision targets easing travel and reducing congestion for the traditional period when many people travel to their hometowns, causing heavy traffic on routes around Bangkok.
Previously, the Department of Highways submitted a draft to the Ministry of Transport, seeking approval to lift toll charges on Motorway No. 7, Motorway No. 9, and Motorway No. 81. The waiver is expected to support faster and more convenient travel, improve traffic flow, and decrease travel expenses for the public during this major holiday. Additionally, it aims to lower national energy consumption and reduce air pollution during the festival period. Continued …
‘Aem Cyanide’ Acquitted in Cyanide Murder Case Due to Lack of Evidence
Sararat “Aem Cyanide” Rangsiwuthaporn was acquitted by the Criminal Court yesterday in a case involving the alleged cyanide poisoning of a woman in Nakhon Pathom in August 2020. The court’s decision was based on the prosecution’s failure to demonstrate that Sararat possessed cyanide or had a financial motive behind the alleged crime.
Sararat’s legal challenges are further compounded by her conviction and death sentence in another cyanide poisoning case concluded in November 2024. Moreover, she received a life sentence last month for murdering a policeman, a sentence initially decided as execution but reduced due to her confession. Sararat, 39, faces accusations of administering cyanide to 14 individuals between 2015 and 2023. Continued …
Thai Billionaire Wanted for Alleged Crypto Scam
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
Authorities suspect the investor, who reportedly holds 11,000 Bitcoins and has investments in the UAE, has fled the country. Worawat, once the lead singer of a rock band, has been under investigation before. In March 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission accused him of running “1000X Limited” without proper authorization, breaching the Digital Assets Business Act. Continued …
Middle East war escalates as Iran threatens Gulf oil route
The crisis in the Middle East reached a new boiling point yesterday as Iran threatened to shut down oil exports through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for a major wave of US and Israeli air strikes. Reuters reported that the conflict had effectively halted the movement of roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas through the strategic waterway, underscoring the scale of the threat to global energy markets.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it was prepared to take the toughest possible measures, warning that it would not allow oil to pass through the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz for the benefit of the United States, Israel, or their allies. The warning came as Tehran stepped up its rhetoric and military pressure following the latest strikes. Continued …
Trump keeps telling America he’s winning in Iran; he’s less clear about war’s end
Facing jittery global markets and drooping poll numbers since launching a war on Iran, US President Donald Trump has cycled from calls for “unconditional surrender” to sounding amenable to an end state in which Iran trades one hard-line ayatollah for another.
Shifting comments from the Republican president and his top aides are adding to the precariousness of the 12-day-old conflict, which is impacting nearly every corner of the Middle East and causing economic tremors around the globe. With neither side budging, the war is now on an unpredictable path — one in which a credible endgame is still unclear. Continued …
Overview of the US-Israel war with Iran – How does it affect Thailand?
The US-Israel-Iran conflict, now in its 11th day, is set to hammer Thailand’s economy despite being fought 7,000 kilometers away. With the Strait of Hormuz closed and oil above US$120 per barrel, Thailand faces its sharpest energy and trade disruption in decades.
The current phase began on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran. The confrontation escalated from tit-for-tat exchanges in 2024 into a brief but intense “Twelve-Day War” in June 2025, before widening again in early 2026. Continued …
Thai-Flagged Cargo Ship attacked near Strait of Hormuz
Questions have emerged over the nationality of the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree after the ship was reportedly attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) near the Strait of Hormuz, prompting debate over whether it is a Thai vessel or an Indian ship flying the Thai flag.
The vessel came under scrutiny after reports indicated its owners have Indian heritage, leading some observers to question whether the ship was genuinely Thai or merely using Thailand’s flag as a form of disguise. The incident also raised concern for the crew, with reports noting three Thai sailors missing after the ship’s engine room was struck during the attack. Continued …
Twenty Thai Seafarers Rescued Following Attack in Strait of Hormuz
The Omani Navy has successfully rescued 20 Thai crew members from the bulk carrier Mayuree Naree after the vessel sustained significant damage in the Strait of Hormuz yesterday.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) confirmed that the Thai-registered vessel, owned by the Bangkok-based Precious Shipping Public Co, was targeted shortly after departing from Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates. The ship was carrying a total of 23 Thai nationals when it was struck near the stern. Continued …
Iran sets two oil tankers ablaze near Iraq
Iran has set ablaze two tankers in Iraqi waters as it stepped up attacks on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East, warning the world should be ready for oil at $200 a barrel in defiance of President Donald Trump’s claim that the United States had already won the war.
Since the joint US and Israeli air strikes on Iran almost two weeks ago, the war has so far killed around 2,000 people and thrown global energy markets and transport into chaos. Continued …
Commerce Minister Claims Iran War Won’t Affect Consumers
Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Suphajee Suthumpun, is urging calm as the government closely tracks energy prices amid the ongoing conflict in Iran. An operations center has been established to coordinate across ministries, aiming to implement protective measures when necessary.
The backdrop to this situation involves rising tensions due to the Iran war, which have potential impacts on global energy prices, affecting consumer goods costs. Suphajee emphasized the importance of official updates and briefings to keep the public informed and prepared. The government is assessing the situation daily to adapt strategies accordingly and minimize negative impacts. Continued …
Fears grow over rising cost of goods
Consumers across the country are worried about the rising cost of goods, as global energy prices and supply chains have been hit by the war in the Middle East, pushing up prices for everyday necessities.
Residents in several provinces say the cost of living has climbed steadily in recent weeks, with higher prices reported for dried foods and household goods. The hike in prices is being attributed to rising energy costs, raw material prices, and transport expenses worldwide. Continued …
Thailand’s Inflation Prospects in Light of Middle East Tensions
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
Thailand imports about 90% of its crude oil, making energy price hikes quickly affect transport, manufacturing, food costs, and household budgets. The Producer Price Index will likely rise first, followed by consumer inflation in months. Businesses, especially SMEs, will face shrinking margins, while lower-income households may bear the brunt of increased fuel and food expenses. Continued …
Iran war: Survey shows concern over Thailand’s stance and energy crisis
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
It found that: The top concern among Thai netizens, accounting for 37% of all messages, was Thailand’s foreign policy stance towards the conflict. Most netizens said they wanted the Thai government to remain neutral in the situation. The second-largest concern, accounting for 31%, was the impact of energy prices, which could affect the Thai economy. Continued …
Homebuyers advised to decide quickly before war inflation hits
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
Speaking at a seminar on the 2026 property market yesterday, Natthapol Luepromchai, executive vice-president at Kasikornbank (KBank), said the escalating war in the Middle East could push up oil prices and inflation worldwide, making the likelihood of more interest rate cuts very unlikely. Continued …
Government plans diesel rise as oil fund hits B10-billion deficit
The war in the Middle East, which has caused oil prices to fluctuate and remain high, has led the government to continue capping diesel at no more than B30 per liter. As of March 11, the Oil Fuel Fund was subsidizing diesel by B16.97 per liter, a sharp increase from just B0.74 per liter on Feb. 27, one day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran.
The Oil Fuel Fund Administration Committee kept diesel at B29.94 per liter for another 15 days, from March 3-17, after which further relief measures for the public would be reviewed. Continued …
Thai Airways hikes fares 10%-15% as jet fuel costs surge
Thai Airways International (THAI) has begun raising ticket prices by around 10%-15% to reflect higher fuel costs driven by the situation in the Middle East, while noting it already has a mechanism to adjust pricing through a fuel surcharge.
Cherdchome Therdsteerasukdi, chief financial and accounting officer of THAI, said the airline has started adjusting fares to match the increase in oil prices. He said the company already has a fuel surcharge mechanism, but must set the surcharge ceiling jointly with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). She added that the current situation remains manageable, and the ceiling can be adjusted if necessary. Continued …
Night Petrol Station Closures Planned, Pending War’s Impact
The Thai government is considering closing petrol stations at 10 pm, but only if the Middle East conflict critically impacts fuel reserves. Currently, the situation remains manageable, according to Sarawut Kaewtathip, the Department of Energy Business director-general. Measures are being taken to assess and manage fuel demand throughout the country.
The Ministry of Interior has directed provincial governors and energy chiefs to survey fuel needs to formulate an effective response, preventing significant economic damage. Reports have emerged of fuel shortages at some stations, prompting local officials to monitor supplies closely to mitigate hoarding. Continued …
Plastic shortages loom as war hits oil supplies
Businesses are bracing for the impact of a plastic supply shortage due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Pun Paniangvait, general manager of Thai President Foods, the producer of Mama instant noodles, said while energy prices are receiving much attention, there is less discussion about fertilizer prices and a potential shortage of petrochemical products such as plastic pellets.
He said various consumer product packages, from water bottles to hot food packaging, rely on plastic pellets for production. Oil is a key ingredient in the production of plastic pellets, so if supply is curbed, plastic production also takes a hit. Continued …
US launches probe into 16 trade partners, including Thailand
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Reuters reported that the investigations are being carried out under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which gives the Office of the United States Trade Representative, or USTR, the authority to impose tariffs or other retaliatory measures against trading partners deemed to engage in unfair trade practices. Continued …
Employment trends fuel motorbike sales
Domestic motorcycle sales in Thailand are expected to climb this year, driven in part by new job seekers who are increasingly turning to motorcycles to earn income as part-time food delivery and motorcycle taxi drivers, according to Thai Yamaha Motor.
Many of these riders, including recent university graduates, are taking up temporary work while applying for permanent positions at companies. This trend has had a direct impact on motorcycle sales, said Ukrit Pakviwat, director of operations for commercial and marketing planning at Thai Yamaha Motor. Continued …
Thailand sends 40,000 stranded tourists home
More than 40,000 tourists stranded here by flight disruptions in the Middle East have safely returned home, aided by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand’s (CAAT) temporary approval for tour operators in the originating countries to send charter flights to retrieve them.
Suladda Sarutilavan, executive director of Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said since the war erupted on Feb. 28 the TAT offices in Europe have received multiple requests from tour companies seeking coordination to assist their tourists stranded in Thailand and other countries, asking for support to escort their customers back home via Thai airports. Continued …
Thai Hospitality Giants Bet on 2026 Expansion Despite Middle East Volatility
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Asset World Corp. (AWC), for example, is pivoting toward the luxury MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and xhibitions) sector. The centerpiece of its 2026 strategy is the Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, the brand’s debut in Thailand. In addition to high-end urban stays, AWC is targeting “cultural tourism” via the Lannatique Gala in Chiang Mai and heritage-themed developments in Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat). Continued …
Thai Private Sector Calls for Merger of Tourism and Culture Ministries
Thai business leaders are urging a radical consolidation of the state’s administrative architecture, proposing the merger of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports with the Ministry of Culture to better leverage the nation’s cultural “soft power.”
Under the proposal, the current sports portfolio would be downgraded to a departmental level within the new unified ministry, ensuring that national policy focuses squarely on high-value tourism and sustainable development. Continued …
Phuket stands at a tourism crossroads
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Tourism accounts for approximately 95% of the province’s economy, generating more than 500 billion baht annually from over 14 million Thai and international travelers. With around 1,500 registered hotels and more than 100,000 rooms, the island is undeniably a cornerstone of Thailand’s tourism industry. Yet, Phuket now stands at a crossroads. Continued …
Koh Chang: Tourists Blame Monkeys for Missing Motorcycle Key
In a bizarre twist on Koh Chang in Trat province, foreign tourists reported a monkey for allegedly stealing their motorcycle key, only to later discover the key at their accommodation after an extensive four-hour search.
The incident was shared on Facebook by a Thai police officer, drawing significant attention and humor online. According to his caption, the tourists, who had been using cannabis, mistakenly believed the monkey had stolen their key. The amusing turn of events led social media users to joke about “investigator-turned-monkey-catcher” officers and the idea of monkeys seeking legal assistance for defamation. Continued …
Are Thai women truly equal?
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
Around the month of International Women’s Day, celebrated last Sunday, media reports are filled with stories celebrating women’s achievements. Headlines highlight women leading companies, exceling in high-skilled professions, and breaking barriers in fields once dominated by men. From a quick look around, it can seem that women in Thailand have made remarkable progress. Yet, data tells a more complicated story. Continued …
Why Thailand’s ‘green season’ is the perfect time to travel
Looking for something remarkable from your next escape? At certain times of year, Thailand offers a different kind of luxury: soft-hued skies, rainforest-bright color, and a sense of space you rarely find at peak times.
Travel during the country’s “green season” – from roughly May to October – for a taste of the extraordinary. Brief tropical showers refresh the air, leaving long, luminous days for temples, markets and beaches – with lighter crowds and outstanding value. The season brings its own flavors too, which can be savored in dishes crafted with fresh and organic ingredients. This is Thailand at its most lush, calm, and romantic. Continued …
Massilia Bangkok makes history as the best pizzeria in Thailand for 5th time
Massilia Bangkok has been named Best Pizzeria in Thailand 2026 by the 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific Awards, marking the restaurant’s fifth national title and fourth consecutive win since 2021. The restaurant was also ranked the 6th Best Pizzeria in Asia 2026.
Luca Appino, owner of Massilia Bangkok, said, “This recognition is incredibly meaningful to us. As Thailand’s top pizzeria for five years, we feel a responsibility not just to our guests, but to the entire pizza community in Thailand.” Continued …
Thai data center boom sparks fears of water shortage, air pollution
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
He’s able to farm crabs this far inland, said Sarayuth, a former biochemist, thanks to the unique ecosystem provided by the mix of seawater, brackish water, and freshwater that flows through the Bang Pakong River into the creeks near his home on the border between Chachoengsao and Chonburi provinces in eastern Thailand. Continued …
The Walkable City: Global Urbanism Returns the Streets to the People
For nearly a century, the blueprint of the modern metropolis was drawn with the motor vehicle at its center. Wide boulevards, multi-lane junctions, and sprawling car parks became the hallmarks of urban progress.
However, a quiet revolution is currently unfolding across the world’s most iconic skylines, as planners move to “de-car” the city and return the pavement to the pedestrian. This shift represents a fundamental change in the urban paradigm: a transition from “cities for cars” to “cities for people”. 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
Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.
Global oil prices surged sharply in early-week trading after tensions from the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated, stoking market fears of tighter oil supplies and risks to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.
The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.
The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.
Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.
Weakening consumer confidence, rather than rising costs alone, has become the biggest threat to Thailand’s property market, as global uncertainty prompts buyers to delay major purchases, according to Pornnarit Chuanchaisit, president of the Thai Real Estate Assn.
The Commerce Ministry has launched a “Resilience” strategy aimed at protecting the country’s export sector from global risks, including geopolitical conflicts and trade polarization. The policy seeks to strengthen Thailand’s ability to maintain export growth while navigating an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.
Passengers intending to travel between Asia and Europe will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure reasonable ticket prices, as the Middle East conflict has driven significant demand for a limited number of direct flights, says the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.
The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.
Indonesia bans elephant riding
This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. 
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.
Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. 
The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. 
Indonesia will restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, its communications and digital ministry said on Friday, making it the latest country to install online guardrails to reduce the risks of addiction and cyberbullying. 
The Cha Am crab festival will take place from March 1-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, celebrating the town’s well-known blue swimming crab and its coastal food culture.
Thai energy officials are intensifying measures to shield the country from a crisis reminiscent of the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, as mounting tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US raise fears of global oil supply disruptions and economic instability.
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has increased natural gas extraction in the Gulf of Thailand to its maximum possible levels to safeguard national energy security. The move comes in response to potential global energy supply disruptions caused by instability in the Middle East.
Thailand’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Natthariya Thaweewong moved yesterday to secure discounted accommodation for foreign tourists stranded by the U.S.–Iran conflict that erupted on Saturday, as hundreds of flights scheduled to land at the country’s main airports were scrapped over the weekend and signals from Washington DC and Tel Aviv indicated the war could last another four to five weeks.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas convened an urgent meeting yesterday with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Joined by Thailand’s ambassador in Washington and private-sector representatives, the meeting aimed to set a national strategy in response to the United States’ new tariff policy and trade-restricting measures.
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok will open its new 24-hour Automated Border Control (ABC) passport gates for departures on Thursday, to reduce queues for the convenience of passengers. The opening follows a trial period in mid-February when the gates were available only from 7 am to 7 pm.
Two key renewable energy projects pushed by the caretaker government of Anutin Charnvirakul need to be delayed until a new government is formed, says energy Permanent Secretary Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo.
Alcohol Sales Prohibited March 3/Anantara Hua Hin Resort celebrates 25 years
Thailand will enforce a ban on alcohol sales for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on March 3 this year. According to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, sales are prohibited on specific Buddhist holidays.
The Bank of Thailand says the cycle of policy rate cuts has ended, with yesterday’s reduction deemed sufficient to support the Thai economy. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 4-2 yesterday to cut the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 1%, effective immediately.
Thai rice exports fell by 17.5% in January compared with the same month last year, as a strong baht reduced the country’s price competitiveness. Export volume totaled 530,287 tons, down from 643,144 tons a year earlier. Export value dropped to B9.707 billion, a 30.7% decrease.
U-Tapao Airport project to kick off on April 3
Thailand’s overall border and transit trade in January reached a total value of 161.1 billion baht, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, with China remaining a leading transit market, said deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana.
Lazada Thailand is shifting its strategy to “confidence commerce”, prioritizing trust and reliability over price or delivery speed. The strategy aims to strengthen LazMall in response to the continued growth of Thailand’s e-commerce market.
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison and a 500,000 baht fine.
Thailand’s coffee landscape is being rewritten. Once seen mainly as a local staple or bulk commodity, Thai coffee is evolving into a globally recognized premium product.
Thailand Riviera road construction boosted
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.
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 Bank of Thailand is upbeat about the country’s growth prospects, projecting GDP expansion of 1.9% this year, up from its previous estimate of 1.5%, after the economy grew stronger than forecast in the fourth quarter of last year.
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. 
The Hua Hin property market is emerging as a relative bright spot in Thailand’s challenging real estate sector, supported by sustained foreign demand that is helping to offset weak domestic purchasing power.
Forest fires, suspected to have been caused by human activity, have been raging uncontrollably in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, and Mae Hong Son, driving PM2.5 levels beyond the 37.5-micron safety threshold, according to reports from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
A group of foreign residents in Pattaya has lodged a complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) after allegedly losing more than 300 million baht in a fraudulent gold-trading investment scheme branded “King Power Gold”.
Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index rose marginally to 88.7 in January, up from 88.2 in December, as the manufacturing sector returned to full swing following the New Year holiday and demand picked up ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thailand is steadily cementing its reputation as one of the leading global destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients each year with its high-quality healthcare services, affordability, and attractive recovery options.
Two listed firms, PTT Oil and Retail (OR) and Central Plaza Hotel (Centel), announced a joint venture that will run budget hotels at PTT petrol stations. OR, oil trade flagship of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, reported on Tuesday night that its board of directors approved the establishment of the joint venture.
Chiang Mai International Airport has recorded a new post-Covid high in passenger traffic, with daily numbers surpassing 36,000, as airlines added 69 extra and charter flights to accommodate Lunar New Year demand.
Puphaman National Park, located in Loei and Khon Kaen provinces, has called on the public to stop feeding wild elephants by leaving fruit and other edible items for them, warning that such well-intentioned acts could ultimately harm the animals and increase the risk of human-elephant conflict.
The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.
The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.
Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.
So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.
The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.
Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. 
The Thai food delivery market recorded significant consolidation and growth between 2024 and 2025.The market is increasingly defined by a duopoly between Grab and Line Man, as smaller competitors exit, according to Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works.
Thailand’s electric vehicle industry is struggling to improve after-sales services, which remain unsatisfactory due to the rapid growth of EV sales and growing maintenance demand, says Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand), a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned automaker Chery Automobile.
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.
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 will hold a general election on Sunday, in a three-way contest of major political parties to decide the leader of the Southeast Asian nation over the next four years.
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
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. 
The Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 4-7 at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, with the Royal Thai Army working alongside tourism and provincial authorities to showcase Muay Thai as a key part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Seriously harmful levels of ultrafine dust, three times the safe limit, were reported in Greater Bangkok this morning, while most of Thailand was blanketed with unsafe smog.
Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht
Thailand must rethink its economic resilience strategies to respond to China’s accelerating outward expansion, which presents both significant opportunities and growing risks for the Thai economy, experts said at a regional forum yesterday.
Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?
Phuket has long been synonymous with tropical splendor thanks to its world-famous beaches, emerald rainforests, and waters teeming with life. This profound natural beauty is the very soul of its allure. Yet, for years, the pressures of overtourism, relentless development, and pervasive pollution have threatened to unravel the delicate ecological balance that sustains this paradise.