- End of Bangkok Street food/Your go-to street food/Hua Hin Jazz City/Suvarnabhumi-Hua Hin flights/Hua Hin Fire Wave Fest/Hua Hin Red Cross Fair/Hua Hin water-sports safety rules/Bombshell report shakes government/Police Held Over Extortion/Private sector pushes national anti-corruption/Bangkok collision train/End to Hidden School Fees/Redefining Life Beyond 60
- THE IRAN WAR: Thailand urges safe passage of 8 vessels/Oil touches 2-week high
- ECONOMY: DSI Probes 21 Suspected Nominee Firms/Haven for foreign-owned businesses?/CEOs push six-point reform plan/Government faces cost-of-living test /Thai Q1 GDP grows 2.8% /War on the economy/Land Bridge Faces Investor Doubts/Chinese supermarkets expand/45-billion-baht influencer economy/Saab eyes Thailand as defense production hub
- TOURISM: Tourism wrestles with war’s impact/Bangkok nightlife raids
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Inside Chiang Mai’s Ethical Elephant Haven/Most beautiful hotels in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Preparing for Climate-Related Losses
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
We hope you enjoy today’s news from Hua Hin Expat News. But first something we never do – an editorial on a topic that has been eating at us as we watch Bangkok morph into Singapore 2.0.
The end of Bangkok Street food
Bangkok is known for its extensive and varied street food scene. Its presence comes up in virtually any discussion about tourism in Thailand. Techically, some might argue, you haven’t really “visited” Thailand if you have not experienced Bangkok’s street food. Quite simply, it’s a selling point for Thailand’s tourism industry.
So why then is the Bangkok government trying to kill it? Why is Bangkok trying to emulate Singapore’s food courts, usually located inside office towers, often in the basement. Singapore does not have street food, It has office nuilding food courts, sometimes called “hawker centers”. That is the direction Bangkok is headed.
Already, the city claims to have moved 10,000 vendors off the streets and into food courts located in office buildings or converted warehouse spaces. These relocations usually move the vendors from their normal locations, where customers are used to finding them, far away from those customers, and hidden behind concrete walls. Continued …
What your go-to street food in Thailand says about you
Perhaps you’re loyal to moo ping before 9 am, emotionally attached to luk chin, or convinced assorted fruits count as a proper meal. While we acknowledge that street food dining usually involves more than one dish, we’re focusing on your go-to top choice.
To clarify, by “street food” we mean food one can munch on the move, so we’re excluding main dishes from the list. So, in our latest attempt to playfully psychoanalyze you from behind a screen, here’s what your go-to Thai street food says about you. Continued …
Hua Hin Jazz City Event set for 40 venues with live music
Hua Hin Jazz City Event 2026 will bring jazz performances to more than 40 locations across the city from May 29-June 1, as organizers look to create a citywide music festival that supports tourism and local businesses.
The event will be held under the concept “Celebrating Music, Starting Sustainability” and aims to position Hua Hin as a destination for jazz lovers while encouraging visitors to explore different parts of the city. Continued …
Suvarnabhumi-Hua Hin flights to start in June
EZY Airline is preparing to launch a Suvarnabhumi-Hua Hin route, with the service tipped to begin in June as part of plans to improve air links to secondary cities.
According to information released following the meeting, EZY Airline plans to operate the route using Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft, which seat around 10 to 12 passengers. Continued …
Hua Hin Fire Wave Fest 2026 set for May 29-30
Hua Hin will host the Hua Hin Fire Wave Fest 2026 May 29-30 with fireworks, music, and beachside activities planned as part of efforts to support tourism during the low season. The event will take place at Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab. Admission is free.
The Hua Hin Fire Wave Fest 2026, officially billed as a “Fireworks & Music Beach Festival”, is being organized to promote tourism and help stimulate the local economy during the quieter low-season period. Continued …
Hua Hin Red Cross Fair on June 5-14
The 28th Hua Hin Red Cross Fair will take place from June 5-14 at the 25-rai activity area on Hua Hin Soi 102, behind Bluport Hua Hin. The annual event, officially known as the Hua Hin District Red Cross and Local Products Fair, is organized by the Hua Hin District Red Cross Branch to raise funds for relief and charity work in Hua Hin and nearby areas.
This year’s fair will help raise money for disaster relief, support for low-income residents, people with disabilities, disadvantaged groups, and other public charity activities. Funds raised will be used to provide assistance, including consumer goods, survival bags, kitchen equipment, bedding, mosquito nets, medicine, home repairs for low-income residents, support for bedridden patients, and wheelchair donations. Continued …
Hua Hin water-sports safety rules tightened after fatal accident
Hua Hin City Municipality has ordered tighter water-sports safety measures after a person died following an accident involving a water ride in the district earlier this month. The measures were agreed during a meeting of the beach committee on Friday.
Municipal officials said the meeting was called after an incident in early May in which a person fell from a water-sports ride in Hua Hin district. The person was later treated by doctors and diagnosed with severe brain trauma before dying from the injuries. Continued …
Private sector’s bombshell report shakes government bureaucracy
The Thai private sector’s damning report on the 10 most-corrupt state agencies has sent a shockwave through the government bureaucracy, prompting immediate reactions, from Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn to the director general of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), who has demanded to see evidence of the alleged bribe taking.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking and the Zero Corruption Organization have listed the 10 most corrupt agencies, with the PCD being placed on top of the list. Continued …
Police Held Over Extortion of Chinese in Sa Kaeo
Four Thai police officers and a civilian have been arrested in Sa Kaeo province after allegedly detaining five Chinese nationals and demanding money in exchange for their release.
The arrests were made Saturday at a house in Wang Mai subdistrict, Wang Sombun district, Sa Kaeo. Officers from Wang Sombun Police Station seized four firearms, 24 rounds of ammunition, and two pickup trucks during the operation. Continued …
Private sector pushes national anti-corruption drive as business costs rise
Thailand’s worsening corruption situation was raised as a key proposal at a joint meeting between the government and the private sector on ways to improve the country’s economic competitiveness, held at Government House on Friday.
The main reason the private sector raised the issue with the prime minister was the deteriorating situation, which has become an obstacle to business operations and is affecting the country’s competitiveness. Continued …
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring. They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.
Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.
Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.
Bangkok collision train driver on drugs, unlicensed
The driver of the freight train that hit a passenger bus and other vehicles on a congested Bangkok level crossing on Saturday tested positive for drug abuse and did not have a rail transport license, according to the rail transport chief.
Pichet Kunadhamraks, director-general of the Department of Rail Transport, posted the allegation online last night. He said police reported that Sayomporn Sornkul, driver of Laem Chabang-Bang Sue freight train number 2126, underwent a urine test that returned positive for drug abuse. Continued …
Poll Urges End to Hidden School Fees and Equal Access
A new NIDA poll has found that Thais want the Education Ministry to eliminate hidden school costs and reduce inequality in education quality ahead of the 2026 academic year.
The survey showed that 35% of respondents want free education to involve no additional expenses within one year, while 35% said the most urgent issue was the gap in quality between local schools and well-known urban institutions. Continued …
Redefining Life Beyond 60: Is Thai Society Prepared?
Is 60 truly the perfect endpoint of a working life? This question is becoming ever more pressing as Thailand and the broader ASEAN region rapidly transition into a “Super-Aged Society.” The economic and social structures that were once driven by a young workforce are facing mounting pressure.
This is not merely a fiscal crisis or a social welfare burden — it is a pivotal moment that calls for a collective effort to revive the potential of an experience-rich human resource and restore it as a core engine of growth. Continued …
Thailand urges Iran to allow safe passage of 8 stranded Thai vessels
Thailand has urged Iran to allow the safe passage of eight Thai-flagged ships stranded at either end of the near-closed Strait of Hormuz. The call was made by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi last week.
Sihasak expressed concern over the Middle East conflict and its global economic consequences, particularly the navigation restrictions imposed on the Strait of Hormuz, where many vessels from numerous countries are stranded. Continued …
Oil touches 2-week high after drone attack on UAE nuclear power plant
Oil prices extended gains today as efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran appeared to have stalled, after a nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates came under attack and as US President Donald Trump is expected to discuss military options on Iran.
Brent crude futures climbed $1.44, or 1.32%, to $110.70 a barrel by 2337 GMT (6.37 a.m. Thailand time) after touching the highest since May 5 earlier in the session. US West Texas Intermediate was at $107.26 a barrel, up $1.84, or 1.75%, following a rise to its highest level since May 4. Continued …
DSI Probes 21 Suspected Nominee Firms in Samui and Phangan
Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is investigating 21 companies on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province over suspected nominee shareholding arrangements linked to foreign ownership violations.
The firms, each holding assets worth more than 100 million baht, are suspected of using Thai nationals to hold shares on behalf of foreign investors in possible breaches of the Foreign Business Act 1999. Continued …
Is Phangan Island becoming a haven for foreign-owned businesses?
Since the 1980s, Phangan Island has been known for full moon parties and its growth from a small beach town to a business-savvy island, but it has recently been in the spotlight due to the high number of foreign-investment companies there using Thai nominees.
In total, there are 4,761 companies, of which at least 3,213 are foreign entities. The non-Thai nationalities with the most shareholders in businesses on Phangan Island are Israeli (22%, 702 people), followed by French (13%, 426 people), British (11%, 359 people), Russian (10%, 306 people), and Germans (6%, 194 people). Continued …
Thailand at turning point — CEOs push six-point reform plan
Thailand’s leading business executives have called for urgent economic reforms ranging from clean energy investment and AI-driven workforce development to anti-corruption measures and faster investment approvals, as the government signaled support for six major proposals aimed at reshaping the country’s future economy.
The proposals emerged during “The Listening Forum: Voices to the PM”, held at Government House on Friday, where Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul invited chief executives and business leaders to share ideas on boosting Thailand’s competitiveness and accelerating economic transformation. Continued …
Anutin government faces cost-of-living test as public confidence weakens
The Anutin government is under immediate pressure to ease living costs and restore economic confidence, as most respondents to a new Suan Dusit Poll want urgent action on prices and debt, while nearly half expect the economy to worsen over the next three months.
The nationwide survey, conducted by Suan Dusit University, found that 78% of respondents want the government to urgently reduce the cost of living, energy costs, and goods prices. Continued …
Thai Q1 GDP grows 2.8% y/y, above forecast
Thailand’s economy grew by 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026 from a year earlier, official data showed today, higher than the median forecast of 2.2% in a Reuters poll of analysts
On a seasonally adjusted quarterly basis, Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy expanded 0.7% in the January-March period, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council showed, beating the poll forecast of 0.1% growth. Continued …
War on the economy
Nearly three months have passed since the US-Israeli air strikes on Iran began, with no resolution to the war in sight, while almost two months have elapsed since the Thai government took office.
Economic stimulus measures were issued, with a further round scheduled for next month via the emergency loan decree for 400 billion baht drawing criticism. Critics question the justification for the emergency loan decree and whether stimulus efforts will be sufficient to address the prolonged crisis. The massive stimulus could also accelerate the inflation risk for a fragile economy. Continued …
Thailand Land Bridge Faces Investor Doubts
Thailand’s proposed “land bridge” linking the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand has regained attention amid tensions over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca.
The project, which would create a 90-kilometer road and rail corridor between Ranong and Chumphon provinces, is being promoted as a way to strengthen Thailand’s geostrategic role and boost its weak economy. Continued …
Chinese supermarkets expand in Thailand on low prices
Chinese investment continues to make inroads into Thai retail, with “Chinese supermarkets” expanding into Huai Khwang, Rama 9, and tourist cities. The stores stock Chinese goods ranging from snacks, drinks, tea, soft drinks, mala sauces, and instant noodles to ready-to-eat food, responding to strong online trends.
The expansion of Chinese supermarkets in Thailand is becoming another significant phenomenon in modern retail. After a steady rise in branch openings in Bangkok, tourist cities, and Chinese community areas, stores that were once small niche shops are now increasingly moving into shopping centers and community malls. Continued …
Thailand urged to regulate booming 45-billion-baht influencer economy
Thailand’s influencer economy is no longer just about content creation but has become a fast-growing business sector worth 45 billion baht, prompting calls for clearer standards, stronger oversight, and support to help Thai influencers compete internationally.
The Office of Trade Policy and Strategy (TPSO), under the Commerce Ministry, said Thailand now has more than 3 million influencers, who generate 38.9 billion baht in digital advertising value. This accounts for around one-third of the country’s total digital advertising market. Continued …
Saab eyes Thailand as regional defense production hub after Gripen deal
Swedish defense company Saab plans to expand investment in Thailand following the Royal Thai Air Force’s decision to procure Gripen E/F fighter jets, with ambitions to develop the country into a regional defense technology and production hub.
Fredrik Lindblom, vice president and country manager of Saab Thailand, said the company was seeking Thai industrial partners to jointly manufacture certain Gripen aircraft components locally under Thailand’s offset policy framework. Thailand recently approved the first phase of a procurement project for four Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jets valued at around 19.5 billion baht. Continued …
Tourism wrestles with war’s impact
On Feb. 28, when the US-Israeli war with Iran began, Thailand’s tourism industry was looking forward to reaping the benefits of the final month of the high season.
Disruptions to air travel hobbled the industry in the first few weeks, as Middle Eastern airlines could not operate as usual. As the conflict dragged on and hindered the global tourism market, airlines worldwide reduced services as jet fuel prices more than doubled. Continued …
Bangkok nightlife raids signal broader sweep across Thai tourist hotspots
Internal Security Operations Command Region 1 (ISOC Region 1), in coordination with multiple agencies, carried out inspections of entertainment venues in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok last week as part of ongoing nationwide efforts to enforce legal compliance in nightlife and tourism zones.
Authorities said similar operations have been intensified in key tourist destinations across Thailand, including Pattaya and other major nightlife hubs, as part of broader measures to prevent illegal activity, ensure licensing compliance, and maintain public order in high-traffic entertainment districts. Continued …
Elephant Nature Park: Inside Chiang Mai’s Ethical Elephant Haven
(Editor: I know, I know. We’ve posted articles about Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park before. But here’s another one. We’re a former “customer” of the park and a big fan of its founder, Sangdeaun “Lek” Chailert shown above), who has done so much for Thailand’s embattled elephant population. So here’s another one.)
Morning mist hangs over the Mae Taeng Valley as a small herd of rescued elephants pads silently toward the river, their footsteps muffled on the red earth. At Elephant Nature Park (often simply called ENP), about an hour from Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, the soundtrack is not circus music or shouting handlers, but birdsong, splashing water, and the low rumble of elephants finally allowed to move at their own pace.
For many travelers, Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is the place that fundamentally changes how they think about elephants. Set in a lush river valley north of the city, the sanctuary is known worldwide as a pioneer of ethical elephant tourism, where riding, tricks, and shows are replaced by quiet observation and hands-off encounters. Continued …
Thailand’s Largest Lake Is A Breathtaking Body Of Water With Islands, Bird Sanctuaries, And Fishing
Thailand has no shortage of beautiful places. In 2025, 32.9 million people came to the Land of Smiles to lie on Ko Samui’s white sand beaches, visit misty temples in Chiang Mai, and hunt for street food beneath Bangkok’s neon lights.
However, Thailand is also home to unsung destinations that few foreign visitors ever hear about, let alone see. One such place is Songkhla Lake, Thailand’s only non-artificial lake and by default the largest. Continued …
Seven of the most beautiful hotels in Thailand
In our latest travel title, Thailand: The Monocle Handbook, we showcase the very best of this sunny nation, including the multitude of excellent hospitality hotspots on offer.
Here we round up a few of the book’s hotel highlights – refined city stays and wellness retreats among them – to help you decide where’s best to rest your head. Continued …
Preparing for Climate-Related Losses
The floods that submerged Hat Yai were not just another natural disaster. They were a warning. Climate change is now hitting harder and faster than Thailand can keep up with.
The challenges ahead are manifold. The country definitely must strengthen measures to mitigate and adapt to the more frequent and more ferocious weather brought by global warming. Equally important, however, is the need to address the loss and damage wrought by the climate crisis. Continued …
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Japanese Man Held After Motorbike Theft in Phayao – Continued …
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Chinese Fugitive Arrested in Yala – Continued …
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Malaysia Drug Gang Held in Nakhon Pathom – Continued …
WHO Declares Global Health Emergency Over Ebola Outbreak
The World Health Organization declared the Ebola disease outbreak caused by a rare virus in Congo and neighboring Uganda a public health emergency of international concern yesterday, after more than 300 suspected cases and 88 deaths. WHO said the outbreak doesn’t meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency like COVID-19, and advised against the closure of international borders. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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Thailand’s Alcohol Control Committee has opened a public consultation on a draft regulation setting days when alcohol sales would be prohibited, with feedback accepted until May 30. The move signals a potential update to existing restrictions, while confirming that recent changes to daytime alcohol sales have not increased accident rates.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday confirmed that Thais will definitely view World Cup 2026 football games to be broadcast live from host countries in North America between next month and July.
Thailand is being urged to promote “active citizens” to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs) after new findings show they account for 70% of all deaths and impose an economic burden of B1.6 trillion.
Even if you don’t drink coffee, you will know that the coffee business has grown tremendously because coffee shops, either small or large, have been mushrooming. Due to the growth of this market, Thailand is set to host one of the world’s most influential coffee events – World Of Coffee Bangkok 2026.
Is 60 truly the perfect endpoint of a working life? This question is becoming ever more pressing as Thailand, and the broader Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, rapidly transform into a “super-aged society” – a definition for a country or society where 20% or more of the population is aged 65 or older.
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth downplayed the U.S. military’s new effort to clear the Strait of Hormuz as a “temporary mission” that does not break the ceasefire with Iran, even after the Pentagon said it sank half a dozen small Iranian boats.
U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday he would briefly pause an operation to help ships escape the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward a comprehensive agreement with Iran. 
Thailand’s rice exporters say the Iran war has dealt a major blow to shipments to the Middle East, wiping out more than 200,000 tons of exports over the past three months.
The Cabinet yesterday approved a draft emergency decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow up to 400 billion baht to address the impact of the energy crisis and support Thailand’s energy transition. Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the decision was necessary because conflict in the Middle East had severely affected energy prices and economic activity worldwide.
Thailand’s condominium market in 2026 is facing pressure from all sides, including the domestic economy and external factors, particularly tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel that have pushed oil prices higher, significantly affecting the cost of goods and services, as well as the cost of living for Thai consumers.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said Thailand and the United States have agreed to move forward with talks on a reciprocal trade agreement after discussions with senior US trade officials. Suphajee made the remarks after meeting US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer on Monday.
An environmental advocacy organization, the Environmental Law Foundation (EnLAW), yesterday launched a nationwide campaign titled “Stop SEC Act & Land Bridge”, calling on the public to oppose the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC), or land bridge project, through an online petition.
More than 50% of farmer debtors are unlikely to fully repay their debts within their lifetime, largely because most of them are elderly, according to the Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research (PIER). The institute says a combination of debt relief measures is needed to address the issue.
Thailand’s hotel industry is bracing for a weaker low season as rising oil prices, fewer flights, and softer travel demand begin to weigh on bookings. The prolonged conflict in the Middle East, now running for more than two months, has pushed global oil prices sharply higher and added fresh pressure to the tourism sector, which had only recently recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic.
A tourist complaint has put photographers at Wat Arun back in the spotlight after visitors claimed they were told to move from public areas to make way for paying photo clients.
Bangkok food vendor curbs push city staple from the streets
Chinatown in Bangkok is one of the world’s most vibrant Chinese districts, famous for its atmosphere and energy. Visitors can explore Yaowarat Road, admire landmarks like China Gate and Wat Traimit, wander through Sampheng Lane, and enjoy a rich variety of street food after dark. 
In 2026, longevity tourism has shifted to focus on maximizing health span, with Thailand at the forefront. The country integrates medical innovation with cultural wisdom, addressing its aging society through proactive health management.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered the Ministry of Energy and related organizations to set up a one-stop center for solar rooftop consulting.
Thailand’s electric pickup market is shifting into high gear, fueled by a mix of global energy pressures and domestic policy support, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thailand is widely perceived as a relatively safe destination compared with many countries at similar income levels, yet risk profiles vary considerably between cities. For expats and digital nomads planning a medium to long-term stay, understanding which Thai cities offer the most predictable and manageable safety environment is critical.
The Ministry of Energy is pressing ahead with a major overhaul of the entire electricity tariff structure for the first time in more than 20 years. Its plan to introduce a new tiered tariff structure is creating ripples for households using more than 400 units a month and for the business sector.
The baht closed last week, on April 24, at a fresh two-week low of 32.51 baht per US dollar, as markets awaited the outcomes of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting and the US Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting.
The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has unveiled a nationwide contingency plan to mitigate the potential impact of a looming Super El Nino, warning that hotter temperatures and below-normal rainfall could threaten crops, water supplies, and rural incomes this year.
The rapid increase in energy prices caused by the prolonged war in the Middle East is taking a toll on Thai consumers, who are already reeling under high household debt. The prices of crude oil and natural liquid gas have risen sharply since the US-Israel war on Iran broke out in late February.
International trade between Thailand and China remains brisk, but the overall picture points to structural fragility as the trade deficit continues to widen. A review of data from the Information and Communication Technology Center found that Thailand-China trade totaled B1.278 trillion in the first three months of 2026, up 18.% from the same period a year earlier.
Thailand’s automotive industry showed fresh signs of recovery in March, as total vehicle production rose to 133,413 units and domestic sales were boosted by strong demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.
The information center of LWS Wisdom and Solutions Co. has pointed to a new picture of the property market in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), saying it is moving from growth driven by investment and infrastructure stimulus toward a housing market powered by “real demand” from the workforce and industrial sector. This has significantly changed the equation for project development and property investment in the area.
The battle for Thailand’s skincare market is intensifying as local and international beauty brands race to capture consumers who are spending more on science-based, skin-health-focused products.
Thailand’s Public Health Ministry is advancing plans to integrate medical cannabis into the country’s health economy. This initiative aligns with recent changes in U.S. cannabis policy, as the U.S. eases restrictions on certain cannabis products.
Thailand is set to revert to its previous visa-free entry policy, reducing the number of eligible countries and territories from 93 to 57. This decision by the Tourism and Sports Ministry aims to improve visitor screening and promote high-value tourism.
Searches for short-haul travel destinations have risen sharply ahead of Thailand’s upcoming long weekend from April 30 to May 4, covering Labor Day and Coronation Day. The trend reflects growing demand for convenient, budget-conscious holidays, with Thai travelers showing stronger interest in both domestic destinations close to Bangkok and nearby international cities.
Call it a different kind of sticker shock. The Beijing Auto Show that opened to the public this week is a showcase for how hypercompetition in China has driven new car prices in the world’s largest car market to a fraction of the level of the next-largest market, the United States.
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) will meet tomorrow to consider a plan to buy more solar power from households and businesses, with the intention of encouraging people to generate their own electricity.
The industrial sector in Bangkok is seeing a noticeable shift as factories and warehouses begin turning their rooftops into productive financial assets through solar power installations. This change is being driven by rising electricity costs and supportive government policies, making solar energy an increasingly attractive option for businesses in Thailand’s capital and nearby areas.
Representatives of about 50 governments meet in Colombia today for the first international talks on phasing out planet-heating fossil fuels, against a backdrop of the Iran war and a global energy crunch.
Police have arrested two Chinese tourists accused of carrying out a gold shop robbery in Nakhon Ratchasima, stealing rings worth about 300,000 baht before fleeing. The suspects were detained later the same day in Bangkok after investigators traced their getaway vehicle. The stolen items were recovered and authorities are preparing legal proceedings. 
The man who authorities say tried to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with guns and knives was charged yesterday with the attempted assassination of US President Donald Trump, as federal authorities suggested an attack that disrupted one of Washington’s glitziest events had been planned for at least several weeks. 
Australia unveiled draft laws today that would tax tech giants Meta, Google, and TikTok unless they voluntarily strike deals to pay local outlets for news. Traditional media companies around the world are in a battle for survival as readers increasingly consume their news on social media. Australia wants big tech companies to compensate local publishers for sharing articles that drive traffic on their platforms. 
The death toll from a train collision near the Indonesian capital Jakarta has risen to 14, with another 84 injured, the train operator said today, as rescuers worked to extract survivors still trapped in the wreckage. The collision between a commuter train and a long-distance train happened late yesterday in Bekasi, just outside Jakarta. 
When we talk about retiring abroad, we hear endless stories about bitter expats fighting the exchange rate or guys trying to live like billionaires on a tap-water budget. Let’s celebrate the perfect antidote to all that noise: The Contented Elder.
Residents and visitors can now view CCTV cameras in Hua Hin in real time, with Hua Hin City launching public access to live traffic footage along Phetkasem Road. The initiative allows users to monitor key sections of one of the town’s busiest routes, including major intersections, traffic flows, and other important locations.
A severe environmental and public health crisis is unfolding across Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar as widespread forest fires and agricultural burning create dangerous levels of air pollution.
The Comptroller-General’s Department, in collaboration with relevant agencies, is exploring guidelines to increase the starting income of newly appointed civil servants as it looks to ease the burden of medical care expenditure.
Thailand’s plastics industry is facing a crisis on several fronts, as the cost of key resin raw materials has surged by nearly 100% in a short period, adding pressure to consumer goods and packaging prices through cost-push inflation.
In almost every industry in Thailand, parasitic nominee businesses are being used to bypass foreign ownership laws, creating revenue leaks across multiple industries like tourism and hospitality.
See how these structures work, where they persist, and what it means for Thailand’s economy. 
Thailand’s Industry Ministry is planning a B100-billion Industrial Transformation Fund to modernize industry and support smaller businesses, with the scheme set to be rolled out in phases. The fund aims to attract private-sector co-investment and is expected to help SMEs upgrade machinery and shift toward future industries.
As we celebrate low unemployment rates globally, we must recognize the complexities within the labor market. Thailand’s unemployment decreased to 0.81% by the end of 2025, a rate that appears to showcase economic strength. However, the truth is different — Thailand’s economic growth is slowing, and household incomes have dropped, raising concerns about the labor market’s genuine stability.
On Wednesday, Thailand’s newly installed Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, made clear the kingdom will tighten screening of foreign tourists before arrival. He confirmed visa-on-arrival access for 124 countries, including 93 now granted 60-day visa waivers, is under review.
Thai travelers are increasingly opting for short-haul destinations during the upcoming May holiday, according to Agoda’s recent search data. This trend reflects a growing preference for trips that are easier to plan and require less time, with a notable increase in accommodation searches for the Labor Day and Coronation long weekend from April 30 to May 4.
Southern tourism operators are calling for more government support and incentives for the green transition, as Phuket recently hosted an international sustainable tourism conference in a bid to create global recognition in this sector.
Unusual Funeral in Ron Phibun with Coyote Dancers Draws Crowds
Thailand’s Environmental Law Reform Wave
European leaders celebrated the long-awaited approval of the release of a 90-billion-euro (34 trillion baht) loan for Ukraine yesterday, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly pushed the debate back to his country’s EU accession. After months of wrangling with Hungary, the final sign-off for the loan and a new package of EU sanctions on Russia boosted Zelensky. 
Russian billionaires increased their wealth by 11% to a record $696.5 billion over the past year despite the war in Ukraine and the toughest Western sanctions ever imposed on a major economy, Forbes Russia has reported. Russia’s richest men are all linked to the vast reserves of natural resources that Russia has exported to global markets for decades. 
There’s a certain rhythm to life in Hua Hin that’s hard to ignore. Mornings start a little slower, the sea is never far away, and the pace feels more manageable than in larger cities.
Kaeng Krachan forest fire burns 5,000 rai in Phetchaburi
Erawan National Park closes due to forest fires, PM2.5 spike
The Climate Change and Environment Department has warned that the country may face the effects of a “super El Niño,” which could extend the dry season by up to one and a half years.
Thailand’s housing market is showing signs of a structural shift, with would-be buyers pulling back and more people turning to renting instead. The latest data from DDproperty shows that nationwide demand to buy residential property fell 6% in the first quarter of 2026, while rental demand rose 4%. In Bangkok, rental demand climbed even faster, jumping 9%.
KKP Research, the economic research unit of Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group, has cut its base-case forecast for Thailand’s 2026 GDP growth to 1.3% from 1.8% and raised its headline inflation forecast to 3.0% from 0.2%, warning that a prolonged oil shock could leave the country exposed to recession risks.
Thailand’s commercial banking sector delivered a resilient performance in the first quarter of 2026, with all 11 major lenders reporting combined net profits of 68.68 billion baht, a modest 0.62% increase from the same period last year and a sharp 20.13% rise from the previous quarter.
The government has firmly denied reports suggesting a planned hike in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%, describing the claims as misinformation and reiterating its commitment to easing the cost of living for the general public.
Local airlines have continued to reduce capacity by consolidating less profitable flights into remaining services to stay afloat amid rising jet fuel prices, while Japan Airlines and ANA announced a doubling of fuel surcharges, with Thailand-bound fuel surcharges increasing from about 3,000 baht to 6,000 baht.
The March 2026 Hotel Business Operator Sentiment Index survey, conducted by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand between March 13-31, with responses from 138 operators, pointed to the outlook for Thailand’s hotel business during the Q2 2026 low season after the tourism sector was directly hit by the conflict in the Middle East.
Thailand’s cultural triumph
Blackpink’s Lisa brings Thai fashion to tourism
The gunman who killed a Canadian tourist and wounded 13 others at Mexico’s famed Teotihuacan pyramids had planned the attack days in advance, officials said yesterday, as evidence pointed to him being inspired by a US massacre. 
Workers load tons of rare earth minerals into bags ready for shipping at a refinery in eastern Malaysia, fueling the global pushback against China’s grip on the critical sector. Rare earths are a key ingredient in products ranging from smartphones to fighter jets, electric cars, and wind turbines – and increasingly for hardware powering the artificial intelligence boom. 
Thailand is getting older, and quietly, a new kind of property boom is taking shape. First-time buyers or speculative investors do not drive it. It is being fueled by something far more predictable. Demographics.
The Hua Hin Model is being positioned as a blueprint to transform the city into a health innovation hub, following the signing of a multi-agency agreement aimed at integrating lifestyle medicine into schools.
More than 1,200 runners took part in Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026 at Khao Tao Reservoir in Hua Hin yesterday, with organizers saying the event was held to promote exercise, support tourism and raise funds for local sports development.
Oil prices pushed higher again today after Yemen’s Houthis carried out their first weekend attacks on Israel, expanding the US-Israel war with Iran across a wider stretch of the Middle East. Brent crude advanced $3.09, or 2.74%, to $115.66 a barrel, after ending Friday up 4.2%. US West Texas Intermediate also gained, rising $2.92, or 2.93%, to $102.56 a barrel, following a 5.5% jump in the previous session.
Business leaders are calling for the government to study long-term energy security strategies to reduce reliance on imported energy and expand access to renewable sources in the wake of the ongoing crisis stemming from war in the Middle East. The crisis also serves as a wake-up call for some businesses to explore alternative energy options for the long run.
The ongoing energy crisis has underscored the need for Thailand to accelerate the development of a broader mix of energy sources to strengthen its self-reliance, according to an analyst.
The government has confirmed there are sufficient fuel supplies to meet demand during the upcoming Songkran holiday, as authorities intensify nationwide distribution and monitoring efforts to ease public concerns over possible shortages.
Energy Expert Warns of Possible Diesel Shortage in Thailand
Thailand could face a diesel shortage within two months, according to global energy expert Panurach Dumrongthai, who warned that confirmed crude oil deliveries for April and May fall 27 million barrels short of national demand.
The Energy Regulatory Commission yesterday said it had drawn up guidelines to reduce electricity bills for specific groups of users consuming no more than 200-300 units a month so they could continue paying the same rate.
Three swine organizations have announced another increase in recommended live pig farm-gate prices, raising the guidance level by B2 per kilogram with effect today.
Thai banks are raising concerns over a potential rise in non-performing loans (NPLs) as prolonged geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to drive up global oil prices, increasing cost pressures across the economy.
The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a broad package of cost-of-living relief measures, including discounts of up to 50% on consumer goods from Wednesday, tighter oversight of fertilizer prices, and accelerated efforts to reduce farmers’ production costs.
Imported parcels delivered directly to recipients in Thailand have decreased in volume, while their prices have increased as a result of Customs Department measures.
Songkran festival expected to boost Thailand’s economy with 30 billion baht
A tourist in southern Thailand was left shaken after a cobra slithered across their neck while they were resting in a hotel room in Krabi province. The incident occurred Friday when the guest, staying on the second floor, reported feeling something cold moving across their neck before discovering it was a cobra.
The Immigration Bureau has warned foreign travelers against fraudulent websites offering Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) services for a fee, stressing that registration, while mandatory, is free and available only through official channels.
Passengers faced heavy congestion at immigration checkpoints at Phuket International Airport after a temporary system failure, officials confirmed yesterday. The Immigration Bureau 2 (IB2) said the disruption caused delays during a peak departure period but denied claims that travelers were charged to access special lanes.
Where to eat in Chiang Mai, from markets to coffee houses
Embark on a vibrant food tour through Chiang Mai. Discover the best places to eat for local northern Thai food, from charming cafes serving iced coffee and Thai iced tea to bustling street stalls offering classics like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and roti.
Northern Thailand is expected to face a renewed surge in PM2.5 air pollution levels between today and April 5, as hotspot activity intensifies, particularly in Chiang Mai and surrounding provinces.
In August 2025, Malaysian campaigner Wong Pui Yi stood outside the UN headquarters in Geneva and made an appeal to Global North nations: “Stop treating the Global South as the rubbish bin for plastic waste you cannot handle.”
Local authorities in Khon Kaen have launched a pilot initiative to convert plastic waste into fuel, aiming to help communities reduce fuel expenses amid soaring petrol prices. The aim is to help reduce fuel cost and also help reduce waste in the communities.
Caretaker transport minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is stepping up efforts to switch all diesel-powered interprovincial buses in Bangkok to electric buses during the Anutin Charnvirakul administration to save on oil expenses.
Thousands of anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ events take place across the US
Fore Management Group has announced the inaugural Misthos Group Hospitality Classic, a one-day charity golf tournament to be held at Royal Lakeside Golf Club on June 12, with proceeds supporting Hua Hin Heroes Foundation.
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul was elected Thailand’s 32nd prime minister (PM) during a Parliamentary vote held yesterday. Anutin previously served as PM after former PM Partongtar Shinawatra was removed from office over a leaked phone conversation with Hun Sen.
Thailand’s gold market came under heavy pressure yesterday, with the Gold Traders Assn. revising prices 53 times during the day before bullion closed sharply lower, reflecting a steep global sell-off in the precious metal.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand will relocate to Dusit Central Park in Bangkok in August, without disrupting consular services for Dutch citizens and businesses across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Embassy land in Thailand has become a prime target for investors, not only because many plots are located in high-potential central business districts, but also because they carry a historical legacy for future generations to remember. In recent years, several embassy land sales in Thailand have significantly boosted the value of surrounding areas.
The baht is expected to weaken to 34-35 to the US dollar if the Middle East conflict drags on for two months, pushing oil prices above US$100 per barrel, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
The psychological irony of telling the public not to worry about Thailand running out of petrol and other forms of energy — due to the ongoing, unjust war by Israel and the United States against Iran — is that people feel even more uncertain and panicked by the “reassurance”. By simply following the news, they can conclude that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively choking global fuel supplies due to the conflict and, by extension, the world econom.
Thailand has significantly tightened its border controls since 2024, and what used to be casual entry procedures have become strict enforcement checkpoints. While most travelers enter without issues, understanding what can get you denied entry into Thailand and detained at the airport is essential for anyone planning a trip to the kingdom.
Global power shifts do not remain confined to geopolitics. They travel quickly, and often invisibly, through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences of the Gulf War are immediate. The most direct transmission channel is energy.
A troupe of Thailand’s ancient cat breeds will take center stage during Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2026, which will kick off on March 27 and run daily from 10 am to 8 pm until March 29. The venue is Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Hall 5, Muang Thong Thani.
Dry season turns profitable as red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
At a sanctuary in Thailand, hundreds of rescued creatures are given a second chance after suffering from illegal trade, neglect, or captivity. But saving wildlife is never easy. A sun bear must be darted for treatment, a monkey terrorizing a school must be captured safely, and a fragile falcon fights to survive after a serious head injury leaves him blind in one eye. Each rescue is a reminder of how fragile wildlife truly is. 
Signs of higher prices in 2026 are emerging, with Thai Beverage (ThaiBev) notifying retailers — particularly agents who play a key role in distribution — of beer price adjustments.
As geopolitical tensions continue to drive up oil prices and push the country’s energy costs higher, Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched measures to reduce electricity consumption in government agencies and encourage households to save power, as the country prepares for further volatility linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Some Asian buyers of liquefied natural gas are struggling to find prompt cargoes after a war-related outage at the world’s largest export facility in Qatar tightened global supplies.
Economist warns Thailand could encounter stagflation
MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) plans to invest 4 billion baht this year, aiming to open 210 new stores and build an automated warehouse to support its expansion.
The government has reaffirmed that no new Cambodian migrant workers will be allowed into the country due to security concerns, despite pressure from the private sector. Labor Minister Treenuch Thienthong said the government understands the concerns raised by businesses over labor shortages.
Thailand’s tourism industry is struggling with the sudden impact from the Middle East conflict on long-haul travel, with weekly arrivals down 13% due to flight disruptions. In light of emerging trends, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) says arrivals to Thailand from long-haul source markets could fall by as much as 50% this year.
Solar power is Thailand’s master key in the fight against global warming. It is cheap, popular, and even promoted by the state. But beneath the success story lies a big question: What happens when millions of panels begin to die? Without proper measures, Thailand’s clean energy rush risks dumping a toxic legacy for the next generation.
Thai customs authorities have confiscated 284 tons of electronic waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri, and are preparing to send the illegal shipment back to the United States where it originated.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin presided over a signing ceremony establishing a cooperation framework to address marine waste and support the sustainable management of Thailand’s marine resources. The effort aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14, which promotes the protection and sustainable use of oceans and marine ecosystems.
Traffic nightmare expected on Rama 2/PKK province’s public relations plan
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.
Prime Minister Mark Carney yesterday launched a multi-billion dollar plan to strengthen the Canadian military and rely less on the United States. Carney’s announcement of Canada’s first defense industrial strategy built on themes he has emphasized throughout his 11-month tenure as President Donald Trump rips through traditional US alliances. 
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. 
Passengers in Thailand can now utilize QR codes for enhanced taxi ride safety and convenience. This new feature allows users to verify driver details, real-time track their journey, share trip information, and rate their experience. The Department of Land Transport plans to equip around 70,000 taxis with these QR codes by June.
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.
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.
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
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.