- Expats Face Visa Uncertainty/Next property boom is senior living/Khao Hin Lek Fai viewpoint upgrade/Hua Hin as a health innovation hub?/Nakhon Hua Hin Run/Another expat jumps to death
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil prices rise as Iran war spreads/Thailand’s economy severely impacted/Wake-up call for Thailand/Wider mix of Thai energy inputs/Fuel ‘sufficient’ for Songkran/Possible Diesel Shortage/PM Secures Iran Deal for Oil Transit/Fertilizer cargo ships stuck/Electric bill help coming/Pig prices rise/Banks fear rising bad debts/Israel Restricts Airspace
- ECONOMY: Ministry unveils cost-of-living help/Rule change trims parcel imports/Songkran o boost Thailand’s economy
- TOURISM: Tourist Finds Cobra on Hotel Bed/Scam digital arrival card websites/Phuket Airport Queues/Fake local businesses in Krabi tourism
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Where to eat in Chiang Mai/Chiang Mai food tour
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Northern Thailand braces for PM2.5 surg/Waste colonialism is alive/Plastic waste into fuel/Bangkok electric bus upgrade
- INTERNATIONAL: Thousands of anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ events
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Expats Face Visa Uncertainty in Thailand Rules Shift
Foreign nationals living long-term in Thailand are facing growing uncertainty as visa options narrow and immigration rules tighten, leaving many in a legal gray area. The issue highlights immediate concerns for expats who rely on education or alternative visas to remain in the country.
For Cui Heng, a 34-year-old Chinese national, Thailand was intended as a place to settle rather than exploit loopholes. He entered in July 2023 on a tourist visa and later obtained an education (ED) visa, valid from March 2024 to March 2026, allowing him to train in Muay Thai and establish a modest lifestyle in Pattaya. Continued …
Gray Gold: Next property boom is senior living
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.
Across the kingdom, developers are waking up to what many call the “silver economy”, and they are building for it. But while Bangkok sets the benchmark, the real momentum lies beyond the capital. Senior-living facilities in Hua Hin include Elder Blossom Hua Hin, Sunshine Hills, Sunny Home, Prosana Co., Wee Nursing Home, Home Health Care and Nursing, and Senior Complex. Continued …
Khao Hin Lek Fai viewpoint upgrade approved
A major upgrade to the Khao Hin Lek Fai viewpoint is set to move forward, with officials approving an expanded development plan aimed at improving one of Hua Hin’s most recognizable tourist sites. The project will see the total budget increase to 120 million baht, with completion expected within this fiscal year.
Khao Hin Lek Fai viewpoint, which overlooks Hua Hin and offers a range of panoramic views, is a key component of the plan. The site includes several designated viewpoints, including locations known for city views, as well as sunrise and sunset observation points, making it one of the most visited vantage points in the area. Continued …
Hua Hin as a health innovation hub?
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.
The agreement brings together four key organizations: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Hua Hin City Municipality, Regional Health Promotion Center 5 in Ratchaburi, and the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office. Continued …
Nakhon Hua Hin Run draws more than 1,200 runners
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.
Organizers said the event was intended to encourage people to make constructive use of their free time, promote exercise as a way of keeping young people away from drugs, and help boost the local economy ahead of the Songkran holiday. Continued …
Another expat jumps to death in Pattaya
A 54-year-old Belgian man died after jumping from the rooftop of an eight-story condominium in Pattaya last night evening, despite rescue efforts at the scene.
Emergency services were alerted at 7:50 pm to reports of a foreign man attempting to jump from a height at a building. By the time responders arrived, the man had already fallen and was pronounced dead at the scene after unsuccessful CPR attempts. Continued …
Oil prices rise as Iran war spreads across the wider Middle East
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.
The latest gains left Brent on track for an unprecedented monthly surge. The global benchmark has climbed 59% so far this month, a rise steeper than the increase seen during the 1990 Gulf War. Continued …
Thailand’s economy severely impacted by global fuel crisis
The Iran-related conflict has sparked a global energy crisis, impacting economies worldwide. In Thailand, fuel shortages are causing long queues, rising costs, and disruptions to services like cremations, agriculture, and transportation. The crisis highlights how Middle East instability triggers ripple effects across global supply chains, leading to rising prices and economic strain beyond the region.
Fuel scarcity has caused long lines at fuel stations, with people rushing to fill up amid fears of rising prices as government subsidies end. Farmers, especially rice growers, face disruptions during critical planting and harvesting periods, as they cannot secure enough diesel for machinery and water pumps. Continued …
Energy wake-up call for Thailand
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.
Sanan Angubolkul, group chief executive of Srithai Superware, a manufacturer of melamine tableware, said energy expenses account for about 10% of production costs, noting the company has continuously implemented energy conservation initiatives. Continued …
Analyst calls for wider mix of Thai energy inputs
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.
Sompop Manarungsan, an analyst focused on the US and Chinese economies and president of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management, said China is a global superpower and can be considered energy self-sufficient because 85% of its total energy consumption is produced domestically, with only 15% imported. Continued …
Fuel ‘sufficient’ as Songkran holiday nears
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.
The government understands public anxiety over fuel access, particularly during peak travel periods, Rachada Dhnadirek, an assistant to a minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, said yesterday. Continued …
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 potential gap has raised concerns about fuel availability and prompted calls for urgent government action to manage consumption. Panurach urged authorities to consider restricting diesel use to essential purposes to prevent a crisis. Continued …
PM Secures Iran Deal for Oil Transit via Hormuz
Thailand has reached an agreement with Iran to allow Thai oil tankers to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over fuel shortages caused by ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated the deal would help stabilize energy imports.
International media reported that the agreement ensures safe passage for Thai vessels through the strategically vital waterway. Anutin said the arrangement would prevent a repeat of the disruptions seen at the beginning of March. He added that the government is adapting measures to minimize the impact of the global energy crisis on the public. Continued …
Thai fertilizer cargo ships stuck in strait
Five fertilizer shipments remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, heightening supply concerns and prompting contingency measures, while Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered an urgent review of oil cost structures and the rollout of nationwide relief measures starting Wednesday.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthamphan said five cargo ships carrying fertilizer and related raw materials bound for Thailand are unable to pass through the strait due to the Middle East war. Continued …
Electric bill help coming for some
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.
The report said the government would need to find about 878 million baht in subsidies if the ERC finalizes the average electricity tariff for the May-August 2026 period at 3.95 baht per unit. Continued …
Pig prices rise as oil costs trigger farm-gate price hike
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.
First, the Southern Swine Raisers Assn. announced a recommended farm-gate price for fattening pigs, up B2 to B72 per kilogram, with pig sides at B84 per kilogram, culled breeding sows at B40 per kilogram, and 16-kilogram piglets at B2,200, plus or minus B72. Continued …
Banks fear rising bad debts as oil prices squeeze Thai SMEs
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.
Higher oil prices are feeding through to transport costs, electricity bills, and overall living expenses, weighing on consumer purchasing power and weakening borrowers’ repayment capacity. Financial institutions are now closely monitoring the situation amid fears that debt quality could deteriorate if the crisis persists. Continued …
Israel Restricts Airspace, Limits Flights to Thailand
Israeli airspace will remain closed to most commercial flights until at least April 16, significantly limiting travel between Israel and Thailand, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday.
Only two Israeli airlines, El Al and Arkia, are continuing operations on an irregular basis, with services subject to sudden cancellation. The restrictions have disrupted travel plans and raised concerns for Thai nationals in the region. Continued …
Ministry unveils cost-of-living help
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.
Chanthapat Panjamanond, deputy director-general of the Department of Internal Trade, said yesterday the ministry is working with department stores, convenience stores, manufacturers, and distributors nationwide to supply more than 1,000 alternative-brand products at special prices. Continued …
Customs rule change trims parcel imports
Imported parcels delivered directly to recipients in Thailand have decreased in volume, while their prices have increased as a result of Customs Department measures.
According to Phantong Loykulnanta, director-general of the department, measures implemented this year to protect domestic producers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), revoked the import duty and value-added tax (VAT) exemptions for imported parcels valued less than 1,500 baht, also known as de minimis goods. Continued …
Songkran festival expected to boost Thailand’s economy with 30 billion baht
Thailand’s Songkran festival is set to draw hundreds of thousands of tourists and generate over 30 billion baht in economic circulation this April, with celebrations running from April 11 to 15.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projects a 6% increase in revenue compared to last year. Despite concerns that an ongoing energy crisis may be dampening growth, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said she remains optimistic about the level of travel activity during the period. Continued …
Tourist Finds Cobra on Hotel Bed in Krabi
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.
According to a social media post by the tourist, the incident took place around 5 am while they were asleep. Their partner, who had briefly gone to the toilet, returned shouting that a snake was on the bed near their head. Continued …
Immigration warns of scam digital arrival card websites
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.
The TDAC was introduced on May 1 last year, replacing the traditional TM.6 paper form. All foreign visitors must register their arrival details online, in advance, for immigration screening. Continued …
Immigration Blames System Failure for Phuket Airport Queues
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.
The issue stemmed from a temporary malfunction in the immigration information system. The disruption occurred on Saturday, coinciding with an unusually high volume of outbound flights and departing passengers. Continued …
Thai authorities target fake local businesses in Krabi tourism sector
Thailand’s Department of Business Development has stepped up its crackdown on nominee businesses in Koh Lanta, Krabi, deploying a multi-agency team to investigate foreign-owned operations disguised as local companies.
On March 26 and 27, investigators from the department were joined by the Department of Tourism, Krabi’s Tourism and Sports Office, the Tourist Police Bureau, Immigration Bureau, and Krabi’s Commerce Office. The team targeted high-risk sectors, including hotels, travel agencies, diving businesses, and restaurants, drawing on corporate registration records and financial transaction data to identify suspects. Continued …
Where to eat in Chiang Mai, from markets to coffee houses
Thailand’s unofficial capital of the north is a laid-back counterpart to Bangkok. This mountain-ringed city dates back 730 years and has some 300 temples; today, its quiet backstreets see a fraction of the traffic of the south. But another reason to visit?
Increasingly, its food. Between the 13th and 18th centuries, northern Thailand was ruled by the Lanna Kingdom and developed a distinct cuisine. Savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, influenced by neighbors like Myanmar and Laos, are big and often blended into a single dish. Try them in historic markets and sticky-floored joints, as well as a new wave of contemporary restaurants. Continued …
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food and hidden cafes
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.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply a food lover, this travel guide showcases Chiang Mai’s diverse food scene, highlighting delicious dishes such as khao soi, papaya salad, spring rolls, and coconut ice cream. Video …
Northern Thailand braces for PM2.5 surge as hotspots intensify
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.
The Center for Air Pollution Mitigation under the Pollution Control Department has warned that fine dust levels across 17 northern provinces are likely to increase during the period, with several areas already recording hazardous conditions above national safety standards. Continued …
Waste colonialism is alive in Southeast Asia
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.”
During that meeting, representatives from 184 countries failed to reach an agreement on a treaty to end plastic pollution. But the need for one has not gone away, particularly for Southeast Asian nations. Continued …
Khon Kaen locals convert plastic waste into fuel
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.
Around 10 kilograms of plastic can produce 4-8 liters of usable fuel, depending on the type of plastic, said Decha Chansri, head of the Innovation Center Network for Plastic-to-Fuel Conversion. Continued …
Push for Bangkok electric bus upgrade by 2029
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.
“We aim to have electric interprovincial buses during the next four years,” he said. The Anutin administration is expected to begin work early next month, marking his second term as prime minister, which expires in 2029. Continued …
Thousands of anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ events take place across the US
Demonstrators decrying U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive deportation efforts, war in Iran, and other policies took to city streets across the country on Saturday in the third round of the “No Kings” rallies. More than 7 million Americans were said to take part in the protests, as well as hundreds of thousands of people in cities around the world. Video …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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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).
Major consumer product manufacturers and distributors are warning customers of possible price increases in April due to the Middle East war disrupting the oil supply chain.
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.
For the most part, Southeast Asia as a region has taken a neutral stance toward the joint attack between the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Even the Philippines and Thailand, two formal US treaty allies, have distanced themselves, calling for restraint and de-escalation.
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
Hat Yai’s floods are a warning for cities built against nature
In 2025, electric vehicles displaced between 1.7 million barrels per day (Ember estimate) and 2.3 million barrels per day (BloombergNEF scenario) of oil demand, a volume close to 70% of Iran’s daily exports through the Strait of Hormuz.
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. 
Wellness tourism has become one of the most dynamic sectors within global travel. Many travelers now prefer holidays that combine relaxation, nature, and wellbeing experiences. The Global Spa Awards 2026 recognized exceptional spa resorts, wellness retreats, and spa hotels across different regions of the world.
Thailand attracts a wide spectrum of potential relocators, from long-stay retirees to remote workers and corporate transferees. However, the country’s structural realities around environment, governance, infrastructure, and social norms mean it is far better suited to some profiles than others.
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.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
Arada Fueangthong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said Thailand’s utilization of trade preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand in January–November 2025.
If the incoming coalition government implements its IT policies as pledged during the campaign, it should increase revenue growth of system integrator and data center businesses by 5.8% year-on-year to 260 billion baht this year, says Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
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. 
Airport screening for Nipah virus, which has been stepped up across Asia this week after two cases were identified in India, are more about reassurance than science, several leading experts said yesterday.
A World Health Organization official said yesterday that the risk of the spread of the Nipah virus is low, saying that none of the over 190 contacts of the two people infected in India had tested positive or developed symptoms of the disease.
Most Thai working people are aware of the health risks posed by PM2.5 airborne pollution but are reluctant to buy quality N95 face masks to protect themselves, claiming that they are too expensive, according to Arkhom Praditsuwan, director general of the Health Service Support Department.
Thailand is sharpening its culinary edge on the global stage, not through its world-famous sauces or spices, but through a new wave of premium home-grown beef. The National Innovation Agency (NIA) has identified four “Beef Commanders” — Ko Dam Lam Takhong, Surin Wagyu Salakdai, Nong Sung, and Kamphaeng Saen — as the flagship models of Thai soft power destined for the international market.
Pattaya has introduced new rule assigning specific umbrella colors to beach chair operators, saying the move will improve orderliness and create a more attractive seaside view for visitors.
Think you’ve already done everything there is to do in Bangkok? Hate to break it to you, but probably not. Even if you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve visited, the city always finds new ways to surprise, including new attractions with thrilling rides and aesthetic shopping malls in BKK.
The Ministry of Culture has revealed plans for a major cultural celebration from April 22-26, marking the 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin. The events will take place in three central locations in Bangkok and aim to bring the rich history of Thailand to life through a series of activities, exhibitions, and performances.
Thailand’s electric vehicle sector is facing fresh uncertainty after government proposals to sharply raise public EV charging prices, a move that could erase the cost benefits that have driven rapid adoption.
Thailand plans to tighten the rules for investors in data centers and other businesses that use a large amount of electricity, requiring them to provide a bank guarantee or collateral to secure power purchases.
Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract threat; it is part of everyday life. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising air pollution, communities across Thailand and around the world are already experiencing its impacts. As these challenges intensify, education is emerging as one of the most powerful starting points for meaningful climate action.
Following recent media coverage highlighting the Thai authorities’ increasing scrutiny of nominee company structures, MBMG Group and Hua Hin Accounting & Law have released further insights from their recent seminar, which examined the broader tax, business, and compliance framework now facing expatriates and foreign business owners in Thailand.
Red levels of PM2.5 cover about one-third of Thailand, including PKK
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) searched the residences of three active and one former officials of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and seized thousands of illegal crypto mining rigs, cash, laptops, phones, and bank passbooks.
Thailand has, for the first time, administered contraceptive vaccines to female wild elephants, as part of an initiative to control the elephant population safely and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and elephants.
Thailand’s economy is expected to grow 2.0% this year, the Finance Ministry reported yesterday, maintaining its previous forecast. Exports, a key driver of Thai growth, are also expected to rise 1.0% this year, compared with an earlier forecast of a 1.5% decline, Vinit Visessuvanapoom, head of the Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), told a press conference.
Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, said he was assigned by the prime minister to lead “Team Thailand” to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. He said the meeting’s core purpose was to serve as a platform for leaders to discuss and help shape global directions on the economy, trade, finance, and investment.
Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok’s major international gateway. Here’s how to reach the city center upon arrival or travel to the airport for departure.
It’s too early to be sure, but it seems likely that we have just seen “Peak Trump”. Last week, US President Donald Trump arrived at the Davos conference radiating power and menace. Fresh from his attack on Venezuela, he was going to invade and annex Greenland. If his European allies in the NATO alliance tried to protect it, he would crush them with tariffs. And he would launch a rival to the United Nations that would make him World President for Life. 
It’s easy to get cynical in Thailand. We complain about the heat, the traffic, the dual pricing, and the scams. But then, something happens that stops you in your tracks.
The Hua Hin Provincial Court has denied bail to “Sam”, the suspect in the brutal murder of a female hotel employee in central Hua Hin, citing the seriousness of the charges and concerns that he could flee if released.
The Pollution Control Department has ordered stepped-up surveillance of open burning as the seasonal risk of haze and dust pollution rises, according to Director-general Surin Worakitthamrong.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has finished repairing a stretch of railway track in Sikhiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima province in the wake of a fatal crane collapse that struck a passenger train on Jan. 14, killing 30 people, while a parallel technical investigation moves toward identifying the causes and accountability.
Siam Legal International, a full-service law firm with over 22 years of experience advisinginternational clients in Thailand, has released its comprehensive guidance for foreign nationals and businesses navigating Thailand’s regulatory environment in 2026. The firm highlights several national developments that may influence administrative procedures, compliance expectations, and regulatory focus throughout the year.
The baht has again become a growing concern after strengthening rapidly. Yesterday, the baht continued to appreciate and broke below the 31.00 level against the US dollar, reaching a strong level of THB30.88 per US dollar.
In November, Thai merchandise exports reached USD 27.45 billion, growing 7.1% year-on-year (YOY), slightly above SCB EIC’s 7% forecast but below the Reuters median of 8.3%. Despite solid expansion, seasonally adjusted exports showed signs of slowdown, declining 2.3% month-on-month.
Thailand’s e-commerce market is projected to post normalized growth this year, expanding by 7% to reach 1.15 trillion baht, as the maturing landscape is characterized by heightened complexity and fierce competition. To emerge as winners, brands must transition toward commerce operating systems, according to Priceza.
Thailand’s rice exports exceeded official targets in 2025, but the Ministry of Commerce has lowered its projection for 2026 amid intensifying global competition, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks. Officials say the focus next year will be on defending existing markets while expanding into selected new destinations to support farmer incomes and stabilize export volumes.
The era of volume is dead. The next decade of Thai tourism will and must be shaped not by the number of arrivals, but by the economic value generated by those arrivals.
With the baht strengthening against the US dollar, surpassing 31 to the greenback for the first time in almost five years, it should impact forward bookings for the next few months and during the low season, discouraging tourist spending.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) latest promotional campaign, featuring pop icon Lisa of Blackpink, has drawn mixed reactions online, with critics arguing that the TAT has secured a “precious gem” but undermined her value through poor presentation.
Singha Park Chiang Rai marks 10 years of balloon fiesta
US President Donald Trump has withdrawn his threat to impose new tariffs on multiple countries that oppose US control of Greenland, saying he has now reached an outline framework agreement with NATO. “Based upon this understanding, I will not be imposing the tariffs that were scheduled to go into effect on February 1,” Trump wrote online, without providing details. He posted the message after meeting Mark Rutte, secretary-general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), in Davos, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum. 
Laos has tightened controls on outdoor burning, as air pollution continued to affect major cities yesterday, with the government warning that forest fires and agricultural burning remain the main drivers of seasonal haze and health risks.
Thailand still has an undersupply of hotel rooms, according to international chain IHG Hotels & Resorts, which aims to add nearly 40 hotels here in 3-5 years. Elie Maalouf, chief executive at IHG, said Thailand is still “under-penetrated” in terms of hotel rooms per person, as many hotels have very high occupancy rates for much of the time.
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) has finished drafting amendments to the Petroleum Act to ensure the continuity of petroleum production when licenses expire, avoiding delays that can result in expensive electricity bills.
A wave of blunt, often frustrated comments from readers has reignited a long-running question: is Pattaya intentionally — or unintentionally — pushing away its traditional Western visitor base?
The friendliest Thai cities for foreigners
The influencer racing to save Thailand’s most endangered sea mammal
If the US and the European Union (EU) implement tariff barriers against each other, it could cause severe disruptions to global trade, as both are crucial players in the global supply chain and major consumer markets, say economic analysts. Tensions are escalating after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs ranging up to 25% on eight European allies that oppose his demands for control of Greenland. 
Foreign visitors to Japan reached a record estimated 42.7 million in 2025, the government said yesterday, with their spending also at a new all-time high of 9.5 trillion yen (1.8 trillion baht), thanks to a weaker yen and increased flights to Japan. 
The world is entering an era of “global water bankruptcy”, with rivers, lakes, and aquifers depleting faster than nature can replenish them, a United Nations research institute said yesterday. It argues that decades of overuse, pollution, environmental destruction, and climate pressure had pushed many water systems so beyond the point of recovery that a new classification was required. 
A recent seminar in Hua Hin has highlighted growing legal risks for foreign residents who bought property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders, as Thailand intensifies a nationwide crackdown on structures used to bypass land and business ownership laws.
As the US Supreme Court holds off on a ruling on the Trump tariffs, the world waits and analysts anticipate trade with the US will continue despite some importers being skittish about placing large orders.
Academics and activists said over 40 million workers in Thailand remain stuck in low-paid, unsafe jobs with inadequate healthcare and social protection, urging parties to draft policies that ensure labor protection and fair employment.
The tiny shopfront of Gu Long Bao in Bangkok’s Chinatown has seen a lot of history unfold over its century of operation, from the creation of Thailand as a nation to its rise as a cultural and tourism hotspot. The shop has a fan following for its pillowy buns, with fillings such as barbecued pork and black sesame.
Sugarcane farmers are using bundled incense sticks as slow starters to illegally burn off cane trash in their fields when they are not there, in a ploy to deny accountability for the resulting increase in air pollution.
The collective wealth of the planet’s billionaires soared to a record level in 2025, charity Oxfam reported today, warning of “highly dangerous” political consequences as the global elite gathers for the World Economic Forum.