- Primary International School to move/Thai Jet Ski Championship/PKK Kite and Art Festival/Community dance event in Hua Hin/Man killed by wild elephant/El Niño danger rises/New Rail Lines in Bangkok/Pattaya weapons cache/Crackdown on beach extortion in Phuket
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump rejects Iran’s response/Who Pays the Bill for a Blocked Strait?/Oil jumps as US and Iran disagree/Thai housing sector latest victim
- ECONOMY: ‘Single-Dish’ Prices Surge/’Thai Helps Thai’/Land bridge faces uphill battle/Why land bridge project is going nowhere/Thai poultry exports face crisis/AIS, True report healthy profits
- TOURISM: Tourists Monitor Declining Thai Baht/Hoteliers ask government to help/Indian Tourist Dies After Four Collapse/3,000 cases in Surat Thani crackdown/Inspect Resorts on Koh Phangan/Thailand Bets on Revamp of Hot Springs
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How Thailand Revived the Tiger/Thailand’s Next Vacation Hotspot?/One of Thailand’s most beautiful island escapes
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand Fast-Tracks Green Energy/Thailand turns solar power to economic necessity/Solar financing push
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
BECC Primary International School to move to new campus on Soi 112
The BECC Primary International School has begun construction on a new purpose-built campus off Soi 112 in Hua Hin, with the school scheduled to open at the site in August 2027.
The school held a groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday, marking the official start of construction. The new campus will be located about eight minutes from BECC’s current site and is planned as an expanded 10-rai facility with 18 air-conditioned classrooms, a library, computer suite, Thai culture room, outdoor play areas, office facilities, and a dedicated car park. Continued …
Thai Jet Ski Championship in Hua Hin May 28-31
The Thai Jet Ski Championship will return to Hua Hin May 28-31, with round two of the TOYOTA – WGP#1 Waterjet Pro Tour Thailand 2026 to be held at Suan Son Pradipat Beach.
The four-day event is part of Thailand’s main national jet ski championship, which is being staged across four rounds in different parts of the country. Hua Hin has been selected as the venue for the second round, following the opening round of the 2026 season, which took place in Nong Khai from in April. Continued …
PKK Kite and Art Festival Set for May 15-16
The Kite and Art Festival Prachuap Khiri Khan will take place at Saran Withi Pier from May 15-16, bringing two evenings of kite displays, art and family-friendly activities to the seafront.
What to expect: Kite shows, LED kite shows, art, craft and handmade products, an exhibition on the history of Thai kites. The event will be held at Saran Withi Pier, one of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s most popular check-in spots. Continued …
Community dance event planned at Hua Hin railway station
Preparations are underway for the Beat on Track Zumba event at Hua Hin Railway Station, with Hua Hin City Municipality planning a large outdoor exercise activity later this month. The event, officially titled “Beat on Track: Dance Fun on the Rails”, will take place on Saturday, May 23, at 5 pm.
The municipality said the event follows the growing popularity of aerobic dancing and other dance-based exercise activities across Thailand. The activity is intended to bring together exercise groups from across the city and encourage more people to take part in group fitness. Continued …
Man killed by wild elephant near Pa La-U
A 56-year-old man was killed by a wild elephant near Pa La-U after entering the forest to collect vegetables and forest products. The man was an ethnic Karen Thai resident and the father of a Kaeng Krachan National Park official.
The Department of National Parks has been ordered to provide urgent assistance to the family and improve monitoring in areas used by local communities. Officials said the area is covered by permission under Section 65 of the National Parks Act B.E. 2562, which allows traditional communities to collect renewable seasonal natural resources in designated areas. Continued …
Thailand may face dual water risks as El Niño danger rises
Thailand could face a “dual water crisis” in 2026 after the Thai Meteorological Department forecast that El Niño could occur during May to July, putting many areas at risk of water shortages and prompting the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) to accelerate nationwide response plans and monitor 20 branches at risk of shortages.
Climate experts have warned that Thailand is facing its most severe and difficult-to-predict climate variability in several years, creating the possibility of heavy rain, flooding, and runoff at the same time. Continued …
MRTA Pushes Four New Rail Lines in Bangkok
Thailand’s Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) is pushing ahead with four new rail projects in Bangkok, while accelerating tram developments in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Nakhon Ratchasima, with all three provincial tram systems targeted to open by 2032.
MRTA Gov. Kajpajorn Udomthamphakdee said the agency remains committed to the 22.1-kilometer Brown Line between Khae Rai and Lam Sali (Bueng Kum). The project is currently undergoing construction redesigns at two locations, including an overlap with an Expressway Authority of Thailand project near Hua Mum Market and adjustments around Kaset intersection. Continued …
Police expand probe into Pattaya weapons cache
Police are expanding an investigation into a suspected illegal arms network linked to a Chinese national arrested in Pattaya, with three suspects – including a navy officer – now in custody for questioning.
Police are also expected to summon two additional suspects: an active-duty military officer and a former serviceman. Investigators believe both men were involved in procuring and selling assault rifles found at the Pattaya residence of Chinese suspect Sun Mingchen. Continued …
Anutin orders crackdown on beach extortion in Phuket
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul paid an unannounced visit to Phuket yesterday to meet local officials over vendors encroaching on public beaches by paying protection money to influential figures.
The prime minister and his delegation first visited Bang Tao Beach, where many vendors complained of being threatened by “heavies” demanding protection fees or else facing forced eviction. Continued …
Trump rejects Iran’s response to US peace proposal
President Donald Trump yesterday rejected Iran’s response to a U.S. proposal for peace talks to end the war, as two ships were allowed to pass through the blockaded Strait of Hormuz. Video …
From Epic Fury to Project Freedom: Who Pays the Bill for a Blocked Strait?
Operation Epic Fury and Project Freedom may sound like chapters in a military campaign. For the global economy, they have become shorthand for a simpler question: what happens when the world’s most important energy chokepoint ceases to function normally?
The Strait of Hormuz is not merely a waterway. It is an economic artery. The International Energy Agency reports that an average of 20 million barrels per day of crude oil and oil products moved through it in 2025 — equivalent to roughly 25% of global seaborne oil trade, with 80% destined for Asia. Continued …
Oil jumps as US and Iran disagree on peace proposal
Oil prices jumped $3 a barrel today as the United States and Iran failed to agree to a peace proposal drafted by Washington, while the Strait of Hormuz remained largely closed, keeping global energy supplies tight.
Brent crude futures climbed $3.18 or 3.14% to $104.47 a barrel, extending a 1.23% gain on Friday. US West Texas Intermediate was at $98.51 a barrel, up $3.09, or 3.24%, after settling 0.64% higher in the previous session. Continued …
Thai housing sector latest victim of war
Given the sagging economy and conflict in the Middle East, the residential market is expected to contract for a fourth consecutive year in 2026, weighed down by persistent high household debt, rising living costs, and tight lending, according to Siam Commercial Bank Economic Intelligence Center (EIC).
Total nationwide housing transfers in 2026 are forecast to decline by 5% year-on-year to 824 billion baht. In a prolonged conflict scenario, the contraction could deepen to 10%-15%, reflecting fragile purchasing power and heightened uncertainty. Continued …
Thais Feel the Pinch as ‘Single-Dish’ Prices Surge Amid Fuel Price Crisis
Thai consumers are facing a sharp increase in the cost of living as popular “single-dish” meals — the backbone of the nation’s daily diet — see significant price hikes driven by a perfect storm of soaring fuel costs and extreme weather.
According to the latest data from the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), headline inflation in April surged to 2.89%, a dramatic leap from the 0.08% recorded in March. This represents the highest inflationary level in three years and two months, fueled primarily by a 30% spike in energy prices linked to ongoing instability in the Middle East. Continued …
‘Thai Helps Thai’ gets good reception
The government says the second round of its “Thai Helps Thai: Reducing Expenses and Cost of Living” campaign has attracted strong public participation, with more than 200,000 people joining the program and over 27 million baht circulating in local economies.
A total of 217,619 people took part in the event, which featured 9,721 participating shops, including modern retail and wholesale outlets, OTOP stores, and community-based SMEs. More than 153,856 essential consumer products were offered at discounted prices. 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.
Land bridge faces uphill battle
The land bridge project was initially promoted under the Pheu Thai government led by former prime minister Srettha Thavisin as both a bold geopolitical vision and a new national economic strategy aimed at helping Thailand escape the middle-income trap.
The project was presented as a transformative shortcut linking the Indian and Pacific oceans, one that could reduce dependence on the Strait of Malacca, reposition Thailand at the center of global trade routes, and potentially reshape economic geography for decades to come. Continued …
Why Thailand’s land bridge project is going nowhere
Thai economists are expressing concern that the government’s much-touted-but-stalled land bridge project will neither be a success nor boost the economy as they hope. Some suggest that the Thai government should first revive existing economic projects left unfinished.
The land bridge project is Thailand’s proposed mega-infrastructure project, which will connect Chumphon province, on the Gulf coast, with Ranong province on the Andaman coast, with a road and rail system for the transport of goods between the two ports. Continued …
Thai poultry exports face crisis over China ban and conflicts
Kukrit Areepakorn, manager of the Thai Broiler Processing Exporters Assn., revealed that the export situation and prices of chicken are currently declining due to two main reasons: China suspending exports from 17 processing plants, and the Middle East war.
For China, Thailand previously exported from 22 processing plants, but currently can export from only five. This is because China has increased the strictness of its production standards and hygiene inspections for export plants. Continued …
AIS, True report healthy profits based on 5G growth
Advanced Info Service (AIS) and True Corp. posted strong net profits in the first quarter this year. AIS reported total revenue of 58.2 billion baht, up 3.4% year-on-year, in the first quarter, with net profit of 13.5 billion baht, a gain of 28%.
True Corp. posted a fifth consecutive quarter of profitability, with net profit after tax of 6.6 billion baht, a gain of 303% year-on-year. The profit was driven by sustained subscriber momentum, improving customer experience following network modernization, and disciplined cost management. Continued …
Thailand Tourists Monitor Declining Thai Baht Against US Dollar
Foreign tourists in Thailand are actively observing the Thai baht’s depreciation against the US dollar, a trend that directly impacts their vacation budgets. The currency opened at 31.77 per dollar, a slight weakening from 31.60, and analysts foresee continued fluctuation within the range of 31.55 to 31.95 as global economic conditions evolve.
This shift significantly benefits international visitors, enhancing their purchasing power for essential travel expenditures such as accommodation, dining, and entertainment. The current economic climate, marked by global uncertainties, makes this currency movement a key consideration for tourists planning their trips. Continued …
Hoteliers and leading foreign tourism entrepreneurs ask government to help
Thailand’s tourism industry is coming under severe pressure as foreign arrivals fall, visitor spending weakens, and operating costs surge across key destinations. In Pattaya, hotel occupancy has collapsed to as low as 30%, while bookings on Bangkok’s Khao San Road remain more than 20% below last year following Songkran.
Meanwhile, tourism operators say travelers are spending far less after arrival, as businesses battle rising fuel, food, and packaging costs linked to global instability and soaring energy prices. Industry leaders are now demanding urgent government intervention, including airfare subsidies, major event support, and free broadcasts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, amid growing fears Thailand’s tourism slowdown could sharply worsen during the rainy season and the second half of the year. Continued …
Indian Tourist Dies After Four Collapse at Phuket Cafe
One Indian tourist has died and three others were hospitalized after four men suddenly lost consciousness at a cafe near Kamala Beach in Phuket during the early hours Saturday. Emergency responders from Kamala transported three unconscious men to Patong Hospital and one to Thalang Hospital after they collapsed.
According to the cafe’s head security guard, the group arrived at the venue at about 11 pm on Friday. At around 2 am, four members of the group reportedly began losing consciousness one after another for unknown reasons. Continued …
3,000 cases so far in Surat Thani foreign crime crackdown
Surat Thani authorities say they are continuing a sustained crackdown on illegal foreign activity on the province’s tourist islands, with nearly 3,000 cases involving foreign nationals recorded in the past seven months. The renewed focus follows growing public concern over the presence of Israeli communities on Koh Phangan and allegations of illegal business operations, land ownership through nominees, and unlicensed activities.
Surat Thani officials have been addressing the issue continuously since October. A special task force was established under former governor Theerut Supawibulpol to investigate and suppress illegal business activities and operations involving foreign nationals, with particular attention given to Israeli groups. Continued …
Officials Inspect Resorts on Koh Phangan
Thai authorities have raided four resorts in Koh Phangan’s Sri Thanu area as part of a crackdown on illegal hotel operations and suspected foreign nominee business arrangements linked to Israeli groups staying on the island.
Officers from the Department of Provincial Administration, immigration police, and Koh Phangan police carried out coordinated inspections on Saturday, leading to charges against three businesses for allegedly operating hotels without licenses. Continued …
Thailand Bets on Revamp of Chaing Mai Hot Springs to Spearhead Wellness Drive
Thailand is officially planting its flag in the global wellness arena, earmarking a 400-million-baht budget to transform the historic Sankamphaeng Hot Springs into a premier national model for health tourism.
The initiative comes as the global “wellness economy” shows no signs of slowing down. Research from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) indicates that the sector is projected to reach $7.9 trillion. Continued …
How Thailand Revived the Tiger Against All Odds
Did you know Thailand is actually the first nation in Southeast Asia to successfully revive its tiger population? While most of the world is losing these incredible big cats, Thailand’s jungles are seeing a serious comeback. We’re talking about a massive conservation effort that’s bringing the king of the jungle back to the Western Forest Complex. It’s a huge win for wildlife and shows a side of Thai conservation history that most people completely miss. Video …
This Unknown City Wants To Become Thailand’s Next Vacation Hotspot
We all know the astonishment of Thailand with its world-wonder landscapes, vibrant array of wildlife, tangible cultures throughout massive cities and traditional villages, and of course, insanely cheap street food throughout its famous night markets.
But the truth is there’s far more to discover than Bangkok and Phuket — and you can throw in Koh Samui after its wildly successful White Lotus run. In the age of overtourism — which Koh Samui fits the bill — there’s actually one Thai city that wants to welcome more tourists after recovering from disastrous floods that ravaged the region. Continued …
Why Koh Kut remains one of Thailand’s most beautiful island escapes
Far from the crowds of Phuket and Samui, Koh Kut remains one of Thailand’s quietest and most beautiful island destinations — a place where jungle-covered hills meet crystal-clear seas and life still moves at a slower pace.
Located near the Cambodian border in eastern Thailand’s Trat province, Koh Kut — also spelled Koh Kood — is Thailand’s fourth-largest island, yet it has managed to avoid large-scale development and mass tourism. Continued …
Thailand Fast-Tracks Green Energy and Infrastructure to Lure Global Investors
The Thai government is significantly ramping up its national energy infrastructure and streamlining investment protocols to capitalize on a new wave of global digital and clean energy interest.
Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek stated that despite the current volatility in the global economy, Thailand remains a “highly resilient” emerging market. She attributed this sustained investor confidence to the nation’s stable policy framework and robust international reserves. Continued …
Thailand turns solar power from green option to economic necessity amid ongoing Mideast conflict
Thailand’s energy crisis, sparked by Middle East tensions, has rapidly turned solar power from a green option into an economic necessity. As electricity costs surge, homes and businesses are rushing to install rooftop panels, with demand outpacing supply and installers struggling to keep up.
Heavily reliant on imported energy, Thailand is vulnerable to global shocks. Despite abundant sunshine, renewables still make up only about 10% of its power mix. To accelerate adoption, the Thai government has recently introduced tax incentives for residential solar. Continued …
Banks tapped for solar financing push
The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) is exploring ways to make loans more accessible for households joining the rooftop solar buyback scheme, aiming to encourage wider adoption of clean energy and help families generate their own electricity.
The scheme, approved by the National Energy Policy Council, allows the government to purchase electricity from homeowners who install on-grid solar panels at a rate of 2.20 baht per unit. Continued …
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Russian Tourists Arrested After Phuket Brawl – Continued …
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Tourist Police Bust Illegal Laos Tour Operator – Continued …
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Chinese Tourists Spearfish Protected Fish in Phuket – Continued …
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China Fugitive Arrested in Bangkok Condo – Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
The Bank of Thailand is scheduled to introduce standardized banking fees in July this year, seeking to reduce financial costs for individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
MOU 44 row deepens — Anutin says Koh Kood remains Thai
Southeast Asian nations hit by soaring fuel and food prices caused by the Middle East war are weighing solutions that include setting up a regional oil reserve, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said yesterday.
An online petition launched by environmental group EnLAW has gathered over 100,000 signatures in three days, signaling widespread opposition to the government’s proposed land bridge megaproject.
Senate pushes for turning Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi into single ASEAN hub
Luyuan Group Holding has joined a fledgling move by Chinese two-wheeler makers setting up factories abroad, with its Thursday announcement of plans for a new facility in Thailand. It joins peers like Yadea and TAILG, which have also recently set up similar new facilities in Southeast Asia to tap local markets for electric bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles.
WHAUP continues to strengthen its position as a renewable energy leader by securing a major deal with Yida New Material for the installation of a 16.64-megawatt solar rooftop project. The project is expected to help the customer reduce electricity costs by more than B1.22 billion over the 20-year contract period and cut carbon emissions by over 206,491 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Weeks after the Pacific Ocean engine that helps drive the world’s weather shifted into neutral, meteorologists and scientists are now laser-focused on the developing signals of its warm phase: El Niño. It’s what the global forecast models are making of the early signals that is drawing attention. 
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.
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.
Before we go too far down the road of new tourism taxes, it is worth pausing to ask a simple question. Are we really talking about something new, or are we revisiting an old idea that has already been tried, tested and, in many cases, quietly abandoned?
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.
Starting times for the Hua Hin Marathon 2026 have been confirmed, with organizers expecting more than 3,500 runners to take part in the annual race on Sunday, May 10. The event will include four race distances and aims to raise funds for environmental conservation in the city.
Dear Doctors: I just read about people who are called super-agers and how they don’t have the memory problems that happen when you get older. Supposedly, they have more brain cells. Do you know if that’s true? The idea of super-agers is really interesting, and I want to know more.
Thailand is facing the risk of water shortages after its “source water” reserves, stored supplies used during the dry season, declined due to climate change and El Niño.
Thailand’s economy is being hit by what economists describe as a “cost tsunami”, as the Middle East conflict enters its third month following US and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, driving up energy prices and placing pressure on both businesses and households.
Thailand’s grassroots economy is facing a critical turning point as a “perfect storm” of soaring energy costs and stagnant consumer demand leaves a significant portion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on the verge of collapse.
Thailand’s medical device industry is facing potential supply shortages by July due to rising costs influenced by global energy instability and restricted exports from China. Jarudech Kunadilok, chairman of MEDIC, highlighted that soaring logistics expenses and increased prices for essential materials like plastic resins threaten production.
Thailand is attracting significant foreign investment from major tech companies, despite recent economic challenges. Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and ByteDance have committed billions to expand digital infrastructure, marking a notable shift in Thailand’s economic landscape.
By almost every traditional metric, Thailand is winning the digital race. From the neon-lit boardrooms of the Eastern Economic Corridor to the street-side stalls of Chiang Mai, the nation’s digital “plumbing” is among the most sophisticated in the world.
There is a phrase that has quietly become the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) defining axiom for our era: there is no AI without energy. It sounds simple enough. But the International Energy Agency’s newly published report, Key Questions on Energy and AI, shows just how staggeringly complex and urgent that relationship has become.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has been appointed to lead a government committee tasked with studying the proposed land bridge project within a 90-day timeframe, according to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
The housing market in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) continued to soften in 2025, with both demand and supply contracting year-on-year, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).
Thailand is seeking to reposition its healthcare sector as a strategic investment engine, moving beyond a buyer-seller model toward long-term partnerships in clinical research, drug production, medical AI, and advanced healthcare technology.
Thai Union Group expects a positive outlook for the pet food business, although Thailand’s pet food export growth is expected to moderate this year.
Thailand’s tourism sector is facing an unprecedented convergence of crises, as geopolitical tensions, soaring energy costs, and structural economic weaknesses collide to form what analysts are calling a “perfect storm.”
The Koh Phi Phi islands in Thailand deliver some of the most breathtaking scenery you’re ever likely to see. Set in the Andaman Sea, they’re made up of dramatic limestone cliffs and white sand bays surrounded by turquoise waters filled with tropical fish.
Video of Railay Beach, Krabi
Bangkok’s Street Food Scene Is Disappearing
Stronger promotion of solar power by Thai authorities amid an energy crisis holds promise, but still faces challenges, say industry analysts. Clean energy is in the spotlight after global conflicts continue to push electricity prices higher, leaving households and businesses vulnerable to volatility.
Chief government whip Korrawee Prissananantakul yesterday expressed confidence that the Clean Air Bill, which lapsed with the previous House, will be approved by the cabinet within the set timeframe.
As wildfires swept through forests across Thailand, animals fled through smoke and flames. Experts urged the government to act more proactively to tackle the wildfires, particularly by adopting modern technology.
TotalEnergies ENEOS has entered into a long-term agreement with Jintana Intertrade, a garment manufacturer in Thailand, to supply solar power to its production facility. The two companies have signed a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) that will support the installation and operation of a 1.2 MWp solar photovoltaic system at the factory.
WFFT celebrates 25 years
Kui Buri National Park safari vehicle fee rises to 1,200 baht
A 21-year-old man survived a serious facial injury after doctors at Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital worked with rescue workers to remove a metal spear more than one meter long embedded in his face.
Thailand’s economy is beginning to feel the full force of prolonged conflict in the Middle East, with rising energy costs, weakening demand, and global uncertainty combining to pressure businesses across multiple sectors.
Amid stagflation fears, fledgling Anutin government juggles economic tools
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Co. (OR) and Bangchak Corp. announced a 60 satang-per-liter increase for diesel B7 and diesel B20. Premium diesel prices were unchanged.
Rice supply is expected to fall this year as farmers cut planting acreage across Asia because of fertilizer shortages and soaring fuel costs from the Iran war, with an emerging El Nino also set to squeeze output of the world’s most consumed staple.
When the tankers stop, the tractors stop
Thailand is marking Labor Day today, a date that underscores the importance of workers’ rights while also highlighting a long-standing distinction between private-sector employees and civil servants.
The baht is expected to weaken further, possibly testing 33.5 to the US dollar in the near term after the US Federal Reserve caused the dollar to rise by signaling that policy easing is unlikely this year, says Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
Fitch Ratings expects the sector outlook for Thai banks to deteriorate this year, despite solid earnings in the first quarter at the six domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs).
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) edged up 0.75% year-on-year to 108.69 points in March amid tensions in the Middle East affecting some industries and discouraging purchases of oil-powered cars, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said pressure from rising energy prices and living costs had made Thais more cautious about spending and led them to adjust their travel behavior, with a greater focus on budgets, especially after the travel and spending during the Songkran festival.
Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions industry is facing a sharp slowdown in new bookings as airfares surge by around 20% amid the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
Thailand has evolved into one of Asia’s most established hubs for expats and remote workers, supported by extensive fiber broadband, near-universal mobile coverage, and a growing ecosystem of coworking spaces.
Thai iced tea has been named one of the world’s top 10 non-alcoholic beverages, with TasteAtlas ranking the Thai favorite ninth in its latest global list.
Exploring Koh Yao Noi, a relaxing alternative in Thailand
Three Thai shores make the World’s 50 Best Beaches
Amata B.Grimm Power 5 has signed an 11.98 megawatt-peak (MWp) floating solar project contract with Siam Toyota Manufacturing Co. (STM).
Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi is to be moved to house arrest, state media reported yesterday, more than five years after the military ousted the civilian government she led and jailed the Nobel laureate. 
US economic growth rebounded less than expected in the first quarter as consumer spending cooled, while inflation surged in March with fallout from the Middle East war beginning to bite, government data showed yesterday. 
Plans for a Hua Hin Smart City development are moving forward, with proposals including free public WiFi, a pet registration platform, and smart drinking water dispensers currently under consideration by local authorities.
A mangrove restoration plan has been approved for the Sirinart Rajini Mangrove Forest, with officials proposing a 4.9-million-baht budget to address water system issues and support long-term ecological recovery.
Two decades after declaring an official war on air pollution, Thailand is losing the battle. Despite a flurry of committees and high-profile promises, crucial indicators show that the sources of the smog and its deadly health impacts are rising once again. What began as a seasonal nuisance in the northern highlands has metastasized into a year-round national health crisis that threatens the very fabric of Thai society.
The heat index in Bangkok today entered the “extreme danger” zone for the first time this season, with “feels like” temperatures higher than or equal to 52 degrees Celsius, City Hall has warned.
As the global order fractures and major powers like China, Russia, and the United States drift toward the precipice of open conflict, the very definition of “wealth” is undergoing a radical transformation.
The Thai Food Processors’ Assn. is calling on the government to reduce energy costs, pursue negotiations on free-trade agreements (FTAs), and explore new market opportunities. The association said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is pressuring logistics, raw materials, and packaging costs.
Nantapong Chiralerspong, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, disclosed the results of a February 2026 survey on the public’s debt burden and future trends, based on the opinions of 6,469 respondents.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), said that against the backdrop of global volatility and shifts in production bases, Thailand had continued to attract investor interest.
Known for its pungent aroma and rich, custard-like texture, the durian has recently become a focal point of Thai national discourse. However, the current debate centers not on its flavor, but on its role as a litmus test for the government’s ability to engineer sustainable solutions for the nation’s agricultural sector.
Hotels nationwide across all segments, including luxury, have reported a significant drop in bookings from May, with provinces dependent on European markets such as Phangnga facing a 50% decline, according to the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA).
Traveling the Road to Ordination on an Elephant
Chef Pam is putting Thai cuisine back into the global conversation
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) has approved a new electricity tariff structure that will help millions of Thai households save money, along with sweeping measures to unlock residential rooftop solar development.
Senior officials from Laos and Thailand met in Vientiane yesterday for consultations on cross-border smog, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to cleaner air and stronger pollution-control cooperation.
Viral posts of an Australian street dubbed the country’s “most beautiful” have enticed coachloads of visitors to a picturesque seaside town — and locals have had enough of it. Just a two-hour drive south of Sydney, Gerringong is much like many other photogenic hamlets along Australia’s east coast, with multi-million-dollar properties set against stunning views of the azure blue sea. 
Buckets of blooms adorn Yuvita Anggi Prinanda’s sidewalk flower stall in Bali, but their perfume can’t mask the stench of accumulating trash bespoiling parts of the resort island famed for its natural beauty. Bali’s largest landfill was declared off-limits for organic waste from the beginning of April, as the government moves to enforce a longstanding ban on open pits. 
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 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.
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 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. 
Hua Hin is exploring the use of CCTV with AI-enabled facial recognition systems as part of plans to strengthen public safety and modernize urban management. The proposal was discussed during a meeting chaired by Nopporn Wutthikul on Friday at Hua Hin City Municipality.
Five stray dogs were found dead after suspected poisoning in a residential area of Cha Am municipality, Phetchaburi, on Friday, prompting concern among local residents and calls for authorities to investigate. The animals were discovered lying on the road and nearby grass, showing signs of severe distress, including foaming at the mouth, bleeding, and loss of bodily control.
The likelihood of a “super El Niño” poses a serious threat to Thailand’s agricultural sector, particularly rice production, potentially increasing food security risks.
A senior doctor has warned that eating raw shrimp can lead to serious parasitic infection, after a case highlighted the risks beyond common food poisoning. Yesterday, Dr. Jessada Bunyawongviroj, deputy director of Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, shared details of a patient who developed gnathostomiasis after consuming raw seafood. The condition caused swelling that moved across the body, as parasites migrated under the skin.
Thailand’s Ministry of Energy is preparing to propose a new electricity pricing scheme to the cabinet, aimed at reducing costs for households that use no more than 200 units per month. Under the plan, these users would pay less than 3 baht per unit, with lower consumption leading to progressively cheaper rates, potentially benefiting around 14 million people.
Oil prices extended gains today, rising almost 2% as peace efforts between the United States and Iran lost momentum and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained constrained, tightening global supply.
The US-Iran conflict, which erupted two months ago, has triggered an oil price shock, sharp rises in the cost of living, and widespread flight cancellations worldwide.
As temperatures climb across Thailand, households are feeling more than just the heat. This year’s hot season has brought a sharp rise in living costs, particularly fuel prices, tightening budgets and amplifying financial strain. In this environment, effective financial management has become essential to easing the burden.
Government Outlines B1.38-trillion Transport Plan
Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the government was pressing ahead with its economic plan to help households and businesses cope with global volatility, while also strengthening Thailand’s medium- and long-term competitiveness.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with the United States following talks with US Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill on Friday.
Thailand’s famed massage industry is getting a reset. Last month, the government rolled out sweeping reforms to raise standards, improve training, and reshape its global image. In 2024, Thailand’s wellness tourism spending hit US$14 billion, up 36% from the previous year. This video looks at whether the changes will lift the sector or price it out of reach. 
The water has dried, the streets have cleared, and the music has faded, but for many long-term visitors in Pattaya, the aftermath of this year’s Songkran has left behind more frustration than fond memories.
The sights, sounds, and smells of Bangkok hit me immediately and simultaneously. The spiced aromas wafting from street food vendors mixed with the heavy traffic’s gasoline fumes. My head was constantly on a swivel, captured by the neon lights in Chinatown contrasting against the gold facades of the centuries-old wats (temples).
10 high-sodium Thai dishes that may quietly harm your kidneys
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), together with strategic partners, successfully concluded the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026 in Phuket last week.
Phuket has been selected as the pilot province for a new nationwide push to transform Thailand’s hotel sector into a model of sustainable tourism, with the Bank of Thailand launching a major green financing initiative aimed at reshaping the industry. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has introduced a wellness-focused travel experience tailored to modern lifestyles through the “Run with the Rhythm” event. The event forms part of the “Central Rhythm – Fit Body, Relax Mind, Find Your New Life Rhythm in the Central Region” campaign and is presented as a mini-wellness festival.
Deputy Prime Minister Yodchanan Wongsawat says he has found the key to unlocking Thailand’s decades-long middle-income trap: human capital development. Yodchanan is now staking the country’s future on an ambitious education roadmap aimed at lifting Thailand into a high-value economy.
Rising living costs are intensifying pressure on families as education reforms ease school dress rules nationwide, yet household spending remains high.
The US-Iran conflict, which erupted two months ago, has triggered an oil price shock, sharp rises in the cost of living, and widespread flight cancellations worldwide. As the jet fuel crisis deepens, airlines, including those in Thailand, are continuing to cut flight capacity for the coming months.
Dr. Paiboon Eksaengsri, president of the Private Hospital Assn., said the private hospital business, as it enters the second quarter, still needs to remain cautious about the impact of the war in the Middle East.
Thailand’s exports to the United States surged 41.8% in the first quarter of 2026, as US importers accelerated orders following a court ruling that voided retaliatory tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump’s policy.
‘Super dull and boring’: Foreign visitor’s take on Suvarnabhumi
Andaman coastal provinces can expect rain to linger longer this year due to an El Nino impact on the monsoon season, a weather forecaster said yesterday. The moonsoon season along the Andaman Coast from Ranong to Satun is generally from May to October each year.
Westerners in Thailand notice unique street food, vibrant markets, beautiful temples, friendly locals, chaotic traffic, respectful gestures, and cultural practices, all contributing to a richly immersive experience within 30 days.
The Transport Ministry is preparing an action plan to boost EV adoption by 300,000 vehicles, supported by tax incentives and a car trade-in scheme. Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat outlined two key measures following discussions with the Department of Land Transport (DLT), aimed at accelerating the shift from petrol-powered vehicles.
Venice, the historic city of canals, is facing a deepening crisis from climate change that is putting it at growing risk of permanent submersion, as sea levels rise faster than expected and the city’s flood defensce system may no longer be able to cope indefinitely. 
Tomorrow is the 40th anniversary of the accident at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, one of the largest man-made disasters in human history. The catastrophe that unfolded in 1986 was the result of a reactor experiment carried out under Moscow’s orders, in blatant violation of basic safety protocols. 
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.
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.
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.
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.