- Hua Hin Songkran celebration/Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival/Cha Am fresh market prices being checked/Swedish drug suspects caught in Hua Hin/Hip fracture can change your life/Hua Hin has new pickleball facility/Influenza still spreading/Thai tax filing 2026/Tolls Waived for Songkran/’Aem Cyanide’ Acquitted/Thai Billionaire Wanted for Crypto Scam
- THE IRAN WAR: Middle East war escalates/Trump keeps telling America he’s winning/Overview of the US-Israel war with Iran/Thai-Flagged Cargo Ship attacked/Twenty Thai Seafarers Rescued/Iran sets two oil tankers ablaze/Minister Claims Iran War Won’t Affect Consumers/Fears over rising cost of goods/Thailand’s Inflation Prospects/Survey shows concern/Homebuyers advised to decide quickly/Government plans diesel rise/Thai Airways hikes fares/Night Petrol Station Closures Planned/Plastic shortages loom
- ECONOMY: US launches probe into Thailand/Employment trends fuel motorbike sales
- TOURISM: Thailand sends 40,000 stranded tourists home/Hospitality Giants Bet on Expansion/Merger of Tourism and Culture Ministries/Phuket at a tourism crossroads/Tourists Blame Monkeys
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Are Thai women truly equal?/Thailand’s ‘green season’/Massilia Bangkok best pizzeria in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai data center boom sparks fears/Global Urbanism Returns the Streets to the People
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin selects April 12-13 for Songkran celebration
Hua Hin Songkran 2026 will take place on April 12-13, with city officials planning a mix of large-scale water-based entertainment and traditional Thai New Year activities at Pone Kingphet Park and along Damnoen Kasem Road.
This year’s event will be held under the theme “Hologram”, with the municipality aiming to give the festival a more modern look through light, color, and sound displays, while keeping key traditional elements of Songkran in place. Continued …
Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival set March 14-21
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will take place from March 14-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
Phetchaburi Province, in collaboration with Cha Am City Municipality and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, is organizing the event. Visitors will be able to enjoy menus featuring fresh blue swimming crab and seafood sourced directly from local fishermen, alongside crab-release activities and evening entertainment. Continued …
Cha Am fresh market prices being checked
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
The Phetchaburi Provincial Commerce Office, working with Cha Am City Municipality, recently inspected the Cha Am municipal fresh market, instructing more than 137 vendors to install clear and visible price signs. Authorities warned that businesses failing to comply could face fines of up to 10,000 baht. Continued …
Two Swedish drug suspects caught at Hua Hin villas
Three Swedish men accused of running major online drug sales from Thailand are now being held by Thai authorities and are expected to be sent to Sweden for detention hearings.
According to Swedish and Thai police, the men had been living a life of luxury in Thailand while allegedly controling drug sales aimed at the Swedish market through websites and darknet platforms. Two of them were arrested in an exclusive residential area in Hua Hin, where Thai police said they lived in villas with swimming pools. The third was arrested in Bangkok. Continued …
Hip fracture from fall can change your life
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
Dr. Waipop Pothiwong, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in trauma and orthopedic surgery at Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, explains that as we age, our bodies undergo several changes that increase the risk of falls and fractures. Bone mass decreases (osteoporosis), making bones more fragile and prone to fracture. Muscles weaken, balance declines, and coordination becomes less steady than in younger years. Vision, hearing, and reflexes may also deteriorate, making it easier to lose balance. Continued …
Hua Hin has new pickleball, tennis facility
A new tennis and pickleball facility in Hua Hin has opened its doors to players, adding to the town’s growing range of sports and recreation options. Sports Life Hua Hin, located in Thap Thai just off Soi 112, is now operating daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
The venue features four ITF Class 4 tennis courts and two pickleball courts, all fully under cover, allowing play throughout the day regardless of weather conditions. Operators say there are also plans to expand the number of pickleball courts in the future in response to rising demand. Male and female changing facilities are available on site, while a café is also due to open soon. Continued …
Influenza still spreading: 137,276 cases, 8 deaths recorded so far this year
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) at the Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning urging the public to be especially vigilant against influenza, after an upward trend in cases. Between Jan. 1 and March 9, Thailand recorded 137,276 cumulative cases and eight deaths.
DDC Director-General Montien Kanasawat said the cumulative total of 137,276 influenza cases represents an illness rate of 211.48 per 100,000 people. The three age groups with the highest rates were: 5-9 years: 753.20 per 100,000 (26,806 cases); 0-4 years: 596.20 per 100,000 (16,992 cases); 10-14 years: 534.20 per 100,000 (20,812 cases). Continued …
Thai tax filing 2026: What expats should clarify before the April 8 deadline
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
Under Thai law, individuals who spend 180 days or more in Thailand within a calendar year are considered tax residents. A filing obligation arises once assessable income exceeds the minimum thresholds. These thresholds are relatively low. Even modest levels of income can require a return to be submitted. Continued …
Motorway Tolls Waived for Songkran
The Department of Highways has proposed a ministerial regulation to waive motorway tolls for seven days during the Songkran festival in 2026, from 12.01 am on April 10 to midnight on April 16. This decision targets easing travel and reducing congestion for the traditional period when many people travel to their hometowns, causing heavy traffic on routes around Bangkok.
Previously, the Department of Highways submitted a draft to the Ministry of Transport, seeking approval to lift toll charges on Motorway No. 7, Motorway No. 9, and Motorway No. 81. The waiver is expected to support faster and more convenient travel, improve traffic flow, and decrease travel expenses for the public during this major holiday. Additionally, it aims to lower national energy consumption and reduce air pollution during the festival period. Continued …
‘Aem Cyanide’ Acquitted in Cyanide Murder Case Due to Lack of Evidence
Sararat “Aem Cyanide” Rangsiwuthaporn was acquitted by the Criminal Court yesterday in a case involving the alleged cyanide poisoning of a woman in Nakhon Pathom in August 2020. The court’s decision was based on the prosecution’s failure to demonstrate that Sararat possessed cyanide or had a financial motive behind the alleged crime.
Sararat’s legal challenges are further compounded by her conviction and death sentence in another cyanide poisoning case concluded in November 2024. Moreover, she received a life sentence last month for murdering a policeman, a sentence initially decided as execution but reduced due to her confession. Sararat, 39, faces accusations of administering cyanide to 14 individuals between 2015 and 2023. Continued …
Thai Billionaire Wanted for Alleged Crypto Scam
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
Authorities suspect the investor, who reportedly holds 11,000 Bitcoins and has investments in the UAE, has fled the country. Worawat, once the lead singer of a rock band, has been under investigation before. In March 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission accused him of running “1000X Limited” without proper authorization, breaching the Digital Assets Business Act. Continued …
Middle East war escalates as Iran threatens Gulf oil route
The crisis in the Middle East reached a new boiling point yesterday as Iran threatened to shut down oil exports through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for a major wave of US and Israeli air strikes. Reuters reported that the conflict had effectively halted the movement of roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas through the strategic waterway, underscoring the scale of the threat to global energy markets.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it was prepared to take the toughest possible measures, warning that it would not allow oil to pass through the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz for the benefit of the United States, Israel, or their allies. The warning came as Tehran stepped up its rhetoric and military pressure following the latest strikes. Continued …
Trump keeps telling America he’s winning in Iran; he’s less clear about war’s end
Facing jittery global markets and drooping poll numbers since launching a war on Iran, US President Donald Trump has cycled from calls for “unconditional surrender” to sounding amenable to an end state in which Iran trades one hard-line ayatollah for another.
Shifting comments from the Republican president and his top aides are adding to the precariousness of the 12-day-old conflict, which is impacting nearly every corner of the Middle East and causing economic tremors around the globe. With neither side budging, the war is now on an unpredictable path — one in which a credible endgame is still unclear. Continued …
Overview of the US-Israel war with Iran – How does it affect Thailand?
The US-Israel-Iran conflict, now in its 11th day, is set to hammer Thailand’s economy despite being fought 7,000 kilometers away. With the Strait of Hormuz closed and oil above US$120 per barrel, Thailand faces its sharpest energy and trade disruption in decades.
The current phase began on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran. The confrontation escalated from tit-for-tat exchanges in 2024 into a brief but intense “Twelve-Day War” in June 2025, before widening again in early 2026. Continued …
Thai-Flagged Cargo Ship attacked near Strait of Hormuz
Questions have emerged over the nationality of the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree after the ship was reportedly attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) near the Strait of Hormuz, prompting debate over whether it is a Thai vessel or an Indian ship flying the Thai flag.
The vessel came under scrutiny after reports indicated its owners have Indian heritage, leading some observers to question whether the ship was genuinely Thai or merely using Thailand’s flag as a form of disguise. The incident also raised concern for the crew, with reports noting three Thai sailors missing after the ship’s engine room was struck during the attack. Continued …
Twenty Thai Seafarers Rescued Following Attack in Strait of Hormuz
The Omani Navy has successfully rescued 20 Thai crew members from the bulk carrier Mayuree Naree after the vessel sustained significant damage in the Strait of Hormuz yesterday.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) confirmed that the Thai-registered vessel, owned by the Bangkok-based Precious Shipping Public Co, was targeted shortly after departing from Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates. The ship was carrying a total of 23 Thai nationals when it was struck near the stern. Continued …
Iran sets two oil tankers ablaze near Iraq
Iran has set ablaze two tankers in Iraqi waters as it stepped up attacks on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East, warning the world should be ready for oil at $200 a barrel in defiance of President Donald Trump’s claim that the United States had already won the war.
Since the joint US and Israeli air strikes on Iran almost two weeks ago, the war has so far killed around 2,000 people and thrown global energy markets and transport into chaos. Continued …
Commerce Minister Claims Iran War Won’t Affect Consumers
Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Suphajee Suthumpun, is urging calm as the government closely tracks energy prices amid the ongoing conflict in Iran. An operations center has been established to coordinate across ministries, aiming to implement protective measures when necessary.
The backdrop to this situation involves rising tensions due to the Iran war, which have potential impacts on global energy prices, affecting consumer goods costs. Suphajee emphasized the importance of official updates and briefings to keep the public informed and prepared. The government is assessing the situation daily to adapt strategies accordingly and minimize negative impacts. Continued …
Fears grow over rising cost of goods
Consumers across the country are worried about the rising cost of goods, as global energy prices and supply chains have been hit by the war in the Middle East, pushing up prices for everyday necessities.
Residents in several provinces say the cost of living has climbed steadily in recent weeks, with higher prices reported for dried foods and household goods. The hike in prices is being attributed to rising energy costs, raw material prices, and transport expenses worldwide. Continued …
Thailand’s Inflation Prospects in Light of Middle East Tensions
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
Thailand imports about 90% of its crude oil, making energy price hikes quickly affect transport, manufacturing, food costs, and household budgets. The Producer Price Index will likely rise first, followed by consumer inflation in months. Businesses, especially SMEs, will face shrinking margins, while lower-income households may bear the brunt of increased fuel and food expenses. Continued …
Iran war: Survey shows concern over Thailand’s stance and energy crisis
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
It found that: The top concern among Thai netizens, accounting for 37% of all messages, was Thailand’s foreign policy stance towards the conflict. Most netizens said they wanted the Thai government to remain neutral in the situation. The second-largest concern, accounting for 31%, was the impact of energy prices, which could affect the Thai economy. Continued …
Homebuyers advised to decide quickly before war inflation hits
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
Speaking at a seminar on the 2026 property market yesterday, Natthapol Luepromchai, executive vice-president at Kasikornbank (KBank), said the escalating war in the Middle East could push up oil prices and inflation worldwide, making the likelihood of more interest rate cuts very unlikely. Continued …
Government plans diesel rise as oil fund hits B10-billion deficit
The war in the Middle East, which has caused oil prices to fluctuate and remain high, has led the government to continue capping diesel at no more than B30 per liter. As of March 11, the Oil Fuel Fund was subsidizing diesel by B16.97 per liter, a sharp increase from just B0.74 per liter on Feb. 27, one day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran.
The Oil Fuel Fund Administration Committee kept diesel at B29.94 per liter for another 15 days, from March 3-17, after which further relief measures for the public would be reviewed. Continued …
Thai Airways hikes fares 10%-15% as jet fuel costs surge
Thai Airways International (THAI) has begun raising ticket prices by around 10%-15% to reflect higher fuel costs driven by the situation in the Middle East, while noting it already has a mechanism to adjust pricing through a fuel surcharge.
Cherdchome Therdsteerasukdi, chief financial and accounting officer of THAI, said the airline has started adjusting fares to match the increase in oil prices. He said the company already has a fuel surcharge mechanism, but must set the surcharge ceiling jointly with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). She added that the current situation remains manageable, and the ceiling can be adjusted if necessary. Continued …
Night Petrol Station Closures Planned, Pending War’s Impact
The Thai government is considering closing petrol stations at 10 pm, but only if the Middle East conflict critically impacts fuel reserves. Currently, the situation remains manageable, according to Sarawut Kaewtathip, the Department of Energy Business director-general. Measures are being taken to assess and manage fuel demand throughout the country.
The Ministry of Interior has directed provincial governors and energy chiefs to survey fuel needs to formulate an effective response, preventing significant economic damage. Reports have emerged of fuel shortages at some stations, prompting local officials to monitor supplies closely to mitigate hoarding. Continued …
Plastic shortages loom as war hits oil supplies
Businesses are bracing for the impact of a plastic supply shortage due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Pun Paniangvait, general manager of Thai President Foods, the producer of Mama instant noodles, said while energy prices are receiving much attention, there is less discussion about fertilizer prices and a potential shortage of petrochemical products such as plastic pellets.
He said various consumer product packages, from water bottles to hot food packaging, rely on plastic pellets for production. Oil is a key ingredient in the production of plastic pellets, so if supply is curbed, plastic production also takes a hit. Continued …
US launches probe into 16 trade partners, including Thailand
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Reuters reported that the investigations are being carried out under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which gives the Office of the United States Trade Representative, or USTR, the authority to impose tariffs or other retaliatory measures against trading partners deemed to engage in unfair trade practices. Continued …
Employment trends fuel motorbike sales
Domestic motorcycle sales in Thailand are expected to climb this year, driven in part by new job seekers who are increasingly turning to motorcycles to earn income as part-time food delivery and motorcycle taxi drivers, according to Thai Yamaha Motor.
Many of these riders, including recent university graduates, are taking up temporary work while applying for permanent positions at companies. This trend has had a direct impact on motorcycle sales, said Ukrit Pakviwat, director of operations for commercial and marketing planning at Thai Yamaha Motor. Continued …
Thailand sends 40,000 stranded tourists home
More than 40,000 tourists stranded here by flight disruptions in the Middle East have safely returned home, aided by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand’s (CAAT) temporary approval for tour operators in the originating countries to send charter flights to retrieve them.
Suladda Sarutilavan, executive director of Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said since the war erupted on Feb. 28 the TAT offices in Europe have received multiple requests from tour companies seeking coordination to assist their tourists stranded in Thailand and other countries, asking for support to escort their customers back home via Thai airports. Continued …
Thai Hospitality Giants Bet on 2026 Expansion Despite Middle East Volatility
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Asset World Corp. (AWC), for example, is pivoting toward the luxury MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and xhibitions) sector. The centerpiece of its 2026 strategy is the Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, the brand’s debut in Thailand. In addition to high-end urban stays, AWC is targeting “cultural tourism” via the Lannatique Gala in Chiang Mai and heritage-themed developments in Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat). Continued …
Thai Private Sector Calls for Merger of Tourism and Culture Ministries
Thai business leaders are urging a radical consolidation of the state’s administrative architecture, proposing the merger of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports with the Ministry of Culture to better leverage the nation’s cultural “soft power.”
Under the proposal, the current sports portfolio would be downgraded to a departmental level within the new unified ministry, ensuring that national policy focuses squarely on high-value tourism and sustainable development. Continued …
Phuket stands at a tourism crossroads
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Tourism accounts for approximately 95% of the province’s economy, generating more than 500 billion baht annually from over 14 million Thai and international travelers. With around 1,500 registered hotels and more than 100,000 rooms, the island is undeniably a cornerstone of Thailand’s tourism industry. Yet, Phuket now stands at a crossroads. Continued …
Koh Chang: Tourists Blame Monkeys for Missing Motorcycle Key
In a bizarre twist on Koh Chang in Trat province, foreign tourists reported a monkey for allegedly stealing their motorcycle key, only to later discover the key at their accommodation after an extensive four-hour search.
The incident was shared on Facebook by a Thai police officer, drawing significant attention and humor online. According to his caption, the tourists, who had been using cannabis, mistakenly believed the monkey had stolen their key. The amusing turn of events led social media users to joke about “investigator-turned-monkey-catcher” officers and the idea of monkeys seeking legal assistance for defamation. Continued …
Are Thai women truly equal?
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
Around the month of International Women’s Day, celebrated last Sunday, media reports are filled with stories celebrating women’s achievements. Headlines highlight women leading companies, exceling in high-skilled professions, and breaking barriers in fields once dominated by men. From a quick look around, it can seem that women in Thailand have made remarkable progress. Yet, data tells a more complicated story. Continued …
Why Thailand’s ‘green season’ is the perfect time to travel
Looking for something remarkable from your next escape? At certain times of year, Thailand offers a different kind of luxury: soft-hued skies, rainforest-bright color, and a sense of space you rarely find at peak times.
Travel during the country’s “green season” – from roughly May to October – for a taste of the extraordinary. Brief tropical showers refresh the air, leaving long, luminous days for temples, markets and beaches – with lighter crowds and outstanding value. The season brings its own flavors too, which can be savored in dishes crafted with fresh and organic ingredients. This is Thailand at its most lush, calm, and romantic. Continued …
Massilia Bangkok makes history as the best pizzeria in Thailand for 5th time
Massilia Bangkok has been named Best Pizzeria in Thailand 2026 by the 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific Awards, marking the restaurant’s fifth national title and fourth consecutive win since 2021. The restaurant was also ranked the 6th Best Pizzeria in Asia 2026.
Luca Appino, owner of Massilia Bangkok, said, “This recognition is incredibly meaningful to us. As Thailand’s top pizzeria for five years, we feel a responsibility not just to our guests, but to the entire pizza community in Thailand.” Continued …
Thai data center boom sparks fears of water shortage, air pollution
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
He’s able to farm crabs this far inland, said Sarayuth, a former biochemist, thanks to the unique ecosystem provided by the mix of seawater, brackish water, and freshwater that flows through the Bang Pakong River into the creeks near his home on the border between Chachoengsao and Chonburi provinces in eastern Thailand. Continued …
The Walkable City: Global Urbanism Returns the Streets to the People
For nearly a century, the blueprint of the modern metropolis was drawn with the motor vehicle at its center. Wide boulevards, multi-lane junctions, and sprawling car parks became the hallmarks of urban progress.
However, a quiet revolution is currently unfolding across the world’s most iconic skylines, as planners move to “de-car” the city and return the pavement to the pedestrian. This shift represents a fundamental change in the urban paradigm: a transition from “cities for cars” to “cities for people”. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
The Heroes Hua Hin Foundation, widely known as Hua Hin Heroes, brought together community leaders, businesses, and supporters at the Hua Hin Heroes Charity Golf Cup 2026, united by a shared goal of improving opportunities for children in Hua Hin and across Prachuap Khiri Khan.
The Wellness Sandbox Prachuap Khiri Khan initiative was officially launched yesterday as provincial authorities outlined plans to develop health-focused model subdistricts across all eight districts of the province.
Yesterday, Phailin Kongpan, deputy mayor of Hua Hin Municipality, together with Cheep Suksri, president of the Municipal Council, and Nuengruethai Sukchan, deputy municipal clerk, brought Rungroj Nooklib, a former lecturer from Wang Klai Kangwon Vocational College in Hua Hin, to repair the solar power system at the Khao Takiab Blue Swimming Crab Bank.
The schedule for Run Khan Do 3, a province-wide series of running events across Prachuap Khiri Khan, has been officially announced, with activities set to take place from March to July 2026 in every district of the province.
The number of online-scam complaints rose again over the past week, with investment fraud causing the most damage, according to police.
Former commerce and energy minister Narongchai Akrasanee said the Iran war is deeply concerning for Thailand, with oil prices already surging to around US$110 a barrel, leaving the country hard-pressed to avoid fallout because it relies heavily on imported oil and natural gas.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon yesterday gave an update on measures to manage energy prices following the impact of unrest in the Middle East. The remarks were made after a meeting of the Center for Monitoring and Managing the Situation of the Middle East Conflict at Government House in Bangkok.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. is calling on the government to support the restaurant industry amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Global oil prices jumped sharply yesterday, pushing crude back into the $100-a-barrel era for the first time since the Russia-related energy shock of 2022, and briefly spiking to almost $120. Brent hit an intraday high of $119.50 a barrel and WTI $119.48, before prices later eased as markets weighed diplomatic signals and shifting supply risks.
Global oil prices have entered a “danger zone” after surging to around US110 per barrel following reports that an Iranian oil storage facility had been struck, warned Bangkok Bank’s (BBL) chief economist.
Thailand’s smartphone market is likely to contract amid economic uncertainty, the Middle East conflict, and rising memory component costs, according to Thai Samsung Electronics Co.
Cloud service provider Amazon Web Services (AWS) Thailand has positioned its local cloud region as a future artificial intelligence (AI) hub, targeting enterprises’ rising demand for highly complex, independent “frontier AI agents”. This signals an enterprise shift from basic AI tools toward more advanced, enterprise-grade automation.
Outbound passengers at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport can now opt to use automated passport screening machines installed at immigration checkpoints around the clock.
Foreign tourists in Thailand are closely monitoring the recent weakening of the Thai baht against the US dollar, a trend fueled by global financial uncertainties. As the baht opened at 31.77 per dollar, down from 31.60, many visitors are keenly aware of how this affects their purchasing power in areas like hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Exploring the many charms behind Bangkok’s rise to Asia’s best city
What will become the Dubai chocolate of 2026? As food and drink trends are running wild in Bangkok, 14 industry professionals were asked to determine exactly which ingredients are most likely to end up on your plate, or in your glass, in 2026.
Discover Thailand Through Taste: A Complete Guide to Asia’s Hottest Foodie Travel Destination
A man in a Mercedes drives up to a Bangkok forecourt, cash in hand, ready to buy an electric vehicle he hadn’t planned on owning. Southeast Asia’s EV revolution has found a new accelerant.
The Thai premium smartphone market has entered a high-stakes season following the official debut of the Samsung Galaxy S26 on Feb. 26. With a starting price of 41,900 baht, the flagship’s arrival has set a new benchmark for the high-end segment this year, closely followed by the March 2 launch of the iPad Air M4, which entered the market at 21,900 baht and iPhone 17e, which entered the market at 22,900 baht.
Cheap Thai meals at risk as global oil tensions threaten food prices
The Ministry of Transport has ordered a cap on public transport fares as tensions in the Middle East threaten to drive up global energy prices, warning operators not to raise rates beyond legal limits.
Emirates and Etihad Airways were resuming limited flight schedules to key global cities from their United Arab Emirates hubs yesterday, though the ongoing threat of missile fire piled pressure on airlines as they scramble to accommodate travelers.
It has been six days since the deadly joint attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, followed by Iran’s retaliatory strikes against mostly American targets in half a dozen Gulf states and against Israel, as people around the world grapple with the economic and geopolitical repercussions.
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), in cooperation with the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and partners from the public and private sectors, hosted the “Thailand-China Investment Forum: Keys to Success & Sustainable Growth for Chinese Enterprises” on Thursday at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok.
In hospitality circles, there’s been a lot of chatter about the next big trend in luxury travel, from personalized itineraries to yacht cruises. For Thailand, the answer is simple: Healing, through both gastronomy and wellness.
Hat Yai is back in business, and now is the time to visit
Thailand’s top 5 getaways this March
Thailand’s low-carbon rice model emerges from Central Plains farmers
US President Donald Trump said y esterday Cuba was next on his agenda after Iran, predicting that the communist-run island, crippled by a US energy blockade, is “gonna fall pretty soon”. “They want to make a deal so badly,” Trump said, a day after suggesting that he would turn to an unspecified project for Cuba after the war against Iran. 
Four years ago, NASA purposely smashed a spacecraft into a small asteroid to see if they could deflect it – a test to prove humanity could protect Earth from threatening space rocks. The experiment pushed the moonlet asteroid Dimorphos into a smaller, faster route around its sibling Didymos – and according to new research out yesterday, it also pushed the pair into a slightly different orbit around the Sun. 
Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash
Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday. 
A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.
The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.
Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities
A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” 
Thailand will enforce a ban on alcohol sales for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on March 3 this year. According to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, sales are prohibited on specific Buddhist holidays.
The Bank of Thailand says the cycle of policy rate cuts has ended, with yesterday’s reduction deemed sufficient to support the Thai economy. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 4-2 yesterday to cut the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 1%, effective immediately.
Thai rice exports fell by 17.5% in January compared with the same month last year, as a strong baht reduced the country’s price competitiveness. Export volume totaled 530,287 tons, down from 643,144 tons a year earlier. Export value dropped to B9.707 billion, a 30.7% decrease.
U-Tapao Airport project to kick off on April 3
Thailand’s overall border and transit trade in January reached a total value of 161.1 billion baht, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, with China remaining a leading transit market, said deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana.
Lazada Thailand is shifting its strategy to “confidence commerce”, prioritizing trust and reliability over price or delivery speed. The strategy aims to strengthen LazMall in response to the continued growth of Thailand’s e-commerce market.
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison and a 500,000 baht fine.
Thailand’s coffee landscape is being rewritten. Once seen mainly as a local staple or bulk commodity, Thai coffee is evolving into a globally recognized premium product.
Ride-sharing drivers operating through mobile applications must register their vehicles under categories Ror Yor 17/18 with the Department of Land Transport by Saturday, the government has warned.
The death of 72 tigers at Tiger Kingdom in Chiang Mai last week has raised concerns about the source of the virus and bacteria responsible. Raw chicken meat from a private farm is suspected, as it was fed to all tigers at the two facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng districts.
Get ready for a major astronomical event to close out the first quarter of the year, as a total lunar eclipse will take place on the night of Makha Bucha Day, March 3. This one is special: the Moon is expected to appear brick-red from the moment it rises above the eastern horizon, allowing people in Thailand to enjoy the spectacle with the naked eye nationwide.
The collection of Donald Trump’s retaliatory customs tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was ruled unlawful by the US Supreme Court on Feb. 20. Following the ruling, the US president signed an executive order to enforce a new global customs tariff of 10% under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, effective at 12:01 am today.
The incoming Bhumjaithai-led administration will not raise the value-added tax (VAT) rate to 10% over the next three years, a BJT executive said, adding that the party’s immediate focus is economic recovery.
The Board of Investment (BOI) has approved investment promotion for five major Chinese firms to establish what it describes as the country’s first production base for humanoid robot components.
Thailand’s exports rose 24.4% year-on-year in January, marking the fastest growth since late 2021, driven by a surge in outbound electronic products linked to artificial intelligence and data centers.
The printed circuit board (PCB) industry is becoming a major magnet for large-scale investment flows into Thailand, amid the global expansion of AI, data centers and advanced electronics. This has helped Thailand move up to become ASEAN’s number one PCB manufacturing base, with a longer-term goal of rising into the world’s top five.
As the Bhumjaithai Party prepares to lead the next government, one significant campaign pledge was to revive the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme. However, people in the wholesale and retail sectors view this initiative as a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution to the country’s sluggish economy.
The social-driven shopping revolution in Asia represents a seismic shift in consumer behavior, where social media platforms have evolved from mere communication tools into powerful e-commerce ecosystems. This phenomenon, often termed “social commerce,” integrates entertainment, community interaction, and seamless purchasing, blurring the lines between scrolling and shopping.
Social media influencer Farah Shams, who has more than 2.4 million followers on TikTok, has sparked controversy after posting a video criticizing what she described as rude behavior by the majority of Thai locals during her visit.
Thailand’s hotel industry has expanded almost continuously for close to five decades since the “Visit Thailand* boom in the 80’s. The latest Asia Pacific construction pipeline data confirms that this trend remains firmly in place.
Ukraine today marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, with a show of solidarity from its staunchest allies and no immediate end in sight to Europe’s bloodiest conflict since World War II. Tens of thousands of lives have been lost since the Kremlin ordered troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, confident of a quick victory but not expecting the fierce resistance that followed. 
While Russian oil exports dropped last year, Russia is still exporting higher volumes than before its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, researchers said today, calling for stricter sanctions enforcement. The volume of Russian crude oil exports remained 6% above pre-invasion levels in the fourth year of the war, despite Western sanctions aimed at curbing Russia’s “shadow fleet”. 
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government is writing to Commonwealth realms about its backing for former prince Andrew to be axed from the line of royal succession. Albanese said he had communicated with his British counterpart Keir Starmer about Andrew, who is being investigated for alleged misconduct in public office following revelations about his dealings with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. 
Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
The number of daily passengers using Chiang Mai Airport as reached a new post-pandemic high, underlining the city’s status as a tourist hub in northern Thailand.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
The US military is preparing for the possibility of extended operations lasting weeks against Iran, if President Donald Trump orders an attack, according to two US officials. This raises the stakes significantly in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran. 
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 cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
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
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
The Bhumjaithai Party of caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has won 174 House constituency seats, followed by the People’s Party with 87, and 58 for the Pheu Thai Party, according to the Election Commission.
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
From Feb. 8 to 11, a moderate to strong high-pressure system, or cold air mass, from China will cover the upper parts of Thailand, leading to thunderstorms initially, followed by a decrease in temperature and strong winds.
Air quality in Bangkok has worsened, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe standards, causing respiratory issues. Eastern Bangkok records the highest levels.
Two timebombs were defused at the Pattani bus terminal in Muang district yesterday after they were found hidden a toilet, with authorities saying they resembled previous finds at several petrol stations in the province.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
The Gold Traders Assn. reported that gold prices were adjusted 101 times throughout yesterday, with prices falling by Bt2,300 compared with trading on Feb. 4.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) conducted a “Tourism Business Confidence Index” survey in Q4 2025, involving 302 foreign tourists in Bangkok and Chonburi. The survey revealed that while overall safety concerns were moderate, specific issues like scams were highly problematic, and the strength of the Thai baht significantly influenced 90% of visitors’ travel decisions.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week.