Cha Am festival/WFFT celebrates 25 years/Kui Buri vehicle fee rises/Curbing Thai water woes/Doctors Remove Spear From Man’s Face
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran blockade could last months/Middle East conflict hits Thailand/Anutin government juggles economic tools/Thailand fuel prices climb/400-billion-baht loan decree/Ministry weighs airline debt extension/War threatens Asia’s food security/World rice supply under threat/When the tankers stop
- ECONOMY: Thailand marks Labor Day/Fed remarks push down baht/Dour view for Thai banks/Manufacturing index increases/Marine world heritage or land bridge?
- TOURISM: Thai trips slow over holiday/Airfare surge freezes MICE bookings/Airport fees up 53%
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Best Cities in Thailand for Remote Workers/Thailand’s Coastal Golf Routes/Thai iced tea/Exploring Koh Yao Noi/World’s 50 Best Beaches
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar power installations in schools/BGRIM Inks Floating Solar Deal/How Southeast Asia Can Safeguard Nature
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Cha Am festival set for May 8-10
The first SEA–ART–CRAFT festival will take place in Cha Am from May 8-10, bringing together music, art, food, and community products from four provinces in the lower central provinces cluster 2.
The event will be held at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint in Phetchaburi and is open to the public free of charge. A press conference was held yesterday on the beach in front of Long Beach Hotel in Cha Am to announce details of the event, which is part of the International Cultural, Artistic and Craft Project of Phetchamut-Kiri. Continued …
WFFT celebrates 25 years
This May, the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) marks 25 years of rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting wildlife in Thailand. What began as a “hobby” caring for a few primates by founder and Director Edwin Wiek has grown into one of the country’s leading wildlife rescue organizations, providing sanctuary and veterinary care to hundreds of animals each year.
Founded in 2001, just a short distance from Hua Hin, WFFT was created in response to the widespread exploitation of wildlife across Thailand – from elephants used in riding and logging, to primates and bears kept as pets, or used in entertainment. The foundation’s mission is to give animals kept in unnatural and abusive conditions, far removed from their natural environments, a second chance at life. Continued …
Kui Buri National Park safari vehicle fee rises to 1,200 baht
Kui Buri National Park has increased the wildlife viewing vehicle fee from 850 baht to 1,200 baht per vehicle, effective from today. The adjustment applies to the safari-style vehicles used to take visitors into the Huai Luek wildlife watching area, one of the best-known locations in Thailand for seeing wild elephants and gaurs in their natural habitat.
The park said it had been informed of the fee change by the Kui Buri Wildlife Ecotourism Club, the authorized provider of wildlife viewing vehicle services within the park. According to the club, the increase is needed because of rising operating costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, labor, and other related expenses. Continued …
‘Integrated approach’ needed to curb Thai water woes
The government is preparing an integrated approach to improve the management of local water resources, with the goal of tackling floods and drought across all 22 major river basins in the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri outlined the plan yesterday at Government House ahead of a 2027 budget meeting on water management. The measures were endorsed following discussions with the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) a day earlier. They focus on preparedness for both flooding and water shortages. Continued …
Doctors Remove 1-meter Spear From Man’s Face in Korat
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.
The incident occurred yesterday after the victim was hit with the projectile, with it entering above his upper lip. Upon arrival at the emergency department in Nakhon Ratchasima, doctors assessed his condition and requested assistance from the Hook 31 rescue foundation, which brought a plasma cutting tool to remove the exposed section of the metal spear. Continued …
Trump signals Iran blockade could last months as costs of war surge
President Donald Trump said the U.S. is currently in “what some people would call” a war with Iran, a new distinction from the president one day before the Trump administration prepares to cross the 60-day threshold to receive congressional approval for the war or withdraw troops from Iran.
“I don’t call it a war … I’d rather have ‘military operation,'” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office yesterday afternoon. “But despite the fact that we are in what some people would call a war, we just hit a new high today on the stock market.” Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, who was grilled by Senators on Capitol Hill, said the ceasefire in Iran “pauses” the 60-day deadline set by the War Powers Act. Continued …
Middle East conflict hits Thailand as factories shut and layoffs rise
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.
The crisis, now stretching beyond two months since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, has disrupted global markets and pushed oil prices higher. The situation has been further exacerbated by the closure of key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery through which around 20%–25% of the world’s crude oil supply, or roughly 20–21 million barrels per day, passes. Continued …
Amid stagflation fears, fledgling Anutin government juggles economic tools
Faced with weak domestic demand, the Anutin Charnvirakul administration is considering numerous measures to deal with the fallout of the oil crisis caused by the Iran war.
The new government is busy preparing economic relief measures, as oil prices remain sky-high and there is no sign of an immediate end to the Middle East conflict that is triggering an oil crisis worldwide and threatening the global economy. Continued …
Thailand fuel prices climb
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.
Petrol, Gasohol 95, Gasohol 91, E85 and E20 rose by 85 satang per liter. As a result, retail fuel prices in Bangkok today, excluding local maintenance tax, are as follows: Continued …
Finance Ministry to seek 400-billion-baht loan decree as Middle East risks mount
Thailand is moving to build a new fiscal buffer against rising global risks, with the Finance Ministry preparing to submit a draft emergency borrowing decree worth up to 400 billion baht to Cabinet on May 5.
The proposed decree is intended to give the government additional funding capacity to cushion the economy from the impact of fighting in the Middle East, while also supporting the Thai Helps Thai Plus program, a major cost-of-living and purchasing-power stimulus package expected to begin in June. Continued …
Thai Transport Ministry weighs airline debt extension, Jet A-1 tax cut
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn met Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of the Airlines Association of Thailand, Bangkok Airways executives, and executives from Thai AirAsia, Thai VietJet Air, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air, to hear and discuss the impact on flight operating costs from the conflict in the Middle East.
Phiphat said the meeting was held to discuss the impact of rising aviation fuel prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East, which had left airlines carrying a heavy cost burden. 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.
Iran war also threatens Asia’s food security
As planting season dawned across Southeast Asia’s rice fields, Suchart Piamsomboon, a 60-year-old farmer from Thailand’s Chachoengsao province, went to the local shop for fertilizers. But the fertiliser had not arrived.
He was told, it might not arrive. Even if it did, it would cost over 1,100 baht a sack – a jump from the 800-900 baht it cost just over a month ago. By the time Piamsomboon got home, word was already circulating that prices could even hit 1,200 baht. Continued …
World rice supply under threat
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.
Rice is central to global food security, and even modest supply disruptions can ripple through countries, lifting prices and straining household budgets, particularly among price-sensitive consumers in Asia and Africa. Continued …
When the tankers stop, the tractors stop
For decades, the metric of success for the “Asian Miracle” has been the frantic movement of goods: the “just-in-time” supply chains, the burgeoning export volumes, and the rising GDP figures. But the war against Iran has stripped away these secondary layers of economic prestige.
We have learned that if a nation cannot power its factories or feed its people, its “miracle” is merely a borrowed illusion. In the present crisis, energy and food security are no longer just line items in a budget, they are the very definition of national sovereignty. Continued …
Thailand marks Labor Day
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.
For most employees in the private sector, Labor Day is recognized as a statutory holiday under labor protection laws. Those required to work on the day are entitled to additional pay, reinforcing the principle that workers should either receive rest or fair compensation. Civil servants, however, do not receive the same entitlement, as May 1 is not classified as an official public holiday for government offices. Continued …
Hawkish Fed remarks push down baht
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).
The Thai currency fell to a one-month low of 32.85 baht to the dollar in early morning trade yesterday, from Wednesday’s close of 32.69, after Fed chair Jerome Powell ended eight years as head of the US central bank with the benchmark interest rate on hold at 3.50%-3.75%. Continued …
Fitch has dour view for Thai banks
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).
Profitability remains sound, but thinner net interest margins (NIMs), weaker economic prospects, and pressure on borrower repayment capacity are likely to weigh on earnings and asset quality over the rest of the year, noted Fitch. Continued …
External risks linger as manufacturing index increases
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).
The automotive and petroleum industries played a key role in driving the MPI, growing by 0.55% and 1.48%, respectively. Domestic car sales increased in March, attributed mainly to the Bangkok International Motor Show held from March 25 to April 5. Continued …
Marine world heritage or the land bridge: which would make Thailand richer?
The government is pushing ahead with the Chumphon-Ranong Land Bridge, a mega-project worth more than 1 trillion baht, and is preparing to submit it to the Cabinet, with construction targeted by 2030. But study findings cited in recent public debate suggest the project may not offer value for money, while civic groups are calling for a review over concerns about environmental damage and the impact on local ways of life.
Critics argue that the proposed Southern Special Economic Corridor law would pave the way for large-scale industrial development in the south. According to the article’s cited interpretation of the draft framework, the SEC committee would have wide powers to buy, lease, and expropriate land, while draft provisions are described as opening long leases of up to 99 years and exempting at least 30 laws intended to protect the environment. Continued …
Thai trips slow over Labor-Coronation holiday as costs rise
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.
TAT therefore assessed that this year’s long holiday for National Labor Day and Coronation Day would see 2.83 million Thai visitor-trips, generate about B10.05 billion in circulating revenue, and record average accommodation occupancy of 64%, with Thai tourists accounting for 39% of average occupancy. Continued …
Airfare surge freezes new MICE bookings, threatening Thailand’s 163-billion-baht target
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.
Although confirmed events have not seen major cancellations, operators say new bookings for events in Thailand have largely failed to turn into signed contracts. The slowdown is starting to affect corporate travel decisions, large meetings, and seminar planning, while participant numbers are also showing signs of decline. Continued …
Airport fees up 53%
Airports of Thailand, or AOT, is preparing to raise the passenger service charge for outbound international travelers at six major airports by 53%, prompting the Thailand Development Research Institute to question the transparency of the move.
The new passenger service charge, or PSC, will rise from 730 baht to 1,120 baht for passengers departing Thailand on international flights from six AOT-operated airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai. The increase will take effect on June 20, and will be included in airfares. Continued …
Best Cities in Thailand for Expats and Remote Workers
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.
Choosing the right city is critical, as local conditions around connectivity, work environments, air quality, and urban functionality vary significantly between locations. This briefing compares the main Thai cities and regional centers that consistently attract expats and remote professionals, with an emphasis on the practicalities of working productively and sustainably from each location. Continued …
Thailand’s Coastal Golf Routes
You may already know Thailand as a land of golden temples, vibrant street markets, and warm, welcoming people. But here is something that might surprise you: Thailand is also Asia’s undisputed number one golf destination, with over 250 world-class courses and year-round sunshine.
For golfers around the world, Thailand offers something truly rare: a quality golf holiday, the service exceeds every expectation, and the price makes it feel almost too good to be true. Continued …
Thai iced tea cracks world top 10
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.
Known locally as cha yen, Thai iced tea was recognized alongside several well-known drinks from Colombia, Mexico, India, Cuba, Greece, and Japan. TasteAtlas’ ranking page, last updated on April 30, places Thai iced tea at No.9 with a 4.3 rating. Continued …
Exploring Koh Yao Noi, a relaxing alternative in Thailand
On Thailand’s many stunning islands, it’s easy to find thumping bars and full moon (and every other night of the month) parties with celebrating revelers. But what about clients who want a quiet, unspoiled island with the Goldilocks amount of tourist infrastructure?
Koh Yao Noi – the direct translation is “island long little” – is in the Andaman Sea’s Phang Nga Bay, about 30 minutes by boat from both Phuket and Krabi. Life here is tranquil and relaxed, without megaresorts and crowds. I first visited Koh Yao Noi 20 years ago and was pleasantly surprised on my recent return by its few changes. Continued …
Three Thai shores make the World’s 50 Best Beaches
Ever since “The Beach” turned Thailand’s coastline famous, the country’s never really left anyone’s travel bucket list. The pull’s still there. Soft sand, clear water, and that rhythm that somehow convinces you to stay longer than you planned.
The latest World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2026 has dropped, and Thailand has bagged three spots worth a mention. Donald Duck Bay stretches out in a long, pale curve with a properly laid-back mood. It’s tucked within a protected national park and only opens from November to May – monsoon closures keep it in good shape the rest of the year. Continued …
Thailand plans pilot solar power installations in schools
Education Minister Prasert Chandraruangthong has announced the government is preparing to pilot solar cell installations in schools, with priority given to institutions facing high electricity costs. The plan will be studied jointly by the ministries of education, interior, energy, and finance to develop a clear implementation framework.
The proposal was made in response to Cabinet approval of a 6-billion-baht budget framework under the Equitable Education Fund to expand scholarship support and reduce inequality. The allocation is about 1 billion baht higher than the previous framework and will support ongoing programs across the education sector. Continued …
BGRIM Inks Floating Solar Deal with Siam Toyota
Amata B.Grimm Power 5 has signed an 11.98 megawatt-peak (MWp) floating solar project contract with Siam Toyota Manufacturing Co. (STM).
Previously, STM expressed interest in clean energy and entered into a green energy purchase agreement with Amata B.Grimm Power 5 in 2025, to fulfill the factory’s green energy demand. However, with a commitment to maximize clean energy usage, STM decided to increase its power purchase from the Ffoating solar project to 11.98 MWp, formalizing this in an addendum signed on April 29. Commercial operation date (COD) of electricity trading is scheduled for May 5. Continued …
How Southeast Asia Can Safeguard Nature While Unlocking $2 Trillion Annually
A study by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) asserts that Southeast Asia could generate up to $2.19 trillion annually by investing in the protection of its biodiversity and natural infrastructure.
While the region’s ecosystems face unprecedented threats from habitat loss and extinction, the research demonstrates that conservation is not merely an environmental imperative but a significant economic opportunity. By prioritizing nature-positive initiatives, Southeast Asian nations can create jobs, boost local incomes, and establish the region as a global model for sustainable development. Continued …
- Israeli Gang Member Arrested on Koh Samui – Continued …
- Foreign Man Refuses to Pay Dental Bill in Pattaya Clinic – Continued …
- Three Chinese Arrested Over Fake Cosmetics in Samut Prakan – Continued …
- Chinese Duo Held in Chiang Mai for Bank Fraud Coercion – Continued …
Myanmar ex-leader Aung San Suu Kyi moved to house arrest
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. Continued …
US first-quarter growth rebounds less than expected as inflation surges
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. 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
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.
For decades, the economic heartbeat of South Asia has been inextricably linked to the pulse of the Persian Gulf. From the crude oil that fuels its growing industries to the billions in remittances that prop up its foreign exchange reserves, the region has long been the primary beneficiary of Gulf stability.
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. 
Thai people are being advised to brace for a prolonged and possibly extreme drought, which may last for up to three years due to El Niño weather phenomenon, according to the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) and Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).
They die quietly, one by one, doing the forest officials’ job, rewarded with little more than praise that masks state hypocrisy. In early April, Boonma Phadaeng, 56, collapsed and died after days of fighting a forest fire in Mae Rim district, Chiang Mai province.
Critics have warned that the military-led approach to handling the conflict in Thailand’s southern border provinces may be prolonging unrest rather than resolving it. Since violence resumed in 2004, the conflict in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat remains entrenched, rooted in historical, identity, and religious differences involving separatist groups.
The Thai retail landscape has reached a historic tipping point, with e-commerce now established as the sector’s primary engine of growth. Recent data reveals the digital market has surpassed the 1 trillion baht ($30 billion) threshold, accounting for 30% of total national retail value.
Thailand’s Fiscal Policy Office has cut its 2026 economic growth forecast to 1.6%, down from the 2.0% projection made in January, citing rising pressure from geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
Economists have played down the impact of the long-awaited second phase of the government’s latest co-payment plus scheme in propping up the subdued economy, citing a limited budget, while goods prices are expected to rise substantially from the second quarter due to elevated oil prices.
Thailand is emerging as one of Asia’s new wealth hubs as the global capital landscape shifts and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) become increasingly mobile, creating fresh momentum for Thailand’s high-end property, investment, and luxury lifestyle sectors.
Number of Japanese restaurants in Thailand declines
The Thai Travel Agents Assn. (TTAA) strongly opposes the government’s plan to levy a 1,000-baht departure tax on Thai travelers, warning it will hamper two-way tourism and hurt the economy during a cost-of-living crisis.
Thai Airways International has issued an important announcement on revisions to its fuel surcharge rates for tickets on international routes. The move comes under pressure from a “fuel crisis”, with global aviation fuel prices volatile and rising far beyond forecasts.
LA Songkran Event Sets Guinness Record with Pad Thai Sales
Twenty-two Sri Lankan Buddhist monks who had just returned from Thailand were arrested on April 25 at an airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after customs officers allegedly found cannabis hidden in their luggage. The monks were detained after officers found 110 kilograms of cannabis concealed in secret compartments inside their suitcases. 
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed it will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance from May 1, ending more than five decades of membership and dealing a fresh blow to the producers’ group as the Iran war continues to disrupt global energy flows. 
If the ancestors of Donald Trump and King Charles could see them today, the US president mused yesterday, they “would surely be filled with awe and pride that the Anglo-American revolution in human freedom” had survived to the present day. The White House captioned a photo of the moment, “TWO KINGS”. 
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.
At least 80% of governments will deploy AI agents to automate routine decision-making, enhancing efficiency and service delivery by 2028, according to the business and technology insights company Gartner Inc.
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.
Thailand’s economic outlook is under increasing strain as uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict continues, with authorities warning that a prolonged war could extend into 2027, dragging down growth and pushing inflation higher.
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.
Quasar Medical, a manufacturer of interventional and minimally invasive devices, has opened its newest manufacturing facility in Chonburi, Thailand. This new facility adds to the company’s initial investment in Thailand, and is Quasar’s third site in the country.
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 government’s renewed focus on rooftop solar in early 2026 stems from overlapping economic pressures, described by policymakers as a “crisis on crisis”. Global energy costs have surged amid the war in the Middle East, affecting fuel used for electricity generation. This has pushed up the fuel tariff, with further increases expected between May and August.
Thailand is preparing to extend its annual tax reduction for electric vehicles by another year, after a previous tax incentive helped push EV registrations far above expectations. A source at the Ministry of Transport said the Department of Land Transport has drafted a new royal decree to reduce the annual tax for electric-powered vehicles, following the expiry of the previous decree.
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. 
Fuel prices across Thailand will fall from today, with diesel dropping by 4 baht to 44.4 baht per liter and benzine also reduced, providing immediate relief ahead of the Songkran holiday period.
What Is Songkran, the Thai New Year Festival, and Where to Enjoy It
Songkran Thailand: A Timeless Tradition of Splashing Through Generations
Due to the surge in fuel prices, many travelers are booking trains to their hometowns ahead of the Songkran holiday. Passenger numbers at Buri Ram Railway Station rose by 30% compared to previous festival periods.
As Thais gear up for the upcoming Songkran holiday, I can’t help but notice how this year’s highly anticipated days off and time off work have a bit more nuance to them than usual. Granted, people are still discussing rest, relaxation and how they will fully utilize their time away from the office, while the jetset crowd will undoubtedly make full use of flying overseas and avoiding Middle Eastern routes, but something feels a bit different this year.
The Thai Meteorological Department has forecast weather conditions for April 11-16, saying Thailand will generally see hot to very hot weather, with hazy conditions during the day and thunderstorms in some areas.
Natural gas remains a cornerstone of global power generation despite mounting concerns over liquefied natural gas (LNG) shortages linked to Middle East tensions, according to Gulf Developmentc, Thailand’s largest energy company by market value and a major telecoms operator.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has rejected calls for an excise tax cut on refined oil products, saying that such a move would affect medical services and warning that the era of cheap oil prices is over, at least for the next two years, due to damage inflicted on oil infrastructure in the Middle East.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with fee collection as proposed by Iran, together with high oil prices, is dampening the prospects for Thai exports and may push overseas shipments into contraction this year, economists say.
Thailand has not yet entered full-blown stagflation, but the country is moving closer to a point where weak growth and rising prices could collide in a far more damaging way.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has recently stated that the current energy crisis could be Thailand’s last opportunity to restructure its economy and ensure long-term survival.
15-year-old girl collects bottles to support family
The Department of Medical Services recommends that anyone planning to visit countries where Meningococcal disease is prevalent be vaccinated first to prevent infection. Dr. Sakan Bunnag, the department’s deputy chief, said the disease is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It leads to meningitis and spinal cord infection, he said.
Elephants join in Songkran festivities in Ayutthaya
Phuket’s Songkran celebrations have long stood apart from the rest of Thailand’s travel experiences — not merely for the scale of the water fights, but for the particular alchemy of beach culture, Sino-Portuguese heritage, and deep Buddhist tradition that gives the island its distinct New Year character.
Need some inspiration for your next vacation? Consider a short getaway to nearby Thailand, which is brimming with some of the region’s most beautiful and luxurious resort destinations. Here’s what to see and do in the idyllic enclaves of Hua Hin, Krabi, Phuket, Samui, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai, and the best hotels to stay at.
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has announced urgent measures to accelerate plastic recycling in Thailand, as the country grapples with a shortage of plastics caused by the ongoing Israel–US conflict with Iran. The initiative, he said, is not only aimed at easing immediate supply pressures but also at strengthening long-term environmental protection.
In 2020, Thai authorities announced that they would endeavour to make Thailand a regional electric vehicle (EV) hub in just five years. True enough, by 2025, Chinese EV manufacturing companies had made the country a solid base.
Humanity took a giant leap closer to the lunar surface last evening as the Artemis II Orion spacecraft, Integrity, successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. The safe return of the four-person crew marks the conclusion of a historic 10-day mission and the first time humans have journeyed to the vicinity of the Moon in over half a century. 
New 24/7 Pet Channel targets China’s growing pet market
Songkran events calendar for Hua Hin
AirAsia has confirmed its summer flight schedule for the Hua Hin–Chiang Mai route, with direct flights operating until Oct. 30.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has introduced the “Khirikhan Guarantee” as part of efforts to strengthen its position in wellness tourism, with officials aiming to raise standards and build confidence among visitors.
Located around 1 hour 30 minutes from Hua Hin, the viewpoint offers panoramic views across Prachuap Bay and the surrounding coastline, along with a cave at the top. The hike is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness, with park rangers on hand to assist and rope sections installed along parts of the trail. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said in its weather report today that temperatures could reach 42°C. The north, northeast and central regions should brace for strong winds and thunderstorms, while 30% of the south’s west coast is forecast to see heavy rain.
The global energy market remains highly volatile after tensions in the Middle East flared up again, despite earlier reports of a two-week temporary ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, which had pushed world oil prices lower on hopes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would return to normal.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas yesterday warned that energy prices may not return to pre-conflict low level for another one to two years. The impact is not limited to energy, he said, but could also spread to the prices of other goods, as the Middle East is a major exporter of oil, natural gas, chemical fertilizers, and many other important raw materials.
Thailand’s economic outlook is facing mounting uncertainty as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to weigh on global energy markets, prompting authorities to reassess growth projections and warn of rising stagflation risks.
Bangchak Corp. has confirmed it did not pay the Iranian government to allow an oil tanker to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, following reports suggesting a financial exchange.
Thai consumer confidence dropped sharply in March, with the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) falling to 51.8, its lowest level in six months. The decline marks the steepest monthly fall since October last year, reflecting growing concern over rising living costs and global instability. The downturn is already affecting spending behavior, with households cutting back on non-essential purchases.
Thailand continues to attract foreign buyers seeking both lifestyle and investment exposure, but strict ownership rules and highly localized market conditions mean that choosing the right city is critical.
Thai Sugar Millers Corp. (TSMC) has outlined its approach to managing domestic sugar prices as production costs continue to rise due to global economic pressures and energy market volatility. The corporation confirmed that retail sugar prices would remain frozen throughout April in a bid to help ease the cost-of-living burden on the public.
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) has revised down its forecast for this year’s Songkran spending to as low as 120 billion baht, from a previous 129.6 billion baht, citing rising diesel prices.
Thailand’s tourism minister has vowed to restore tourism revenue to more than 3 trillion baht, exceeding pre-pandemic levels within the new government’s four-year term, and will proceed with a 300-baht tourism fee, as adopted in many countries.
With the rising demand for cost-effective, technologically advanced, and high-quality medical care, medical tourism is at an all-time high. Destinations like Thailand currently top the global list. However, over the past decade, the notion of healthcare has expanded far beyond its traditional definition.
Three of Thailand’s leading energy and industrial players — REPCO NEX, B.Grimm Power, and SCG Cleanergy — have officially launched a joint utility-scale solar project with a total capacity of 247MWp. Spanning across Kamphaeng Phet, Nakhon Sawan, and Saraburi provinces, the initiative is designed to replace fossil fuel dependency with clean energy, providing enough electricity to power approximately 100,000 households.
Government data released yesterday pointed to a weaker finish to last year for the US economy than earlier estimated, after lower business investment, including inventory accumulation, led to a fresh downgrade in fourth-quarter growth, even as corporate profits jumped sharply. 
The emperor penguin, one of the most recognizable symbols of Antarctica, has officially been reclassified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, in a stark new sign of the accelerating damage caused by global warming. 
The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), Hua Hin Branch has announced there will be temporary power outage in some areas of Hua Hin on 8 April 2026.
We don’t have to look very far to find a useful historical analogy for the current crisis in the Middle East. In 1967, Egypt closed the Strait of Tiran to Israeli ships, and Israel replied with a surprise air attack that destroyed almost the entire Egyptian air force on the ground.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the outcome of the special Cabinet meeting held yesterday at Government House, saying that the fighting in the Middle East, a key global source of oil and natural gas, has caused the prices of oil and natural gas, as well as by-products of oil and gas production such as fertilizer and plastic pellets, to rise rapidly on world markets.
Thailand has come under renewed trade scrutiny from the United States after the Office of the United States Trade Representative released its 2026 National Trade Estimate Report, a wide-ranging annual review of foreign trade barriers affecting US exports and investment. The report forms part of the Trump administration’s broader push to challenge what it describes as unfair trade practices and expand reciprocal market access.
Confidence among Thai business leaders has fallen sharply, with only 24% of chief executives expressing strong confidence in their organizations’ revenue growth this year, down from 47% in 2023 and the lowest level in three years.
Thai exports in February slowed to a growth of 9.9% year-on-year (YOY), with a total export value of US$29.4 billion. This was a significant deceleration from January’s 24.4% YOY surge and below forecasts.
Motor Show bookings hit record high, reaching 21% of annual target
Rising fuel prices, fears of shortages, and the ongoing war in the Middle East are dampening travel sentiment in Thailand ahead of the Songkran festival, with operators warning domestic demand may be weaker or flat compared with last year. Higher costs are discouraging long-distance trips, prompting many people to stay closer to home.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has launched chartered tourist and luxury train services aimed at increasing revenue and promoting domestic travel. The initiative allows organizations and travelers to hire entire trains or individual carriages for tourism, leisure, or business purposes.
The Thai Hotels Association’s southern chapter is urging authorities to boost direct flights from Europe to Phuket in response to tourism disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The ongoing war has led to abrupt halts in flights, as several airlines suspended operations. This has caused a decrease in European tourist arrivals at Phuket International Airport by 4% in late March.
Tastes of Nostalgia: The region’s disappearing recipes
The government has added bottled drinking water and seasoning sauces to its price-control list, along with plastic pellets, in order to prevent undue price increases in light of cost pressures arising from the Middle East war.
The 15th edition of the Princess Pa’s Cup InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo Hua Hin took place on Saturday, bringing a blend of sport, society, and seaside elegance to the beachfront of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Hazardous levels of ultrafine dust covered Bangkok and 58 of Thailand’s 76 provinces yesterday afternoon, with air quality reaching levels considered harmful to health.
Inspectors from the Department of Internal Trade (DIT), under the Commerce Ministry, have been conducting random inspections of outlets selling LPG cooking gas and gas-filling facilities to ensure they are not cheating customers by selling less gas than the tanks’ stated capacity.
The war in the Middle East, now in its second month, is hitting global trade, as shipping costs climb in line with higher oil prices, while freight rates have also risen sharply.
Thailand’s rising cost of living is becoming increasingly hard for households to bear, with a new survey showing that most people are already feeling the strain as Songkran approaches.
Restaurants are bracing for less vibrant sales during the Songkran holiday this year, which runs from April 11-15, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn. With the Middle East war driving up the cost of living and reducing consumer purchasing power, Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said food is often the first thing people cut from their budgets.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told shoppers while inspecting prices of goods on sale at a shopping mall in Bangkapi area of Bangkok Saturday that a round of 50:50 co-payment scheme will be implemented after April 30.
Thai manufacturers have been further hit with a double whammy as a severe shortage of microchips has thrown this market into turmoil, while prices of all types of steel products are initially rising by 10%-15% this month.
Thailand is pushing for regulations that would require international tourists to obtain accident insurance before entering the country, as rising unpaid medical bills and accident risks place a mounting strain on public healthcare.
Tourist numbers along Jomtien Beach have dropped noticeably in recent days, leaving normally busy beachfront areas unusually quiet and raising concerns among local operators. A survey of the area found a clear decline in visitors, with long stretches of beach appearing sparse compared to the typically lively atmosphere Pattaya is known for.
Thailand’s aviation sector is starting to show clearer signs of strain from the worsening oil crisis, with Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X suspending selected routes during the 2026 summer schedule as surging fuel costs weigh more heavily on operations. The move comes as energy tensions linked to the Middle East conflict continue to push up aviation costs globally.
On the right track along Bangkok’s rail lines
Organic farming becomes a new pillar in the global food trade
Grab Thailand is accelerating its Grab EV program in response to the ongoing energy crisis by announcing strategic partnerships with nine new partners, including EV manufacturers and distributors, as well as taxi cooperatives.
For the first time in more than half a century, astronauts will fly around the Moon today, marking the high point of the Artemis 2’s lunar mission. The flyby will last around seven hours, starting today around 2:45 p.m. eastern US time (1845 GMT) and ending around 9:20 p.m. (0120 GMT). 
Wild elephants were spotted gathering at the Pa La-U reservoir in Kaeng Krachan National Park yesterday, with officials counting at least 32 animals at the water’s edge and in the surrounding area.
Chiang Mai has declared wildfire disaster zones in two districts, as worsening forest fires and haze continue to impact northern areas, prompting authorities to accelerate emergency assistance and recovery efforts.
Thai food exports fell by 10.5% in the first two months of 2026, with further declines expected as the Middle East war begins to disrupt global trade routes from March. Exports were valued at B202.1 billion, reflecting weak global demand, rising costs and growing trade restrictions.
Thailand is stepping up efforts to become a regional artificial intelligence hub, after Microsoft pledged a $1 billion investment over the next two years to strengthen digital infrastructure and skills development.
Home improvement is one of the most – if not the most – cyclical of all retail categories, and the one most susceptible to weak consumer confidence. So, it is hardly surprising that, as Thailand’s DIY market, the biggest in Southeast Asia, struggles with weak consumer confidence, household debt, rising energy costs, and an otherwise choppy macroeconomic backdrop, retailers are getting less productivity out of their giant warehouses.
Today, three men and one woman are set to embark on the first crewed journey to the Moon since 1972, a landmark odyssey that aims to launch the United States into a new era of space exploration. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) mission dubbed Artemis 2 has been years in the making after facing repeated setbacks, but is finally scheduled to take off from Florida as early as today at 6.24 pm (2224 GMT). 
Thailand is getting older, and quietly, a new kind of property boom is taking shape. First-time buyers or speculative investors do not drive it. It is being fueled by something far more predictable. Demographics.
The Hua Hin Model is being positioned as a blueprint to transform the city into a health innovation hub, following the signing of a multi-agency agreement aimed at integrating lifestyle medicine into schools.
More than 1,200 runners took part in Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026 at Khao Tao Reservoir in Hua Hin yesterday, with organizers saying the event was held to promote exercise, support tourism and raise funds for local sports development.
Business leaders are calling for the government to study long-term energy security strategies to reduce reliance on imported energy and expand access to renewable sources in the wake of the ongoing crisis stemming from war in the Middle East. The crisis also serves as a wake-up call for some businesses to explore alternative energy options for the long run.
The ongoing energy crisis has underscored the need for Thailand to accelerate the development of a broader mix of energy sources to strengthen its self-reliance, according to an analyst.
Energy Expert Warns of Possible Diesel Shortage in Thailand
Thailand could face a diesel shortage within two months, according to global energy expert Panurach Dumrongthai, who warned that confirmed crude oil deliveries for April and May fall 27 million barrels short of national demand.
Three swine organizations have announced another increase in recommended live pig farm-gate prices, raising the guidance level by B2 per kilogram with effect today.
The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a broad package of cost-of-living relief measures, including discounts of up to 50% on consumer goods from Wednesday, tighter oversight of fertilizer prices, and accelerated efforts to reduce farmers’ production costs.
Imported parcels delivered directly to recipients in Thailand have decreased in volume, while their prices have increased as a result of Customs Department measures.
A tourist in southern Thailand was left shaken after a cobra slithered across their neck while they were resting in a hotel room in Krabi province. The incident occurred Friday when the guest, staying on the second floor, reported feeling something cold moving across their neck before discovering it was a cobra.
The Immigration Bureau has warned foreign travelers against fraudulent websites offering Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) services for a fee, stressing that registration, while mandatory, is free and available only through official channels.
Where to eat in Chiang Mai, from markets to coffee houses
Embark on a vibrant food tour through Chiang Mai. Discover the best places to eat for local northern Thai food, from charming cafes serving iced coffee and Thai iced tea to bustling street stalls offering classics like mango sticky rice, pad Thai, and roti.
In August 2025, Malaysian campaigner Wong Pui Yi stood outside the UN headquarters in Geneva and made an appeal to Global North nations: “Stop treating the Global South as the rubbish bin for plastic waste you cannot handle.”
Caretaker transport minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is stepping up efforts to switch all diesel-powered interprovincial buses in Bangkok to electric buses during the Anutin Charnvirakul administration to save on oil expenses.
Thousands of anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ events take place across the US