- Our newest sponsor: Palapon Kitchen/Prachuap accountants in nominee probe/Hua Hin Food Festival/Hua Hin Rotary Club/Some premium fuel prices cut/Under-16 Social Media Ban /9 million IDs stolen/Healthcare Heading for a Reckoning/Common fare plan for Bangkok rail/Crayfish on the loose
- THE IRAN WAR: Hope and doubt shadow agreement/US Senate backs move to end Iran war/US trying to work out a fair deal/No confidence in Trump
- ECONOMY: Fragile Triggers Drag Down Growth/Price-control list expanded/Energy to pressure inflation/Finances worry Thai Gen Z, millennials/Bangkok riverside land values climb/Chinese investment drives EEC land prices
- TOURISM: Why travelers are saying ‘Thank you, Thailand’/Tourism revival plans take shape/Tourism co-payment subsidy/Bangkok in top five for flight bookings/Demolition of encroaching beach hotels
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Moo Kata makes Thailand’s table glow/7-Eleven a must-visit for travelers/Shophouses shape Bangkok’s dining scene/Cutting Thailand’s Giant Jackfruit/Thai Hospitality in Krabi and Koh Lanta/Ubon park UNESCO listing
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand Turns to Green Transition/’Waste not, want not’ /World’s richest causing environmental damage
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Please welcome our newest sponsor:
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We offer direct coordination between Camp Palapon and Palapon Kitchen. We want the local community to know that we offer a complete cycle for health and wellness. While Camp Palapon provides the intense physical training and martial arts instruction, Palapon Kitchen serves as the essential recovery fuel. We designed our “real food” delivery system to provide the exact, calorie-controlled nutrition that perfectly complements an active lifestyle. It is the ultimate combination of active life and eating clean.
Contact us today to reserve your meal prep slot for the upcoming week. Tel: 092 449 2560; Web; e-mail: palapon69@gmail.com.
Prachuap accountants caught up in nominee probe
Thailand’s nominee crackdown has widened to accounting firms in Prachuap Khiri Khan, as authorities investigate businesses suspected of using Thai nationals to hide foreign ownership.
The Department of Business Development, under the Ministry of Commerce, said on Monday it had expanded checks to accounting firms in eight tourism provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Surat Thani, Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga. Continued …
Hua Hin Food Festival plans discussed
The Hua Hin Food Festival 2026 will include a “Hua Hin International Pad Thai” showcase as part of this year’s event, which will be held Aug. 28-30. Preparations for the festival were discussed on Monday during a meeting chaired by Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wuttikul at the Hua Hin municipal office.
The meeting brought together municipal officials, members of the Cha Am–Hua Hin Chefs Club and hotel business operators to discuss preparations for the event. Continued …
Hua Hin Rotary Club elects new president
The Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin held its 17th annual Club Officers’ Installation Night yesterday at Amari Hua Hin Resort, marking the start of the 2026-2027 Rotary year. Napa Kaewtem was installed as the club’s new president, taking over from Brian Anderson, the outgoing president from the United States.
Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wuttikul attended the ceremony with Deputy Mayor Busaba Choksuchat to congratulate the new president and recognize the club’s contribution to the local community. Continued …
Some premium fuel prices cut by up to 4.20 baht
OR has cut retail prices for selected premium fuels by B1.20-4.20 per liter, with the new prices taking effect from 5 am today.
The reduction applies only to premium fuel products sold by PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR), while prices for other OR petrol, gasohol and diesel products remain unchanged. Bangchak Corp. (BCP) has kept prices for all fuel types unchanged. Continued …
Thailand Studies Under-16 Social Media Ban
Thailand is again studying whether to introduce a law barring children under the age of 16 from using social media, in a move aimed at reducing excessive screen time among young users. The proposal could lead to tighter regulation of platform access for minors if implemented.
The idea was raised by Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri on Monday in his role as chairman of the board of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, known as ThaiHealth. He cited foundation data showing that more than 93% of Thai people use the internet, with an average daily online time of 7 hours and 54 minutes. ThaiHealth also reported that among children aged 0 to 2, about 72.6% have more than one hour of screen time per day, a level it warns may affect learning, communication, and age-appropriate development. Continued …
9 million IDs of doctors, retirees, and more stolen
Nine people were arrested on Monday for allegedly stealing the identities of about 9 million individuals, with the stolen data found categorized into “doctors”, “the rich”, “retirees” and “teachers”.
Deputy national Police Chief Suwat Saengnoom said the suspects were arrested in a series of raids spanning 22 locations in 16 provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Sawan, Khon Kaen, Sa Kaeo, Mae Hong Son, Lampang, Lop Buri, Amnat Charoen, Chanthaburi, and Ayutthaya. Continued …
Asia-Pacific Healthcare Heading for a Reckoning It Can No Longer Ignore
According to Bain & Company’s fourth biennial Front Line of Healthcare report, drawing on surveys of 600 doctors and 6,300 consumers across nine markets, the region’s healthcare systems are caught in a compounding crisis of their own making: demand is surging, supply is crumbling, and the people meant to hold it all together are walking out the door. This is not a cyclical blip. It is a structural reckoning, and the window for decisive action is narrowing.
Asia-Pacific is home to 60% of the world’s population and carries a disproportionate share of the global disease burden. Yet, it accounts for just 22% of global healthcare spending. Emerging Asia-Pacific countries average roughly 1.6 doctors per 1,000 people, and excluding China, that number falls to approximately 0.9. The World Health Organization’s minimum threshold is 2.5. Continued …
Cabinet approves 17–45 baht common fare plan for Bangkok rail
Bangkok commuters may finally be getting closer to something they have wanted for years: multiple trains, one ticket, and cheaper transportaion. Thailand’s Cabinet yesterday approved a cost-of-living measure to introduce a common fare system across urban rail transit lines, allowing passengers to travel for between 17 and 45 baht under a single-ticket scheme.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said yesterday the policy would cover all rail lines and colors, with passengers paying the entry fare only once when transferring between different networks. Continued …
Crayfish on the loose in Phayao Lake
Officials are scrambling to contain the spread of crayfish in Phayao Lake in Thailand’s Phayao province, after local fisherfolk have been finding them in increasing numbers in their traps. Phayao Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northern Thailand and the fourth largest in the country.
(Editor: Crayfish are considered a delicacy in many southern American states, with people comparing them to freshwater lobster.)
Phutana Chompooming, deputy governor of Phayao, has launched a campaign encouraging locals to catch the crayfish to eat, to help suppress what is regarded locally as an invasive species. Continued …
Hope and doubt shadow new Iran agreement
If is a big and most consequential word in the English language. The word connotes wishes, conditionality, and often aspirations. If also is one of the shortest words holding a very long explanatory meaning that embodies hope but just as easily signals fatalism.
If, for example, the Islamic Republic of Iran were to adhere to and honor the current memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States, there may be a mutually beneficial peace settlement for the US, Israel, and its Arab Gulf allies. Continued …
US Senate backs move to end Iran war, piling pressure on Trump
The US Senate has passed a resolution directing President Donald Trump to halt American military operations against Iran, with support from several Republican senators in a rare rebuke of the president.
The Senate voted 50-48 yesterday in favor of the War Powers Resolution, which had already been approved by the House of Representatives earlier this month. The vote reflects growing concern in Congress, including among some Republicans, over the conflict with Iran, which began on Feb. 28. Continued …
Trump says US trying to work out a fair deal with Iran
U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday (June 23) said his administration was trying to work out a fair deal with Iran and that the U.S. and Iran were getting along well. Video …
Over 75% of adults in global survey have no confidence in Trump
An average of 76% of adults surveyed in 35 countries, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, have no confidence in US President Donald Trump’s leadership of global affairs, with ratings for the United States negative in many places in Europe and Asia, an established research institute said yesterday.
Pew Research Center, which did not ask people in the United States, found that a majority in only five countries surveyed – the Philippines, Israel, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana – rated Trump favorably. Continued …
Three Fragile Triggers Drag Down Growth as Baht Hits One-Year Low
The Thai economy is facing an uphill battle against a trio of deep-seated structural vulnerabilities, even as major economic research centers nudge short-term growth forecasts upward. In its latest economic outlook, the Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center (SCB EIC) upgraded Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for this year to 2% from a previous estimate of 1.7%.
Economists warn, however, that the headline figure masks severe domestic friction. Economic growth is projected to slow further to 1.9% next year, reflecting a structural slowdown far below the country’s historical average growth rate of 2.5% to 3%. Continued …
Price-control list expanded to 66 items
The cabinet has approved the expansion of the list of price-controled goods and services to 66. The list now includes 61 essential goods and five services, for which providers must seek prior approval for price changes.
The new list consolidates previously approved controled goods and services, while adding five new categories: soybean meal, white sea bass, young coconuts and coconut products, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Continued …
Energy to pressure inflation in second half of year
The SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC), a research center under Siam Commercial Bank, expects energy costs will continue to propel inflation in the second half of the year, even as the Middle East war shows signs of de-escalation.
Although tensions between the US and Iran have begun to subside, the Brent crude price is expected to remain elevated compared with the pre-war level. In the EIC’s view, Brent is expected to average US$85 per barrel throughout 2026, potentially falling to $80 in the second half, according to chief economist Yunyong Thaicharoen. Continued …
Finances worry Thai Gen Z and millennials
Thai Generation Z and millennials are experiencing greater concern about their financial future than their peers in many other countries, with housing affordability a particularly acute pressure point, a survey by Deloitte has found.
At the same time, the research shows, these two generational cohorts are prioritizing stability, work-life balance and purpose during times of financial pressures. Continued …
Bangkok riverside land values climb around heritage districts
Among Bangkok’s prime land locations with strong potential and the most public discussion, few rival the Charoen Nakhon, Charoen Krung, and Khlong San areas across the Phra Nakhon and Thon Buri sides. The Chao Phraya River runs through the middle, drawing the two banks together.
Today, the area is filled with condominium projects, luxury hotels, and premium shopping centers. Land prices have risen from below 25,000 baht per square meter to no less than 125,000 baht and as high as 250,000 baht per square meter, with further increases likely. Continued …
Chinese investment drives EEC land prices higher in Thailand
Chinese investors are becoming a more powerful force in Thailand’s industrial-property market, with growing demand for factory land in the Eastern Economic Corridor pushing Chonburi and Rayong further into the spotlight.
The shift is reflected in data from the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), which shows the share of Chinese investors in Thai industrial estates rising steadily over the past six years. In 2019, Chinese investors accounted for just 6% of investors in industrial estates. By the end of the first quarter of 2026, that share had climbed to 17.06%, behind only Japan at 22.75%. Continued …
Why travelers are saying “Thank you, Thailand” before they fly home
In the old language of travel, the final souvenir was something tucked into a suitcase: silk, spices, ceramics, perhaps a fridge magnet from Bangkok or Phuket. In 2026, Thailand’s most elegant keepsake may be something lighter, cheaper and far more powerful: a palms-pressed wai, a smile, and a sincere “kob khun”.
The viral #ThankYouThailand movement has turned the end-of-trip video into a small act of post-trip diplomacy. Thai media reported earlier this year that foreign visitors were posting “Thank you Thailand” clips as they wrapped up their holidays, often bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed recaps of their journeys — from food and massages to tuk-tuk rides, temples and the warmth of local people. Continued …
Tourism revival plans take shape
The government is considering a 15-day visa exemption for Indian travelers and a 30-day exemption for all European Union (EU) countries, while assessing that easing geopolitical tensions could lift tourism revenue this year back to 2025 levels.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said yesterday that revisions to visa rules for certain countries would be proposed at the next meeting of the visa policy committee. Continued …
Thailand seeks 3 billion baht to revive tourism co-payment subsidy and boost domestic travel
Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry is preparing to revive a state-backed tourism co-payment scheme as part of a wider push to stimulate travel in the second half of 2026.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the ministry expects to seek at least B3 billion baht from the 2027 central budget to support the program, which would subsidize hotel stays and tourism services for domestic travelers. Continued …
Bangkok ranks in global top five for first-half flight bookings
As summer 2026 gets underway, the global tourism industry is regaining strong momentum, and one metropolis drawing attention from travelers from around the world is “Bangkok”.
The latest data from Trip.com Group shows Bangkok has surged into the top five major cities worldwide for flight bookings in the first half of the year, alongside Seoul, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Continued …
Demolition of encroaching beach hotels in Phuket to start next month
Authorities will start to demolish hotels that encroach on beaches and reserved forest land in Phuket next month, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin said yesterday.
Officials have surveyed buildings that encroached on Nui beach on the island’s southwest coast and already rejected petitions from the owners. Demolition notices have been posted on the encroaching properties, with owners given a deadline of July 9 to comply. Continued …
The sizzle of socialization: How Moo Kata makes Thailand’s table glow
In Thailand, dinner does not always arrive perfectly composed on porcelain. Sometimes it comes hissing on a dome-shaped grill, surrounded by broth, chopsticks, laughter, and the quiet diplomacy of passing the tongs.
That is the charm of Moo Kata, the cook-it-yourself Thai barbecue that has grown from an everyday craving into one of the country’s most expressive dining rituals. Continued …
Why Thailand’s 7-Eleven has become a must-visit for travelers
In Thailand, the most talked-about travel ritual of 2026 may not begin at a temple, rooftop bar, or Michelin-listed restaurant. It starts under fluorescent lights, beside a refrigerated aisle, with a plastic-wrapped sandwich waiting to be toasted.
For a new generation of travelers, Thailand’s 7-Eleven has become a 24-hour oasis: part snack stop, part cultural playground, part budget-friendly eatery. CP All says 7-Eleven had more than 15,000 branches nationwide in 2024, making it almost impossible for visitors not to stumble into one during a late-night walk, island transfer, or early-morning caffeine hunt. Continued …
Thailand’s shophouses shape Bangkok’s Michelin dining scene
In Bangkok, the dining room of the moment does not always arrive polished in marble and glass. It may sit behind a narrow frontage, up a steep old staircase, beside the roar of a wok, or inside a building that still carries the memory of trade, family, and neighborhood life.
The Thai shophouse, once regarded as everyday urban architecture, is becoming one of the country’s most valuable culinary stages. Its appeal lies in a delicious contradiction: food can be precise without becoming sterile, and refined without losing the heat, smoke, and instinct that made Bangkok one of the world’s great eating cities. Continued …
Cutting Thailand’s Giant Jackfruit
The jackfruit is the largest tree fruit, reaching as much as 55 kilograms (120 pounds) in weight, 90 centimeters (35 inches) in length, and 50 centimeters (20 inches) in diameter. A mature jackfruit tree produces some 200 fruits per year, with older trees bearing up to 500 fruits in a year. The jackfruit is a multiple fruit composed of hundreds to thousands of individual flowers; the fleshy petals of the unripe fruit are eaten in addition to the ripened fruit. Video …
Journey Through Wellness, Sustainability, and Authentic Thai Hospitality in Krabi and Koh Lanta
Some destinations captivate with their beauty, others leave a lasting impact through the experiences they offer. A recent journey through Krabi and Koh Lanta in southern Thailand revealed a destination where sustainability, wellness, and community-based tourism come together to create travel experiences that nourish both the planet and the traveler.
Towering limestone cliffs emerge dramatically from turquoise waters, while lush mangrove forests and pristine beaches reflect the region’s deep commitment to preserving its natural treasures. Yet, beyond the breathtaking scenery, it was the destination’s dedication to responsible tourism and holistic well-being that truly defined the experience. Continued …
Ubon park put forward for UNESCO listing
A proposal is going ahead to nominate Ubon Ratchathani Geopark for recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its unique geological formations, fossil heritage, and rich local culture.
The move, put forward by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and approved by the cabinet yesterday, aims to elevate Thailand’s natural and cultural assets to international prominence, while fostering sustainable tourism, education, and community-based economic development. Continued …
Thailand Turns to Green Transition as Energy Insecurity Threatens Growth
Thailand must accelerate its shift away from fossil fuels or risk falling permanently behind its regional peers, the chief economist of SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) warned this week, as the kingdom’s heavy dependence on imported energy leaves it acutely vulnerable to global volatility.
Speaking at a press conference on Thailand’s economic outlook for 2026–2027, Yunyong Thaicharoen said energy security had become one of the defining structural challenges for the country, particularly in the wake of continued instability in the Middle East. Continued …
‘Waste not, want not’ a winning mantra
Waste management is one of the most essential public services a city can and must provide. When it breaks down – even briefly – thousands of tons of rubbish pile up fast. Foul odors spread across neighborhoods.
Worse still, disease can follow, turning a local nuisance into a public health disaster. Yet, despite affecting daily life, waste rarely gets the attention it deserves. Continued …
World’s richest 10% causing environmental damage worth $5.7 trillion annually
The top 10% of global consumers cause $5.7 trillion in annual environmental damage, as they drive global challenges evolving into systemic economic and financial risks requiring immediate collective action, according to a Leiden University study.
Concentrated heavily in the global north, including over half of the US population and up to 45% of the EU, the wealthy group drives a stark disparity, with an individual American making up to $63,000 in yearly damage compared to India’s top 10% causing just $1,400 in per capita damage. Continued …
Chinese Envoy Challenges ‘Gray Chinese’ Label in Thailand
China’s ambassador to Thailand has expressed concern over the use of the term “gray Chinese”, saying it unfairly stereotypes Chinese people and has led some in China to view Thailand as unfriendly. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul revealed the discussion before a Cabinet meeting at Government House in Bangkok yesterday. Continued …
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Chinese Food Delivery Apps in Bangkok and Pattaya being investigated – Continued …
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Phuket Authorities Detain 19 Chinese Workers at Site – Continued …
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Thai Marine Police Seize Chinese Tour Boat in Phuket – Continued …
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Immigration Probes Chinese Agent Claims at Suvarnabhumi – Continued …
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British Man Assaults Municipal Officers in Chiang Mai – Continued …
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Foreign Man Throws Acid at Apartment Worker in Pattaya – Continued …
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Phuket Police Charge Icelandic Tourist Over Taxi Theft – Continued …
Reversing Brexit is the UK Labor Party’s best hope
In the next few weeks, Britain’s ruling Labor Party will select a new leader to replace Keir Starmer. But this prospect has not inspired hope of a political or economic renewal. Among British media and, more importantly, global financial markets, the consensus is that any revisions to the failing Starmer government’s policies will only make things worse. Continued …
Australia’s tax revamp chills its long love affair with property
As Australia moves to scrap key property investment tax breaks, some investors are taking a wait-and-see approach as the new policy takes shape. The shift, the biggest in decades, is seen by some as ending Australia’s long love affair with property investment. Video …
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
Sam Roi Yot Run Ep.7 will offer distances of 2.7km, 5km and 10km along scenic coastal routes through local communities. Entry fees vary depending on registration period, with general registration open until May 31. 
The Commerce Ministry is preparing action against 140 “grey accountants” as part of a nationwide crackdown on the use of Thai nominees to conceal foreign ownership in restricted businesses.
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has issued new penalty guidelines that include license suspensions or revocations for cannabis businesses found to breach the department’s requirements.
The price of fertilizers is trending downward, with shipments from the Middle East currently en route to Thailand, says the Commerce Minister.
The Thai baht opened the week at 32.94 per US dollar yesterday, drifting toward the psychologically significant 33 threshold as a confluence of external headwinds and domestic vulnerabilities battered sentiment.
Thailand’s exports posted double-digit growth in May but at a slower pace than April, a Commerce Ministry official said yesterday. Customs-cleared exports rose by 23.1% in April from a year earlier. May data is due later this week.
Thailand’s property market is seeing a major shift as developers move beyond simply delaying new launches and begin selling land and ready-to-develop projects to preserve liquidity.
Thailand’s luxury hotel sector is emerging as one of the country’s most attractive investment assets, as global economic uncertainty pushes investors toward properties seen as resilient, scarce, and capable of generating long-term returns.
Thailand’s world heritage-level performing arts have taken center stage in Europe and South Korea, as Khon, Nora, Songkran traditions, and Thai classical dance were showcased in Frankfurt and Seoul as part of a wider push to promote Thai cultural soft power overseas.
Tha Phra Chan clings to Thai herbal traditions
Thailand’s government is advancing its green hospital policy by promoting clean and renewable energy in public health facilities to reduce operating costs, improve energy efficiency, and support the country’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.
The Danish Embassy in Thailand has announced that Danish Ambassador to Thailand Danny Annan will host an informal gathering for Danes in Hua Hin on Thursday. The event will take place from 2 pm to 4 pm at Ferior Interior in Hua Hin and is open to all Danes in the area. No registration is required.
Dear Doctors: I’m a 55-year-old man, and I have been active all my life. I know target heart rates are based on age and was surprised that my heart rate while running is often between 150 and 195. Should I slow down a bit?
Domestic oil prices in Thailand are expected to remain elevated until the final quarter of this year, even though global crude benchmarks have eased and the US is set to sign a peace deal with Iran this Friday to end nearly four months of conflict in the Middle East.
Thai FDA warns over 20 illegal meatball and Vietnamese pork loaf brands
Reflecting on data from Thai households, it is evident that a significant portion of individuals over 50 years old have low incomes, accounting for about 42% of Thai households. This indicates a lack of readiness for retirement in Thai society.
Thailand’s hotel industry is hoping the planned US-Iran peace agreement will help restore travel confidence, ease pressure on fuel prices, and support a recovery in foreign tourist arrivals during the fourth-quarter high season.
Thai financial institutions may face higher-than-average risks from AI-driven fraud as artificial intelligence reshapes financial crime and makes scams faster, more automated, and harder to detect, according to a new survey by BioCatch.
The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of Government Housing Bank has released data on transfers of condominium ownership to foreign nationals nationwide in the first quarter of 2026, showing that the overall market continued to face pressure from economic conditions both in Thailand and overseas.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled a plan to position Thailand as ASEAN’s hub for advanced chip manufacturing, with the goal of producing “Made in Thailand” semiconductors by 2050.
Tisco Financial Group expects the global economy to face mounting challenges in the second half of 2026, warning that stagflation risks, elevated energy prices, and geopolitical tensions could create a more volatile environment for investors.
Krabi International Airport is attracting growing interest from international airlines, with new routes from Finland and Scandinavia expected to strengthen tourism and support local development, the Ministry of Transport says.
Tourism killed Thailand’s most famous bay. Here’s how it was brought back to life
This video catalogs signature Thai street foods and explains their ingredients and regional contexts, offering a concise culinary overview. Dishes include Pad Thai with rice noodles, egg, tamarind, fish sauce, and toppings, and Pad Kra Pao served over rice with a fried egg.
About 153,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) are predicted to appear on the roads of Thailand this year, prompted mainly by the ongoing energy crisis triggered by the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
The World Bank Group is supporting Thailand’s use of natural capital accounting (NCA) as a tool to help policymakers balance economic growth with environmental protection. NCA measures the stocks and flows of natural assets and translates them into data that can be used alongside existing national accounting systems.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said yesterday he would ban social media sites for under-16s and impose restrictions on gaming and livestreaming platforms, in some of the world’s most far-reaching online restrictions to date. 
Private sector officials in Khon Kaen have proposed new Khon Kaen-Hua Hin flights as part of plans to improve air links between the northeast and key tourism and economic centers.
Jasmine International (JAS) has officially secured the broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Thailand, just hours before the first match kicks off, ensuring that all 104 matches will be available to football fans.
Makro, a leading wholesale business under CP AXTRA, is making everyday shopping easier, faster, and more secure for millions of Thai customers with the nationwide launch of QR Credit Card Payment at Makro.
Representatives from the Swedish Church are visiting Hua Hin from June 12-16 for baptisms, home visits, hospital visits, and meetings with local businesses, the church announced.
The situation along the Thai-Cambodian border remains fragile, but is still under control, says National Security Council (NSC) Secretary-general Chatchai Bangchuad. His comments came amid reports that China had delivered T-59D tanks to Cambodia.
Thai gold prices fell sharply at the market open today, with bullion dropping by 1,150 baht per baht-weight as global gold prices came under renewed pressure.
The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has affirmed that the baht situation and Thailand’s external position remain strong, even as pressure from the conflict between the United States and Iran has caused the baht to weaken slightly.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has raised its forecast for Thailand’s 2026 economic growth to 1.6%-2.0%, supported by the 170-billion-baht “Thais Help Thais Plus” stimulus scheme.
Amid rising global uncertainty, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has urged the government to step up efforts to attract foreign investors and encourage multinational companies to relocate their operations to Thailand.
The government is seeking new markets for Thai shrimp after Malaysia announced an import suspension earlier this month, says Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Malaysia has suspended imports of five shrimp species from Thailand, starting June 1.
Gulf Development, Thailand’s largest energy company by market value and a major telecom operator, has announced plans to invest in new data centers with a combined capacity of 100 megawatts this year, underscoring its ambition to become a regional leader in digital infrastructure and cloud services.
Thailand is moving closer to introducing its long-delayed foreign tourism levy, with officials targeting a third-quarter launch and considering airline collection alongside visitor insurance coverage.
Return to Khao Yai Reveals Why Thailand’s Nature Escape Keeps Getting Better
Thailand’s best beaches, and when to visit each one
How Thailand’s Highland Communities Are Taking Local Wisdom Global
US President Donald Trump yesterday brushed off concerns about consumer inflation surging to a fresh three-year high in May, on the back of soaring energy prices caused by his war in Iran. “The numbers were great… I love the inflation,” Trump told reporters. 
After Russian police started using facial-recognition cameras to identify men wanted by military authorities, a young bank worker spent weeks avoiding the Moscow metro. But on a snowy Friday evening in late 2024, heavy traffic pushed him underground to visit his mother. At the next station, two officers entered the carriage and detained him for draft evasion. 
SpaceX enters the final stretch today before its expected trading on Wall Street as part of the biggest initial public offering in history, which could propel co-founder Elon Musk to trillionaire status. 
Does your morning coffee make you feel invincible? There may be some truth to that, as new research explains how coffee helps protect against aging and chronic disease.
Thailand has enough oil reserves to meet domestic demand for about 108 days, the Energy Ministry said yesterday, as global energy markets remained volatile amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Thailand’s minimum wage has risen by an average of just 1.7% per year over the past decade, with limited improvement in real incomes as rising living costs offset gains, according to analysis by Bnomics, the research unit of Bangkok Bank.
Thailand is accelerating plans to upgrade its southern rail network and revive cross-border links with Malaysia, as part of a broader push to position the country as a regional logistics hub.
Fruit export push — Commerce targets B179 billion in 2026
On health insurance for foreign populations, including both workers and tourists, Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said yesterday said that foreigners entering Thailand — whether for tourism, work or short cross-border visits — could become a major economic burden if they were unable to pay for medical treatment. He said the health insurance system could help fill that gap and offset the cost.
Why Thais can’t get enough of moo kratha — and why some can’t stand it
Healthcare is often a topic that sparks debates among the 30-something and over-50 set, from discussions over treatments, physicians, and insurance policies to preventive care, which has now become an industry of its own.
Eat your hearts out Pablo Escobar, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, and Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes. The richest cartel by far is still the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and its leaders also get to die in bed. But one of its oldest members, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has just quit. No notice, no explanations — just quit.
US President Donald Trump said yesterday he would raise tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union to 25% next week, accusing the bloc of failing to carry out its trade commitments with Washington. The planned increase would replace the previously agreed 15% tariff level under a US-EU trade arrangement reached last year. 
The United States is withdrawing 5,000 troops from NATO ally Germany, the Pentagon announced yesterday, as a rift over the Iran war widens between President Donald Trump and Europe. 
WFFT celebrates 25 years
Kui Buri National Park safari vehicle fee rises to 1,200 baht
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.
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.
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.
Thailand’s economy is beginning to feel the full force of prolonged conflict in the Middle East, with rising energy costs, weakening demand, and global uncertainty combining to pressure businesses across multiple sectors.
Amid stagflation fears, fledgling Anutin government juggles economic tools
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Co. (OR) and Bangchak Corp. announced a 60 satang-per-liter increase for diesel B7 and diesel B20. Premium diesel prices were unchanged.
Rice supply is expected to fall this year as farmers cut planting acreage across Asia because of fertilizer shortages and soaring fuel costs from the Iran war, with an emerging El Nino also set to squeeze output of the world’s most consumed staple.
When the tankers stop, the tractors stop
Thailand is marking Labor Day today, a date that underscores the importance of workers’ rights while also highlighting a long-standing distinction between private-sector employees and civil servants.
The baht is expected to weaken further, possibly testing 33.5 to the US dollar in the near term after the US Federal Reserve caused the dollar to rise by signaling that policy easing is unlikely this year, says Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
Fitch Ratings expects the sector outlook for Thai banks to deteriorate this year, despite solid earnings in the first quarter at the six domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs).
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) edged up 0.75% year-on-year to 108.69 points in March amid tensions in the Middle East affecting some industries and discouraging purchases of oil-powered cars, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
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.
Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions industry is facing a sharp slowdown in new bookings as airfares surge by around 20% amid the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
Thailand has evolved into one of Asia’s most established hubs for expats and remote workers, supported by extensive fiber broadband, near-universal mobile coverage, and a growing ecosystem of coworking spaces.
Thai iced tea has been named one of the world’s top 10 non-alcoholic beverages, with TasteAtlas ranking the Thai favorite ninth in its latest global list.
Exploring Koh Yao Noi, a relaxing alternative in Thailand
Three Thai shores make the World’s 50 Best Beaches
Amata B.Grimm Power 5 has signed an 11.98 megawatt-peak (MWp) floating solar project contract with Siam Toyota Manufacturing Co. (STM).
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.
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. 
Petrol prices will rise today, with PTT and Bangchak service stations announcing their latest price adjustments. Gasohol 95, Gasohol 91, Gasohol E85, Gasohol E20, Super Power Gasohol 95, and petrol will all increase by 1 baht per liter, while diesel and Super Power diesel will rise by 70 satang per liter. Effective from 5 am today, fuel prices for tomorrow will be as follows: 
Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, has warned that a possible “super El Niño” could trigger severe climate disruption across Thailand and the wider ASEAN region, bringing heightened risks of drought, food insecurity, soaring agricultural prices and a worsening PM2.5 crisis.
The Thai baht is set to weaken further as the Middle East war is intensifying and dragging on, while the US Federal Reserve also may not be in a rush to cut interest rates.
Thailand’s tourism sector is facing renewed concern after warnings that a potential oil shortage could disrupt travel and damage visitor confidence more severely than rising fuel prices. Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said a lack of fuel supply would create immediate uncertainty, leaving tourists unsure whether they could complete their journeys. He cautioned that such disruption could undermine the overall travel experience and deter both domestic and international visitors.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered the restart of two decommissioned units at the Mae Moh coal-fired power plant in a bid to contain rising electricity bills.
A fuel shortage is severely disrupting taxi services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, with large SUV taxis gradually suspending operations and only about 2,500 vehicles currently in active service, out of a fleet estimated at more than 5,000, operators say.
Three major hospitals have adjusted outpatient drug dispensing as a precaution to prevent potential shortages amid energy-related disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis, while the Ministry of Public Health says national stocks remain sufficient.
The Philippines and Thailand’s wellness economies have each surged in value in recent years, according to the latest data published by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).
Singapore Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport for 2026 by Skytrax, extending its long-running dominance, while Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport climbed to 36th place in the latest global rankings. The annual list highlights continued strong performance by leading Asian hubs and steady improvement in Thailand’s main international gateway.
Finland has ranked as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report 2026, while Thailand dropped from 49th to 52nd place. The report, released by the Wellbeing Research Center at the University of Oxford on Thursday, highlighted that the top three countries were Finland, Iceland, and Denmark. Costa Rica saw significant improvement, climbing to fourth place, the highest among Latin American nations.
The ocean has always felt like home to Claire Narida Charanachitta. Long before she spoke at international forums or produced award-winning documentaries, the Thai teenager spent her childhood exploring forests, coastlines, and environmental camps that introduced her to the delicate balance of nature.
Berlayar Estate, a boutique property developer specializing in refined, lifestyle-driven living, has announced the official launch of its newest premium villa collection under the theme “The Journey to Serenity.” This latest portfolio introduces a curated selection of private residential projects in Hua Hin and Pranburi.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said after chairing a meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee that the meeting had considered an agenda on relaxing controls on alcohol sales hours in the Eastern Aviation City Promotion Zone yesterday at the Ministry of Public Health.
High-street coffee chains across Thailand are set to undergo a radical transformation next week as the Department of Health launches a new nationwide standard for freshly brewed drinks. Beginning Feb. 11, any customer ordering a “normal sweetness” beverage will automatically receive a drink containing only 50% of the original sugar recipe.
Thailand will hold a general election on Sunday, in a three-way contest of major political parties to decide the leader of the Southeast Asian nation over the next four years.
Park rangers are trying to keep wild elephants away from communities and tourist attractions during the dry season. The measures cover a bull elephant that has killed three people, including a camper, in this Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Krungthai researchers are warning that Thailand’s economy in 2026 could record its weakest growth outlook in three decades, as the country remains stuck in a low-growth trap with no new engines of expansion. They also caution that SMEs could remain mired in difficulties, with shrinking profits and mounting debt, risking a broad-based “downgrade” across the sector unless business structures are reshaped quickly.
Fresh research from MoneyTransfers.com has unveiled the planet’s most jam-packed tourist hotspots. The team’s findings reveal that Phuket in Thailand stands as the globe’s most congested tourist magnet. This Thai paradise boasts a staggering 118 tourists for every local inhabitant.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has released its “Tourism Business Confidence Index in Thailand, Q4 2025”, based on a survey of 302 foreign tourists using accidental sampling: 200 respondents in Bangkok and 102 in Chonburi.
A Thai family in Nakhon Si Thammarat province mistakenly hosted foreign tourists at a funeral, providing them with food when they believed it to be a restaurant. The tourists apologized after realizing they were at a funeral, not a dining venue.
Chinese New Year celebrations in the island province are expected to be particularly vibrant this year. The upbeat outlook is driven by a strong rebound in the Chinese tourism market and an increase in direct flights from China, according to the Phuket Tourist Business Assn. (PTBA).
Mae Hong Son officials on Monday launched a joint campaign aimed at preventing wildfires and reducing air pollution in the province, with multiple key leaders participating in a kick-off event held in front of the municipal office. The campaign was led by Mae Hong Son Gov. Wiboon Waewbandit, alongside Deputy Gov. Udomsak Khaonoona and Mae Hong Son Mayor Mallika Jeenakham.
Drainage contractor discharged black water into Jomtien sea
From field to forest, restoring rice in Ubon Ratchathani
Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market to gain momentum under the government’s new car tax policy set to take effect in 2026, aimed at promoting cleaner energy.
The last Russia-U.S. nuclear arms control treaty, known as New START, is due to expire tomorrow. We look at what the treaty does, what its expiration would mean, and what it may take to establish a new treaty. 
France summoned billionaire Elon Musk to a “voluntary interview” as cybercrime authorities yesterday searched the French offices of his social media network X, the Paris public prosecutor’s office said. The operation, which involves the EU police agency Europol, is part of an investigation opened in January 2025 into whether X’s algorithm was used to interfere in French politics. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been celebrated for its unique approach to wellness, commitment to excellence, and heartfelt care,. These awards recognize excellence not only in personal transformation but also in its pioneering commitment to corporate responsibility, environmental wellness, and strong local community engagement.
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, reported the latest hotspot index on Sunday, based on data from the Suomi NPP satellite via the VIIRS system.
The Board of Investment (BOI) says Japanese investment applications surged 146% in 2025 to more than 119 billion baht, signaling growing confidence in an economic rebound in early 2026. The sharp rise reflects stronger sentiment among Japanese firms operating in Thailand and reinforces the country’s position as a key production base in ASEAN.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production said Friday it acquired full ownership of Block A-18 in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area from Chevron in a $450M deal. The Thai company said it signed the deal with Hess and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following the recently closed merger deal with Hess.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Italy’s Trevi Fountain launched a new ticketing system yesterday, making the famous Rome landmark the latest tourist site to charge entry in a bid to raise funds and battle overcrowding. People posed in the sunshine in front of the Baroque masterpiece after paying the €2 (US1.68) fee to access the now largely crowd-free area next to the basin. 
The Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 4-7 at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, with the Royal Thai Army working alongside tourism and provincial authorities to showcase Muay Thai as a key part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Seriously harmful levels of ultrafine dust, three times the safe limit, were reported in Greater Bangkok this morning, while most of Thailand was blanketed with unsafe smog.
Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht
Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) expects the baht to continue to appreciate against the US dollar in the first quarter of this year, in line with rising global gold prices. However, the Thai currency is projected to return to its fundamental level in the second half of the year, the bank noted.
Thailand’s export outlook for 2026 could improve if reforms accelerate, but speakers at a trade forum warned that global competition is intensifying and domestic growth may remain subdued.
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of commerce, opened a seminar and delivered a special keynote on yesterday, titled “Mission to Win for The Game Changer”, organized by the Department of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Commerce.
Thailand must rethink its economic resilience strategies to respond to China’s accelerating outward expansion, which presents both significant opportunities and growing risks for the Thai economy, experts said at a regional forum yesterday.
Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?
Phuket has long been synonymous with tropical splendor thanks to its world-famous beaches, emerald rainforests, and waters teeming with life. This profound natural beauty is the very soul of its allure. Yet, for years, the pressures of overtourism, relentless development, and pervasive pollution have threatened to unravel the delicate ecological balance that sustains this paradise.