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Tuesday’s news-Jan 27

January 27, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Amazing Muay Thai Festival/Attorney General Warns Online Commentators/Red levels of PM2.5/Thai bats carry Nipah virus
ECONOMY: Thai gold shops face closures/Baht set to keep rising/Chamber sees 2026 export growth/Commerce minister outlines trade strategy/China’s rise ‘poses risks, opportunities’/Turnarounds Featured in Thai Hotel Industry
TOURISM: Thailand’s tourism reality check/Bangkok remains a leading Asian destination
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 12 Thai Islands More Beautiful Than Phuket
CLIMATE THAILAND: Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar?/Climate action can unlock competitiveness/Sustainable Tourism in Phuket/Thailand releases bred leopard sharks
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Amazing Muay Thai Festival Set for Feb 4-7

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.

Organized by the Royal Thai Army in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Prachuap Khiri Khan province, the Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 aims to promote Muay Thai internationally while strengthening Thailand’s reputation as a destination for cultural tourism. Organizers say the festival is also intended to support the peak tourism season, encourage travel by both Thai and overseas visitors, and contribute to local employment and economic activity. Continued …

Attorney General Warns Online Commentators of Legal Risks

The attorney general for the Protection of People’s Rights has warned social media users that commenting on high-profile criminal cases without verified facts could expose them to prosecution, including possible imprisonment. The warning follows growing online criticism of ongoing cases and highlights that every post and comment can be recorded and used as evidence in court.

(Editor: This restriction on free speech can apply to just about anyone commenting on Facebook, TikTok, and other social media platforms.)

Kossolwat Intuchanyong, director-general of the Office of the Attorney General for the Protection of People’s Rights, said online commentators who rely on belief rather than evidence, or who were not present at the scene, risk violating others’ rights, and may themselves become suspects under defamation laws or the Computer Crime Act. Continued …

Red levels of PM2.5 reach three digits in Greater Bangkok

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.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency reported that red levels (seriously harmful to health) of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 78.8 to 116.4 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 19 provinces. Continued …

Thai bats carry Nipah virus, but the danger comes from infected tourists

Some Thai fruit bats carry a strong strain of the Nipah virus, but the bigger danger comes from infected people arriving from countries where there is an outbreak of the disease, health authorities said yesterday.

Dr. Sophon Iamsirithaworn, deputy permanent secretary for health, told reporters the Nipah virus was found in fruit bats in Thailand, but at a lower viral density than in countries where there were outbreaks of the disease. Continued …

Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht

Jitti Tangsitpakdee, president of the Gold Traders Assn., said the sharp rise in gold prices — with the current selling price now exceeding 70,000 baht per baht-weight of gold — could force dozens more gold shops to close this year, following closures seen last year.

He said sales of gold ornaments have slumped because prices have risen beyond consumers’ purchasing power, while many buyers have shifted to gold bars for speculative trading. In addition, a key income stream for many shops — gold pawnbroking — has weakened, as many people have already decided to sell their gold after prices surged. Continued …

Baht set to keep rising in Q1 alongside surge in bullion

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.

According to Tim Leelahaphan, senior economist at Standard Chartered for Thailand and Vietnam, global gold prices have now surged to around US$5,100 per ounce, up about 20% year-to-date and exceeding the bank’s forecast. Continued …

Thai Chamber sees 2026 export growth at 5%+ if reforms bite; DFT warns of price wars

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.

The comments were made at the Department of Foreign Trade’s event yesterday, titled “Mission to Win for The Game Changer: ‘Win the mission, change the game fast, seize an edge in global trade’”, which featured a panel on Thailand’s trade strategy as the “rules of the game” shift. Continued …

Commerce minister outlines trade strategy amid global uncertainty

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.

Suphajee said the global economy is facing major shifts and heightened uncertainty, while Thailand’s economic growth last year remained sluggish at below 2%, lagging behind neighboring countries and weighing on national competitiveness. Continued …

China’s rise ‘poses risks, opportunities’ for Thailand

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.

As Thailand undergoes a transition under a new government amid intensifying regional competition, participants stressed the need for a shift from zero-sum thinking toward complementary and joint partnerships with key regional players, including China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Continued …

Turnarounds Featured in Thai Hotel Industry Success

Thailand’s hotel sector is shifting toward a more mature phase, which will see more of the country’s hotel assets repositioned to accommodate changing market dynamics.

This new cycle is explained in a new report from CBRE Thailand. The agent says the change will fill in “structural gaps in competitiveness and product differentiation” that have become visible following the post-pandemic market recovery. Changing consumer tastes include increasing demand for luxury and lifestyle hotels, plus a desire to enjoy a more digitally connected and experience-rich stay. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism reality check

As 2026 unfolds, Thailand’s tourism industry faces a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-expected rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a new virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand originally forecast around 8 million Chinese arrivals for 2025, banking on a strong post-pandemic recovery and restored air capacity. In reality, Chinese arrivals came in closer to 5.5 million, a shortfall of roughly 2.5 million visitors and a decline of about 30% year-on-year. Overall foreign arrivals fell by 7.2% to 32.97 million, the first annual decline since the pandemic years and nearly 20% below the 2019 peak. These headline figures, however, mask an important structural shift. Continued …

Bangkok remains a leading Asian destination during Chinese New Year

Agoda, a digital travel platform, says Bangkok ranked second among the most popular Asian destinations for international travelers during the Chinese New Year period. Tokyo topped the list, followed by Bangkok, Taipei, Osaka, and Seoul.

For domestic travel, Bangkok remained the number-one choice for Thai travelers. Agoda’s data also shows Tokyo as the most popular overseas destination for Thai travelers planning to travel during the Chinese New Year. Continued …

12 Thai Islands More Beautiful Than Phuket (And Often Cheaper)

Phuket can be stunning, but it can also feel expensive and crowded once you add hotels, transport, and day tours. Thailand has plenty of islands with similarly clear water and beach scenery, only with a slower pace and better value. Some are built for snorkeling right off the sand, while others work better for cycling, jungle viewpoints, or quiet nights.

This list focuses on 12 islands that are easier on the budget without sacrificing the “wow” factor. Each stop includes what makes it special and a few practical tips to help you plan the day. Pick one as a base, or combine two nearby islands for a trip that feels varied without extra stress. Continued …

Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?

In the weeks since China announced its timeline for ending export subsidies for solar photovoltaic (PV) parts, prices for panels and their components have surged – leaving some Southeast Asian project proponents feeling the heat.

Industry players say that while the change in policy was expected, the announcement coincided with an ongoing rise in raw material prices for silver paste, aluminium, polysilicon, and wafers, increasing input costs. China is the world’s largest manufacturer and exporter of solar PV products. Continued …

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Climate action can unlock Thailand’s future competitiveness

Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia all filed new climate action plans toward the end of last year. While the ambition of these “nationally determined contributions” under the Paris Agreement will rightly be scrutinized, they all point in the direction of a cleaner future.

Malaysia’s plan introduces its first absolute-emissions reduction goal. Thailand’s brings forward its net-zero goal from 2065 to 2050. And Indonesia’s reiterates an ambition to reach net zero in 2060 or sooner, while adopting absolute-emissions targets that imply a peak before 2035. Continued …

Sustainable Tourism in Phuket: How the Island Is Protecting Its Wildlife and Ecosystems

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.

The island’s pre-pandemic footprint was hard to miss: immense strain on freshwater resources, mountains of waste, soaring energy demands, and the gradual degradation of its terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The island stood at a crossroads. Continued …

Thailand releases bred leopard sharks to boost wild population

Thailand has begun its first effort to “rewild” Indo-Pacific leopard sharks, releasing aquarium-bred pups off the southern Maiton Island in a bid to revive a species that has sharply declined in the wild due to overfishing and habitat loss. Video …

French lawmakers pass bill banning social media for under-15s

French lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban social media use by under-15s, a move championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a way to protect children from excessive screen time. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Jan 19

January 19, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Foreign property owners in Hua Hin face scrutiny/Huahin Surf Paradise/Swedish Drug Suspect Arrested in Hua Hin/Rama II Road sinkhole repair/ITD faces mounting pressure/Bangkok crime rates drop
ECONOMY: Blueprint for 14th plan to lift GDP/Waiting game on US tariffs/40 million workers ‘getting a poor deal’/The new global power
TOURISM: Chaos as 121 flights cancelled or delayed/Fake news on visa-free entry rules/Phuket Airport Soars/Cable car project moves ahead/Nudist resort sparks controversy/Borders, barriers, and business
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok’s Chinatown brims with art/Sakon Nakhon: Thailand’s quiet soul
CLIMATE THAILAND: Incense used to start cane fires/Changan ramps up battery EV production
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Foreign property owners in Hua Hin face scrutiny under nominee crackdown

A recent seminar in Hua Hin has highlighted growing legal risks for foreign residents who bought property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders, as Thailand intensifies a nationwide crackdown on structures used to bypass land and business ownership laws.

The seminar, titled “2026 Expat Crackdown: What Every Expat Must Understand”, was organized by MBMG Group and Hua Hin Accounting & Law at the G Hotel. It brought together long-term foreign residents, legal advisers, and accountants to explain how enforcement has shifted from periodic checks to sustained, data-driven investigations. Continued …

Huahin Surf Paradise set for February 21-22

Huahin Surf Paradise 2026 will return to Hua Don Beach on Feb. 21-22, with organizers in Hua Hin promoting the weekend as a mix of surf competition, community activities, and live entertainment aimed at drawing both residents and visitors.

Now in its fifth consecutive year, Huahin Surf Paradise 2026 is being presented by Rising Creation and organized by Pineapple Surf Club, a local group that began the event in 2021 with the aim of building a surfing community and highlighting Hua Don–Hua Hin Beach as a spot for board sports. Continued …

Swedish Drug Suspect on Interpol List Arrested in Hua Hin

Immigration police have arrested a Swedish national wanted under an Interpol Red Notice on serious drug charges after locating him at a condominium in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

The suspect, identified as Mr Noa, had been hiding in Thailand for about one year after fleeing Sweden, according to authorities. His arrest led to the immediate revocation of his permission to stay in the Kingdom and his detention under immigration law. Continued …

Rama II Road sinkhole repair advances, one lane reopened

Repairs to Rama II Road were nearly complete after a burst water main caused a subsidence on the inbound frontage lane to Bangkok, and one of the closed lanes was expected to reopen later yesterdayy afternoon. Full access was expected to have been restored by midday today.

The Samut Sakhon district highway office said it was coordinating with Highway Police in filling the hole and stabilizing the damaged section near kilometer marker 29+300 on the inbound frontage road in Muang district. Continued …

ITD faces mounting pressure as projects stall, debentures extended and credit cut

Italian-Thai Development Public Co. (ITD) is facing its heaviest pressure in years, following a string of serious incidents on major construction projects, alongside a large debenture debt burden, an operating recovery that has yet to prove sustainable, and credit risks reflected in rating downgrades. The company’s financial position and market confidence are now being closely watched by both the capital market and regulators.

Rama II crane collapse video

On Jan. 14, a construction crane accident occurred on the Thai-China high-speed rail project in Sikhio district, Nakhon Ratchasima, when a crane lifting a concrete segment dropped it onto a train, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Continued …

Bangkok crime rates drop 17% in 2025, arrests increase

Bangkok recorded a 17% decline in crime rates in 2025, alongside increased arrest rates. This reflected more proactive and targeted policing by the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB), according to MPB Commissioner Siam Boonsom. He reported a significant year-on-year reduction in overall criminal cases across the capital.

In total, 76,744 criminal cases were reported in Bangkok in 2025. This marked a decrease of more than 16,000 cases, or approximately 17%. This was in comparison with the previous year. Police solved nearly 90% of all cases and arrested more than 85% of suspects. Continued …

Blueprint for 14th plan to lift GDP and break low-growth trap

Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), has outlined Thailand’s economic direction, as the agency drafts the 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan, which is scheduled to take effect from 2028 to 2032.

He said the central objective of the 14th plan is to boost national economic growth, arguing that without sufficient growth the country will struggle to distribute benefits and welfare effectively across different groups. Continued …

Waiting game on US tariffs takes a toll

As the US Supreme Court holds off on a ruling on the Trump tariffs, the world waits and analysts anticipate trade with the US will continue despite some importers being skittish about placing large orders.

Some analysts speculate the court is likely to rule against US President Donald Trump, though the administration is expected to explore alternative approaches to impose tariffs on select products. Continued …

40 million workers said ‘getting a poor deal’

Academics and activists said over 40 million workers in Thailand remain stuck in low-paid, unsafe jobs with inadequate healthcare and social protection, urging parties to draft policies that ensure labor protection and fair employment.

The Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) teamed up with Thammasat University, the Friends of Women Foundation, and a broad network of civil society organizations to press parties to place labor and health rights high on their agenda ahead of the general election, during an academic forum held yesterday at Thammasat University. Continued …

Energy, critical minerals, semiconductors the new global power

In the 21st century, global power is no longer measured primarily by troop numbers or nuclear warheads. Instead, it is increasingly defined by control over scarcity energy, critical minerals, and the semiconductor supply chains that underpin modern economies.

The United States, as the world’s dominant power, is actively reshaping the global order by redesigning supply chains to secure strategic advantage. The objective is clear: reduce dependence on geopolitical rivals, particularly China, while locking access to key resources within trusted alliances. This is not economic policy in the traditional sense. It is geopolitics by other means. Continued …

Chaos as 121 flights cancelled or delayed

On Saturday, Thailand experienced 121 flight cancellations and delays, hitting Suvarnabhumi Airport (393 delays, 5 cancellations), Don Mueang Airport (366 delays), Phuket Intl Airport (170 delays), Chiang Mai Intl Airport (93 delays), Samui Airport (48 delays, 2 cancellations), and Krabi Intl Airport (44 delays).

The most affected airlines included Thai AirAsia (273 delays), Thai Lion Air (146 delays), Thai VietJet Air (109 delays), Thai Airways (102 delays, 2 cancellations), and Bangkok Airways (84 delays, 6 cancellations). Other popular carriers not among the worst hit but still impacted included Malaysia Airlines, Scoot, IndiGO, China Eastern, Vietnam Airlines, and AirAsia. Continued …

Thai ministry warns of fake news on visa-free entry rules

Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has warned the public about a false claim circulating online that new rules limit visa-free entry for foreign nationals to twice a year.

Wetang Puangsup, spokesman for the ministry, said the warning followed monitoring and reports handled by the Anti-Fake News Center of Thailand, in line with government policy to prevent and address security and social threats. The ministry has prioritized raising public awareness of technology-related crime, fake news, and disinformation. Continued …

Phuket Airport Soars with Booming Tourism and Flights

Phuket International Airport recorded a significant boost in flight movements and passenger numbers in 2025, signaling a robust recovery in aviation and tourism. According to Monchai Tanod, the airport director, last year’s performance outshone 2024 and edged closer to the peak year of 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2025, the airport managed 106,581 flights, including 48,762 domestic and 57,819 international services, marking a 2.8% rise from 103,675 flights the previous year. Passenger traffic also climbed to 17.4 million, including 6.6 million domestic travelers and 10 million international visitors, which represents a 1.5% increase over 2024. Continued …

Phu Kradueng cable car project moves ahead, set for completion in 2028

The Phu Kradueng cable car project is on the move despite decades of debate, after memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed. With the environmental impact assessment (EIA) expected by mid-year, the cable car is tentatively set for completion in 2028.

Two MoUs were signed on Friday by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), together with the faculty of architecture of Chulalongkorn University, to support the systematic development of tourism areas and academic research in Phu Kradueng National Park. Continued …

Unnamed nudist resort sparks controversy

An online buzz erupted as netizens scrambled to locate a mysterious nudist resort in Thailand after a woman shared her experience there. The resort, previously unknown to many Thais, is a naturist haven where guests are required to be nude at all times during activities. The woman’s post, paired with photos and videos, has opened many eyes to this unusual escape.

The woman revealed that strict rules govern this resort. Guests must remain unclothed while walking, swimming, sunbathing, and using communal spaces. Harsh regulations are in place to ensure safety, including bans on photography without consent and prohibitions of sexual activities in public areas. Continued …

Borders, barriers, and business

The decision by the administration of US President Donald Trump to suspend or significantly tighten US immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand, has triggered widespread concern across the global travel, tourism, and meetings industries.

Although the policy has been described as temporary, the absence of a defined end date has fueled uncertainty and raised more profound questions about trust, reliability and the future direction of international mobility. Continued …

Bangkok’s Chinatown brims with succulent food and even better art

The tiny shopfront of Gu Long Bao in Bangkok’s Chinatown has seen a lot of history unfold over its century of operation, from the creation of Thailand as a nation to its rise as a cultural and tourism hotspot. The shop has a fan following for its pillowy buns, with fillings such as barbecued pork and black sesame.

However, in recent times, queues have developed next to the shop, for photos with Steamed Buns, a vibrant mural depicting Gu Long Bao’s specialties. This isn’t a one-off; Chinatown is now known as much for its art as it is for its food. Continued …

Sakon Nakhon: Thailand’s quiet soul beyond the familiar

Sakon Nakhon is a city rooted in ancient traditions. Temples here do not just exist as places of worship; they tell stories from history. The famed indigo dyeing industry, organic farm-to-table food, and produce sourced straight from local farms form the backbone of everyday life.

Home-grown rice varieties and handcrafted alcohol, locally known as white spirit, distilled from coconut flowers, are not just products, but proud symbols of Sakon Nakhon’s identity. Continued …

Slow-burn incense used to start deniable, illegal cane fires

Sugarcane farmers are using bundled incense sticks as slow starters to illegally burn off cane trash in their fields when they are not there, in a ploy to deny accountability for the resulting increase in air pollution.

Officials reported numerous incidents of burning-off sugarcane fields, including a major fire on 50-rai of land in Koh Manoa subdistrict of Bamnet Narong district. Bundles of burned incense sticks were later found at the scene. They were believed to have been used as slow-burning igniters to delay detection, officials said. Continued …

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Changan ramps up battery EV production in Thailand

Chinese electric vehicle maker Changan Automobile is gearing up to launch the second phase of its battery electric vehicle (BEV) production in Thailand in the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing its ambitions in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing EV markets.

The company set an annual production capacity for the second phase of 100,000 units, matching the output target of the first phase, which ran through 2025. Continued …

Bangkok Police Arrest Three Vietnamese Men With Guns and Drugs – Continued …
Wat Pha Lat Urges Respect After Tourists Perform Yoga Poses – Continued …
Chinese National Arrested in Pattaya E-Cigarette Sting – Continued …

Surging billionaire wealth a political threat, Oxfam warns as Davos opens

The collective wealth of the planet’s billionaires soared to a record level in 2025, charity Oxfam reported today, warning of “highly dangerous” political consequences as the global elite gathers for the World Economic Forum. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Jan 7

January 7, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Reader Feedback/Khao Lom Muak climbing dates/Foreign Tourists Injured in Cha Am/Healthcare when living in Thailand/First Chao Phraya Pedestrian Bridge
ECONOMY: Trump tariffs to bite in 2026/Inequality time bomb ticks away/Vietnam Poised to Overtake Thailand’s Economy
TOURISM: Why Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Slipped/Phuket Nightlife Operators Demand Probe/More than 20 speedboats destroyed in Phuket
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s roads and driving habits/7 best night markets in Bangkok/Koh Chang Tops Agoda’s ‘New Horizons’
CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand Imposes ‘Burn-Free’ Mandate/Bo Thong Probes Wastewater
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Re: Airline’s pricing

“Regarding the topics of “decline in domestic tourism,” “exorbitant holiday surcharges,” and “rip-offs”: A few days ago, I booked a flight with my son. The outbound flight cost approximately 2,800 baht. The return flight, the date of which was uncertain, then cost approximately 9,000 baht! Dear Thai Airways, after 13 years of loyalty, that’s it. I will never book with Thai Airways again. Goodbye! (There are other airlines in Thailand, after all.)” – RBM

PKK’s Khao Lom Muak climbing dates for 2026 announced

The 2026 climbing schedule has been confirmed for Khao Lom Muak, one of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s most popular viewpoints, with access granted only on selected dates throughout the year.

Khao Lom Muak is located within Wing 5 of the Royal Thai Air Force base in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Rising to around 300 meters above sea level, the mountain is known for its demanding ascent and clear views across the surrounding bays, including Ao Manao, Ao Prachuap, and Ao Noi. Because of its location inside an active military area, public access is tightly controlled and only permitted on specific occasions. Continued …

Foreign Tourists Injured in Six-Vehicle Crash in Cha Am

A multi-vehicle collision involving six vehicles left two unnamed foreign tourists seriously injured and caused major traffic disruption on the Cha Am–Pranburi bypass in Phetchaburi province yesterday.

The crash occurred at a U-turn point on the southbound carriageway in Cha Am district, resulting in long tailbacks stretching several kilometers. Continued …

A practical way to think about healthcare when living in Thailand

Living in Thailand means co-existing with a healthcare system that’s brilliant in some ways and frustrating in others. Oftentimes, private hospitals feel like five-star hotels, with doctors trained internationally, and the costs seem reasonable compared to Western countries – until you’re actually sitting in that consultation room without insurance, watching the bill climb.

Here’s the thing most people don’t tell you about healthcare in Thailand: the gap between what you think it’ll cost and what you’ll actually pay can be massive. Whether you’re retired and dealing with age-related health issues or you’re younger and convinced you’re invincible, understanding how healthcare really works here changes everything. Continued …

Bangkok Reveals Model for First Chao Phraya Pedestrian Bridge

Bangkok has revealed plans for its first dedicated pedestrian bridge across the Chao Phraya River. The design aims to enhance connectivity and serve as a new tourist attraction.

The proposed bridge will span the river with a modern golden lattice structure and include a central garden area for relaxation and viewing. Continued …

Trump tariffs to bite in 2026, Thai exports may shrink

Thailand’s exports in 2026 could slow sharply — or even contract — as the full-year impact of US tariff policy begins to bite, with weaker momentum also expected in shipments to China, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) said.

TPSO forecasts Thailand’s 2026 exports in a range of -3.1% to +1.1%, warning that the fading of last year’s front-loading effect and a clearer full-year impact from US tariff measures are key downside risks. Continued …

Inequality time bomb ticks away

Thailand’s inequality is not just unfair, it is unethical. It decides who gets a future and who does not long before effort, talent, or choice has any chance to matter.

As a new year begins, the scale of Thailand’s disparity should unsettle us. In 2018, Thailand was ranked the worst in the world for wealth inequality. Years later, it remains among the world’s 10 most unequal countries. Last year, it ranked the worst in ASEAN, according to the World Inequality Report. Continued …

Vietnam Poised to Overtake Thailand’s Economy This Year Amid Growth Surge

Nikkei Asia reports that Vietnam is on track to overtake Thailand in economic size as soon as this year, fueled by a major state-led infrastructure push. While Vietnam targets real GDP growth of 8% in 2025 and over 10% in the following years, Thailand’s growth is slowing.

Domestic political uncertainty and border tensions with Cambodia are weighing on the Thai economy, with the OECD forecasting its real GDP will grow by only 1.5% in 2026. The shift is driven largely by Vietnam’s nationwide infrastructure development, with public investment expected to increase by 26% in 2026. Continued …

Why Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Slipped in 2025 and What it Means for 2026

Thailand’s long-running tourism growth story hit a pause in 2025. For the first time in a decade, excluding the pandemic years, the country recorded an annual fall in foreign visitor arrivals.

Thailand saw 32.9 million international tourists in 2025, down 7.23% from 2024, according to figures from the Thai tourism ministry. Revenue from foreign visitors also declined, falling 4.7% year-on-year to about Bt1.53 trillion ($49 billion). The figures mark a clear break from the steady rebound Thailand had enjoyed since borders reopened. Continued …

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Phuket Nightlife Operators Demand Probe Into Alleged Extortion

Entertainment venue operators in Phuket have formally petitioned provincial authorities to investigate allegations of officials demanding illicit payments from nightlife businesses, raising concerns about transparency and confidence in the tourism sector.

The complaint was submitted on Monday at the Phuket Provincial Hall, with operators warning that the issue could damage trust among investors and tourism stakeholders if left unaddressed. Continued …

More than 20 speedboats destroyed in Phuket marina fire

A pre-dawn fire this morning at Chalong Pier in Phuket has destroyed more than 20 speedboats, prompting the provincial governor to order an investigation into the cause and emergency measures to prevent any oil from spreading into the sea.

Initial information from witnesses and officials indicated that an explosion and fire broke out on the first speedboat before sea winds carried burning debris to other vessels moored nearby, causing the blaze to spread rapidly. Early assessments suggested more than 20 speedboats were damaged. Continued …

How Thailand’s roads and driving habits haunt foreign tourists

For many foreign tourists, Thailand’s biggest travel anxiety isn’t crime, illness, or even scams — it’s the road. Despite the country’s image as a relaxed holiday paradise, Thailand consistently ranks among the world’s deadliest countries for road accidents.

Long overnight drives, exhausted drivers, loosely regulated passenger vans, and dangerous mountain highways form a risk cocktail that visitors rarely understand until it’s too late. Continued …

7 best night markets to visit in Bangkok

Bangkok is a perennial favorite among travelers, and it’s no surprise why! Between the mouthwateringly good local cuisine, unique cultural experiences, and endless shopping destinations that await, visiting Bangkok is a magical experience unlike any other.

And when you’re in Bangkok, one of the top places you have to visit is a night market. The city’s vibrant night markets truly capture its soul, offering a sensory feast of street food, unique shopping finds, and a lively atmosphere. Continued …

Koh Chang Tops Agoda’s ‘New Horizons’ as Thailand’s Fastest-Growing Hub

Koh Chang has been named the fastest-growing destination for international visitors to Thailand, according to the latest “New Horizons” report released by digital travel platform Agoda yesterday. The annual ranking, which tracks the highest climbers in accommodation bookings year-on-year, highlights a significant shift in traveler behavior.

Visitors are increasingly bypasssing traditional tourist hubs in favor of destinations that offer “authenticity, accessibility, and meaningful experiences.” Koh Chang has made a remarkable ascent on the Thai travel map, jumping five places to rank 12th among inbound destinations for 2025. Continued …

Thailand Imposes ‘Burn-Free’ Mandate on Corn Imports to Combat PM2.5 Crisis

The Thai government has officially enforced a pioneering trade mandate requiring all imported animal-feed corn to be certified “burn-free.” The move, effective from Jan. 1, is a cornerstone of the nation’s strategy to tackle transboundary PM2.5 pollution and align its agricultural supply chain with global environmental standards.

The Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) has released four comprehensive regulations designed to “green” the nation’s imports. Corn destined for animal feed must be sourced exclusively from farms that do not employ agricultural burning in their cultivation processes. Continued …

Bo Thong Probes Wastewater as 4 Chinese Plants Fail Tests

The Bo Thong Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) has found that wastewater from four out of six inspection points linked to Chinese-owned factories failed basic treatment standards, amid reports of polluted canals and mass fish deaths in Kabin Buri district, Prachin Buri province.

Authorities have ordered the immediate halt of discharges and are preparing legal action under environmental and public health laws. Continued …

Trump renews push to acquire Greenland, says military an option

The White House has said President Donald Trump and his advisers are weighing “a range of options” to acquire Greenland, including the possibility of using US military force, as European leaders warned that only Denmark and Greenland can decide the territory’s future. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Dec 31

December 31, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Illegal Hua Hin Milk Factory/Five Behaviors Now Count as Harassment/Unsafe levels of smog
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Containers Placed at Nong Chan Border/Full services at border district hospitals
ECONOMY: New Year celebrations/Co-payment scheme ends/BoT flags prolonged manufacturing slump/2026 inflation target
TOURISM: Koh Chang ferry traffic jams/Hat Yai Hotels Struggle
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The best New Year’s eve dinners
CLIMATE THAILAND: 1,000 electric truck tractors
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Police Smash Illegal Hua Hin Factory Rebranding Expired Milk for Sale

Consumer Protection Police have dismantled an illegal factory accused of altering expiration dates on expired milk cartons and selling them online, seizing more than 13,000 items valued at over 1.5 million baht.

The operation took place yesterday in Hua Hin district, and was ordered by Police Major Gen. Kongkrit Lertsittikul, commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD). Continued …

Thailand’s New Law: Five Behaviors Now Count as Harassment

A recent amendment to Thailand’s Criminal Code, effective yesterday, now includes a broader range of behaviors under sexual harassment, encompassing verbal, gestural, stalking, and online actions.

The law aims to address increasing awareness of personal rights with tougher penalties for offenders, as published in the Royal Gazette. This change acknowledges the evolving understanding of harassment beyond just physical contact, ensuring stricter consequences for actions causing distress or fear. Continued …

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Unsafe levels of smog in Bangkok and 48 provinces

Unsafe ultrafine dust (PM2.5) levels exceeded Thailand’s safety limit in Bangkok and 48 of the country’s 76 provinces this morning, with the highest concentration recorded in Nong Khai.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency reported hat unsafe levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 37.8 to 74.0 micrograms per cubic metet (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 48 provinces. The government-set safe threshold for PM2.5 is 37.5µg/m³ in Thailand.. Continued …

Containers Placed at Nong Chan Border in New Year Gesture

Thai troops have installed 60 shipping containers along the border at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province, formally marking the area in line with the 1:50,000 map and declaring the move a New Year gift to the Thai people and local residents.

The containers were placed after Thai forces reclaimed the area from Cambodia, with the Thai national flag raised to signal control and the delineation of territory. The action has had an immediate symbolic impact for villagers in Ban Nong Chan, reinforcing Thailand’s claim over the area. Continued …

Public Health Ministry to resume full services at border district hospitals

The Ministry of Public Health announced it will resume full medical services at district hospitals in Sa Kaeo and other border provinces after the ceasefire entered its third day yesterday, provided it continues to hold.

Dr Ekkachai Piansriwatchara, deputy permanent secretary for public health, said there were signs of improvement after two days of the ceasefire. As a result, it would consider resuming full services at district hospitals in Sa Kaeo and other provinces, which were closed after fighting broke out on Dec. 8. Continued …

New Year celebrations expected to generate over 7O billion baht revenue

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is expecting New Year celebration revenue to reach 70-76.5 billion baht, while anticipating approximately 1.4 to 1.5 million foreign tourists to fly here to ring in 2026.

Thapanee Kiatpaiboon, TAT’s governor, said income from foreign tourists during this festive season is expected to reach 51.6- 58 billion baht, while that from 4.96 million Thai holidaymakers will likely reach 18.5 billion baht, with the latter surging by 7% in both total number of tourists and revenue. Continued …

Co-payment scheme ends today

The cabinet has urged the public to spend “Khon La Khrueng Plus” funds before the program’s deadline expires today.

The Thai cabinet is urging citizens to use their remaining “Khon La Khrueng Plus” balances under the “Let’s Go Halves” co payment scheme before the deadline, hoping the spending will stimulate the economy. Only seven million out of 20 million eligible participants have spent their allocations, leaving about six billion baht unused. Continued …

BoT flags prolonged manufacturing slump as competitiveness fades

Thailand’s economy showed clearer demand-side improvement late in 2025, supported by continued growth in goods exports and tourism. However, the recovery remains uneven, as industrial production has continued to contract, reflected in broad-based declines across the manufacturing production index (MPI), amid both temporary factors and deeper structural weaknesses.

The baht’s strength and intensifying competition from imported goods remain key risks to watch in the period ahead. Chayawadee Chai-anant, assistant governor of the Corporate Relations Group and spokesperson for the Bank of Thailand (BoT), said the ongoing weakness in manufacturing had, in the near term, been driven by several temporary factors. Continued …

2026 inflation target set at 1%–3%

Thailand’s cabinet approved the monetary policy target for 2026 yesterday, keeping the headline inflation target range at 1%–3%, following a joint agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand (BoT). The range is unchanged from 2025.

The cabinet also instructed four key economic agencies — the Finance Ministry, the BoT, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), and the Budget Bureau — to closely monitor inflation to ensure it remains within the target range. Continued …

Koh Chang ferry traffic jams stretch 1 kilometer

The New Year Festival atmosphere in Trat province has returned to full vibrancy. Reports from the Laem Ngop Ferry Terminal yesterday indicate a surge of tourists heading to the islands, resulting in significant traffic congestion. Meanwhile, operators and tourists confirm that Koh Kood and Koh Mak remain safe destinations despite border concerns.

Both Thai and international tourists arrived in large numbers by car and motorcycle, queuing to purchase ferry tickets to Koh Chang. The influx caused a traffic tailback stretching over 1 kilometer. Despite the congestion, local business operators view this bustle as a positive economic signal for the area. Continued …

Hat Yai Hotels Struggle to Recover, Long Road to Rehabilitation

Only about half of hotels in Hat Yai have reopened after severe flooding, while others remain closed for cleanup, repairs or permanent shutdown, the local hotel association said.

Sittipong Sithiphatprapha, president of the Hat Yai–Songkhla Hotel Assn., said many operators are still assessing whether they can afford to reopen. One long-established hotel that had operated for decades has decided to close permanently, citing high renovation costs and concerns that flooding could return in 2026. Continued …

The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand

New Year’s Eve dinner in Thailand is never just about eating. It’s about sitting somewhere you actually want to stay, ordering another drink without checking the time, and letting the night go by until midnight sneaks up on the table.

This list is for people who want their last meal of the year to feel like a moment. Big buffets, skyline rooftops, beachfront lawns, and hotel dining rooms that know how to throw a proper finale. Dress up if you want, stay seated longer than planned, and let dinner carry you into the countdown. Continued …

U Power signs deal for up to 1,000 electric truck tractors in Thailand

U Power Limited announced Monday it has entered a strategic partnership with Whale Logistics (Thailand) Co. to deploy commercial battery-swapping electric trucks in Thailand. The micro-cap company, currently valued at just $8.38 million, is pursuing growth opportunities despite facing financial challenges with a negative EBITDA of $5.11 million in the last 12 months.

Under the agreement, U Power’s wholly-owned subsidiary, U SWAP Co., has secured an order for up to 1,000 battery-swapping electric vehicles. The first batch of 30 units is scheduled for delivery in April, marking the beginning of U Power’s commercial operations in Thailand. Continued …

Myanmar’s opium cultivation reaches record high

Opium cultivation in Myanmar has reached a record high in 10 years, and opium plantations are also increasing in opium-growing areas, according to a statement from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Opium cultivation in Myanmar has increased by 17% compared with last year, with the area under cultivation increasing from 45,200 hectares to 53,100 hectares, the statement said. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Dec 20

December 20, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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WFFT Animal Trafficking Allegations/Hua Hin Racer Marina Jazz Festival/Salesian Academic Day in Hua Hin/Credit Card Fraud Proof Shifted to Banks/Bangkok faces severe air pollution/Thailand sets SEA Games gold record
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Cambodia Tallies Heavy Losses/Continued tension along Sa Kaeo border/Thai marines retake Trat border area/PM vows to never give in/Cambodia Said Violating Geneva Conventions/International media view
ECONOMY: Thai banks cut interest rates/Agricultural economy to grow/How affordability reshaped ambition
TOURISM: Thailand’s tourism crown slips/Chiang Mai guesthouses pivot/Power bank bursts on Thai AirAsia flight
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: What really happens to tigers at ‘selfie zoos’/Discover Eco-Friendly Tourism
CLIMATE THAILAND: 25% of new cars sold globally were EVs
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Animal Trafficking Allegations Denied by Dutch WFFT Founder

The Dutch founder of the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), Edwin Wiek, has denied accusations of animal trafficking after receiving a tiger from the Karen National Liberation Army (KNU) in Kanchanaburi on Wednesday.

The allegations were made by retired national park official Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, who claimed that Wiek and Thai officials were involved in the illegal transfer of the tiger from Myanmar into Thailand. Chaiwat made these claims public online and called for an investigation. Continued …

Hua Hin Racer Marina Jazz Festival January 10

The owners of Why Not are behind the second edition of the Hua Hin Racer Marina Jazz Festival, which will be held south of Hua Hin in Pranburi on Jan. 10.

‘It’s an amazing venue, the marina is located between the river, the mountains and sea,’ says Eliot Nielsen, who organized the festival last year with his wife Surassawadee Phumbua and Philippe Oursel. This year’s event begins at 4 pm with the Swing Mother Funky Quintet and concludes with a fire show finale, finishing at 11 pm. Continued …

Salesian Academic Day held in Hua Hin

The Salesian Schools Commission in Thailand organized the third Salesian Academic Day Dec. 11-12, hosted by Hua Hin Vitthayalai School with the slogan “Collaborating for Tomorrow: Salesian Academic Excellence 2025”.

The event was attended by representatives from six Salesian schools, including teachers and students, a total of 1,900 people. During the event, plaques of honor were presented to teachers who had achieved excellent academic results in each Salesian school. Continued …

Thai Court Ruling Shifts Credit Card Fraud Proof to Banks

Thailand’s Supreme Court has ruled that banks, not customers, have the responsibility to prove who authorized disputed credit card transactions. This ruling sets a legal precedent aimed at enhancing consumer protection amid increasing cyber scams. By placing the burden on banks, the decision represents a major step towards empowering consumers against unauthorised credit card charges.

The landmark decision, Supreme Court ruling No. 2624/2568, originated from a case where a bank pursued a customer over disputed charges made without the cardholder’s consent. The customer insisted their card had been compromised, while the bank contended liability lay with the cardholder, adhering to typical credit card agreements holding users responsible for all transactions. Continued …

Bangkok faces severe air pollution crisis

The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center this morning reported a concerning rise in PM2.5 levels across the city, with many areas exceeding safe limits.

The average PM2.5 concentration for Bangkok is 36.7 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), just below the standard limit of 37.5 µg/m³. However, certain areas are facing dangerously high pollution levels. Continued …

Thailand sets SEA Games gold record

Thai athletes more than compensated for the football heartbreak of the previous night by setting a new benchmark for total gold medals at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games yesterday.

As of last night, the country’s haul stood at 232 golds, with more expected before the close of competition. The figure comfortably eclipsed the previous record of 205, set by Vietnam at their home Games in 2021 — an edition delayed and disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Cambodia Tallies Heavy Losses in Border Conflict

Cambodia is counting mounting human and economic costs from renewed fighting with Thailand, as hospitals treat severely wounded soldiers and civilians flee border areas. The second round of clashes has lasted longer and proved more destructive than the five-day conflict in July, with heavy casualties and widespread displacement.

The fighting resumed on Dec. 7 along the 800-kilometer border, involving artillery exchanges and close-quarter battles over forested hilltops. Thai air strikes have hit targets inside Cambodia, which has limited air defenses and no significant air force, while Cambodia has fired BM21 rockets into Thailand, killing one civilian and injuring others despite early evacuations. Continued …

Army reports continued tension along Sa Kaeo border

The Burapha Task Force of the 1st Army Region provided an update on the ongoing conflict along the Thailand-Cambodia border. The situation remains tense as Cambodian troops continue to reinforce positions at Ban Nong Ya Kaew and Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo, stockpiling supplies, weapons, and ammunition, preparing for 2-3 days of sustained combat.

The conflict, now on its 12th day, involves clashes over territorial control in three key areas. Continued …

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Thai marines repel Cambodian forces’ attempt to retake Trat border area

Gunfire erupted once again along the Thai-Cambodian border early yesterday as Cambodian forces attempted to reclaim the so-called Ban Sam Lang (three houses) area, prompting Thai marines to respond with artillery and mortar fire, forcing the intruders to retreat in disarray.

Capt. Thammanoon Wanna, commander of the Trat Marine Task Force, yesterday confirmed that Thai surveillance detected movement of three to four Cambodian vehicles entering the Ban Sam Lang area of Ban Nong Ri in Trat province during the early hours. Continued …

Anutin vows nation will never give in

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has declared that Thailand will never yield amid escalating hostilities along the Thai-Cambodian border, reaffirming the government’s full support for the armed forces in defending national sovereignty.

The remarks came after a group of activists visited the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters to present flowers and offer moral support, urging the prime minister to fulfil his duties with resolve and to ensure that no one infringes on the country’s sovereignty. Continued …

Cambodian Actions Said Violating Geneva Conventions

The 2nd Army has highlighted three key behaviors by Cambodia that it says violate the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) amid the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border clashes.

Since the border conflict began on Dec. 7, and has continued for 13 days, the 2nd Army has released details of Cambodia’s military actions that breach IHL. The investigation, including video footage and photographs, revealed several violations. Continued …

International media view on Thai-Cambodian border clash, scam centers

The ongoing Thai-Cambodian border conflict has entered its 13th day. Recently, The Wall Street Journal reported on the Thai Air Force’s attack on a “scam center” as part of the strategic objectives in the region.

The paper highlighted that many buildings in Cambodia, far from being mere entertainment venues or tourist accommodations, are, in fact bases, for online scams, siphoning money from victims worldwide. These operations are linked to human trafficking, money laundering, and cybercrime on an industrial scale. Continued …

Thai banks cut interest rates following MPC decision

In a move aligned with the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) unanimous decision to reduce the policy interest rate by 0.25% to 1.25% from 1.5% per annum, several commercial and state-owned banks in Thailand have announced cuts to their interest rates. This is aimed at easing the financial burden on consumers amid an economy showing clear signs of slowing down and increased risks.

For retail clients, KBank has adjusted its MRR (minimum retail rate) by 0.01%, from 6.78% to 6.68% per annum. Additionally, deposit rates have been cut by 0.05% to 0.10%. These changes will be effective from Dec. 22. Continued …

Agricultural economy to grow despite headwinds

The country’s agricultural economy is expected to see slightly slower but still robust growth of 2%-3% next year as landowners and farmers have secured more water resources and benefit from higher demand in the global market, as well as accelerated domestic economic growth.

However, the industry still faces a raft of challenges, including the impact of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and higher tax barriers, according to the Office of Agricultural Economics. Continued …

Working sideways – how affordability reshaped ambition

In Bangkok, work no longer arrives as a single, contained thing. For many younger people, especially Gen Z and early-career millennials, employment sits inside a wider arrangement rather than at the center of it.

A full-time role might exist, but it is rarely the whole story. It is supplemented by freelance work, part-time consulting, tutoring, content creation, small businesses, or projects that are still forming. This is often described as hustling, but that framing misses the point. What’s emerging is not a chase for scale, but an attempt to balance affordability with autonomy. Continued …

Rivals, rain, and rising costs: Thailand’s tourism crown slips

As the windows rattled from distant explosions, British tourist Brian sat sleepless in a dim hotel room in Thailand’s Trat province, waiting out a curfew he had not known existed. With artillery ringing out from across the border with Cambodia, his dreams of reaching the island of Koh Kood seemed to dissolve into the darkness.

“The police said the road was closed and I’d have to find accommodation overnight,” Brian said. “I heard explosions all through the night, but I got out first thing in the morning.” Continued …

Chiang Mai guesthouses pivot to long-haul markets

Tourism in Chiang Mai could reap benefits from robust long-haul markets, while the segment is expected to continue growing next year as LOT Polish Airlines became the latest carrier to confirm a new scheduled flight to Bangkok.

La-iad Bungsrithong, a board advisor for Thai Hotels Assn., said Chiang Mai tourism operators this year have learned to adapt their businesses amid the absence of two major feeder markets, Chinese and domestic tourists, which severely declined. Continued …

Power bank bursts into flames on Thai AirAsia flight, crew douse blaze with bottled water

Multiple videos circulating online show a power bank spontaneously igniting and exploding aboard a Thai AirAsia flight to Hokkaido, sending thick smoke through the cabin.

One male passenger wrote that the flames “rose higher than the seat,” while a female traveler said the aircraft “smelled of burning petrol” and “everyone was coughing”. Footage shows several flight attendants using bottled water to extinguish the fire, which was ultimately brought under control. Continued …

Video exposes what really happens to tigers at ‘selfie zoos’

A chilling video that went viral in May showing a tiger pouncing on a tourist during a photo session has reignited global outrage over Thailand’s tiger selfie industry, where investigators say big cats endure lives of sedation, starvation, and abuse so travelers can snap the perfect Instagram shot.

Investigations by World Animal Protection have documented conditions at 17 major tiger entertainment venues across Thailand. The findings paint a disturbing picture of systematic abuse hidden behind tourist-friendly facades. Continued …

Discover Eco-Friendly Tourism in Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has recently launched a new website called TravelGreenThailand.com. This website aims to help promote eco-friendly tourism opportunities. The platform is part of Thailand’s ongoing effort to establish itself as a global leader in responsible tourism.

The launch follows Thailand’s hosting of the Tourism Cares Global Meaningful Travel Summit in September. The event gathered leaders from around the world to discuss how tourism can contribute positively to the environment and local communities. With the introduction of TravelGreenThailand.com, the Tourism Authority seeks to build on this momentum by offering a digital resource dedicated to eco-conscious travelers. Continued …

25% of new cars sold globally in 2025 were EVs, 20% in Thailand

More than 25% of new cars sold globally in 2025 are now electric, according to new analysis from energy think tank Ember. This growth is increasingly driven by emerging markets that, only a few years ago, had minimal adoption of EVs.

Indonesia has reached 15% this year, surpassing the US for the first time. Thailand has reached 20% and has sold more EVs in the first three quarters of 2025 than Denmark. These shifts demonstrate how rapidly the region is transitioning from a low base to a position of leadership. Continued …

Twenty-nine beloved celebrities the world lost in 2025

This year, we lost some of the icons who shaped pop culture, from Hollywood legends to beloved musicians and television stars, including Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, and Val Kilmer. We honor their memory by celebrating their lives and their enduring works. Continued …

US strikes over 70 IS targets in Syria

United States forces struck more than 70 Islamic State group targets in Syria yesterday in what President Donald Trump described as “very serious retaliation” for an attack that killed three Americans last weekend. Continued …

Epstein files opened: famous faces, many blacked-out pages

The US Justice Department yesterday began releasing a long-awaited cache of records from its investigations into the politically explosive case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein – though much of the material remained heavily redacted. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Dec 18

December 18, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Soi 56 road work/Parking at Hua Hin fishing pier/Rotary Club supports local families/PKK road safety campaign/Hua Hin fishing pier cat dies/Riceberry could help restore hair/Healthcare Giant Accelerates AI Adoption/Thai English Proficiency Slips/Thailand dominates SEA Games/Bangkok Prison Scandal/Over 6 scam buildings destroyed/Thailand’s rising migrant crisis
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Blames Cambodia at UN/4 more soldiers killed/Is Thailand using chemical weapons?/Thai Marines in Trat Victory/Cambodia Rejects Claims of Foreign Mercenaries/China Sends Envoy to Mediate
ECONOMY: Bank of Thailand Slashes Rates Again/Industrial confidence rises/Mixed-Use Developments Defying Downturn/Phuket’s ‘Golden Mile’ Global Luxury Hub/Promising business sectors in 2026/China’s $1 Trillion Trade Surplus
TOURISM: Room cancellations mount/UK: 1 million Tourists to Thailand/Phuket eyes booming New Year/Bookings set to surge in south
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 5 places tourists haven’t discovered/10 Thai Foods You Should Try/Hua Hin Named Among Top Destinations for Luxury Travel
CLIMATE THAILAND: Mines, rivers, and a regional crisis/Demand shifts result in national oil plan rejig
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Soi 56 road work Saturday through Tuesday

Hua Hin has announced a temporary road closure along Hua Hin Soi 56 from Saturday to Tuesday to allow for asphalt road surface improvement works.

The road closure will be from the Dinosaur traffic lights junction to the Hua Hin Thansamai intersection. The closure is part of an asphalt concrete road surface improvement project. Continued …

Parking and activity space planned for Hua Hin fishing pier area

Hua Hin has begun work to prepare a new fishing pier parking and community activity area near the city’s fishing pier, following a large-scale clean-up operation carried out this week.

The initiative focuses on land near the former Mee Karuna restaurant on Naresdamri Road, along the beachfront next to the pier. Municipal officials say the site will be developed as a temporary public space that can support both community activities and additional parking for residents and visitors. Continued …

Rotary Club of Hua Hin charity event supports local families

Earlier this week, at the old Hua Hin “Love” Train Station depot, the Rotary Club of Hua Hin donated food to those in need and raised awareness of growing financial pressures across the country.

Khemtada Pourpunpong, known as Honey, the owner of Thaibbq1999, said more than 1,000 BBQ skewers, along with a wide variety of food and essential daily necessities, were distributed to those in need. She said the project is held every December, marking the founder’s birth month, Father’s Day month, and a meaningful period to farewell the old year and welcome the new year. Continued …

PKK launches road safety campaign

The Prachuap Khiri Khan governor has launched a road traffic injury-prevention campaign aimed at promoting safer driving and reducing accidents across the province, where road fatalities remain well above the national target.

The campaign was officially opened yesterday at Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital. The event marked the launch of the Road Traffic Injury Prevention Project, organized by Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital in cooperation with the Provincial Public Health Office, government agencies, private sector partners, and road safety networks. Continued …

‘Chao Saeb’ Hua Hin fishing pier cat dies

Chao Saeb, the well-known ginger cat who became a familiar sight at the Hua Hin fishing pier, has died, according to an announcement posted on the Saphan Pla Hua Hin Walking Street Facebook page.

The cat, believed to have been around five years old, had lived around the fishing pier for much of his life and was widely regarded as a local fixture by residents, vendors, and visitors. Continued …

Riceberry could help restore hair

Researchers from Chulalongkorn University and Mahidol University are expanding a joint study into the use of Riceberry-derived compounds to address hair loss and premature graying, with a full clinical trial expected to begin early next year.

The collaborative research centers on AnthoRice Complex, developed from organic Riceberry rice, which has shown promising results in laboratory tests for stimulating hair growth and restoring natural hair color. Continued …

Thailand’s Healthcare Giant Accelerates AI Adoption to Transform Patient Services

Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), which operates some of the region’s most prominent hospital brands, is rolling out new AI-driven tools across diagnostics, patient management, and operational efficiency. The initiative reflects a broader shift among Thai healthcare providers toward data-driven, preventative, and personalized care.

The trend aligns with Thailand’s national push to position itself as a regional medical hub. Hospitals are increasingly adopting AI to reduce diagnostic times, improve accuracy, and streamline administrative workloads that have historically strained medical staff. Continued …

Thai English Proficiency Slips Further Down Global Rankings

Thailand’s position in global English proficiency has taken a hit, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Ranked 116th out of 123 countries, Thailand fell into the “very low proficiency” category with a score of 402. This represents a significant drop of 13 points from the previous year.

Based on data from 2.2 million test takers aged 26 on average, the EF Index ranks countries on their English proficiency skills. While English remains the top language for international communication, global proficiency hasn’t improved since 2020. Countries continue to invest in English education, but progress is uneven, with reading skills generally being the strongest and speaking the weakest worldwide. Continued …

Thailand dominates SEA Games

The 33rd SEA Games (SEA Games 2025) in Thailand continues to heat up. The Thai national team has delivered a dominant performance worthy of the host nation, sweeping gold medals and leaving competitors far behind.

The SEA Games medal tally update yesterday showed Thailand firmly on the top spot on the leaderboard with gold medals. Indonesia ranks second with 100 gold medals. Continued …

Bangkok Prison Scandal: VIP Perks and Prostitution Unveiled

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has concluded its probe into the “Chinese VIP” scandal at Bangkok Remand Prison, forwarding the findings to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The scandal charges former prison chief Manop Chomchuen and his secretary, Traiphol Sikiaowkae, with abuse of authority.

Both officials stand accused of granting improper privileges to certain inmates and facilitating acts of prostitution within the prison, violations of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act. This case emerged after a joint raid by the Central Institute of Forensic Science, the DSI, and the Department of Corrections, following allegations of unlawful privileges granted to Chinese inmates. Continued …

Over 6 scam buildings destroyed by Thai forces

Yesterday, the Royal Thai Army announced it had destroyed over six buildings used by transnational scam networks, including casinos and hotels. These actions were part of the ongoing clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.

As of Dec. 14, the Thai military had taken down at least six such targets, including two major buildings previously sanctioned by the United States. These facilities had been involved in fraudulent transactions that targeted American citizens over an extended period. The U.S. had already imposed financial sanctions and seized assets from the owners of these properties due to their connection to scam operations. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s rising migrant crisis

“At first, I thought we’d have to be in Thailand for a short period,” said the former National League for Democracy member, one of millions in Myanmar who fled their homes after the 2021 military coup plunged the country into civil war.

“We planned to go back as soon as peace was restored, but we have been here for around four years already,” he said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The 40-year-old man stated that he had paid 17,000 baht (US$540) to register with Thai authorities through an agency but had been unable to find a factory job. Continued …

Thailand Blames Cambodia Again at UN Over Landmines, Aggression

Thailand has blamed Cambodia at the UN over landmine placement and aggressive actions, while urging peace under certain conditions. Thai ambassador to the UN Rachada Suthepakul made these allegations after Cambodia claimed Thai misconduct.

This showdown follows a series of disputes, with Cambodia criticizing Thailand for seizing assets from a Cambodian-linked call center involved in online scams. During the UN Peacebuilding Commission’s meeting and the UN Security Council’s session on “Leadership for Peace,” Rachada counterattacked Cambodia’s claims. She presented evidence showing Cambodia’s landmine placement in Thai territory, undermining previous cooperative spirit. Continued …

4 more soldiers killed in border clashes with Cambodia

The Royal Thai Army has confirmed the deaths of four more soldiers in the ongoing border conflict with Cambodia, bringing the total number of casualties to 21 since Dec. 8. Continued …

Is Thailand using chemical weapons?

Cambodian soldier Kun Yong said he had been forced to pull back from his frontline position recently after he had trouble breathing following a sortie by a Thai aircraft. “It’s like I was suffocating,” he said as he lay in a hospital bed, with his wife by his side.

From their hospital beds in Banteay Meanchey province in northwest Cambodia, several soldiers and police described experiencing respiratory problems after Thai aircraft dropped what they said was “poisonous water”. Continued …

Thai Marines Oust Cambodian Forces in Trat Victory

Royal Thai Navy marines have successfully reclaimed Ban Nong Ri in Trat province from Cambodian forces after days of strategic combat. Following an escalating threat since December, the Border Defense Command, along with the Marine task force, mounted an intense operation to regain control over the crucial area.

The situation came to light when aerial surveillance detected Cambodian troops establishing a new base in Ban Nong Ri, reigniting tensions at a previously contested zone. The Royal Thai Air Force coordinated their efforts, engaging in rigorous maneuvers that eventually secured the border region. Continued …

Cambodia Rejects Claims of Foreign Mercenaries in Border Conflict

Cambodia Senate President Hun Sen has dismissed reports from Thai media about the involvement of foreign mercenaries, including Russians, in the border conflict with Thailand.

In a statement, Hun Sen reiterated that Cambodia has no foreign military presence, maintaining that the nation’s dignity and sovereignty remain intact. He noted that while Cambodia has previously hosted foreign troops for peacekeeping purposes, there are currently no foreign soldiers involved in military operations. Continued …

China Sends Envoy to Mediate Thailand–Cambodia Border Clash

China has dispatched its special envoy to Thailand and Cambodia to mediate the escalating border clash between the two nations. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand announced China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict.

As a neighbour to both countries, China has taken an active role in promoting dialogue and reducing tension, with the envoy playing a crucial diplomatic role. Continued …

Bank of Thailand Slashes Rates Again Amid Economic Struggles

The Bank of Thailand has reduced its policy rate by 25 basis points to 1.25%, aiming to bolster economic growth amid political troubles, a strengthening baht, and US tariffs.

This marks the fifth rate cut since October 2024, with a total reduction of 125 basis points. The central bank aims to support the slowing economy, as highlighted by recent votes from the Monetary Policy Committee. Continued …

Industrial confidence rises slightly

The Thai Industries Sentiment Index (TISI) climbed to 89.1 points in November, up from 87.3, though entrepreneurs remain cautious amid a strong baht, severe flooding in the south, and escalating border tensions with Cambodia, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

FTI Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul credited the rise to government stimulus measures, particularly the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, along with the tourism high season in the final quarter. Continued …

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Mixed-Use Developments are Defying the Property DownturnMixed-use developments are outperforming standalone properties due to a “synergistic ecosystem”, where office, retail, and residential components create a built-in customer base for one another.

These integrated projects demonstrate superior performance with an average take-up rate of 81%, significantly higher than standalone competitors, especially in the office sector (81% vs. 72% occupancy). Continued …

Phuket’s ‘Golden Mile’ Emerges as Global Luxury Hub

The coastal corridor spanning Bang Tao, Cherng Talay, and Layan is now being called Phuket’s “Golden Mile”, becoming a magnet for high-end property development. This emergence is fueled by a surge in international investment, with 85 new projects valued at 73 billion baht launched in the first nine months of 2025.

The market is shifting from tourism to long-term residency, as buyers from countries like Russia, Australia, and China seek permanent homes or high rental yields of 6%-8%. Continued …

Survey identifies promising business sectors in 2026

Digital services, health and wellness, and businesses with solid environmental, social, and governance (ESG) attributes remain promising next year, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Thanavath Phonvichai, the university’s president, said the list of rising and declining businesses is based on economic growth factors and key risks, such as trade wars and global export trends. Although Thailand’s exports in 2025 are expected to grow by 11%, next year they are projected to contract by 1% from an inflated base, he said. Continued …

China’s $1 Trillion Trade Surplus: What It Means for ASEAN

China has recorded a historic global goods trade surplus of $1.08 trillion in the first 11 months of 2025, underscoring its continued dominance as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse despite domestic economic challenges.

According to recent reports, China’s exports reached $3.41 trillion, significantly outpacing imports, which have declined due to weak domestic demand and deflationary pressures. This massive surplus highlights structural imbalances in China’s trade, with booming exports and subdued imports creating ripple effects across global markets. Continued …

Hotels call for end to Thai-Cambodian border war as room cancellations mount

The alleged infiltration of Russian mercenaries should not affect tourism and local life in Nakhon Ratchasima, but authorities are urged to resolve the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute soon to prevent sluggish New Year travel, as some hotels have reported cancellations of more than 100 rooms since last week.

The greater concern was the renewed border conflict, as all hotel bookings in the four provinces along the border were canceled. Even though Nakhon Ratchasima is not located near the conflict zones, some hotels in the province also received cancellation requests. Continued …

UK Becomes First European Nation to Send 1 million Tourists to Thailand

Thailand achieved a significant tourism milestone this year, with long-haul tourist arrivals breaching the 10 million mark for the first time. The landing of a Thai Airways flight from London to Bangkok yesterday symbolically marked this milestone. This year, the UK also claimed the title of the first European nation to send over 1 million visitors to Thailand.

Long-haul visitors, including those from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa, now make up about 33% of all international arrivals. Continued …

Phuket eyes booming New Year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office has projected a strong recovery and growth in the province’s tourism sector during the New Year festival, driven by increased international flights and diverse cultural events.

Siriwan Siharach, director of TAT Phuket office, said the outlook for Phuket’s tourism between Dec. 31 and Jan. 4 is positive, with visitor numbers surging and spending boosted by festivals and activities across the island. Continued …

Bookings set to surge in south

Hotel bookings in the three provinces of Phatthalung, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Trang are set to grow by 20%–30% due to an influx of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Indonesian visitors, as tourism in Hat Yai district in Songkhla near the southern border is recuperating from the devastating floods in the area, with a full recovery expected in three months, according to the local tourism association.

Jaroon Kaewwajisap, president of the Songkhla Tourism Assn., said Hat Yai – the economic and tourism hub of Songkhla – is still in recovery. In the meantime, tourism operators in the other three provinces, together with partners in Malaysia and Singapore, have stepped in to accommodate visitors. Continued …

5 places in Thailand that have spectacular natural beauty but tourists haven’t discovered yet

Thailand’s famous spots have earned their reputation. But they’ve also earned their crowds — Maya Bay now feels like a theme park queue, and Phi Phi’s beaches are standing room only by mid-morning.

The good news: Thailand is big, and most tourists stick to the same handful of places. Here are five spots where the natural scenery genuinely stops you in your tracks, and you won’t be jostling for position to see it. Continued …

10 Thai Foods You Should Try At Least Once

The first time I visited Thailand, I was blown away by the sheer abundance of tasty food at every turn. It seemed like no matter where I went, I was never far from a fiery curry, tangy soup, or bowl of springy noodles.

That first trip sparked somewhat of an obsession with Southeast Asian cuisine in me. Not long afterward, I packed my bags and moved to the region, first living in neighboring Cambodia and later in Vietnam and Indonesia. Over the course of a decade, I visited Thailand every chance I got to explore more of the country and cuisine. Continued …

Hua Hin Named Among Top 6 Destinations for Luxury Travel in Thailand

Thailand is a country that offers an enchanting blend of ancient culture, stunning natural beauty, and world-class luxury. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the islands, Thailand has something to offer every luxury traveler. In this article, we’ll explore the top six destinations for luxury travel in Thailand.

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, and it’s the perfect starting point for any luxury trip to Thailand. The city is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, including the Mandarin Oriental and the Shangri-La. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, world-class dining, and stunning views of the city skyline. Continued …

Mines, rivers, and a regional crisis

“When I was a child, the Kok River and the Mekong were clear and alive. We drank directly from the river. Women and mothers gathered along the banks, hauling in fishing nets fully loaded with heavy fish, which we cooked and ate the same day. We were happy. We lived without fear – fear of toxins, fear for our health.

“Today, we can no longer use our rivers at all. That happiness is gone. Everything has changed. We live with anxiety – fear of contamination, fear of illness, fear for our children.” Continued …

Demand shifts result in national oil plan rejig

The new national oil plan (NOP), which maps out long-term oil usage for the country, is expected to have several revisions as a result of projected shifts in global oil demand, the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), and data centers, says the Department of Energy Business (DOEB).

“These changes exceed our earlier estimates,” said Sarawut Kaewtathip, chief of the DOEB, referring to ongoing work to draft a new plan. The NOP is usually based on data for peak oil demand, meaning the highest global demand in terms of oil consumption estimated by the International Energy Agency (IEA). Continued …

Illegal Cannabis Farm with 1,685 Plants Raided, 3 Vietnames arrested – Continued …
Kazakh Fraud Suspect Held in Phuket on Interpol Red Notice – Continued …
French tourists allegedly fabricate bad boat trip experience in Phuket for refund – Continued …
3 foreign motorcyclists abandon injured friend and woman after crash in Phuket – Continued …

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Tuesday’s news-Dec 16

December 16, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Jazz Festival schedule announced/Hua Hin reports nearly 9 million domestic tourists/PKK maps out holiday road safety plans/PKK ‘summit’ ceremony/Election Set for February 8/Thais tighten grip on SEA Games lead
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Sets Three Ceasefire Conditions/Trump’s Fantasy Diplomacy/Thai Bombing Is Hitting Deeper Into Cambodia/Army Confirms 17th Death/Where is Cambodia acquiring expensive weapons/Kantharalak Declared Off-Limits/Border fight ‘won’t drag on’
ECONOMY: Thai baht at multi-year peak/AI, English top skills employers seek/Thai wage growth slows
TOURISM: Asian Travel Boom in 2026 Tourists Cancel 40% of Trat Bookings/South Korean Visitors Decline/China highest-spending arrivals market/Immigration Bureau Tightens Visa Checks
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Guide to Eating Insects/Where ocean water stays swimming pool clear/Explore Northeast’s ancient architecture
CLIMATE THAILAND: China’s EV makers spark price war/GULF Commences Operation of 2 Solar Farms
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2025 schedule announced

Two nights of live music will return to the beachfront this weejend after organizers announced the full Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2025 program, bringing Thai and international artists to Hua Hin Beach on Friday and Saturday.

The festival, now in its 19th year, will take place in front of the Centara Hotel and will feature a wide range of jazz styles, from acoustic and swing to jazz fusion, R&B and Latin jazz. Performances are scheduled across both evenings, with free public access expected as in previous years. Continued …

Hua Hin reports nearly 9 million domestic tourists this year

The Prachuap Khiri Khan Joint Public and Private Sector Committee (JPPC) has reviewed the province’s latest tourism performance, highlighting continued dominance of domestic visitors and progress toward launching EZY Airlines flights between Hua Hin and Bangkok.

The Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports reported that Prachuap Khiri Khan recorded 9,445,914 visitors between January and October 2025. Of that total, 8,828,569 were Thai tourists, while 617,345 were foreign visitors, reinforcing the continued importance of domestic tourism to the provincial economy. Continued …

PKK maps out holiday road safety plans

Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has stepped up New Year road safety planning ahead of the 2026 holiday period, holding a coordination meeting yesterday to prepare measures aimed at reducing accidents and supporting public travel.

The plan centers on five areas: overall management, reducing road and environmental risk factors, reducing vehicle-related risks, promoting safer behavior among road users, and improving post-accident assistance. Continued …

PKK ‘summit’ ceremony Dec. 17-26

Prachuap Khiri Khan Town Municipality has invited residents and visitors to take part in the annual Khao Chong Krajok ceremony from Dec. 17-26, a traditional religious event held to mark the New Year and seek blessings for the year ahead.

The ceremony centers on a long-standing Buddhist ritual in which a yellow cloth is carried in procession up Khao Chong Krajok and used to robe the sacred relics and pagoda at the summit. The event is held to welcome the New Year 2026 and is open to members of the public, including those with a strong interest in faith and local traditions. Continued …

Thailand’s General Election Set for February 8

Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) has set the next general election for Feb. . This announcement follows the Royal Decree that led to the dissolution of the House of Representatives, which took effect last week. Yesterday, the EC approved the draft plan for managing the election, leading to its formal declaration.

The election date, now official, marks a crucial moment for voters to elect members of the House of Representatives (MPs). Advance voting is scheduled for Feb. 1, covering both in-constituency and out-of-constituency voters, alongside provisions for citizens with disabilities and the elderly. Continued …

Thais tighten grip on SEA Games lead after football, volleyball wins

Thailand’s continued charge toward the 33rd SEA Games overall title was headlined by the national under-23 side’s march into the final of the men’s football competition following their semifinal victory over Malaysia at the Rajamangala National Stadium yesterday.

The Young War Elephants are now only a step away from delivering the title the whole nation craves most after enduring an eight-year barren spell since their last triumph at the 2017 edition of the region’s biennial sporting event in Malaysia. Continued …

Thailand Sets Three Ceasefire Conditions for Cambodia

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced three conditions for a ceasefire along the Thai-Cambodian border, with Cambodia required to declare a ceasefire first. The ministry dismissed a Wall Street Journal report suggesting the US is considering imposing tariffs on Thailand and Cambodia.

Thailand’s stance highlights concerns over Cambodia’s previous actions that contradicted its statements, notably on Sunday, when Cambodia intensified military action despite signaling a desire for peace. Continued …

Thailand Isn’t Playing Along With Trump’s Fantasy Diplomacy

When Donald Trump announced that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to “cease all shooting,” Bangkok responded with something rare in international politics: a public, unambiguous “no”. Within hours, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul made it clear that no such truce existed, that Thai forces were still engaged along the border, and that the former U.S. president’s version of events belonged more to social-media theatrics than to real-world diplomacy.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has flatly denied Trump’s assertion that Thailand and Cambodia agreed to “cease all shooting.” Instead, Anutin says Thailand will continue military operations until it no longer faces threats to its land or people. Continued …

Cambodia Claims Thai Bombing Is Hitting Deeper Into Its Territory

Heavy combat between Thailand and Cambodia entered a second week yesterday with Phnom Penh claiming that Thai bombing is hitting deeper into its territory, coming close to shelters for people who had already fled dangerous areas along the border.

According to Cambodia’s defense and information ministries, Thai F-16 fighter jets dropped two bombs n the Chong Kal district in the Oddar Meanchey province and the Srei Snam district in the Siem Reap province. The bombing in Srei Snam, located more than 70 kilometers (43 miles) inside Cambodian territory, targeted a bridge, said the Cambodian authorities. Continued …

Army Confirms 17th Death in Thai–Cambodian Clashes

The Thai Army confirmed on this morning that a 17th fatality has been recorded following clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border. Staff Sgt. Major Kritsada Hansuphot, also known as “Sergeant Dubai,” lost his life while on duty, bringing the confirmed number of Thai military deaths to 17.

The announcement underscored the immediate human toll of the ongoing border confrontation, with multiple Thai personnel reported killed and injured in recent engagements. News of his death prompted renewed attention to the seriousness of the fighting and its impact on frontline units. Continued …

Questions raised about where Cambodia is acquiring expensive weapons

Advancing Thai forces have reported major discoveries in Cambodian military camps along the border. Specifically, Thai units encountered GAM-102 LR anti-tank guided missiles, manufactured in China. These systems are classified as fifth-generation and high-precision.

Each missile is disposable, and every launch costs approximately $112,000. Furthermore, Cambodian forces are reported to have deployed military drones in large numbers. The drones were used for reconnaissance and to drop bombs on Thai positions. Thailand’s military intelligence is investigating the origin of these weapons. Continued …

Kantharalak Declared Off-Limits Amid Cambodian Assaults

The Royal Thai Army has declared Kantharalak district in Si Sa Ket province off-limits to civilians. This warning follows ongoing Cambodian military assaults targeting civilian areas, escalating the threat in the Thai-Cambodian border zone. Residents have been urged to heed state advisories to avoid harm.

Cambodian attacks have intensified over the last two days, resulting in civilian casualties. Col. Richa Suksuwanont, deputy army spokesman, stated there were no signs of cessation from Cambodia, which continued tactics that instilled fear among locals. Despite increased aggression, Thai territorial control remains stable, with a continuous defense of strategic positions. Continued …

Defense minister says Thai-Cambodian border fight ‘won’t drag on’

Defense Minister Nattapon Nakpanich today said the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border is progressing “step by step” according to the military’s plan and that he has no particular concerns at this stage.

Asked about the latest Chinese-made missile system seized near Hill 500 in the Chong An Ma area of Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani, amid speculation about outside backers, Nattapon said intelligence work had yet to confirm anything and investigations were still under way. Continued …

Thai baht at multi-year peak piles pressure on Thai exporters

Thailand’s baht has continued to strengthen, hitting 31.44 per US dollar yesterday, its strongest level in more than four and a half years, since mid-2021, and outperforming other regional currencies.

Wisit Limluecha, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said global monetary policy was entering a new period of volatility as the United States shifted its policy direction, sending ripples through financial markets and world trade. Continued …

AI, English top skills Thai employers are seeking

Thailand’s labor market is rapidly shifting, with 90% of employers now seeking candidates with artificial intelligence (AI) skills and 93% requiring strong English communication, according to a survey by Mahidol University International College (MUIC).

MUIC also identified five high-growth career clusters set to dominate the next five years: digital-data-AI roles such as data analysts and automation specialists; cybersecurity and digital compliance positions; digital-driven tourism and service careers; holistic healthcare and wellness powered by AI; and green transformation jobs focused on sustainability. Continued …

Thai wage growth slows amid sluggish economy

Salary increases in Thailand are moderating to average 4.5% across industries and businesses in 2025, slowing from the historical norm of 5%, says international consultancy Deloitte.

According to Deloitte Thailand’s latest survey on compensation and HR trends, the slowdown reflects persistent cost pressures and the economy, which has not fully recovered. As a consequence, companies have taken a more cautious approach to budgeting. Continued …

Asian Travel Boom: Japan, China, and Thailand Lead 2026

Trip.com Group predicts Japan, China, and hailand will be the top travel destinations in 2026, driven by trends among Millennials and Gen Z. These younger generations are set to shape global travel preferences, favoring Asia’s cultural richness and exciting attractions.

Trip.com anticipates Japan to emerge as the world’s most popular travel destination in 2026. It expects travelers from ASEAN nations like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to flock to cities like Tokyo and Osaka. These cities, it says, known for their unique blend of tradition and modernity, will rank among the global top 10 most visited. Continued …

Foreign Tourists Cancel 40% of Trat Bookings After Clashes

Foreign tourists have canceled around 40% of existing hotel bookings in Trat province following armed clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border, raising fears of prolonged damage to the local tourism industry.

The cancellations affect travel plans from now through the New Year period of early 2026, hitting what is usually the peak high season. Hotel operators report significant financial losses as confidence among overseas visitors drops sharply. Continued …

South Korean Visitors Decline as Thailand Aims to Revive Tourism

Thai authorities report normal flight operations with South Korea despite a significant drop in South Korean visitors this year. Officials are implementing strategies to rejuvenate demand. The data reveals 19,870 international flights between Thailand and various countries, with South Korean airports like Incheon contributing the most significant share.

Visitor numbers have noticeably dropped, however, with about 1.4 million South Koreans visiting Thailand in 2025, compared to 1.8 million in 2024. Thailand’s ambassador to South Korea, Thani Saengrat, attributes this decline to economic conditions and negative foreign media. Reports of Thai-Cambodian border tensions and transnational crime have impacted tourists’ perceptions of safety. Continued …

China remains highest-spending arrivals market

Despite the Chinese market contributing only 14% of tourism arrivals, their spending remained the highest and helped distribute income more widely, while the tourism sector is urged to adapt to challenges expected to persist into next year.

As of Dec. 12, Thailand has welcomed 30.8 million foreign tourists this year, with daily arrivals consistently surging above 100,000, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Continued …

Thai Immigration Bureau Tightens Visa Checks Amid Security Fears

Thailand has ramped up its visa-free entry checks for Cambodians and certain high-risk westerners, responding to concerns over potential mercenary threats. The Immigration Bureau made this move following social media uproar and expert opinions warning of possible security risks from foreign operatives.

The increase in scrutiny follows tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, with clashes resurfacing between the two nations. Despite ongoing commercial flights, the Thai authorities are wary of foreign militants exploiting visa-free entry privileges to infiltrate and operate behind battle lines. Continued …

A Guide to Eating Insects

The chef-owner of Bangkok’s AKKEE, who also holds the MICHELIN Young Chef Award Presented by Blancpain for 2025, embraces insects as a food of the future, serving them both as snacks and as optional flavor boosters in the restaurant’s Thai dishes.

While insects may not sound appetizing to many, for Chantop they are tied to childhood memories — something he has long been passionate about and eager to study on his own. From a nutritional standpoint, insects are now considered a food of the future: a natural protein source that is easy to breed, fast-growing, and abundant. Today, insect farms can be found throughout Thailand. Continued …

Thai island where ocean water stays swimming pool clear 80 feet down

The longtail boat glides through water so clear you hesitate to step out. The seafloor 15 feet below looks close enough to touch. Your brain struggles to process what your eyes see: swimming pool clarity in the middle of the Andaman Sea.

Welcome to Koh Lipe, Thailand’s best-kept secret for crystal water. This tiny island earned the nickname “Maldives of Thailand” for good reason. December brings peak visibility season when monsoon runoff clears completely. Continued …

Explore Northeast’s ancient architecture, indie music at Sound Of Sisaket Festival

The diverse cultures, distinctive cuisine, and art and music of Sri Sa Ket province will be showcased in a contemporary and captivating fashion during the “Sound Of Sisaket Festival”, which will kick off on Thursday and run until Sunday.

Held under the concept of “Proud Of Sisaket” by the Creative Economy Agency, this fourth edition aims to present the brilliance of Sri Sa Ket, linking creative work by building upon outstanding potential in music, film, and art in order to transform the province from a “pass-through city” into an ASEAN regional hub of music and film. Continued …

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China’s EV makers spark price war in Thailand with discounts up to 38%

Chinese electric vehicle makers, already struggling with bruising competition at home, have brought their aggressive discounting to Thailand as they look to win over budget-conscious buyers. The savings are eye-catching: BYD Co. slashed as much as 38% from the sticker price for its Seal electric sedan in October, and is offering compensation if there are more price cuts this year on some of its other models.

Meanwhile, SAIC Motor Corp. is selling its MG4 electric hatchback for a 27% reduction, and Chery Automobile Co.’s splashy debut of the Jaecoo J5 — with promotional pricing — locked in almost 20,000 orders despite a two-month wait for delivery. Continued …

GULF Commences Operation of 2 Solar Farms with 145 MW Capacity

Gulf Development Public Co. yesterday disclosed that two solar farms under the company’s group of subsidiaries, in which the company indirectly holds a 100% equity stake through Gulf Renewable Energy Co., successfully commenced commercial operations with a total contracted capacity of 109.7 megawatts (installed capacity of 145.0 megawatts) and commenced the sale of generated electricity to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).

The purchase of electricity from these projects will help reduce fuel price volatility and alleviate both household and industrial sectors’ electricity cost burden by providing access to electricity at reasonable price throughout the contract period, as the tariff is lower than the current average electricity price. Continued …

French Man Arrested Over Illegal Thai Resort Operation – Continued …
Brazilian footballer attacks bar staff over unpaid bill in Udon Thani – Continued …
CIB arrest Chinese suspect hiding in Bangkok over 260 million baht bid rigging – Continued …

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Monday’s news-Dec 15

December 15, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Feedback/Hua Hin Jazz Festival/Monsoon Valley Jazz/Vintage Car Parade returns/Russia wins Hua Hin World Cup/Patients buy medication outside hospitals/Thailand braces for chilly weather/Hat Yai ‘back to normal’/$4 Billion in Losses from Southern Floods/Thailand wins 130 golds in SEA Games
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Rules Out Ceasefire/16 Thai soldiers killed/Trump makes toothless legal threat/221 Cambodian troops killed/Cambodia Closes Thai Border Crossings/Thais stranded in Poipet/Thai Forces Push for Gulf Closure/roops Seize Chinese Anti-tank Missles
ECONOMY: Baht at 4-year high/Government transition could hit economy/Trade losses seen soaring/Thailand retools
TOURISM: Thailand Unveils Wellness Strategy
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Things to do in Thailand with family/Native felines get boost
CLIMATE THAILAND: Battle against plastics/Phuket’s Waste Crisis/Songkhla waste-to-energy plant
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Re: Brit discovering Thai bar girls can play pool

“Astonishing! Our intrepid Brit investigator uncovering shocking previously unknown secrets regarding ‘escorts’. Surely he must be up for a Pullitzer price in journalism.” – AJB

Re: thailand suspending constitution discussions

“Well, who would have imagined that: constitutional reform aborted, and an early election focused on nationalism and sovereignty!” – AJB

Hua Hin Jazz Festival set this weekend

The Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2025 is scheduled for this Friday and Saturday. The festival was originally scheduled for Nov. 28-29.

Organizers said that ollowing the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, several parties expressed concern about whether it would be appropriate to proceed with the festival as planned this month. Continued …

Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade returns this weekend

The Vintage Car Club of Thailand, in collaboration with Dusit Thani Hua Hin, has announced the 23rd Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade, under the concept “The Charm of Yesteryear… A Seaside Town with Local Color.” The event will take place from Dec. 19-21 at Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province.

According to Khwanchai Paphatphong, president of the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, “The Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade has now reached its 23rd year, and for the first time, the name of Phetchaburi has been added to the event. The format will be adjusted to better suit current circumstances.” Continued …

Russia wins Hua Hin World Cup after sudden-death penalty shoot-out

Russia won the Kahouze Hua Hin World Cup yesterday after edging hosts Thailand in a dramatic final decided by penalties, bringing the two-day international amateur football tournament at Arena Hua Hin 2 to a close.

The final ended in a sudden-death penalty shoot-out after a tightly contested match between Russia and Thailand finished 1-1 at the end of normal time. With both teams locked together throughout the game, the outcome was only settled after extra spot-kicks, securing Russia the title and leaving Thailand as runners-up in front of a strong local crowd. Continued …

Thailand to let insured patients buy medication outside hospitals

The Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) and several healthcare agencies have officially launched a new initiative allowing patients at private hospitals to purchase prescribed medication from participating pharmacies, aiming to reduce treatment costs and improve access to essential drugs.

The program, called Sukkai Sabai Krabao (Healthy Body, Comfortable Wallet), is part of a government policy to ease the burden of rising healthcare costs. It is supported by the OIC, insurance industry associations, the Department of Internal Trade, the Department of Health Service Support, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Private Hospital Assn. Continued …

Thailand braces for chilly weather and heavy rain

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning about a new cold air mass set to bring chilly weather, strong winds, and a significant drop in temperatures across Thailand. Heavy rainfall is also expected in several areas, potentially causing flash floods and forest runoff.

The forecast to December 20 indicates a noticeable dip in temperatures in the upper regions of Thailand due to a high-pressure system or cold air mass from China. Continued …

Hat Yai ‘back to normal’

Hat Yai has returned to normal after the floods, with all zones cleared and services restored, officials say, allowing disaster controls to be scaled down.

Deputy Interior Minister Sakda Vicheansil chaired a meeting of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to review relief in the south. The meeting downgraded the disaster level to medium scale (Level 2) and returned control to Songkhla province. Continued …

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Economist Projects $4 Billion in Losses from Southern Floods

Severe flooding in southern Thailand has caused significant economic damage, with recent assessments highlighting widespread destruction in key provinces and the region’s primary commercial center, Hat Yai. The floods have disrupted transportation networks, inundated agricultural lands, and forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes.

Authorities are working tirelessly to provide relief and assess the full extent of the damage, while local businesses face mounting challenges in recovering from the disaster. Continued …

Thailand powers past 130 golds in SEA Games

Despite being dealt a hammer blow by a shock loss in the men’s sepak takraw team event, Thailand yesterday remained firmly on course to reclaim the overall title after snatching 35 gold medals — their biggest single-day haul so far — to surge well past the century mark at the 33rd SEA Games yesterday.

Gone are the days when the kingdom and Malaysia closely battled for supremacy in the sport both claimed originated from their countries. Nineteen-time champions Thailand had reeled off 17 successive titles in the regional sporting extravaganza since 1991. Continued …

Thailand Rules Out Ceasefire Until Cambodia Ends Hostilities

Thailand’s defense minister has confirmed that no ceasefire order has been issued to the military, stating that operations will continue until Cambodia clearly ends its hostile actions. The clarification follows public confusion over reports of a possible ceasefire amid escalating border tensions.

On Saturday, Defense Minister Natthapol Nakpanich said the government had not directed the armed forces to halt operations. He emphasized that “there will be no ceasefire until Cambodia clearly ends its hostility,”, adding that talk of a ceasefire had likely arisen from miscommunication during a period of intense official briefings. Continued …

16 Thai soldiers killed so far, over 300 injured

The Thai military said clashes and attacks are continuing at the Thai-Cambodian border, with one officer and a civilian having been killed in Phu Makheua area of Sisaket province yesterday, taking the military death toll to 16 and 327 injured.

A spokesperson of the Defense Ministry said Khmer troops are firing heavy weapons, specifically BM-21 rockets, targeting populated areas, with this leading to a civilian and and a medical officer being killed and four wounded. Continued …

Trump makes toothless legal threat to end Thai-Cambodian clashes

A US spokesperson said yesterday US President Donald Trump will be taking necessary legal action against those responsible for the fighting at Thai-Cambodian border continuing despite his phone call to both Thai caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Friday.

The White House spokesperson stated that, “President Trump expects all parties to fully fulfill their obligations as signed in these agreements, and he will take necessary action against those responsible to end the killings and build lasting peace.” It remains unclear what form this action will take. Continued …

Thai armed forces say Cambodia did not cease fire; estimate 221 Cambodian troops killed

The Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy and Royal Thai Air Force said yesterday that Cambodia did not cease fire as claimed, and that attacks on multiple Thai border areas continued overnight. They also estimated that 221 Cambodian troops have been killed since fighting began on Dec. 8.

In their daily update on the Thai–Cambodian border situation, the three services said Cambodian forces continued shelling Thai border areas with BM-21 rockets and artillery from 10pm on Saturday until dawn, with no sign of a ceasefire. Continued …

Cambodia Closes Thai Border Crossings as Fighting Continues

Cambodia has closed all border crossings with Thailand until further notice, preventing waiting Thai nationals, who have been stranded for days from returning, as fighting between the two forces continues along the frontier.

The closure was confirmed by Cambodia’s interior ministry and comes amid renewed clashes and reported rocket fire affecting civilian areas. Authorities on both sides have warned residents to avoid affected zones as the security situation remains volatile. Continued …

Up to 7,000 citizens stranded in Poipet after border about-face

Thailand says Cambodia is violating international human rights law by preventing up to 7,000 Thai nationals in the Poipet border town from returning home despite a prior commitment to reopen the border.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said about 6,000–7,000 Thai citizens were in Poipet, Banteay Meanchey province, wanting to return to Thailand. However, Cambodia’s former prime minister Hun Sen announced the Poipet border checkpoint would not be reopened. Continued …

Thai Forces Push for Gulf Closure to Throttle Cambodia’s Supplies

The Royal Thai Armed Forces are pressing the National Security Council (NSC) to seal the Gulf of Thailand to block oil and military supplies heading to Cambodia. An urgent proposal from military chiefs surfaced online, urging immediate action from the Defense Ministry to restrict critical supplies amid escalating tensions.

The proposal asks the NSC to instruct the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center (Thai-MECC) to intercept vessels carrying oil and military goods from Thailand to Cambodia. This includes commercial and fishing boats. Continued …

Thai Troops Seize Chinese Anti-tank Missles From Cambodian Base

Thai Army sources confirmed yesterday that troops seized a significant number of Chinese-made, fifth-generation anti-tank guided missiles after capturing a Cambodian military base on a strategic position known as Hill 500.

The weapons were recovered following an assault on the base, with the discovery highlighting the presence of advanced heavy weaponry in the border conflict area. The seizure is regarded as a major development on the Thai–Cambodian frontier, particularly in the ongoing clashes along the border. Continued …

Thai baht at 4-year high

The baht has climbed to its highest rate against the US dollar in more than four years, heaping pressure on the central bank to stem the rally ahead of its policy decision this week.

The Bank of Thailand tightened gold traders’ foreign exchange forward transactions today after the currency edged higher to 31.523 per dollar, holding at the strongest since June 2021. The baht has advanced more than 8% this year, making it the second best performer in Asia amid record gold prices and a weaker greenback. Continued …

Government transition could hit economy, delay US tariff talks, and chill investment

Thai business leaders have voiced concern that the dissolution of parliament and the shift to a caretaker government could disrupt key economic measures, undermine investor confidence, and push back high-stakes tariff negotiations with the United States.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the House dissolution on Friday, a move that business groups say could leave multiple government projects in limbo because a caretaker administration is limited in what it can approve. Continued …

Border shutdown batters 6 Northeast provinces, trade losses seen soaring to 80 billion baht

The closure of border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia is inflicting heavy damage on six northeastern provinces, with initial trade losses estimated at around 50 billion baht – and the bill could climb to 80 billion baht per year if the crisis drags on.

Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, president of the Restaurant Business Club and honorary adviser to the Thai Hostel Assn., said seven months of border tension and prolonged closures have hit Thai exports to Cambodia, which are normally worth about 70 billion baht a year, while imports from Cambodia total only around 20 billion baht. Continued …

Thailand retools for a tougher global economy

Well ahead of the scheduled end of the administration’s four-month term, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved parliament on Dec. 11 amid concerns over several outstanding issues, including the Thai–Cambodian border conflict and the relief measures needed to assist flood-affected communities in the south.

Thailand is now facing three significant challenges: a new global trade order, rapid technological transformation, and severe climate change. The shift in trade rules driven by the United States’ reciprocal tariff policy echoes historic events such as the rapid appreciation of the yen in the 1980s, which triggered a large-scale relocation of production to Southeast Asia. Continued …

Thailand Unveils Strategy To Become The Global Leader In Wellness And Medical Tourism

Thailand is setting its sights on becoming a global leader in wellness and medical tourism by 2026. With a focus on health, personal transformation, and luxury experiences, the country aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing wellness tourism market.

By offering a blend of traditional therapies, advanced medical services, and innovative wellness programs, Thailand is positioning itself as the ideal destination for travelers seeking both rejuvenation and health-focused experiences. This ambitious strategy reflects the country’s commitment to attracting higher-value tourists and expanding its influence in the global tourism sector. Continued …

9 best things to do in Thailand with family

Thailand is one of Asia’s most family-friendly travel destinations, offering beaches, wildlife, culture, food, and easy transport. The country has activities suitable for all age groups, from young children to seniors. Short travel distances, affordable experiences, and well-developed tourist facilities make Thailand a practical option for family holidays.

Island tours are among the most popular family activities in Thailand. In places like Krabi and Phuket, families can visit multiple islands by longtail boat or speedboat in a single day. These tours usually include calm beaches, shallow swimming areas, and lunch. Children can enjoy boat rides and beach play, while adults relax or swim. Continued …

Native felines get boost to national status

Thailand has officially elevated its native felines to national status. In a move reflecting both cultural pride and a booming pet economy, the cabinet approved the designation of “Thai cat” as the country’s national symbol in the pet category.

The government says the decision followed extensive historical and genetic studies confirming Thailand’s native cats are distinct in both appearance and temperament, with deep roots in society. The celebrated breeds, the only five pure Thai cat breeds recognized today, are Suphalak, Korat, Wichienmaat (Siamese), Konja, and Khao Manee. Continued …

Thailand on forefront of battle against plastics

In the global fight against climate change, plastics have emerged as both a symbol of modern convenience and an environmental challenge.Thailand, which produces millions of tons of plastic waste annually, is now at the forefront of Southeast Asia’s efforts to reimagine how plastics are produced, consumed, and recycled.

The stakes are high. In addition to domestic sustainability goals, looming international trade rules could soon penalize carbon-heavy plastic imports, forcing industries to adapt or risk losing competitiveness. Continued …

Phuket’s Waste Crisis Sparks Health Concerns Amid Local Deaths

Phuket is under pressure to address its escalating waste crisis after reports from residents near a landfill and incinerator revealed significant health and environmental threats. The issue has gained urgency following the deaths of seven locals, sparking a response from provincial authorities.

Gov. Nirat Phongsitthithawon led a recent meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall to confront the complaints from Sapam Hin village, where the incinerator and landfill are causing alarm among its 1,100 residents. Continued …

Thai Energy Minister fast-tracks Songkhla waste-to-energy plant

Thailand Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon has moved to tackle Songkhla’s mounting garbage crisis by ordering an early start-up of a waste-to-energy plant, which can burn 500 tons of waste per day and generate 9.9 megawatts of electricity.

The Energy Ministry recognizes that the garbage crisis is causing serious problems for residents — from foul odors and hygiene risks to blocked roads — and has therefore instructed the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to urgently coordinate with operators of ready waste-to-energy plants to bring them online ahead of schedule. Continued …

16 dead in Australia shooting targeting Jewish Hanukkah party

At least 16 people died and dozens more were wounded in a shooting at Sydney’s popular Bondi Beach yesterday that targeted Australia’s Jewish community, police and officials said. Police said two suspects had been taken into custody, a father and son duo, one of whom later died. At least 42 people, including a child, were hospitalized. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Dec 10

December 10, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Intensifies Military Response/Cambodia Unleashes Artillery, Rocket Barrage/Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight/Thailand unlikely to ease up/Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks/Conflict Threatens Thailand PM Seeks Full War Powers/Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared/5 Thai soldiers killed/7 Cambodia civilians/61 Cambodian Troops Killed/Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base/Marines launch offensive n Trat/US and UN Call For Halt/Thailand-Cambodia Economic War/Cambodian withdraws from 33rd SEA Games/990 schools being closed
Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16/Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal
ECONOMY: The Baht’s Risky Rise/10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht/Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk/Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into EV project/Online shoppers value-conscious
TOURISM: 30 million Tourist Arrivals/9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025/The transformation of wellness tourism/Another tourist ‘falls’ from hotel balcony/Minister Pitches Park and Stadium/Indian tour groups cancel trips
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The Thailand food experience/Is it better to travel before or after the New Year?
CLIMATE THAILAND: The greening of power/Prices of BEVs set to rise
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Thailand Intensifies Military Response as Border Conflict with Cambodia Escalates

Thai military forces engaged in sustained combat operations along the Thailand-Cambodia border yesterday, responding to what officials described as intensified attacks by Cambodian forces across multiple strategic positions. Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri briefed reporters at the Joint Press Center on Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, detailing significant military activity in the preceding hours.

In the Second Army area, Thai positions came under sustained bombardment from Cambodian BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, explosive drones, and kamikaze drones throughout the morning. Continued …

Cambodia Unleashes Heavy Artillery and Rocket Barrage

Full-scale hostilities have resumed along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, with Cambodian forces launching a sustained bombardment against four provinces in Thailand’s southern Isaan region since the early hours of this morning.

The Second Army Area Command confirmed that Cambodian soldiers initiated the attack at approximately 5:20 am local time, firing artillery shells and BM-21 rockets into Thai territory along the entire border. Continued …

Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight Against Thailand

Cambodia’s powerful Senate President Hun Sen yesterday vowed that his country would carry out a fierce fight against Thailand as a second day of widespread renewed combat between the Southeast Asian neighbors drove tens of thousands of people to flee border areas.

Hun Sen claimed that his country had refrained from firing back on Monday, but overnight began to shoot back at Thai forces. He wrote that a strategy of concentrating on where Thailand was advancing would allow Cambodia to “to weaken and destroy enemy forces through counterattacks.” Continued …

Thailand unlikely to ease up on military actions – at least for now

Judging from statements from the prime minister down to the army generals and the country’s top diplomat, it’s quite clear that Thailand is unlikely to ease up on its military operation against Cambodia any time soon, as fighting along several border areas continues for the fourth day today.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday reaffirmed that his government fully supports the armed forces in their operation in response to Cambodian aggression. “There is no stopping now. We have pledged our full support for the armed forces to proceed with their operation,” he said in response to a reporter’s question about whether his government might agree to a pause in the military operation as the last government did at the height of the previous round of border skirmishes in late July. Continued …

Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks to end conflict, PM adviser says

Cambodia is open to immediate bilateral talks with Thailand to halt their border conflict, a top adviser to its prime minister said yesterday, after the neighbors accused each other of violating a truce.

The countries fired at each other, including using artillery, along much of their 817-km (508-mile) land border on a second day of sustained hostilities. At least 13 people have died and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes on both sides of the border in the two days since the heaviest fighting resumed. Continued …

Border Conflict Threatens Thailand’s Political Timetable as PM Seeks Full War Powers

The renewed eruption of conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border is poised to redraw Thailand’s domestic political timeline, placing significant pressure on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his government’s tenure.

The hostilities may compel the government to postpone the dissolution of Parliament, ensuring it retains the full executive authority necessary to manage a state of war and potentially leverage a wave of nationalist fervor to recoup political popularity diminished by recent flooding crises. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared Amid Border Clashes

Thailand has launched air strikes along its disputed border with Cambodia, escalating tensions after both countries accused each other of violating a ceasefire. The Thai military confirmed the strikes on Monday, marking a sharp deterioration in an already volatile situation. The immediate impact has heightened regional concerns as military activity intensifies on both sides of the frontier.

The latest confrontation follows Thailand’s suspension of de-escalation measures last month after a Thai soldier was maimed in a landmine incident. Bangkok alleges the mines were newly laid by Cambodian forces, a claim that Cambodia rejects. Tensions have been simmering for weeks as both nations trade accusations over responsibility for repeated border incidents. Continued …

5 Thai soldiers killed amid escalating clashes with Cambodia

Five Thai soldiers have been killed in ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, with fresh confrontations reported this morning, the fourth consecutive day of fighting since hostilities resumed.

Prime Minister Anutin expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, promising that the government would ensure their relatives received proper support. Continued …

7 Cambodia civilians killed in border clashes

At least seven civilians have been killed and approximately 20 others have been injured in Cambodia amid renewed border clashes with neighboring Thailand, according to the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense.

This week’s Thai attacks, which stem from a long-running border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations, have also forced more than 20,000 from their homes in several communities, the Cambodian ministry said, along with destroying infrastructure, damaging templesm and disrupting public services. Continued …

Thai Army Reports 61 Cambodian Troops Killed in Border Clashes

Thai Army Region 2 reported yesterday that Cambodian forces launched heavy cross-border attacks between 9 am and 5 pm, resulting in intense clashes and significant casualties on both sides.

The operations center confirmed that Thai forces have lost four soldiers killed in action and 68 wounded, while Cambodian forces suffered 61 deaths, with their number of wounded still being assessed. The most heavily affected sectors included Chong An Ma and Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani, Thiang Ta Mok in Sisaket, and Chong Kana and Ta Kwai Temple in Surin. Continued …

Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base as Cambodia Fires rockets

Thai military forces launched coordinated air and artillery strikes yesterday against a scam-operating base in Cambodia’s O Smach area, causing significant damage to an under-construction building and prompting further cross-border escalation.

The attack involved a Gripen fighter jet dropping bombs and self-propeled artillery targeting sites east of the Or Smach Resort Casino community in Uddar Meanchey Province, close to Thailand’s Chong Chom permanent checkpoint in Kap Choeng District, Surin. Explosions were heard across nearby Thai villages and fires were reported at the struck construction site, with initial reports indicating one guard dead pending confirmation. Continued …

Marines launch offensive to regain occupied Thai territory in Trat

Thai navy marines launched an operation against Cambodian troops yesterday to reclaim a border area seized by Cambodian forces. The fighting in Trat leaves neighboring Chanthaburi as the only border province free of armed clashes between the two countries.

Capt. Thammanoon Wanna, commander of the Trat Marine Task Force, said the operation to regain an area of Ban Nong Ri in tambon Chamrak, Muang district, started at 5.30 am. Three houses in the area were the prime target. Continued …

US and UN Call For Halt to Thailand–Cambodia Border Clashes

The United States and the United Nations have issued urgent appeals for an immediate halt to armed clashes along the Cambodia–Thailand border, as fighting entered its fourth day and casualties continued to rise.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a statement yesterday expressing deep concern over “continued fighting and casualties in multiple locations” and urging both sides to protect civilians. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced alarm, warning that renewed hostilities risk escalating further unless both countries recommit to dialogue. Continued …

Thailand-Cambodia Economic War Paralyzes $5 Billion Trade, Threatens Vast Gas Reserves

The escalating border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has transcended a mere territorial dispute, morphing into a full-scale “economic, political, and geopolitical war.” The clashes have inflicted profound and deepening economic wounds on both nations, with the indefinite halt of cross-border trade and the dark prognosis for a multi-trillion-baht energy project threatening regional stability.

The conflict’s immediate consequence was the paralysis of trade at the vital Klong Luek–Poipet crossing, generating immense economic damage and disrupting established regional supply chains. Continued …

Cambodian athletes withdraw from 33rd SEA Games

The Cambodian team announced its withdrawal from the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand and will return home tomorrow, citing safety concerns arising from the Thai–Cambodian border conflict.

The team was reportedly planning to submit an official letter confirming its withdrawal to the organizers today. The Cambodian delegation had taken part in the opening ceremony at Rajamangala National Stadium. Continued …

Escalating border clashes lead to 990 schools being closed

Almost 1,000 schools along the Thai-Cambodian border have been ordered closed as a precaution following renewed armed clashes, Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat said yesterday.

The closures increased from just over 600 on Monday to 990 by yesterday afternoon, according to the Office of the Basic Education Commission. The ministry is now awaiting clearance from local security agencies before allowing schools to resume operations. Continued …

Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for heavy to very heavy rain in the south and strong winds and waves in the Gulf of Thailand, with impacts expected from Dec. 11–16. Upper Thailand will also see unstable weather, with thunderstorms followed by a sharp drop in temperature.

From Dec. 11–13, rain will increase across the south, with heavy rain in many areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun, and heavy to very heavy rain in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal

Teenage fighter Watcharakul Limjittrakorn has won Thailand’s maiden gold medal of the 33rd SEA Games, with a victory in the women’s freestyle Poomsae event of the taekwondo competition today. The 19-year-old delivered a performance in front of the home crowd at the Fashion Island shopping mall, scoring 7.900 points to take the title.

The silver and bronze medals went to Nicole Alethea Khaw of Singapore and Phouttavan Chanthakhammany of Laos, respectively. Continued …

The Baht’s Risky Rise: Can the BoT Curb Its Momentum?

The rapid appreciation of the Thai baht, up nearly 7% year-to-date and now trading significantly below the 32-per-dollar mark, presents a mixed signal that Thailand’s economy may struggle to accommodate.

This sharp currency appreciation could potentially hinder export competitiveness, a critical driver of Thailand’s economy, while benefiting importers and dampening inflationary pressures. However, it also raises concerns for industries reliant on tourism and foreign investment, as a stronger baht makes Thailand a more expensive destination and investment option. Continued …

10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht Under Khon La Khrueng Plus2

The government is preparing to approve the second phase of the Khon La Khrueng Plus scheme, which will provide 2,000 baht to 10 million eligible recipients, with spending expected to begin in January 2026.

The initiative aims to maintain economic momentum into the new year. According to government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat yesterday, the Ministry of Finance will submit the proposal to the Cabinet next week. Continued …

First Alert in 50 Years Over Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk in Gold and Stocks

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has sounded the alarm over an unprecedented “double bubble” risk, noting that the prices of both gold and global stocks have surged simultaneously for the first time in at least 50 years. The rare warning from the BIS, often referred to as the central bank of central banks, questions the resilience of the current “risk-on” environment across global financial markets.

While the stock market has been propeled by the hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) technology, gold prices have soared by 60% this year, putting 2025 on track to be the metal’s biggest annual price leap since 1979. Continued …

Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into new mild hybrid EV project

Mazda Motor Corp. is preparing to spend 5 billion baht early next year on building a new mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) production base in Thailand, marking a major step in the country’s transition toward electric mobility, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

The project will have a production capacity of 100,000 units annually, with operations scheduled to begin in 2027. Vehicles manufactured in Thailand will be exported to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asian markets. Continued …

Thai online shoppers more value-conscious

The Thai e-commerce market has been growing rapidly, with a high usage rate among Thais, but platforms still need to close the satisfaction gap for buyers, a survey by the market research firm Milieu Insight has found.

The report highlights five missions that e-commerce platforms must dynamically adapt to, and which Thai consumers and businesses should closely monitor for future developments. Continued …

Thailand Surpasses 30 million Tourist Arrivals

Thailand has exceeded 30.2 million foreign tourist arrivals for 2025, according to new data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The milestone reflects strong short-haul demand and steady revenue generation, with visitors contributing more than 1.4 trillion baht so far this year. However, despite the high volume, total arrivals remain 7.2% lower than during the same period in 2024.

Malaysia and China were the top two source markets, each surpassing 4 million arrivals. India followed with 2,280,823 visitors, while Russia and South Korea contributed 1,685,931 and 1,438,827 arrivals, respectively. These five countries formed the backbone of Thailand’s inbound tourism throughout 2025. Continued …

Foreign tourism sector in crisis, visitor decline accelerates, 9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025

Thailand is heading for a steep plunge in foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, driven by a disastrous chain of events that began with the high-profile kidnapping of a Chinese actor earlier in the year and has only worsened since.

A surging Thai baht, conflict with Cambodia, and the Hat Yai flooding disaster have all compounded the damage, while political instability continues to erode confidence. Vietnam, meanwhile, is racing ahead with fresher experiences and far better value for money. Continued …

From pampering to purpose: the transformation of wellness tourism

For three decades, Asia’s first wellness resort, Chiva-Som, has been welcoming guests with wellness in mind. Chiva-Som Hua Hin General Manager Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen says over that time the luxury traveler’s demands and overall behavior have seen a dynamic change in terms of knowledge, innovation, and a lifestyle shift.

“The biggest change we have seen is a shift from passive pampering to proactive, personalized transformation. It has shifted from an eat-drink-relax style to a more purposeful and meaningful holiday. In the past, they purely sought physical relaxation – sun, spa treatments, and indulgence.” Continued …

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Another tourists ‘falls’ from hotel balcony, this time in Phuket

A Mexican-Canadian tourist died yesterday afternoon just hours after checking into a Phuket hotel. She was due to check out the next day. She fell from the balcony of her ninth-floor suite.

The death is the latest in a series of foreign tourist fatalities from hotel heights in Thailand. Similar incidents occur regularly in Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok. The southern island, along with Pattaya, is notorious for such cases. Police confirmed her room was undisturbed. Her sandals were left on the balcony, suggesting she stepped out moments before the fall. Continued …

Minister Pitches Disneyland-Scale Park and 80,000-Seat Stadium

The Transport Minister has unveiled proposals for two major “magnet projects” in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), outlining plans for a world-class amusement park and a new 80,000-seat national stadium.

The developments are designed to boost tourism and investment in the region, particularly to support the financial viability of the high-speed rail (HSR) project linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. The announcement signals a significant push to transform the Pattaya-Chonburi area into a regional hub for entertainment, sports and international events. Continued …

Indian tour groups cancel trips after flight chaos at home

Travel agents say 20% of Indian tour groups to Thailand have canceled following massive flight cancellations by IndiGo, India’s largest airline, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) views the impact as short term, expecting the market to still reach 2.4 million arrivals this year.

Meanwhile, TAT says the overall number this year might drop by 9.8% year-on-year to 3.2 million. IndiGo has canceled thousands of flights since last week after it failed to plan for new pilot rest rules, creating chaos for air travel in India over the past several days. Continued …

The Thailand food experience

You can have your food delivery riders. Even better are food vendors who come to your front door to make meals while you watch. Here, a noodles with pork soup is prepared for a Thai woman in front of her house. Want Thailand’s popular, and spicy, som tom green mango salad? They come by also, or a phone call brings them to your door. At night, cart vendors can be found selling grilled seafood or sausages, roti with different ingredients (banana, peanut butter, etc.), fried chicken, dried squid, and many other options. (HHEN)

Is it better to travel before or after the New Year in Thailand?

Thailand’s year-end holiday period presents travelers with a dilemma: join the festive chaos of late December, or wait until January when things calm down?

With the 2025 to 2026 season approaching, this decision carries more weight than usual. The Thai government has declared an extended five-day holiday from Dec. 31 to Jan. 4, creating a double-peak where international tourists and domestic travelers converge simultaneously. Continued …

The greening of power

‘It is full of concrete. Dry and barren.” That was his first impression of Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road when Nalikatibhag Sangsnit took the helm at Dhanarak Asset Development (DAD).

Supervised by the Treasury Department, DAD, a state enterprise, is the administrator of the country’s largest bureaucratic hub, as well as other public assets. Covering 378 rai, Government Complex in Bangkok’s Lak Si district houses more than 50 agencies, serving over 40,000 staff and visitors daily. Continued …

Prices of BEVs set to rise next year

The prices of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Thailand are expected to rise by an average of 200,000 baht next year, following the expiration of the government’s EV3.0 incentive scheme, a move that could dampen domestic demand for BEVs, which has grown steadily over recent years, warns the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).

Introduced to promote BEV consumption and production, the EV3.0 scheme offered automakers reduced excise tax and import duties, along with subsidies to support sales. Continued …

Nightclub Owners Flee to Phuket After Deadly India Fire

A tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa, India, resulted in 25 fatalities, prompting the club’s owners, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, to flee to Phuket. The brothers left on an IndiGo flight shortly after the incident on Sunday, escaping before police could apprehend them. Indian authorities are now seeking Interpol’s assistance to locate and arrest the duo. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Dec 8

December 8, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Cinema on the Beach/Full-Scale Battles Launched/Thai border on the brink/Chilly spell coming

THAILAND FLOOD NEWS: Floods may be the new normal/Bangkok on alert/Flood Situation Eases/Hat Yai was supposed to be ‘unsinkable’
ECONOMY: Baht shows no signs of weakness/Government hunts for revenue/New stimulus efforts/PTT a1.09-trillion-baht investment
TOURISM: Bangkok Overtourism and Misbehaving Tourists/High season starting slowly/Thailand’s travel trends/Tourism’s new compass/Trat Islands Defy Border Tensions/Locomotive Crashes into Tourist Train
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Why Young Tiger Approached Cars/The best Thai island beach
CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand sites earn honors
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Army Says Full-Scale Battles Launched Along The Thai-Cambodia Border

Intense clashes erupted along multiple points of the Thai-Cambodia border this morning, prompting the Royal Thai Army (RTA) to confirm a full-scale battle across several frontline areas.

Thai authorities reported that the Anupong Base came under artillery and grenade-launcher fire from Cambodian forces, resulting in the death of one Thai soldier and injuries to two others. Evacuations have been ordered in several border provinces as the situation remains volatile and civilians face heightened risk. Continued …

Thai border on the brink as F-16s deployed to hit three Cambodian positions

Royal Thai Army commanders have reported escalating clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border in several areas, with Thai forces responding under the rules of engagement and moving swiftly to support the evacuation of civilians.

The Thai side has now begun using aircraft to strike military targets in several areas in order to suppress Cambodian fire-support positions, after those positions had used artillery and air-dropped munitions against Thai troops at Anupong Base, causing deaths and injuries among Thai personnel. Continued …

Chilly spell coming for much of Thailand

Thailand is bracing for a chilly spell, with the Meteorological Department forecasting a temperature drop in northern and northeastern regions by 2–4°C during Dec. 8–10. Meanwhile, central and eastern parts will see a decrease of 1–3°C. The drop in temperature is due to a surge of cold air from China, bringing crisp mornings and chilly winds to many northern areas.

This week, residents can enjoy a brisk start to their days with temperatures on high mountain peaks potentially plummeting to a cool 4–10°C. In Bangkok and neighboring provinces, temperatures will modestly decline by 1–2°C, creating pleasantly cool mornings. Continued …

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Southeast Asia floods may be the new normal, scientists say

Climate scientists expect the punishing storms, floods, and devastation experienced in Southeast Asia to become the new normal, driven by climate patterns set last year. The unusually severe floods this year, caused by late-arriving storms and relentless rain, have wreaked havoc, catching many places off guard.

Some 1,750 people have died across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, with more than 1,000 still missing in floods and landslides. In Indonesia, entire villages are isolated after bridges and roads were swept away. In Sri Lanka, there is a huge paucity of clean water, while Thailand’s prime minister acknowledged shortcomings in his government’s response. Continued …

Bangkok on alert as high tides threaten 11 riverside communities

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has mobilized personnel to closely monitor the high-tide surge expected throughout this week (through Dec.12,), after the Hydrographic Department issued a warning that water levels in the Chao Phraya River will rise significantly, particularly between 8 am–2 pm.

A total of 11 communities across six districts, located outside the city’s flood-protection embankments, are at risk of being impacted directly. More than 320 households could face flooding if water overtops the riverbanks. Continued …

Thailand Flood Situation Eases but 14 Provinces Still Affected

Flooding continues in 14 Thai provinces, mainly across the Central Plains, although water levels are receding in most areas. More than 690,000 people remain affected, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).

Flood levels have eased in many locations but remain stable in parts of Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, and Nakhon Pathom. Continued …

Hat Yai was supposed to be ‘unsinkable’

On Nov. 21, the south’s economic engine — worth 5 billion dollars to Thailand’s GDP — vanished underwater. A chain of extreme weather events, historic rainfall, and unexpected failures in water management pushed residents onto rooftops and shut down nearly every major industry in the city.

Over three days, the city endured record-shattering storms that dumped rainfall unmatched for centuries. What followed was a rapid cascade of failures: rivers overflowed, canals breached their banks, and drainage systems collapsed under the massive volume of water. Continued …

Strong baht shows no signs of weakness, raising questions about Thailand’s economic reality

Despite frustration from long-term visitors, exporters, and tourism operators, the Thai baht continues to show no meaningful signs of weakening. Instead, it remains stubbornly strong, defying the country’s underlying economic conditions and adding pressure on sectors that rely on a softer currency.

Kasikorn Research Center reported last week that the baht closed at 32.02 per USD, slightly weaker than the previous day’s 31.93 but still stronger than many expected. The currency even dipped below 32.00 in early trade before easing, a sign that investors continue to treat the baht as a safe, stable regional currency. Traders adjusted positions ahead of the long holiday, but the overall picture remains unchanged: the baht is still holding firm. Continued …

Government hunts for revenue as debt mounts

The government’s growing interest burden has steadily eroded treasury reserves over the past four years, prompting the administration to urgently look for ways to increase revenue before the country’s credit rating is adversely affected.

According to a Finance Ministry source who requested anonymity, the government faces challenges in managing its debt service budget, especially interest payments partially attributed to significant borrowing since the onset of the Covid pandemic, as well as heightened volatility in global interest rates and budgetary constraints. Continued …

New stimulus efforts target higher growth

The government is preparing to promote year-end economic stimulus measures to encourage spending, aiming to lift fourth-quarter GDP growth above 1%.

According to a Finance Ministry source who requested anonymity, the government wants to implement the second phase of the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme before the end of 2025 to increase economic activity, following severe flooding in southern Thailand. Continued …

PTT announces 1.09-trillion-baht investment over five years

PTTEP has unveiled a 1.09-trillion-baht, five-year investment plan, targeting 8% petroleum sales growth in 2026 and advancing CCS projects toward its net zero 2050 goal.

Most of the budget will be allocated to boosting production from existing domestic and international projects, accelerating new developments, and conducting exploration to support future growth. A portion of the investment will be dedicated to greenhouse gas reduction initiatives, including carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects. Continued …

Bangkok Overtourism: Misbehaving Tourists and The Fight to Save Thai Culture

The city of Bangkok is a global titan — a dazzling, sensory masterpiece that effortlessly mixes sacred temples with glittering high-rises. It is, by almost every metric, the world’s most visited city, drawing tens of millions of international tourists annually with its irresistible blend of vibrant street life, world-class cuisine, and cultural depth.

Yet, beneath the veneer of its record-breaking success lies a profound crisis: overtourism, compounded by a persistent stream of badly behaved visitors, is actively straining the city’s resources and threatening the very cultural fabric that draws people in. Continued …

High season is starting slowly

The final months of the year are usually when businesses expect higher local spending, riding on the festive New Year mood. But given sluggish domestic purchasing power all year, the private sector may remain glum this month even as it pushes to avoid a slowdown in GDP growth, with the southern floods sidelining the regional economy for at least a month during recovery.

The government is accelerating flood recovery efforts and rolling out stimulus measures, including tax deductions for travel and dining, as well as the second phase of the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment program. Meanwhile, businesses are preparing for the year-end with a broad range of marketing activities to spur consumption. Continued …

Thailand’s travel trends shift for 2026

The 2026 Travel Outlook Report by the digital travel platform Agoda reveals a shift in Thai travel trends, with domestic journeys taking center stage. The focus is no longer solely on where to go, but on how to make the most of their time.

Travelers are embracing shorter, more flexible trips, while prioritizing relaxation, wellness, and culinary experiences. 2026 will be about small yet meaningful escapes that refresh both body and mind, within the familiar yet endlessly captivating landscapes of Thailand. Continued …

Tourism’s new compass: why meaning, community, and human connection are now leading the way

Tourism has entered an age of restless reinvention. Across the global industry, from UN tourism to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and international networks such as Skål International, a consistent message is emerging: travelers are seeking experiences that feel authentic, human, and rooted, rather than packaged or predictable.

Thailand-based Italian tourism thinker Roberto Causin expresses this shift with sharp clarity. He argues that the traditional formula of flights, hotels, and buffet breakfasts no longer satisfies modern expectations. Today’s travelers are looking for journeys that shake off the routine, open the senses, and connect them with real people and real places. Continued …

Thailand’s Trat Islands Defy Border Tensions

Despite recent tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, tourism in Trat has shown remarkable resilience. The president of the Trat Hotels and Resorts Assn. and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Trat office have confirmed that tourist confidence has not been shaken. Visitor numbers to the province’s three main islands — Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak — are experiencing noticeable increases when compared to the 2024 season.

Initially, concerns were raised in the Khlong Yai district due to the temporary closure of the Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint, which cut off cross-border travel from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. This development disrupted the tourism flow between Thailand and Cambodia. Continued …

Locomotive Crashes into Tourist Train at Kanchanaburi Station

Eighteen tourists, including both Thai and foreign nationals, were injured on Saturday after a shunting operation went wrong at Wang Yen Railway Station in Kanchanaburi Province, causing a locomotive to crash into a stationary passenger train carriage.

The incident occurred as the passenger train, operating on the Kanchanaburi-Nam Tok line, was stationary at the Wang Yen station for a scheduled change of the locomotive that pulls the train. According to police from Mueang Kanchanaburi Provincial Police Station, the locomotive being maneuvered to connect to the passenger cars suddenly backed into the first passenger carriage with significant force. Continued …

Thai Park Chief Explains Why Young Tiger Approached Cars Near Popular Viewpoint

A young male tiger seen walking close to cars on a mountain road in Thailand’s Thap Lan National Park this week likely wandered out of its territory after being displaced by an adult male, park officials said Saturday.

Video

Tourists captured video of the tiger near Pha Rak Saladdai and along the road leading to the Khao Saladdai radar station, an area straddling Prachinburi and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. Rangers from Thap Lan National Park and district officials later inspected the site to ensure the safety of visitors and staff. Continued …

The best Thai island beach – and it’s largely backpacker-free

There is still a part of me that pines for the days of banana-pancake backpacking. Of dodgy overnight buses, internet cafes, and dog-eared Lonely Planet guidebooks. Of beachside Thai bungalows with their bad plumbing and spooky fans but where for five bucks a night you’d get a bed, a hammock, and a view of the ocean that couldn’t be bought by any billionaire.

Then there is another part of me that has come to enjoy a fluffy pillow and some air conditioning in my older age. It’s left me in a nebulous position where I want to feel like a backpacker again, I’d just rather not be drunk 90% of the time. Continued …

Thailand sites earn ‘Top 100 Green Destinations’ honors

Several destinations across Thailand have been selected for the “Top 100 Green Destinations Stories 2025”, an internationally recognized platform celebrating cities and attractions that demonstrate outstanding sustainable tourism management, environmental stewardship, and commitment to local communities.

Highlighted Thai destinations include Mu Ko Lanta National Park (Krabi), recognized for its “Return Home to Hermit Crabs” marine ecosystem restoration project, which reduces coastal waste and rehabilitates natural habitats. Continued …

Opium crops in Myanmar expand to 10-year high

Myanmar’s opium cultivation reached a 10-year peak with “renewed cultivation risk” along the Thailand border, says the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report launched early this month. Continued …

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14 Feb	Saturday	Valentine’s Day	Observance
17 Feb	Tuesday	Chinese New Year’s Day	Observance
18 Feb	Wednesday	Second Day of Chinese New Year	Observance
19 Feb	Thursday	Third Day of Chinese New Year	Observance
3 Mar	Tuesday	Makha Bucha	National Holiday
20 Mar	Friday	March Equinox	Season
6 Apr	Monday	Chakri Day	National Holiday
13 Apr	Monday	Songkran	National Holiday
14 Apr	Tuesday	Songkran Holiday	National Holiday
15 Apr	Wednesday	Songkran Holiday	National Holiday
1 May	Friday	Labor Day	National Holiday
4 May	Monday	Coronation Day	National Holiday
31 May	Sunday	Visakha Bucha	National Holiday
1 Jun	Monday	Day off for Visakha Bucha	National Holiday
3 Jun	Wednesday	Queen Suthida’s Birthday	National Holiday
21 Jun	Sunday	June Solstice	Season
28 Jul	Tuesday	King Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday	National Holiday
29 Jul	Wednesday	Asalha Bucha	National Holiday
12 Aug	Wednesday	The Queen Mother’s Birthday	National Holiday
23 Sep	Wednesday	September Equinox	Season
24 Sep	Thursday	Mahidol Day	Observance
13 Oct	Tuesday	Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol	National Holiday
23 Oct	Friday	Chulalongkorn Day	National Holiday
31 Oct	Saturday	Halloween	Observance
5 Dec	Saturday	King Bhumibol’s Birthday	National Holiday
7 Dec	Monday	King Bhumibol’s Birthday observed	National Holiday
10 Dec	Thursday	Constitution Day	National Holiday
22 Dec	Tuesday	December Solstice	Season
24 Dec	Thursday	Christmas Eve	Observance
25 Dec	Friday	Christmas Day	Observance
31 Dec	Thursday	New Year’s Eve	National Holiday