- Princess Pa’s polo cup/Cha Am motorway project/New Alcohol Serving Rules/Heat index could hit 60°C/Chiang Mai’s soaring PM2.5
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump threatens to destroy Iran oil sites/Houthis Threaten Strait Closure/Oil rises for fourth day/Diesel surges past 40 baht/Thailand weighs fuel tax cuts/Manufacturers Absorb 20% Fuel Spike/Government Expands B20 Biodiesel/Oil price surge Thai restaurants//Thailand eyes bus fare rise/Farmers stockpiling fertilizers/Airlines cancel more flights
- ECONOMY: Thai CEOs’ revenue confidence falls/Stores ready for ‘Thai Help Thai’/Stricter data center licenses
- TOURISM: Controversy with Visa-Free Policy/Travelers Driving Songkran Tourism/Canadian tourist dies/AirJapan bids farewell
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Cost of Living for a Family
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Arsenic levels rising in Mekong/EV motorbike sales climb
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Princess Pa’s polo cup returns to Hua Hin
Hua Hin is once again hosting one of Asia’s most distinctive sporting events, as the Princess Pa’s Cup InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo Hua Hin 2026 takes place along the beachfront of the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, Prachuap Khiri Khan, on Saturday from 12.30 pm to 9 pm.
Now in its 15th year, the tournament has become a regular fixture on Thailand’s sporting and lifestyle calendar, combining equestrian competition with social and charitable elements. Continued …
Cha Am motorway project to be presented for Cabinet approval
Three major road projects will be submitted to the new cabinet for consideration, with a combined investment exceeding 100 billion baht, according to the Department of Highways (DoH).
The first project is the M8 motorway (Nakhon Pathom–Pak Tho–Cha Am), with Phase 1 covering 61 kilomters from Nakhon Pathom to Pak Tho at a cost of 54.5 billion baht. The budget includes 14.4 billion baht for land acquisition and 40.1 billion baht for construction. The work will be carried out in two phases, with completion expected by 2033. Continued …
New Alcohol Serving Rules
Thailand has introduced specific guidelines for alcohol vendors to assess customer intoxication before serving more drinks. This follows a regulation that prohibits the sale of alcohol to already intoxicated customers, as per Section 29 of the Alcohol Control Act.
The guidelines published in the Royal Gazette aim to help vendors make informed decisions and avoid legal repercussions. The regulation was announced last December but lacked clarity on how vendors should evaluate intoxication. On March 30, the Royal Gazette detailed methods for assessing a customer’s level of drunkenness, describing physical, verbal, and behavioral indicators of intoxication. Continued …
Heat index could hit 60°C in early April
The heat index could soar to a dangerous 60 degrees Celsius in early April, posing a major threat to vulnerable groups, the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry warned yesterday. The heat index combines air temperature with relative humidity, reflecting what the body actually feels rather than the ambient temperature. High humidity significantly amplifies heat stress.
The DES cautioned that a high heat index poses particular risk for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses or obesity, outdoor workers, psychiatric patients, and alcoholics. Continued …
Chiang Mai set for disaster declaration after 4 days of soaring PM2.5
Chiang Mai is preparing to tighten controls on toxic PM2.5 pollution. Siwakorn Buapong, deputy governor of Chiang Mai Province, said PM2.5 levels in Mueang Na subdistrict, Chiang Dao District, have risen above 125 micrograms per cubic meter for four consecutive days.
The province is set to consider declaring the area a disaster-stricken zone tomorrow, while mobile medical units will be deployed tomorrow. Continued …
Trump threatens to destroy Iran oil sites if Hormuz not reopened immediately
US President Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s critical energy infrastructure, including oil fields, power plants, and Kharg Island, if Tehran does not immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reach a peace agreement quickly.
In a post online yesterday, Trump said the United States was engaged in serious discussions with what he described as a “more reasonable new regime” in Iran aimed at ending US military operations. Continued …
Houthis Threaten Bab el-Mandeb Closure, Impacting Thailand
Thailand could face soaring oil prices, export disruption, and rising electricity costs if Yemen’s Houthi group follows through on threats to shut the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key global shipping chokepoint.
Analysts warn the move would tighten a vital trade route linking East and West, triggering immediate economic consequences. The disruption would likely push up fuel costs, delay shipments, and increase the cost of living. Continued …
Oil rises for fourth day as Middle East war squeezes global supply
Global oil prices extended their rally into a fourth straight day today, as the widening conflict in the Middle East continued to stoke fears of tighter supply and further disruption to one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Brent crude for May delivery rose by US$2.26, or about 2%, to US$115.04 a barrel after earlier touching its highest level since March 19, while the more actively traded June contract stood at US$108.96 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate for May delivery climbed US$3.10, or roughly 3%, to US$105.96 a barrel, its highest level since March 9. Continued …
Diesel surges past 40 baht as Thailand raises fuel prices
Thailand’s retail fuel prices have risen sharply, with diesel climbing above 40 baht per liter following a late-night decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee (OFMC).
Fuel retailers, including PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR), and Bangchak Corp., implemented price increases effective from today, raising petrol and gasohol by 1 baht per liter and diesel by 1.80 baht per liter. Continued …
Thailand weighs fuel tax cuts as global oil surge tests fiscal limits
Thailand is considering cutting fuel excise taxes to ease rising living costs as global oil prices surge, but the move is raising concerns over long-term fiscal stability and government revenue losses.
The proposal follows similar actions by other countries, with Vietnam and Australia already implementing fuel tax reductions to cushion the impact of soaring energy prices on households and businesses. Continued …
Thai Manufacturers Absorb 20% Fuel Spike to Shield Consumers from Price Hikes
Thailand’s leading consumer goods manufacturers have moved to reassure the public that retail prices will remain stable for the immediate future, despite a sharp 20% spike in fuel costs. As the conflict in the Middle East enters its second month, global energy volatility has pushed Thai retail fuel prices up by 6 baht per liter, immediately inflating logistics overheads.
Despite these pressures, industry titans — ranging from instant noodle producers to international beverage and healthcare brands — have pledged to absorb the added costs. Continued …
Government Expands B20 Biodiesel to Cut Fuel Costs
The Thai government has accelerated the rollout of subsidized B20 biodiesel nationwide, aiming to reduce transport and industrial fuel costs by keeping prices 5 baht (0.15 USD) per liter below standard diesel. The policy is designed to ease pressure on supply chains and limit inflation driven by volatile global oil markets.
B20, a diesel blend containing 20% domestically produced palm-based methyl ester, is being promoted as a primary alternative fuel, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles and industrial machinery. Officials say the initiative offers a practical transition for operators seeking to manage rising energy expenses. Continued …
Oil price surge from Middle East war hits Thai restaurant bookings
Parkorn Kosiyabong, chef at GOAT, which holds one Michelin star, said yesterday the oil price crisis and higher transport costs following the war in the Middle East had not only increased restaurant costs but had also affected bookings. During the first and second weeks of the war, the restaurant business was hit hard, with cancellations reaching as high as 70%.
In the third and fourth weeks, customers from neighboring countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan helped support business, which was enough to get the restaurant through this month. More than 70% of the restaurant’s customers are foreign tourists. Continued …
Thailand eyes bus fare rise but freezes rates through Songkran
Thailand is preparing to seek approval for a gradual increase in public bus fares to help operators cope with soaring fuel costs, but fares will remain unchanged until April 19 under a state compensation plan to ease the burden on travelers during Songkran.
Sorapong Paitoonpong, director-general of the Department of Land Transport (DLT), said the department had prepared details to submit to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn for consideration, as higher oil prices continue to drive up transport costs. Continued …
Farmers stockpiling fertilizers as war drives up prices
The Middle East war has led to prices of fertilizers rising in Thailand, with the situation exacerbated by a shortage of urea, and this leading to farmers stockpiling as they fear further price hikes.
Pranee Banluesap, owner of a fertilizer and agricultural equipment store in Buriram’s Nang Rong district, said all brands of fertilizers have increased their prices by 50 baht a bag while urea, a key fertilizer component, is currently in short supply. Continued …
Airlines cancel more flights as Middle East conflict escalates
Global air travel remains severely disrupted, with many people still unable to fly as planned after the Iran war forced the closure of major Middle Eastern hubs, including Dubai, Doham and Abu Dhabi.
Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, ITA Airways, and Edelweiss have suspended flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv until May 31, and to Abu Dhabi, Amman, Beirut, Dammam, Riyadh, Erbil, Muscat, and Tehran until Oct. 24. Lufthansa Cargo is the same except for the Tel Aviv suspension, which will last through April 30. Continued …
Thai CEOs’ revenue confidence falls to three-year low amid economic and AI disruption
Confidence among Thai business leaders has fallen sharply, with only 24% of CEOs expressing strong confidence in their organizations’ revenue growth this year, down from 47% in 2023 and the lowest level in three years.
Finding from PwC Thailand’s 29th Global CEO Survey – Thailand: Leading through uncertainty in the age of AI, show that confidence is being eroded by a convergence of pressures, including economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, cyber risks and the accelerating pace of technological change. At the same time, Thai CEOs are under growing pressure to unlock new sources of growth through enterprise-wide AI adoption and expansion into new businesses and sectors. Continued …
Commerce says four chain stores are ready for ‘Thai Help Thai’
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of commerce, has instructed officials to inspect the readiness of modern trade retailers participating in the “Thai Help Thai” project, which is intended to help the public by easing the impact of higher living costs resulting from rising energy costs.
The ministry has joined hands with more than 19 partner organizations involved in the production and distribution of consumer goods to take part in the “Thai Help Thai: Reduce the Burden, Reduce the Cost of Living” project. Continued …
Thailand eyes stricter data center licenses as market nears 2 trillion baht
The rapid growth of large-scale data centers in Thailand is coming under closer scrutiny, amid questions over whether they could become more than just critical infrastructure for the digital economy and instead turn into a potential loophole for call center gangs, scammers, and gray capital to use as an operating base.
From 2025 to 2031, the market is projected to grow by an average of 27.7% per year, with its value rising from 470 billion baht to more than 2.02 trillion baht. Growth on this scale means the state must “set new rules” to prevent long-term risks. Continued …
Thailand Stirs Controversy with Visa-Free Stay Policy
Thailand’s visa-free stay program has been a popular gateway for travelers, letting citizens from 93 countries enjoy up to 60 days in the country without a visa, with an optional 30-day extension. Originally introduced to fuel the tourism sector revival, the scheme has brought a surge of visitors. But government officials are now raising concerns that the policy may be too lenient, and some foreign nationals may be using it for purposes beyond sightseeing.
While the program’s intention was purely to encourage travel, official reports show that certain visitors have stretched the rules. Some have set up businesses, engaged in unauthorized employment, or participated in cross-border scams and organized crime. These incidents have prompted authorities to consider reducing the visa exemption period back to 30 days. Continued …
Millennials and Solo Travelers Driving Post-Pandemic Songkran Tourism
As Thailand prepares for the 2026 Songkran Festival (April 10-18), new industry data has identified a definitive shift in the country’s travel landscape. Analysis from AirAsia MOVE, a leading regional travel platform, reveals that Gen Y (Millennials) and solo travelers have emerged as the dual powerhouses driving the tourism sector’s recovery over the last three years.
The report, which examined travel patterns from 2024 to 2026, suggests that the “traditional family holiday” is being augmented — and in some cases superseded — by a younger, tech-savvy demographic that prioritizes convenience and independence. Continued …
Canadian tourist dies on Tiger Cave climb — second death in three days
A 54-year-old Canadian man died after collapsing while climbing the 1,260-step staircase to the summit of Tiger Cave, or Wat Tham Suea Vipassana ,in Krabi on Sunday.
Rescuers from the Krabi Pitak Pracha Foundation rushed to the scene after receiving an emergency call from the 1669 command center. They found the man unconscious at step 1,100, without a pulse. Fellow tourists and rescue personnel attempted CPR, but he could not be revived. Continued …
AirJapan bids farewell to Thai skies
AirJapan officially announced the end of its Bangkok service yesterday, but promised to keep in touch with past passengers in other ways.
The low-cost airline thanked passengers using the airline on the Bangkok-Narita airport route, the day after its final flight from Suvarnabhumi airport landed at Tokyo’s Narita airport. Continued …
Cost of Living in Thailand for a Family With Two Children
Relocating a family with two children to Thailand can significantly reduce day-to-day expenses compared with many Western countries, but actual costs vary widely by city, schooling choices, and lifestyle expectations. This briefing summarizes current evidence on typical monthly spending for a family of four, with a focus on the major expenditure categories that drive the cost of living in Thailand in 2026.
Thailand remains a relatively low to mid-cost destination in global terms, with private consumption per person substantially below Western averages. However, families with two children face specific cost drivers that can push monthly spending far above local norms, particularly in Bangkok and other major urban centers. Continued …
Arsenic levels rising in Mekong
Civil society groups have warned that heavy metals – particularly arsenic – are gradually accumulating in sections of the Mekong River in northeastern Thailand.
They urged authorities to step up monitoring and address suspected cross-border pollution linked to upstream mining. The concerns were raised at an annual meeting of local networks in Loei province last week to protect the Mekong River. Continued …
Pattaya sees EV motorbike sales climb as oil prices soar
Surging global oil prices driven by tensions in the Middle East are prompting a noticeable shift in consumer behavior in Pattaya, with electric motorbikes gaining rapid popularity as residents look to cut fuel costs. Dealers report a steady rise in demand, as more consumers turn to electric alternatives to reduce daily transportation expenses amid continued volatility in energy markets.
Weera Amornworanich, a representative of MIT EV Pattaya Sukhumvit branch, said interest in electric motorbikes has surged in recent weeks. He noted that the low operating costs, minimal maintenance requirements, and independence from fuel price fluctuations are key factors driving purchasing decisions. Continued …
Korean Air to shift to emergency mode in April amid rising oil prices
Korean Air will enter emergency management mode from April as rising oil prices driven by the war in the Middle East weigh on costs, a source with knowledge of the matter said today. The airline said that if high oil prices persist, itexpects significant disruption to its annual businesstargets, and will shift to an emergency operating system from April. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Officials have discussed plans for a potential new international air route linking Hua Hin with Singapore, as part of efforts to strengthen the town’s tourism sector and improve accessibility for overseas visitors. The proposal, which includes a direct connection to Singapore’s Changi Airport, was raised during a meeting of the Hua Hin Airport Service Development Committee yesterday.
Dusit Thani Hua Hin is set to welcome guests for a lively celebration of the Thai New Year with its ‘Local Feast’ Songkran Carnival. Scheduled for April 12-13, from 5:30 pm to 10 pm, the event will take place at the Lagoon Lawn, offering a family-friendly atmosphere filled with local flavours and cultural traditions.
Rooted in ancient traditions of cleansing and respect, the Songkran Thai New Year marks a natural pause for both physical and emotional recalibration. As the Kingdom prepares to welcome the new season, Chiva-Som Hua Hin invites guests to experience Songkran as more than a celebration, reframing it as a meaningful journey of renewal, reflection, and holistic wellbeing.
U-Tapao airport construction set to start April 3 after long delay
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that a heat low-pressure system is covering upper Thailand, bringing hot conditions nationwide and very hot weather in some areas of the north, northeast and central regions.
One year on from deadly Bangkok quake collapse, accountability still buried
The Federation of Land Transport of Thailand has resolved to roll out phased increases in its charges of up to 30%, starting on April 1, to offset rising operating costs driven by a 6 baht-per-liter increase in diesel prices.
Thanadet Traiyot waited in line for hours at his local gas station, armed with containers and desperately hoping to secure much-needed diesel for his rice fields in Ayutthaya, central Thailand. He was third in the queue when the shop announced their supplies had run dry. That was five days ago; he still hasn’t managed to restock to his normal levels.
The ongoing war in the Middle East is exposing a critical vulnerability in Thailand’s energy system – its heavy dependence on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Over 350 ships reportedly await Iran’s clearance to transit Strait of Hormuz
The government plans to launch the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme to help ease the rising cost of living, with rollout expected after it delivers its policy statement to parliament.
In February, Thai exports grew by 9.9% year-on-year, reaching US$29.43 billion (912.56 billion baht). This marked the 20th consecutive month of expansion, primarily driven by the electronics and electrical appliances sectors, which have benefited from the global AI boom.
The 47th Bangkok International Motor Show has opened strongly, with total vehicle bookings reaching 12,408 units over the first four days (March 23-26).
The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok announced yesterday that the U.S. Department of State has paused immigrant visa issuances to nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand. This suspension, effective Jan. 21, 2026, aims to prevent immigrants from draining U.S. welfare resources.
Fuel fears and price surge dampen Songkran travel mood
A group of mostly elderly travelers, later identified as lay judges, filed a complaint on Thursday with The Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) after allegedly being abandoned at Suvarnabhumi Airport by a tour company.
The Japanese government yesterday approved its next basic tourism plan, including steps to bring the number of areas with measures against overtourism to 100 by 2030, the first time it has set a target on the issue. 
If you’re stuck on where to go this Songkran in the Land of Smiles, consider consulting the cosmos. Explained here is a slightly cosmic, very opinionated guide to where you should travel in Thailand this Songkran, based on your zodiac sign. Think personality traits, travel styles, and the kind of chaos (or calm) each sign secretly thrives in.
The “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on Sunday at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.
A network of e-cigarette users has urged Thailand’s new government to review the country’s e-cigarette ban, citing official data showing use has risen sharply despite more than a decade of prohibition.
A historic surge in oil prices is exposing the fragility of import-dependent Thailand, compounding pressure on an already weakening currency and raising the risk of capital flight, analysts say.
Travelers heading to Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan now face higher ferry fares after a sharp hike in fuel prices across Thailand prompted a ferry operator in Surat Thani province to raise ticket prices.
Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares Due to Rise in Diesel Prices
A fuel shortage and a recent surge in prices have caused logistics chaos for provincial retail and wholesale operators, sparking concerns it will reduce foot traffic during the upcoming Songkran festival in April.
A surge in diesel prices triggered by the US-Israeli war on Iran is pushing Thailand’s multibillion-dollar fishing industry toward a standstill, with fishermen warning that their boats could be idled within days unless the government steps in.
The Ministry of Public Health plans to limit certain treatments, expand telemedicine, and tighten pharmaceutical management to cope with mounting resource pressures, as the Middle East war threatens global medical supply chains, permanent secretary Dr. Somruek Chungsaman said.
Both antisemitism and Islamophobia are spreading across the West as the escalation of conflict in the Middle East — triggered by the US and Israeli strikes against Iran — enters its second month this weekend.
Though patients from the Middle East are shrinking as a result of war, analysts are upbeat about prospects for Thai hospitals this year, as the country has emerged as a medical and wellness hub and is transitioning into a “super-aged” society.
Embark on a delicious adventure through Bangkok’s vibrant food scene. From famous street food at Jodd Fairs Market to budget-friendly plates at Bib Gourmand favorites like Je-Oh and Polo Fried Chicken, this comprehensive food tour uncovers both classic Thai flavors and modern cuisine.
The government is accelerating the adoption of clean energy through new measures that support the installation of rooftop solar. The initiative offers tax incentives to help reduce electricity costs for businesses and households.
Anthony Bygraves MSyI, chief executive of the London-founded sustainable property developer The Zero, has set out an ambitious vision for the future of eco-conscious living on Thailand’s most celebrated island.
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has invited residents and organizations across the capital to switch off non-essential lights for one hour tomorrow as part of the “60+ Earth Hour 2026” campaign to cut energy use and help tackle global warming.
The current fuel shortage in Hua Hin has forced local rescue teams to prioritize emergency cases, as limited supplies begin to affect frontline response capacity in the district. The Sawang Hua Hin Thammasathan Foundation recently issued a public notice via social media outlining temporary changes to its services.
A growing scandal over forged construction permits in Koh Samui has triggered widespread concern, particularly regarding the safety of luxury villas owned by foreign nationals. Local officials have confirmed that fake documents bearing forged signatures were issued, with allegations that bribes of around 100,000 baht per permit were taken.
Thailand’s world No. 39 Thepchaiya Un-Nooh staged a remarkable comeback to beat seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan 10-7 in the World Open 2026 final in Yushan, China, yesterday.
The Thai baht has weakened 6% since the war with Iran broke out on Feb. 28 and is forecast to fall to B35 against the US dollar if the conflict continues. A Friday briefing by the Kasikorn Research Center and the Bank of Thailand made clear that if fighting lasts another month or two, Thailand’s 2026 GDP growth could drop well below 1%, possibly as low as 0.5%.
The Thai baht is expected to weaken further as the escalating Middle East war and delayed US interest rate cuts put pressure on the currency. On March 20, the baht had already fallen to just above 32.80 per US dollar, its weakest level in five months. Analysts forecast the currency will remain in a range of 32.60 to 33.10 against the dollar over the next month.
Mounting fuel shortages are prompting farmers and logistics groups to demand urgent government action to ensure supply, warning of transport disruption and potential crop losses.
Packaging may be the next industry to bear the brunt of petrochemical supply disruptions if the Israel-US war on Iran does not abate, says Veera Kwanloetchit, a director of the Public Private Partnership for Sustainable Plastic and Waste Management.
Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched daily local fuel station updates through the Provincial Energy Office network on Facebook, aiming to help motorists plan refueling and travel as some areas face tighter supplies. The ministry says the system is being expanded nationwide, with some provinces also developing additional apps to improve access to information.
Thai consumers are being squeezed by rising living costs, with fresh food prices climbing sharply, particularly for pork, chicken, and eggs.
The domestic oil crisis seems to be affecting Songkran travel plans, with a NIDA opinion poll showing that over 50% of the respondents had not made advance plans to travel during this period.
The global power shifts currently underway do not remain confined to geopolitics. They move quickly — often invisibly – through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences are both immediate and tangible.
Sustainability Dominates Asian Travel, Over 75% of Tourists Now Choose Eco-Friendly Options
Thailand Plans Mega Cruise Ports to Boost Tourism
The trio of Advanced Info Service (AIS), Central Group, and Japan Airlines have strengthened their collaboration on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) missions to ensure an improved and sustainable future.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for the country to shift entirely to electric, solar-powered vehicles across personal, public, and commercial transport, as part of a broader plan to revive domestic industry and cut reliance on imports. 
Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, has warned that a possible “super El Niño” could trigger severe climate disruption across Thailand and the wider ASEAN region, bringing heightened risks of drought, food insecurity, soaring agricultural prices and a worsening PM2.5 crisis.
The Thai baht is set to weaken further as the Middle East war is intensifying and dragging on, while the US Federal Reserve also may not be in a rush to cut interest rates.
The Bank of Thailand is warning the war in the Middle East could weigh on Thailand’s economy across multiple fronts, potentially dragging GDP growth below its 2% forecast for this year.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered the restart of two decommissioned units at the Mae Moh coal-fired power plant in a bid to contain rising electricity bills.
A fuel shortage is severely disrupting taxi services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, with large SUV taxis gradually suspending operations and only about 2,500 vehicles currently in active service, out of a fleet estimated at more than 5,000, operators say.
Five major consumer goods manufacturers are signaling possible price increases from April, as the global energy crisis drives up costs across supply chains and puts fresh pressure on the retail market.
The Finance Ministry is preparing tax reduction measures for large businesses that help bring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into their supply chains, in a bid to help upgrade local SMEs.
European companies are increasingly favoring Vietnam over Thailand for future investments in Southeast Asia, according to Chris Humphrey, executive director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council.
The Philippines and Thailand’s wellness economies have each surged in value in recent years, according to the latest data published by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).
Singapore Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport for 2026 by Skytrax, extending its long-running dominance, while Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport climbed to 36th place in the latest global rankings. The annual list highlights continued strong performance by leading Asian hubs and steady improvement in Thailand’s main international gateway.
Finland has ranked as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report 2026, while Thailand dropped from 49th to 52nd place. The report, released by the Wellbeing Research Center at the University of Oxford on Thursday, highlighted that the top three countries were Finland, Iceland, and Denmark. Costa Rica saw significant improvement, climbing to fourth place, the highest among Latin American nations.
The ocean has always felt like home to Claire Narida Charanachitta. Long before she spoke at international forums or produced award-winning documentaries, the Thai teenager spent her childhood exploring forests, coastlines, and environmental camps that introduced her to the delicate balance of nature.
Fore Management Group has announced the inaugural Misthos Group Hospitality Classic, a one-day charity golf tournament to be held at Royal Lakeside Golf Club on June 12, with proceeds supporting Hua Hin Heroes Foundation.
Thailand ranked fourth in the InterNations Expat Insider survey in 2025, its best result ever, thus reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most appealing places for foreigners to live. But in the same period, the cost of living here rose, the tax rules changed, and informal visa workarounds have become far harder to rely on.
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul was elected Thailand’s 32nd prime minister (PM) during a Parliamentary vote held yesterday. Anutin previously served as PM after former PM Partongtar Shinawatra was removed from office over a leaked phone conversation with Hun Sen.
Thailand’s gold market came under heavy pressure yesterday, with the Gold Traders Assn. revising prices 53 times during the day before bullion closed sharply lower, reflecting a steep global sell-off in the precious metal.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand will relocate to Dusit Central Park in Bangkok in August, without disrupting consular services for Dutch citizens and businesses across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Major consumer product manufacturers and distributors are warning customers of possible price increases in April due to the Middle East war disrupting the oil supply chain.
Thailand has significantly tightened its border controls since 2024, and what used to be casual entry procedures have become strict enforcement checkpoints. While most travelers enter without issues, understanding what can get you denied entry into Thailand and detained at the airport is essential for anyone planning a trip to the kingdom.
A troupe of Thailand’s ancient cat breeds will take center stage during Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2026, which will kick off on March 27 and run daily from 10 am to 8 pm until March 29. The venue is Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Hall 5, Muang Thong Thani.
Dry season turns profitable as red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
Hat Yai’s floods are a warning for cities built against nature
Most petrol stations in Hua Hin have introduced temporary refueling limits as fuel demand continues to rise across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging motorists not to panic buy despite stable national supply levels.
So-called “smart poles” are being installed at key locations across Hua Hin as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and support the development of smart infrastructure. The initiative forms part of the Hua Hin Smart City Phase 1 project, under which Hua Hin City Municipality has installed no fewer than 30 CCTV cameras, along with related equipment throughout the municipal area.
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will conclude on Saturday at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 is being held today and tomorrow, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
Thailand Riviera tourist road to improve access to Hua Hin
NH Hua Hin Hotel has appointed Nartsupak Thaweewong as general manager. Nartsupak brings more than 20 years of hospitality experience in Thailand and Singapore to the role.
The Airline Association of Thailand (AAT) is seeking government intervention for relief measures, as the aviation industry faces escalating cost pressures. In a recent meeting with executives from its member airlines, including Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia, the AAT discussed challenges posed by global economic conditions and external factors, particularly the geopolitical tensions affecting fuel prices.
Saha Pathanapibul and BJC, two major consumer goods companies, have warned retailers of the impact of unrest in the Middle East, which has driven up raw material, packaging, and transport costs and may affect product availability and deliveries.
The Land Transport Federation of Thailand has issued five demands for the government to address the energy crisis, warning it may escalate to a nationwide transport shutdown if no action is taken.
Thai fishermen staying ashore as fuel prices bite
Despite declines in new launches and inventory in Bangkok, condo developers are likely to delay new supply this year, as sales remain sluggish and absorption rates continue to fall, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).
Bangkok’s Chatuchak Named the Best Night Market in the World
Swedish solar technology company Midsummer has expanded its operations into Thailand, bringing advanced renewable energy solutions to the Southeast Asian region. As part of this expansion, the company has opened a new regional office in Bangkok to strengthen its presence and respond to the growing demand for clean energy in the country.
Thwaites Glacier in west Antarctica, covering more than 192,000 square kilometers, has been dubbed the “Doomsday Glacier” because it acts as the final barrier preventing the west Antarctic ice sheet from flowing into the ocean. But the glacier is now melting rapidly, raising fears that many coastal cities around the world could eventually be submerged.
Education officials are considering banning mobile phone use in all Thai classrooms, following a new initiative announced in Bangkok aimed at improving learning conditions. The proposed measures seek to reduce distractions and limit the health and behavioral impacts linked to excessive screen time. If adopted, changes would begin in the 2026 academic year.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is collaborating with GrabTaxi (Thailand) to explore the development of drone delivery services. This collaboration aims to enhance transport and logistics, emphasizing the importance of regulatory oversight to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Five officers were injured in a 
Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon said after a meeting of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East that the government had been closely monitoring global energy prices and found that continued increases had made it necessary to adjust domestic oil prices after they had been capped for a full 15 days, effective today.
Global airlines sounded the alarm yesterday over soaring jet fuel prices triggered by the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, warning of hundreds of millions of extra costs, higher fares, and cuts to some routes.
Lack of diesel brought garbage collection to a halt in Kanchanaburi municipality yesterday morning, with the trucks not beginning their rounds until fuel was available in the afternoon.
As soaring ocean freight rates put pressure on exporters, Thai wooden furniture manufacturer Deesawat is urging exporters to explore closer markets amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The tripartite wage committee has unanimously agreed that now is not the right time to consider a minimum wage increase, citing uncertainty over the economic fallout from the war in the Middle East and the need to closely monitor energy prices.
Ranong Port: Gateway To BIMSTEC Economy Worth US$3.5 Trillion
Rise of the cat economy: Thai cat population exceeds 4 million
Hotel operators in Thailand consider high energy prices more troubling than mass cancellations, as only one month remains in the high tourism season, resulting in requests for the government to promote domestic travel during the Songkran holiday to help maintain occupancy rates.
Eco-Friendly Adventures Await in Thailand’s Phang Nga
The Office of the Cane and Sugar Board (OCSB) expects purchases of sugar cane leaves to more than double this year as Thailand reduces its reliance on liquefied natural gas imports, shipments of which have been disrupted by war in the Middle East.
Last week, Chakkaphan Phewngam, deputy governor of Bangkok, led a high-level site inspection at the On Nut Refuse Disposal Center in Prawet District to evaluate the progress of the city’s landmark waste-to-energy incineration plant. Spanning 30 rai, this 1,000-ton-per-day facility represents a core component of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) strategic shift away from traditional landfilling toward sustainable, high-tech waste management.
Wind power and photovoltaic energy are reshaping the energy landscape. However, early-generation wind and solar equipment, designed to last 20 to 25 years, is now entering a phase of large-scale decommissioning.
Joe Kent, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, announced his resignation yesterday, citing his concerns about the justification for military strikes in Iran and saying he “cannot in good conscience” back the Trump administration’s war. 
Long queues formed at petrol stations across the Laotian capital Vientiane on Monday as fuel shortages deepened, with the ripples of the Middle East conflict reverberating across landlocked Laos. The Southeast Asian nation is dependent on neighboring Thailand for fuel supplies, which initially announced it was suspending exports to conserve its holdings, but has assured Vientiane that fuel is on its way. 
After prices of liquefied natural gas surged to record highs after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, millions of people in Pakistan were repeatedly left without electricity. But people soon started to realize there was an alternative. The falling costs of solar panels and generous government incentives to feed excess power back to the grid made rooftop solar an attractive option. 
Thailand is set to receive a new shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from overseas, ensuring adequate fuel for power generation as electricity demand surges during the hot season, according to an energy official who requested anonymity.
Anan Phonimdang, deputy governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and acting SRT governor, said the rise in fuel prices has had a direct impact on the railway operator.
The Thai Board of Investment (BOI) has warned the business sector to prepare for the impact of rising global conflicts and wars, saying they are becoming part of a new world economic order.
A transformative shift in the labor market is taking place as Thailand approaches “super-aged society” status by 2030, according to Jobsdb by SEEK, a leading online job platform.
The Thai banking industry is entering a transition period in which banks can no longer rely on strong interest income or generate the high levels of return on equity (ROE) as seen in the past, according to the chief executive of TMBThanachart Bank (ttb).
Thailand is losing nearly B30 billion in tax revenue each year as the illegal tobacco market expands, with illicit products now accounting for around a quarter of total tobacco consumption. A new policy report highlights the growing scale of illicit trade and its impact on government income, lawful businesses and consumer safety.
Venice is drowning – not just in rising waters but also in tourists. The city is charging a day-tripper fee and has banned large tour groups and loudspeakers in an effort to curb the crush. Barcelona residents march with squirt guns and “Tourists go home” signs to protest rising rents and crowds. Amsterdam is moving to cap and eventually ban ocean-going cruise ships to reduce pollution and visitor pressure.
European tourists are increasingly favoring eastern Thailand’s attractions over the traditionally popular southern areas, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This shift is linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has notably decreased southern Thailand’s appeal.
For the past decade, Whitney Spielfogel’s family has taken an annual multi-generational trip over the holiday season and New Year’s with her parents. Hawaii, Costa Rica, Cabo, Tulum, Turks and Caicos. They had done them all together, her parents and her husband, Ross, and eventually her children, Sienna and Slade.
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.