Changes to Thai Airport Screening/‘Beach Art’ exhibition ends Saturday/Ride-share drivers must register/Mystery Behind Chiang Mai Tiger Deaths/Total lunar eclipse on March 3- ECONOMY: Thailand braces for Trump tariffs/Baht breaks below 31 per dollar/’No plan’ for VAT rate hike/10-billion-Baht Chinese Project Approved/Thai Exports Surge 24.4%/Top printed circuit board manufacturing base/Retailers call for more help/Asia’s Social-Driven Shopping Revolution
- TOURISM: TikToker says most Thai locals are rude/Thailand’s Hotel Reality Check/Thailand’s 2026 micro-travel shift
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How to Make Som Tum
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Upcoming Changes to Thai Airport Screening Procedures
Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) plans to revise airport screening procedures, transitioning from handheld metal detectors to manual searches by October. This change aims to enhance safety following recommendations from the United States of Aviation (USAP). However, airport workers have expressed concerns about passenger reactions to the new process.
The revised screening, planned for full implementation by January 2027, follows the USAP’s recommendations for improved security standards. Reportedly, the CAAT has yet to announce these changes officially. The new approach will include manual searches performed by officers of the same gender as passengers, in addition to walk-through metal detectors and body scanners. Continued …
Artist Village Hua Hin ‘Beach Art’ exhibition ends Saturday
The Beach Art exhibition Hua Hin at Artist Village Hua Hin, featuring works by Swiss artist Frederic Waelti, will conclude this Saturday. The exhibition brings together a body of work created from discarded materials and objects collected along the shoreline, including driftwood and other remnants shaped by the sea.
Waelti’s pieces explore how materials often seen as worthless can be transformed into artworks with visual impact and meaning, while also encouraging reflection on coastal environments and human responsibility toward them. Continued …
Ride-share drivers must register vehicles by Saturday
Ride-sharing drivers operating through mobile applications must register their vehicles under categories Ror Yor 17/18 with the Department of Land Transport by Saturday, the government has warned.
Deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana said the move will formally integrate app-based services into the legal public transport system and close legal loopholes caused by the use of private vehicles for commercial passenger transport. Continued …
Mystery Behind Chiang Mai Tiger Deaths Investigated
The death of 72 tigers at Tiger Kingdom in Chiang Mai last week has raised concerns about the source of the virus and bacteria responsible. Raw chicken meat from a private farm is suspected, as it was fed to all tigers at the two facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng districts.
The tiger carcasses have been disposed of, either through cremation or burial. Each burial site is marked with identification numbers, and no parts were taken for sale. Despite strict protocols, the origin of canine distemper virus, Mycoplasma bacteria, and feline parvovirus remains undetermined, causing public speculation. Continued …
Total lunar eclipse on March 3; brick-red Moon visible nationwide in Thailand
Get ready for a major astronomical event to close out the first quarter of the year, as a total lunar eclipse will take place on the night of Makha Bucha Day, March 3. This one is special: the Moon is expected to appear brick-red from the moment it rises above the eastern horizon, allowing people in Thailand to enjoy the spectacle with the naked eye nationwide.
The event is expected to run from around 3:44 pm–9.23pm (Thailand time, Bangkok). The Moon will enter Earth’s penumbra at 3:44 pm, then move into Earth’s umbra, creating a partial lunar eclipse at 4:50 pm, before reaching the total lunar eclipse phase from 6:04 pm–7:02 pm. Continued …
Thailand braces for Trump tariffs, steps up US talks and FTAs
The collection of Donald Trump’s retaliatory customs tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was ruled unlawful by the US Supreme Court on Feb. 20. Following the ruling, the US president signed an executive order to enforce a new global customs tariff of 10% under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, effective at 12:01 am today.
On Feb. 21, the US president announced a 15% tariff rate, describing it as a legally permitted and legally reviewed level, effective immediately, although it had not yet been issued as an executive order. Continued …
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Baht breaks below 31 per dollar
The baht has strengthened again, breaking below 31 per US dollar and marking its strongest level in a week, after Donald Trump’s global 15% tariff move weighed on the US dollar. Kasikornbank and Krungthai Bank said the baht could continue to strengthen on capital inflows, the export outlook, and a surge of investment flowing into Thailand.
The latest movement in the exchange rate showed the baht strengthening and breaking below 31 per dollar yesterday, supported by two key factors: a sharp rise in gold prices amid geopolitical uncertainty, and a weaker US dollar. Continued …
‘No plan’ for VAT rate hike
The incoming Bhumjaithai-led administration will not raise the value-added tax (VAT) rate to 10% over the next three years, a BJT executive said, adding that the party’s immediate focus is economic recovery.
BJT deputy leader Siripong Angkasakulkiat gave the assurance yesterday in response to a proposal floated by a Senate subcommittee on economic, monetary, and fiscal affairs last week. Continued …
10-billion-Baht Chinese Humanoid Robot Parts Project Approved
The Board of Investment (BOI) has approved investment promotion for five major Chinese firms to establish what it describes as the country’s first production base for humanoid robot components.
The projects carry an initial investment value of more than 10 billion baht. The move is intended to strengthen Thailand’s high-tech supply chain and support so-called “industries of the future”. Continued …
Thai Exports Surge 24.4% on AI Electronics Boom
Thailand’s exports rose 24.4% year-on-year in January, marking the fastest growth since late 2021, driven by a surge in outbound electronic products linked to artificial intelligence and data centers.
Imports climbed 29.4% over the same period, also reaching a four-year high, according to Commerce Ministry data released yesterday. Both figures exceeded even the most optimistic estimates in a Bloomberg survey of economists. Continued …
Thailand becomes ASEAN’s top printed circuit board manufacturing base
The printed circuit board (PCB) industry is becoming a major magnet for large-scale investment flows into Thailand, amid the global expansion of AI, data centers and advanced electronics. This has helped Thailand move up to become ASEAN’s number one PCB manufacturing base, with a longer-term goal of rising into the world’s top five.
Data from the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) shows that between 2022 and June 2025, more than 180 PCB investment projects applied for investment promotion, with a combined value of more than B200 billion. This reflects ongoing production relocation and foreign investor confidence in Thailand as a strategic base in the region. Continued …
Retailers call for more help than just spending stimulus
As the Bhumjaithai Party prepares to lead the next government, one significant campaign pledge was to revive the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme. However, people in the wholesale and retail sectors view this initiative as a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution to the country’s sluggish economy.
The Khon La Khrueng Plus program allowed registered individuals to pay only half the price of goods purchased from local shops, with the government subsidizing the remainder. Continued …
The Social-Driven Shopping Revolution in Asia
The social-driven shopping revolution in Asia represents a seismic shift in consumer behavior, where social media platforms have evolved from mere communication tools into powerful e-commerce ecosystems. This phenomenon, often termed “social commerce,” integrates entertainment, community interaction, and seamless purchasing, blurring the lines between scrolling and shopping.
Driven by high mobile penetration, a young, digitally native population, and innovative platforms, Asia — particularly China and Southeast Asia (SEA) — leads the world in this space. As of 2026, social commerce is not just a trend but a core driver of retail growth, with projections indicating explosive expansion amid AI integration and live streaming dominance. Continued …
TikToker says most Thai locals are rude for not speaking English or using translation
Social media influencer Farah Shams, who has more than 2.4 million followers on TikTok, has sparked controversy after posting a video criticizing what she described as rude behavior by the majority of Thai locals during her visit.
In the clip, which has drawn nearly 400,000 views, Shams said she “genuinely” loves Thailand and called it a “lovely place”, but questioned why “the majority” of locals were, in her view, disrespectful toward foreigners and tourists. She said that when she spoke English to local people, many did not understand her and appeared to ignore her rather than attempt to communicate. Continued …
Thailand’s Hotel Reality Check: More Rooms, Tougher Competition
Thailand’s hotel industry has expanded almost continuously for close to five decades since the “Visit Thailand* boom in the 80’s. The latest Asia Pacific construction pipeline data confirms that this trend remains firmly in place.
Across the region (excluding China), hotel development reached a record 2,323 projects with 433,241 rooms by the end of Q4 2025. Within this total, Thailand recorded 167 active projects comprising 43,067 rooms, reinforcing its position as one of Asia’s most competitive hotel markets. Continued …
Airbnb highlights Thailand’s 2026 micro-travel shift
The Thailand micro-travel trend 2026 is gaining momentum, with new data from Airbnb indicating a structural shift in how Thai and Asian travelers are reshaping domestic and regional tourism patterns.
According to Airbnb insights, one- to two-day domestic trips among Thai travelers increased by almost 40% in 2025 compared to 2023 levels, while short international trips grew by nearly 15% over the same period. The rise of shorter, more frequent getaways reflects evolving work patterns, including hybrid and remote models, allowing travelers to integrate weekend breaks and quick overseas visits more seamlessly into their lifestyles. Continued …
How to Make Som Tum, the Famous Thai Papaya Salad, Like a MICHELIN Restaurant
If there’s one dish that could rival pad Thai for national icon status, it’s som tam — or som tum. This punchy papaya salad shows up everywhere in Thailand, from roadside carts to family tables, and has become an international star.
No two versions taste quite the same. But among the many riffs, som tam Thai remains the crowd-pleaser: sweet, sour, spicy, and unapologetically bold. The classic som tam thai is the gateway version — bright, balanced and finished with peanuts and dried shrimp. Continued …
Ukraine marks four years since Russian invasion
Ukraine today marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, with a show of solidarity from its staunchest allies and no immediate end in sight to Europe’s bloodiest conflict since World War II. Tens of thousands of lives have been lost since the Kremlin ordered troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, confident of a quick victory but not expecting the fierce resistance that followed. Continued …
Despite drop in 2025, Russian oil exports exceed pre-war volumes
While Russian oil exports dropped last year, Russia is still exporting higher volumes than before its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, researchers said today, calling for stricter sanctions enforcement. The volume of Russian crude oil exports remained 6% above pre-invasion levels in the fourth year of the war, despite Western sanctions aimed at curbing Russia’s “shadow fleet”. Continued …
Australian PM seeks removal of UK’s Andrew from line of succession
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government is writing to Commonwealth realms about its backing for former prince Andrew to be axed from the line of royal succession. Albanese said he had communicated with his British counterpart Keir Starmer about Andrew, who is being investigated for alleged misconduct in public office following revelations about his dealings with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Continued …
Indonesia’s elephant ride ban now taking effect
Indonesia’s nationwide ban on elephant riding is being rolled out across conservation and tourism facilities in Bali, Sumatra, and Borneo following a government directive issued in December. The directive requires licensed zoos, safari parks, and wildlife attractions to stop offering elephant rides and shift toward observation-based experiences. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
The inaugural Hua Hin Ultra Marathon 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 23, marking the first time the city has hosted an ultra-distance running event of this scale. The race will start and finish at Rajabhakti Park and will offer four distances, ranging from a 10-kilometer evening run to a 100-kilometer ultra marathon.
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The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, reported the latest hotspot index on Sunday, based on data from the Suomi NPP satellite via the VIIRS system.
The Board of Investment (BOI) says Japanese investment applications surged 146% in 2025 to more than 119 billion baht, signaling growing confidence in an economic rebound in early 2026. The sharp rise reflects stronger sentiment among Japanese firms operating in Thailand and reinforces the country’s position as a key production base in ASEAN.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
In 2025, China achieved a historic trade surplus of US$1.2 trillion, a figure that defies expectations set against the backdrop of US tariffs aimed at diminishing its economic influence.
Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production said Friday it acquired full ownership of Block A-18 in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area from Chevron in a $450M deal. The Thai company said it signed the deal with Hess and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following the recently closed merger deal with Hess.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Yaowarat, Bangkok, will be canceled during the mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, according to the Samphanthawong District Office yesterday.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Thailand’s electric mass transit rail network in Bangkok and its surrounding areas is progressing according to the master plan. With a goal of 33 routes spanning 553.41 kilometers, the country is making significant strides in urban transport development.
Foreign man flags sea pollution off Jomtien Beach in Pattaya
Italy’s Trevi Fountain launched a new ticketing system yesterday, making the famous Rome landmark the latest tourist site to charge entry in a bid to raise funds and battle overcrowding. People posed in the sunshine in front of the Baroque masterpiece after paying the €2 (US1.68) fee to access the now largely crowd-free area next to the basin. 