Blessing of the Fleet/Passwords under threat/Protests Erupt Over Dutch Embassy Sale/Residents flee border district/ECONOMY: Pressure to restructure Thai industry/Cambodia crisis hits Thai brands/TOURISM: Thailand world’s cheapest travel destination/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok a power player in fine dining/CLIMATE THAILAND: Clean energy dearth dents foreign interest/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/LINKS: 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
Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet ceremony returns on Sept 7
The Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet ceremony will return on Sunday, Sept. 7, continuing a tradition that reflects the town’s historic connection to the sea and its fishing community.
Organized by the Hua Hin Fishing Community Committee in partnership with the coastal community, the event will take place at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine, next to the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. The ceremony, which has been held during the 10th lunar month for nearly two decades, serves to honor ancestors, seek protection for local fishermen, and give thanks for the ocean’s resources. Continued …
Passwords under threat as tech giants seek tougher security
Fingerprints, access keys, and facial recognition are putting a new squeeze on passwords as the traditional computer security method – but users hesitate over making the switch.
“The password era is ending,” two senior figures at Microsoft wrote in a July blog post. The tech giant has been building “more secure” alternatives to log in for years – and has since May been offering them by default to new users. Continued …
Protests Erupt Over Dutch Embassy Sale in Bangkok
A storm of protest has erupted following the proposed sale of the Netherlands embassy compound in Bangkok. The Dutch Association in Thailand has rallied to stop the move, delivering a petition to halt the sale of this historically significant site on Wireless Road.
On July 30, prominent members of the Dutch, Thai, and expatriate communities gathered to present a letter to Dutch Ambassador, Remco van Wijngaarden, expressing widespread opposition. The association, having gathered over 1,000 signatures, is opposing local developers who are interested in the prime property. Continued …
Fearful residents flee border district
Fearing another round of clashes could break out along the Thai-Cambodian border at any moment, residents of a Sisaket district packed up and left their homes despite no evacuation order being issued, according to a media report.
A significant increase in vehicles leaving Kantharalak district and moving along Highway 221 (Kantharalak-Khao Phra Wihan) has been observed since last night. It is villagers in Sao Thon Chai subdistrict where a lot of rockets and artillery fell during the five-day clashes who are most fearful, with a lot of them packing and leaving. Continued …
From would-be fifth tiger to Asia’s sick man: pressure to restructure Thai industry
Once tipped to become Asia’s fifth economic tiger, Thailand is now grappling with stagnation, recording the slowest growth rate in ASEAN. Over the past decade, GDP growth has averaged below 2%, well under its potential, earning the country the unenviable label of the “sick man of Asia” in urgent need of reform.
The World Bank reclassified Thailand as a lower middle-income economy (per capita income above US$1,036) in 1988, amid hopes it would follow Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore to become a newly industrialized nation. Continued …
Cambodia crisis hits Thai brands, disrupts logistics and halts ad spending
The ongoing Thai-Cambodian border conflict, which has escalated into armed clashes in several areas, has led to the closure of border trade checkpoints since June 24. The shutdown has disrupted cross-border business, forcing exporters to switch from road to maritime transport, resulting in significant delays.
As the unrest persists, the impact on business has widened, with Thai brands operating in Cambodia suspending marketing communications and companies planning market entry postponing their launches until conditions stabilize. Continued …
Southeast Asia’s second largest economy named world’s cheapest travel destination
Thailand, the second largest economy in Southeast Asia, was named the world’s cheapest travel destination for American tourists with average spending of just US$81.87 a day, according to a new report by financial firm The Forex Complex.
To determine the results, the U.K. company weighed three factors: the average daily tourism-related costs in U.S. dollars, the local inflation rate, and the year-to-year change in the destination’s currency strength compared to the dollar. Continued …
Bangkok is becoming a power player in fine dining
Six Thai restaurants earned spots on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list, solidifying Bangkok’s standing in the global culinary arena. Michelin-starred restaurants now shine across the capital, offering everything from intimate, detail-driven courses to dramatic, high-concept experiences. In this landscape of culinary innovation, Bangkok is becoming a power player in fine dining.
The shift in Bangkok’s food scene is undeniable. Local chefs are pushing big ideas, and restaurants are blending Thai identity and new techniques in ways that feel deliberate and exciting. More people are planning trips around these meals, not just for the food, but for what it says about where Thailand’s headed. Continued …
Clean energy dearth dents foreign interest
Ongoing political instability may slow Thai economic growth, but a larger hindrance is in the energy sector, as Thailand risks losing 1 trillion baht in foreign investment opportunities if the government does not step up efforts to facilitate renewable power usage, according to the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Many foreign companies, especially those in data center and cloud service businesses, are waiting for authorities to allow peer-to-peer power trade, eager to know how clean electricity will be bought and sold under a new law. Continued …
Chinese Man Arrested Over Million-Dollar Durian Farm Fraud – Continued …
2 foreign men flee Pattaya motorcycle accident, leaving injured Thai woman – Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin opens/‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony/Huay Mongkol Temple robing ceremony/Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’/Thailand, Cambodia agree on ceasefire terms/Growing threat of drones/Mental health problems increasing/Scottish expat loses legs/Wild elephants roam for Thai produce/ECONOMY: Thai Inflation Dips/Global Recession Concerns/Illegal cigarette trade in Songkhla/TOURISM: Tourism players warn of a bad year/Forward bookings dip/Tourism Sector Loses 3 Billion Baht Monthly/Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors/Koh Larn’s Vehicle Chaos/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A First-Time Visit To Thailand/Exploring Chiang Mai Temples/CLIMATE THAILAND: Transforming tangled waste/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/LINKS: 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
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin opens in Cha-am
Dusit Thani has announced Dusit Ajara Hua Hin, an ultra-luxury residential development featuring over 60% green space. This is the second project by Dusit Thani as a property developer, following Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside at Dusit Central Park.
Located at 1349 Petchkasem Road, Petchaburi, Cha-am, Dusit Ajara Hua Hin features leisure gardens, kids’ playgrounds, a wellness studio, and salt water pools. The project also embraces the multi-generational living concept, creating designed spaces and facilities for family members across all ages.
Standard services include 24-hour concierge service, housekeeping, bed linen laundry, private garden maintenance, emergency response service, property maintenance, and shuttle service within the development; cooking classes, art and craft workshops, yoga and tai chi classes; room service to personal chefs, catering, in-home party arrangements, hotel spa services, and hotel car services.
Hua Hin to host annual ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony
The annual ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony will return to Hua Hin on Sunday, Sept. 7, continuing a tradition that honors the town’s historic connection to the sea and its fishing community.
Held at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine, near the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, the ceremony is organized by members of the Hua Hin fishing and coastal communities. It serves as a moment to pay respect to ancestors, offer protection for local fishermen, and express gratitude for the ocean’s continued abundance. Continued …
Huay Mongkol Temple in Hua Hin will host the 12th “Robing of the Giant Luang Pu Thuat” ceremony on Aug. 8–9 to mark Mother’s Month and honor the 93rd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Central Region, will begin on the evening of Aug. 8 with a blessing ceremony at the plaza in front of the giant Luang Pu Thuat statue. Continued …
Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’ set this weekend
Monsoon Valley Hua Hin will hold its annual Vineyard Fest, a four-day event celebrating the release of its new 2025 vintages, from Aug. 9-12. The event offers a mix of wine tastings, outdoor dining, and relaxed afternoon entertainment set against the scenic backdrop of the vineyard.
The festival begins on Aug. 9 with the launch of Monsoon Valley’s latest vintages. Visitors can sample a selection of five wines served by the glass. Continued …
Thailand, Cambodia agree in principle to ceasefire terms
Secretariat-level discussions between Thailand and Cambodia, which took place over three days starting Monday, have reached a consensus in principle on key issues relating to the implementation of the ceasefire along their shared border.
Chief of Defense Force Gen. Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar said this included agreement on the terms of reference (TOR) for monitoring efforts by the interim ASEAN defense attaché observer team. Continued …
The growing threat of drones in the Thai-Cambodian conflict
The Thai Cabinet has recently approved the purchase of four Gripen fighter jets, a decision made during the ongoing conflict with Cambodia. This move seems unlikely to face opposition, especially after the Gripen jets significantly changed the dynamics of aerial combat by repeatedly targeting Cambodian military bases.
However, military professionals, experts, and security scholars are expressing concerns. One military expert specializing in drone warfare noted that while the Cabinet has approved the Gripen purchase, it has not authorized the acquisition of drones — despite the current issue of Cambodian or foreign drones causing disruption. Continued …
Mental health problems increasing in Thailand
Some 13.4 million Thais claim to have experienced mental health problems, with people aged 45–59, known as the pre-senior group, reporting the lowest happiness levels, according to the Thai Health Report 2025.
The report, compiled by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University’s Institute for Population and Social Research, and released on Monday, comprises four sections, including mental health and major public health issues. Continued …
Scottish expat loses legs in Bangkok lorry crash
A Scottish man living in Thailand had both legs amputated after a motorbike crash with a lorry in Bangkok.
Willie Braid, a 54-year-old expat from Scotland, was hit while riding his motorbike in the capital on July 27. The driver of the lorry is alleged to have fled the scene in what appears to be a hit-and-run incident. Continued …
Wild elephants roam 30 kilometers for Thai produce
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has reported that wild elephants are straying beyond their forest habitats in eastern Thailand, traveling over 30 kilometers in search of food.
Atthapol Charoenchansa, the department’s director-general, stated that elephants are attracted to the taste of local produce such as durians, mangosteens, bananas, and sugarcane, which are more appealing than their usual forest diet. Continued …
Thai Inflation Dips for Fourth Consecutive Month, Deflation Fears Dismissed
T ailand’s headline inflation fell for the fourth consecutive month in July, reaching -0.70%, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The decline was primarily attributed to cheaper energy and fresh food prices, though officials were quick to dismiss concerns of the economy entering a deflationary period.
The Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) revealed that lower global oil prices and a government-led reduction in electricity tariffs were key contributors to the drop. Continued …
Trump’s Tariff Strategy Sparks Global Recession Concerns
U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariff proposal is rattling global markets and intensifying fears of a broader economic slowdown in the second half of 2025.
The move, which targets key trade partners including the European Union, China, and ASEAN nations, is poised to stoke inflationary pressures at home while threatening already fragile recoveries abroad. Continued …
Illegal cigarette trade in Songkhla cripples local businesses
The Thai Tobacco Trade Assn. has raised alarms over the rampant distribution of illicit cigarettes in Songkhla province, which has impacted over 4,000 legal tobacco retailers and forced the closure of about 200 small shops.
Thanyasaran Sangthong, the association’s executive director, revealed that Songkhla ranks second in the country for illegal cigarette infiltration, severely affecting local tax revenue. Continued …
Thai foreign tourism players warn of a bad year
The Thai-Cambodian border clash in late July dealt a brutal blow to Thailand’s already crumbling foreign tourism industry in 2025, coming just months after a damaging earthquake shook Bangkok. These events, alongside a January scandal involving the abduction of Chinese nationals by scam gangs in Myanmar, have created relentless negative headlines that drive tourists away.
Latest figures show tourist arrivals have plunged 6.56% compared to last year, while vital cross-border trade with Cambodia — lifeblood for many struggling local traders — has ground to a halt, deepening economic strain. Tourism operators are now demanding one thing from the government: stability. Continued …
Forward bookings dip amid border row
Foreign forward bookings for Thailand have started to feel the pinch due to the Thai-Cambodian border tensions, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), while Chanthaburi tourism operators reported cancellations from foreign tourists for the remainder of the year.
Tourism operators urged the government to offer relief measures for affected businesses in the seven border provinces, such as tax reductions. Continued …
The fierce clashes at the Thai-Cambodian border have severely impacted Thailand’s booming tourism sector, resulting in a monthly loss of 3 billion baht (US $83M). Since hostilities flared last month, the once-bustling border provinces have turned eerily silent, with tourists cancelling over 5,000 hotel bookings.
Sorawong Thienthong, the minister of tourism and sports, revealed that the spiraling cancellations of hotel reservations by foreign visitors are largely responsible for the losses. The fallout is most severe in the seven provinces along the fracture line of the Thai-Cambodian border, where apprehension is rife and rooms lie empty. Continued …
Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors in 5 years, says TAT
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirms that organizing the ‘Tomorrowland’ electronic dance music (EDM) festival in Thailand will be worthwhile.
It is expected to generate a total economic impact of over 21 billion baht from tourists and attendees, with more than 1 million people participating in the first five years. Continued …
Pattaya Cracks Down on Koh Larn’s Vehicle Chaos
Koh Larn’s chaotic transport scene is about to be tamed with a fresh initiative from Pattaya officials employing bright stickers to control the island’s vehicle frenzy. Over 3,500 vehicles, including motorbikes, taxis, and golf carts, will be sorted, monitored, and regulated as part of a new system designed to enhance safety, transparency, and tourist satisfaction.
This initiative introduces nine vehicle categories to address long-standing issues like overcrowding and unregulated operators disrupting the island’s narrow paths. Continued …
A First-Time Visit To Tantalizing Thailand
It was only my second day in Thailand, but I knew then I’d want to return someday for more of its vibrant street life — a multisensory medley of hole-in the-wall shops, markets brimming with exotic fruits, and outdoor cooking stalls tucked under canopies of plastic tarps, oversized umbrellas, and corrugated metal roofs.
From morning to night, the roads are abuzz with motorcycles, motor scooters and Thailand’s iconic tuk-tuks, those three-wheeled vehicles with a bench in back for passengers or a side cart for hauling things. Continued …
Exploring Chiang Mai Temples
Thailand ranks at the top of many people’s dream destination lists, and rightly so. Of the more than 100 countries I’ve traveled to, Thailand is the one that offers something to everyone who visits. However, many travelers visit Bangkok and the southern islands and tend to miss out on the northern part of the country, which I consider one of its best parts.
Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second biggest city behind Bangkok, is the central hub for exploring northern Thailand. The city features hundreds of ancient temples, a fantastic and unique food scene, and an incredible natural scene, as it is surrounded by mountains. Continued …
Transforming tangled waste into tangible rewards
Thailand’s retail giant Central Group has launched a forward-looking sustainability initiative, “Love the Earth: Zero Waste,” in response to the escalating triple planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, as highlighted by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
The campaign has been rolled out in key tourism-dependent provinces such as Samui, Chanthaburi, and Surat Thani – destinations known for their economic vitality but increasingly strained by mounting volumes of food and plastic waste. Continued …
British Man Busted After iPhone Theft, 2-Year Overstay – Continued …
2 Nigerian Men Caught Crossing into Thailand from Cambodia – Continued …
Foreign man arrested for running illegal motorcycle rental in Phuket – Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Blessing of the fleet/Red Cross Fair in PKK/Shotgun slaying in Cha Am/Leave license at home/Heavy rain forecast/Floods, landslides claim 16 lives/Flooding affects about 30,000 families/Mekong River breaches embankment/Mekong nations can curb floods/Blackpink’s Lisa performs/Best health insurance for expats aged 40-60/Overhead cables moving underground/12,000 visitors for baby hippo/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Daunting to-do list/Thailand a major trading nation/Workers ponder their future/Business Leaders Reject 400 Baht Minimum Wage/‘Pet humanization’ trend/Major retail outlet closures/Texas Chicken folds its wings/Tourism: Thailand’s new visa measures/Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife/’Wellness on a Plate’ campaign/Trat islands tourism/More man-made tourism magnets/Increase in Malaysian tourists/AirAsia Thailand India flights/Thailand Experience: What to do in Betong/Climate Thailand: New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability/The plastic menace/EV sector crisis/Electric vehicle surge/PTT’s path to greener future/WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike/International/Links: 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
New Thai app allows drivers to leave license at home
Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) has introduced a QR license mobile app to provide convenience to motorists who will no longer need to carry a driver’s license.
Seksom Akraphand, director-general of the DLT, said the app allows people to display their digital driving license on electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets. Continued …
Heavy rain forecast for 51 Thai provinces, Bangkok on high alert
Today’s weather forecast warns of heavy rain across 51 provinces in Thailand, with Bangkok expected to be significantly affected. Citizens are advised to be cautious of potential flash floods and forest runoff.
The Meteorological Department of Thailand’s (TMD) 24-hour weather forecast for today predicts heavy rain in certain areas, particularly in the northeast, east, and western parts of the south. This heavy rainfall, combined with accumulated precipitation, may result in flash floods and forest runoff, especially in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying regions. Continued …
Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai claim 16 lives
Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have resulted in 16 deaths and 136 injuries, with officials closely monitoring two additional districts for heavy rainfall anticipated from today until Wednesday.
The Ministry of Public Health reported on the current flood and landslide situation in health zone one, covering Sept. 8 to Sept. 13. The incidents primarily affected two provinces. Continued …
Flooding affects about 30,000 families in 12 Thai provinces
Flooding is affecting 30,073 families in 12 provinces, mostly in the north, and is rising in some provinces, especially northeastern ones, on Sunday, while weather forecasters expect more heavy rains this week.
Chaiwat Chuntirapong, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, on Sunday said that flooding continued in: Continued …
Red alert issued in Nong Khai as Mekong River breaches embankment
Nong Khai’s municipal administration issued a red alert on Sunday morning to warn residents in the area to brace for flooding, as the swollen Mekong River has breached a sandbag embankment, causing water to flood a temple community.
Lt. Satawat Nukul, deputy company commander of the 24th Army Circle, said he has asked the provincial governor to bring large bags and concrete barriers to reinforce the embankment, fearing that the sandbags will not be able to withstand the water pressure. Continued …
Mekong nations can curb transboundary floods
The government must closely work with neighboring countries to improve the management of the Mekong River to reduce economic damage and loss of life during floods in the future, the International Rivers Network says.
Pianporn Deetes, campaign director for the Southeast Asia program at the International Rivers Network, said a huge volume of water from Myanmar contributed to the flooding disaster in Chiang Rai province. Continued …
How to choose the best health insurance for expats aged 40-60 in Thailand
Moving to Thailand as an expat brings exciting new experiences, but it also comes with the responsibility of securing quality healthcare, especially for those between 40 and 60.
At this stage in life, it’s important to find a health insurance plan that covers your specific needs and ensures peace of mind. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best health insurance plan for an expat in Thailand. Continued …
Bangkok’s overhead cables moving underground
Smart energy development in central Bangkok under the Samyan Smart City project continues to make progress, with the latest effort relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, says the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA).
Overhead cables that ran along Chulalongkorn Soi 12, which leads to Banthat Thong Road, along with those located in an area in front of the King Rama VI Monument near Lumpini Park, were removed last month, eliminating an urban eyesore, said Rachain Unwet, assistant governor for distribution system service at MEA. Continued …
Zoo sees 12,000 visitors for baby hippo Moo Deng
A surge of 12,000 visitors flocked to Khao Kheow Open Zoo yesterday to see the increasingly popular baby pygmy hippopotamus known as Moo Deng. The zoo plans to introduce a new sloth family next month, urging tourists to avoid disturbing animals.
The Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Attaporn Srirang, reported that the popularity of Moo Deng has significantly boosted visitor numbers. The zoo, located in Si Racha, Chon Buri, saw an influx of people arriving even before opening hours. Continued …
Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested – Continued …
Police raid in Na Jomtien uncovers Indian call scam operation – Continued …
Chinese men arrested for using remote jammer to steal from cars – Continued …
Pattaya pub raid nets illegal Canadian DJ, sword-carrying Briton – Continued …
Thailand’s new premier faces a daunting to-do list
Business leaders and economists have urged the government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to address both short-term problems and structural economic issues simultaneously.
They view comprehensive debt restructuring, measures to help low-income earners, and safeguards for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against unfair foreign competition, especially online trading platforms, as the the top three priorities that must be tackled by the government as soon as possible. Continued …
Shippers council has a strategy to make Thailand a major trading nation
The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) has unveiled a strategic development plan aimed at transforming Thailand into a leading global trading nation.
TNSC Chairman Chaichan Charoensuk last week highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing Thai exporters in today’s evolving global trade landscape. He emphasized the need for increased competitiveness amid growing trade barriers, rising costs, geopolitical tensions, and conflicts. Continued …
Thai workers ponder their future amid changing economic landscape
The employment situation in Thailand remains unclear. While official figures show low unemployment at 1.07% in the second quarter this year, the jobless number rose to 430,000, according to state-owned think tank National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).
The data comes amid the closure of many local manufacturing plants, citing fierce competition from cheaper products imported from China, the high cost of living and sluggish economic growth. Continued …
Business Leaders Reject Nationwide 400 Baht Minimum Wage Hike
Natthaphon Luangwongpaisan, chairman of the Upper Northeastern Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, has openly criticized the government’s initiative to implement a nationwide minimum wage increase to 400 baht per day, set to take effect on Oct. 1.
(Editor: Here’s a thought. If the minimum wage is higher in Bangkok than in northeast Thailand, doesn’t that encourage people to move from northeastern Thailand to Bangkok for work?)
Luangwongpaisan argues that this policy lacks consideration for the diverse economic conditions present across different regions. Continued …
‘Pet humanization’ trend playing a big role in expanding Thailand’s pet market
Thailand’s pet market in 2024 is projected to be worth 75 billion baht, representing a 12.4% growth year on year, according to ttb analytics. The main factor driving this growth is the shifting trend in pet ownership.
Pet owners today increasingly view their pets as family members, a concept known as “Pet Humanization”. This has led to the idea of “petriarchy”, where pets are seen as the center of the family, and the rise of “pet celebrity”, where pets gain popularity and social influence, ttb analytics said. Continued …
Examining causes of major retail outlet closures
In early 2024, several news reports highlighted the closure of many Thai businesses, including numerous retail stores in provincial areas.
If we consider the closures of retail branches in Thailand in recent times, they include the Fairyland mall in Nakhon Sawan, the closure of branches at Kad Suan Kaew Shopping Center in Chiang Mai, Promenada Mall in Chiang Mai, and Tang Hua Seng in Thonburi. Continued …
Texas Chicken folds its wings for good in Thailand
Texas Chicken is shutting down all its outlets in Thailand after serving customers here for nine years. The fastfood company announced today that it would close all outlets from the end of September. It gave no reason for its decision to exit Thailand.
“It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” it said. Texas Chicken is an American fast food restaurant chain, called Church’s Texas Chicken in the United States. Continued …
Thailand issues four major announcements on new visa measures
The Ministry of Interior has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in Thai cultural activities. It is valid for five years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 180 days. This visa can be renewed for an additional 180 days within Thailand. Spouses and children under 20 years old can also apply for dependent DTV visas. Continued …
Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife is still expanding
Pattaya doomsayers will tell you Sin City is all but finished. A combination of gentifrication (posh buildings replacing bars and clubs) and diversification (people now bring their kids on holiday here) has all but decimated the old Pattaya.
The number of western expats, especially retirees, has dropped thanks to repatriation or liver disease. “Things are not what they used to be,” bewails a British pensioner sipping beer with his mates as they watch the traffic jams unfold on Soi Buakhao. Continued …
TAT launches ‘Wellness on a Plate’ campaign
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a new campaign called “Wellness on a Plate” to showcase the wide range of Thailand’s gastronomic offerings and their health benefits.
TAT Gov.Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said Thai cuisine isn’t just about food, as it is also about the nation’s longstanding cultural heritage. Under the campaign, tourists will be invited to explore various wellness-themed routes, which offers new ways to experience Thai cuisine. Continued …
Trat islands tourism bear cost of uncertainty
Tourism providers in Trat say political uncertainty and a stagnating economy are harming tourism in the province.
Attaphon Klimtap, CEO of Bunsiri Speedboat, a major speedboat operator in Trat, said tourism growth in this eastern coastal province, especially to popular sites such as Koh Chang, Koh Kut, and Koh Mak, has fallen by half during this year’s low season. Continued …
More man-made tourism magnets
While Thailand is usually perceived as a “sea, sand and sun” destination, attracting new tourism markets by developing man-made attractions has piqued the interest of the private sector. The government is drafting a plan for entertainment complex projects, which would feature legal casinos in Thailand for the first time.
Companies are enthusiastic about new attractions, with Asset World Corp. recently announcing a plan to build the first water park in Chiang Mai to serve families. Continued …
Malaysia-Thailand border checkpoint sees increase in tourists
As the school holidays and Malaysia’s National Day draw near, the number of tourists crossing the border into Thailand has increased significantly, with Bukit Kayu Hitam ICQS being a key entry point.
The strategic location of this border checkpoint, located along one of the most important routes connecting Malaysia and Thailand, makes it a key route for travelers looking to explore the neighboring country. This increase in travel volume reflects the increasing trend of Malaysians choosing to travel across the border during the festive season. Continued …
AirAsia Thailand is expanding its India network with the launch of direct flights from Hyderabad to Bangkok and Chennai to Phuket.
The Hyderabad-Bangkok route will begin on Oct. 27, offering four weekly flights, while the Chennai-Phuket route will start on Oct. 30 with three weekly flights. Continued …
What to do in Betong, a hidden gem in south Thailand
The morning dawned as I parted the curtains and opened my fifth-floor hotel window. The distant mountains were still shrouded in clouds, but my attention was drawn to the street hawkers below, the clashing of utensils, and the roar of passing cars and motorcycles.
I looked at my watch. It was 6:30 am Malaysian time, 5:30 am in Betong, a hidden gem lodged among the mountains. I was there on a short holiday with family and friends. Continued …
Sustainable Tourism’ A New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability
Although expansion in the global tourism industry has been a significant driver of economic growth, this has come at the cost of negative consequences for th environment and local communities. As a result, interest in sustainable tourism, which aims to reduce the social and environmental impacts of the industry, while also generating economic benefits for all stakeholders, has been rising worldwide, driven by consumers’ growing environmental concerns and the setting of official net zero goals.
Within the Thai context, growth has been helped by the development of local sustainable tourism models, moves to encourage businesses to “measure-reduce-offset” their carbon emissions, and support for the adoption of sustainability standards. Nevertheless, although businesses active within the tourism sector (hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, etc.) are being presented with the opportunity to expand into new, environmentally conscious market segments, this will impose the need to adopt much more stringent environmental and social standards. Continued …
Saving the planet from the plastic menace
There is no denying that plastics have delivered tremendous benefits over the past century. But as we now know, this progress has come at great cost.
Plastic pollution endangers wildlife, damages ecosystems and poses serious risks to human health. Microplastics, along with the toxic chemicals they contain, are found in the air we breathe, the food we eat and can be absorbed through the skin. As plastic waste accumulates in water, harmful chemicals contaminate the soil. Continued …
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EV sector crisis as Chinese firms trapped between lack of demand, tax penalties
Thailand’s new EV manufacturing world is in crisis. The sector, which has seen Chinese firms invest billions, is now suffering a market glut, as demand for EV cars, both in Thailand and across the world except for China, falls. This year has seen the industry tilt decisively towards HEV or hybrid vehicles.
At this time, it is being reported that Chinese firms in Thailand are holding urgent talks with the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok. The firms are bound under Thailand’s 3.0 and 3.5 incentive schemes to ramp up production to match the number of imported vehicles here. However, unable to find export markets for the cars, they are left with a vast dilemma. Continued …
The electric vehicle surge and Thailand’s plastic curse
The streets of Phuket, and indeed across Thailand, are undergoing a quiet transformation. The subtle hum of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids is becoming increasingly familiar, marking a change welcomed by many.
However, this shift isn’t fueled by a sudden wave of environmental consciousness among Thais and expats. Instead, it’s a matter of market dynamics: these vehicles are now affordably priced, offer attractive credit and undeniably fashionable. Continued …
PTT plots path to greener future
PTT Plc, Thailand’s national energy company, has realigned its strategy to balance business growth with sustainability, and advance both its own and the nation’s goals of achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions, says its chief executive officer.
PTT President and CEO Kongkrapan Intarajang recently saidthe company is focused on balancing business growth with sustainability to ensure Thailand’s national energy security. PTT has set an ambitious target of reaching carbon net zero by 2050, well ahead of the national goal of 2065 agreed upon at COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland. Continued …
WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike through renewables
WHA Utilities and Power (WHA P), an arm of Thailand’s biggest industrial land developer and operator WHA Corp, is planning to spend 2.3 billion baht to support its business and serve growing demand for water and clean electricity in Thailand and Vietnam.
A portion of the budget will be allocated for renewable energy expansion, with a goal to reach electricity generation capacity of 1,000 megawatts under power-purchase agreements with the government, said Somkiat Masunthasuwun, director and a member of the WHAUP executive committee. Continued …
As of Sept. 13, reports from Myanmar indicate that 74 people have died and 89 are missing in 64 townships and 462 wards/villages affected by flooding. Continued …
Soi 80 gunman out on bail/Hyatt to Acquire Standard/’Blessing of the Fleet’/Villa Market remains upbeat/Monkey traps installed at Khao Takiab/Neighboring countries compete for foreign retirees/Shinawatra Dynasty Retakes Power/Cabinet to continue Srettha’s projects/Tobacco health warnings ‘mandatory’/Painter Falls to His Death/Thailand’s Suphalak cat breed/Mpox vaccine for 8,500 baht/Tapir emerges in Thai forest/Economy: Economy said ‘nearly in crisis’/Economy has bottomed out/Realizing Higher Growth Potential/Wage hike awaits/No problems with cash distribution/Chinese lorries in Thailand/Tourism: How Thailand Is Leveraging Influencers/Sydney Flights Resume/Thailand Experience: Bangkok’s Bustling Downtown/Climate Thailand: PTT targets 7,000 EV charging outlets/The waste that’s choking the Chao Phraya/New solar panel partnership/PTT lays out its strategic plan/International/Links: 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
Soi 80 gunman out on bail, bar closed
The accused in a fatal shooting of a sergeant in a local pub has been given bail by a Hua Hin court. The head of the Hua Hin Police Station’s Police Affairs Monitoring Committee confirmed that the suspect has been suspended to ensure a fair investigation and comfort the victim’s family.
The accused is 34-year-old Jagkrit, an adviser to the Hua Hin Police Affairs Monitoring Committee in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. He is accused of shooting and killing 31-year-old Sgt. Major Rochnaporn, also known as Sergeant Punch, a soldier from the Thanarat Camp in Pranburi. Continued …
Hyatt to Acquire Standard International
Hyatt Hotels Corp. has announced the planned acquisition of the brands and most of the affiliates of Standard International, parent company of The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels brands. The Standard Hua Hin Hotel is located on Phetkasem Road.
This move enhances Hyatt’s position as the leader in the industry’s premier lifestyle space, building on both its organic growth and a series of acquisitions that quintupled the number of lifestyle rooms in Hyatt’s global portfolio between 2017 and 2023. The transaction is anticipated to close later this year, subject to customary closing conditions. Continued …
The high level of household debt won’t significantly impact Villa Market, according to Villa Market JP Co., the operator of the supermarket chain, as the company targets the high-income segment.
Pisit Poosanakhom, the company’s chief executive, said the company believes the high-income segment remains resilient despite the soaring rate of household debt. Continued …
Neighboring countries compete with Thailand for foreign retirees
Thailand offers a multiplicity of long-term visas for women and men well past the first bloom of youth. They include annual extensions of stay, the 5-20 years Elite visa and the 10-year long-term residence (LTR), each of which has its own scale of charges with assorted pluses and minuses.
None of them allows direct ownership of land by foreigners, nor guarantees a path to permanent residency or citizenship. Purchase of condominiums is allowed but does not generally result in visa concessions. Since January 2024, anyone spending six months or more in the kingdom may be liable to personal income tax on remitted income. Continued …
Shinawatra Dynasty Retakes Power Amid Uncertainty in Thailand
After weeks of uncertainty, Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ascended to Thailand’s prime ministership, inheriting an office previously held by her ousted predecessor Srettha Thavisin. At 37, she represents the latest chapter in the Shinawatra political saga, but questions loom over her tenure’s longevity.
On Sunday, following a court ruling that disqualified real estate tycoon Srettha from office due to an ethics probe, Paetongtarn was formally sworn in as Thailand’s 31st prime minister. Her parliamentary endorsement came despite her limited political experience and without any prior electoral victory. Speaking to the press, she assured the public that she intends to carve out her own path. Continued …
New cabinet to continue Srettha’s projects, Pheu Thai says
The new cabinet under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is still a Pheu Thai-led government and will seamlessly continue ongoing programs started by former PM Srettha Thavisin, a Pheu Thai Party source said on Monday. Paetongtarn, who was sworn in as 31st PM on Sunday, called a meeting with party executives and strategy teams at Pheu Thai headquarters on Monday, with Srettha also attending the session.
The source said the meeting explored the progress of projects that the government under Srettha has carried out in the past year, with focus on flagship campaigns like the digital wallet that aim to stimulate the economy. Continued …
Tobacco health warnings ‘mandatory’, with Bt5,000 fine
A new control measure on cigarette and tobacco sales takes effect today, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) has announced, saying that violations carry a maximum fine of 5,000 baht.
According to DDC Director-general Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, the measure requires retail vendors and establishments selling cigarettes and tobacco to display a 7x21cm poster showing the harm smoking causes at sale points during all operating hours. Continued …
Painter Falls to His Death from 49th Floor of Bangkok High-Rise
Yesterday, police from Phra Khanong Police Station received a report of a fatal fall at a building in Soi Sukhumvit 64/2, Phra Khanong District, Bangkok. The victim, a 30-year-old painter from Laos, had been working on the exterior of a 49-story building under renovation.
Witnesses reported the victim had been rappeling down from the 49th floor to paint the building when an accident occurred. It is suspected that the safety equipment and rope securing him had shifted, causing him to fall to his death. – aseannow.com
Thailand’s Suphalak cat breed gains global recognition
The Suphalak cat breed has been recognized as an international breed by the World Cat Federation (WCF), according to WCF Thailand.
At the WCF General Assembly 2024 in Germany, the Trade Association of Registered Cats (ARC) submitted a proposal to recognize the Suphalak breed, an ancient Thai cat breed that the ARC has long been proud of. Continued …
Thai Red Cross offers mpox vaccine for 8,500 baht per dose
The Thai Red Cross Society has initiated mpox (formerly monkeypox) vaccinations for the public, priced at 8,500 baht per dose, primarily targeting men who have sex with men and individuals with multiple sexual partners.
The Thai Red Cross has imported the vaccine, which reportedly reduces the severity of the disease by 68 to 80%. Upon verifying with the Thai Red Cross Society, it was confirmed that there is currently no direct mpox vaccine. However, a two-dose subcutaneous vaccination, spaced at least 28 days apart, shows an efficacy rate of 80% to 85% in preventing mpox. Continued …
Tapir previously thought to be extinct emerges in Thai forest
An endangered tapir previously thought to be extinct was spotted in a forest in southern Thailand. Footage shows a rare Malayan tapir roaming in the undergrowth at the Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province on Aug. 18.
The Malayan tapir is distributed throughout the tropical lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Sumatra in Indonesia, Peninsular Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand. In Thailand, the Malayan tapir was distributed across the western forests, including the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary, and Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. Continued and Video …
Thai economy said ‘nearly in crisis’
Thailand’s economy is nearly in crisis due to declining exports and uncompetitive manufacturing, caretaker Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said today.
Exports accounts for 70% of the economy but the manufacturing sector cannot meet market demand, Pichai told a business seminar. “We can’t compete. We can’t adapt in time,” he said. Continued …
Thai economy has bottomed out; economists expect stabilization in 2025
Economists have come out to say that Thailand’s economy may have bottomed out and the outlook is a little more optimistic for the year ahead after the country’s economic growth was slightly better than expected, as announced by the National Economic & Social Development Council (NESDC).
The NESDC announced the Q2 2024 gross domestic product (GDP) for 2024 at 2.3%, bringing the 6-months to June 2024 GDP growth to 1.9%, and expectation that for 2024 the GDP growth could be around 2.5%. Continued …
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Realizing Higher Growth Potential Through Bold Structural Initiatives and Reforms
Thailand’s economic momentum is driven by resilient private demand, tourism recovery, and increased government disbursements. The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) forecasts growth strengthening to 2.8% in 2024 and 3.4% in 2025. Despite this, structural reforms are necessary to avoid underperformance.
The first quarter of 2024 saw weak government spending and exports, but private consumption and tourism remained robust. Tourist arrivals are expected to grow from 28.3 million in 2023 to over 36 million in 2024, boosted by higher government disbursements following April’s budget approval. Continued …
Wage hike awaits new government’s stance
The Labor Ministry and employer representatives are waiting to hear the new government’s direction on increasing the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide before making any decisions.
Permanent Secretary for Labor Pairoj Chotikasathien yesterday said the policy approved by the Srettha Thavisin government administration in May could be implemented, but he could not comment further until the new government announced its policy on raising the minimum wage. Continued …
No problems with cash distribution via digital wallet scheme
The Budget Bureau would have no objection if the government were to change the disbursement of the 10,000-baht financial benefit under the “digital wallet” scheme from “digital money” to cash, as long as the objective of the scheme is to stimulate the economy and the disbursement begins in September, Chalermphol Pensoot, the bureau’s director, said today.
He noted, however, that the government has not yet decided in what form the benefit will be. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has hinted that the digital wallet scheme will have to be reviewed, in line with changes in the economic situation. – thaipbs
Talks aim to tackle Chinese lorries in Thailand
The Commerce Ministry is preparing to hold discussions with logistics service providers concerning the impact of nominees from China on the transportation sector.
On Friday, the Commerce Ministry will invite logistics service providers, representatives of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai National Shippers’ Council, and related government agencies to address concerns of the private sector, which includes the Thai Retailers Assn., the Association of Thai Travel Agents, and business operators in the fields of engineering, as well as architects. Continued …
How Thailand Is Leveraging Influencers to Transform Its Tourism Industry
Thailand is redefining its approach to tourism promotion by harnessing the power of digital influencers.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially launched “TAT Connex,” an influencer marketing platform designed to amplify the visibility of Thai tourism businesses and inspire more travel to the country. The initiative aligns with TAT’s broader strategy of integrating digital transformation into the tourism industry. Continued …
Sydney Flights Resume, Thai AirAsia X Expands International Routes
Thai AirAsia X is restarting direct flights from Don Mueang to Sydney and offering promotional fares starting at 5,990 baht per trip. Yesterday, Thai AirAsia X announced the resumption of direct flights between Sydney and Bangkok (Don Mueang) with a frequency of six flights per week, starting from Dec. 1.
The airline is offering promotional fares for bookings made from Aug. 19-25, for travel between Dec, 1 and March 31, 2025, available on AirAsia MOVE. Continued …
Where to Eat, Play, and Stay in Bangkok’s Bustling Downtown Core
When travellers think of Bangkok, they often think of Sukhumvit. In many ways, the neighborhood is Bangkok – in all its glitzy, messy, traffic-jammed, high-flying glory.
It’s also something of a misnomer. Sukhumvit is shorthand for Sukhumvit Road, a paved thoroughfare that starts in downtown Bangkok and runs for more than 5,000 kilometers. It is one of Thailand’s longest roads, connecting Bangkok to many significant destinations in the eastern part of the country. Continued …
PTT targets 7,000 EV charging outlets by 2030
National oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc aims to focus more on electric vehicle (EV) charging services, in line with Thailand’s expanding EV market, but will consider adjusting its other EV-related businesses, including its electric car assembly operations
The EV charging business, operated by PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR), a subsidiary of PTT, is robust and growing, he said. OR earlier announced it plans to increase its investment in the battery-charging business via its EV Station PluZ plan. Continued …
Following the waste that’s choking the Chao Phraya
The Chao Phraya River is born from mountain streams in northern Thailand, flowing hundreds of kilometers south to the sea. By the time the river travels through Bangkok and empties into the Gulf of Thailand, it is carrying huge quantities of plastic waste – an estimated 4,000 tons every year. The plastic clogs the river along its course, drastically impacting communities and the waterway’s ecology.
The Chao Phraya starts at the confluence of the Ping and Nan rivers, which meet in Nakhon Sawan province in the heart of Thailand. Although the river’s waters have already traveled half of the country’s length by this point, it is still relatively clean, flanked by villages and farms. Continued …
New solar panel partnership targets higher sales
New Energy Plus Solutions Co., a local distributor of solar panels, has partnered with Chinese solar panel maker LONGi Green Energy Technology in a bid to increase sales amid intensifying competition.
The company, which sells solar panels made by Shanghai-based Jinko Solar Holding, decided to cooperate with LONGi, which specializes in developing new solar power technology. Continued …
PTT lays out its strategic plan for sustainability and green energy
Thai energy giant PTT has a new strategic plan focused on improving industrial dicarbonization, merging its electric vehicle (EV) business brands, and attracting partners to invest in its petroleum operations, group CEO and President Kongkrapan Intarajang announced at a press conference on Tuesday.
The strategies follow on from the group’s strong first-half performance, which resulted in a net profit of 64.437 billion baht, up 34.4% year on year. The strong results were primarily driven by the refining and petrochemical industries, which benefitted from higher oil stock profits and favorable product pricing. Continued …
Capital idea, Indonesia. Now for some reality
Capital cities don’t just happen. They develop slowly over decades, perhaps centuries, before resembling their creator’s dream – if they ever do. Indonesia is discovering such massive endeavors are hard work and prone to delays. Economics has an annoying habit of intruding. Continued …
Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet ceremony returns on Sept 7
Fearful residents flee border district
Southeast Asia’s second largest economy named world’s cheapest travel destination
Bangkok is becoming a power player in fine dining
Clean energy dearth dents foreign interest
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors in 5 years, says TAT
Bangkok’s overhead cables moving underground
‘Pet humanization’ trend playing a big role in expanding Thailand’s pet market
Examining causes of major retail outlet closures
More man-made tourism magnets
Saving the planet from the plastic menace
Thai Red Cross offers mpox vaccine for 8,500 baht per dose
PTT targets 7,000 EV charging outlets by 2030
