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Saturday’s news-Aug 22

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  • Hua Hin Rotary sponsors forest restoration/Telepharmacy Enters the Market/21 provinces face heavy rain/Seven to nine more storms possible/Urgent rehabilitation of flood-affected districts/High flood risk in Sukhothai, Phitsanulok/Israeli couple blame Thai lawyer/Pattaya firms raided/Nene Royal named Best New International Artist
  • ECONOMY: Data Center Boom Tests the Grid/Thai electronics order books/Investments and fishing communities clash
  • TOURISM: Thailand losing appeal to Chinese tourists/Thai Airways Sets Auckland Relaunch
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Master of Bangkok’s Crab Glass Noodles/Thailand, done differently
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Carbon Footprint Becomes a Critical Factor/Green Rules Called an Opportunity
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin Rotary sponsors forest restoration project

In collaboration with the Forest Restoration Foundation, state agencies and local stakeholder groups, the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin was the primary sponsor of the Participatory Forest Restoration Project at Kaeng Krachan National Park. At the heart of the project is a simple but powerful idea; “Restoring Forest, Building an Ecosystem” with community engagement and inclusion.

Over 350 volunteers participated in the planting of 4,000 tree seedlings of 12 indigenous species on 20 rai of vacant land in the wet season to ensure survivability. The selection of native species is intended to support natural ecosystem recovery, enhance biodiversity, and provide suitable habitats for wildlife. Reforesting the 20-rai plot of land is a pilot initiative to eventually increase to an area of 100 rai in the subsequent phases.

According to Suvat Singhaphun, president of the Forest Restoration Foundation, the success of the project cannot be measured simply by the number of trees planted. He explained, “A forest cannot be restored in a single day. Trees need continued care and forests need people who understand their value. Conservation requires long-term commitment and the foundation, therefore, places equal emphasis on building people who build forests. Building people who care for forests is what makes restoration last.”

President Napa Keawtem of the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin highlighted the importance of environmental action and the organization’s commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact. She praised the extensive planning, preparation, and dedication behind the project, particularly the cooperation between the Forest Restoration Foundation and Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Telepharmacy Enters the Thai Market

Telepharmacy in Thailand has moved from the development of the regulatory framework to its implementation phase. With the FDA’s telepharmacy framework now in place and telepharmacy platforms entering the market, the focus is increasingly turning to how businesses can participate in this emerging healthcare ecosystem.

As pharmacies, digital platforms, and delivery providers come together under a regulated model, telepharmacy is becoming an increasingly important component of Thailand’s digital health landscape. Continued … 

21 provinces face heavy rain as depression strengthens

Heavy rain is forecast in 21 provinces today, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning that accumulated rainfall could trigger flash floods, rapid run-off and overflowing rivers.

Video … 

Thunderstorms will affect large parts of Thailand during the 24-hour period from 6 am today to 6 am tomorrow. Heavy rain is most likely in western areas of the north and central regions, as well as parts of the east. Continued … 

Seven to nine more storms possible as northern floods ease

Flood conditions in Nan and Sukhothai have begun to improve, but another 7-9 storms could form before the end of the current storm season, climate and disaster specialist Seree Supratid has warned.

Seree, director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University, said rainfall was expected to decline gradually through the end of August. Weather conditions would still require close monitoring on Aug. 25-26 and again around Aug. 29. Continued … 

Urgent rehabilitation of flood-affected districts in Nan province ordered

Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) Yodchanan Wongsawat ordered the rehabilitation and restoration of public utilities today in flood-ravaged Pua and Wiang Sa districts of Nan province, as floodwater is steadily receding.

The deputy prime minister, who has been in Nan province since Wednesday to assess and monitor flooding, held a meeting this morning with Nan Gov. Chainarong Wongyai and Nopparat Thawong, the mayor of the Nan Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), at the flood command center in the PAO office to discuss urgent measures to restore power and clean water supplies, clean the roads of the thick layer of mud, and fix damaged properties. Continued … 

GISTDA warns of high flood risk in Sukhothai, Phitsanulok

More than 3,900 square kilometers across Sukhothai, Phitsanulok and neighboring provinces are at high risk of flooding, according to data released by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) yesterday.

In Sukhothai, high-risk areas cover large parts of the central and southern sections of the province. The risk extends across Sawankhalok, Si Samrong, Mueang Sukhothai and Kong Krailat districts, as well as parts of Si Satchanalai district in the north. Continued … 

Israeli couple blame Thai lawyer after Koh Samui arrest

An Israeli property developer and his wife, arrested in a Koh Samui investigation into alleged nominee-shareholder arrangements, say a Thai lawyer and accountant were responsible for guiding their business setup.

Gal Bieber, 45, and his wife Roni Bieber were arrested by police from Bo Phut Police Station and Surat Thani Immigration. The Samui Provincial Court had reportedly issued 20 arrest warrants for Israeli nationals linked to the wider investigation. Continued … 

Pattaya firms raided in foreign nominee probe

Thai authorities have searched three locations in Pattaya and Bang Lamung as part of an investigation into suspected Thai nominee arrangements used to hold land and run businesses for foreigners.

Search warrants were issued by the Criminal Court under the Foreign Business Act 1999. The investigation centers on suspected use of Thai nationals as proxy shareholders in companies said to be ultimately controlled by foreigners. Continued … 

Nene Royal named Best New International Artist in Ireland

Thai teenage singer-guitarist Nene Royal, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, has been selected to receive the Best New International Artiste 2026 award at The Phil Lynott Convention in Ireland, marking another milestone in the 16-year-old Phuket musician’s growing international career.

The recognition follows her breakthrough appearances on America’s Got Talent Season 21, where her powerful vocals and guitar performances brought her international attention and secured her a place in the competition’s live shows. Continued … 

Thailand’s Data Center Boom Tests the Grid, the Rules and the Workforce

Thailand’s pitch to the world’s technology companies has, for the past two years, been built on numbers that keep climbing. The Board of Investment approved 26 data center projects worth almost 500 billion baht in 2025, and by the first quarter of 2026, fresh applications had already reached 1.01 trillion baht — roughly 2.4 times what they were a year earlier.

The country’s planned pipeline now stands near 2.87 gigawatts, concentrated overwhelmingly in the Eastern Economic Corridor provinces of Chonburi, Rayong and Chachoengsao. What was, until recently, a story about how much capital was arriving has become a harder question: whether the electricity grid, the water supply and the workforce can actually absorb it. Continued … 

AI demand extends Thai electronics order books beyond three years

Thailand’s electronics industry is entering a significant upcycle, as artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers accelerate global demand for components, with a clear impact on the country’s production base.

Export value rose steadily from B1.56 trillion in 2022 to B2.39 trillion in 2025, while exports in the first six months of 2026 had already reached B1.63 trillion, up 46%. Continued … 

Investments and fishing communities clash in Rayong

Fisherfolk in Thailand’s Rayong province are currently facing multiple impacts from industrial expansion in the region – in particular, the construction of a MapTaPhut Phase 3 port and the development of large-scale investment projects including liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, including LNG terminal and regasification facilities.

The expansion of LNG projects in the eastern provinces, part of Thailand’s plan to position itself as a regional LNG hub, has disturbed and now threatens to destroy the coastal fisheries resources that communities have long relied on. Continued … 

Thailand losing appeal to Chinese tourists as Vietnam rises

Thailand’s grip on China’s vast tourism market is slipping, as safety fears drive holidaymakers toward fast-rising Vietnam. The kingdom now expects only 5.1 million Chinese arrivals, less than half its 2019 total.

Meanwhile, Vietnam’s foreign tourism market is surging 13.8%, while Thailand’s contracts despite retaining a narrow lead. The battle is intensifying as China’s weakening economy leaves travelers choosier about safety, prices and value. Continued … 

Thai Airways Sets March 2027 Target for Auckland Relaunch

Thai Airways is set to resume direct non-stop services between Bangkok and Auckland ahead of schedule, with launch plans brought forward by a year to March 2027.

Speaking during a visit to aircraft maker NZAero’s hangar at Auckland’s Ardmore Airport yesterday, Thailand Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas confirmed the accelerated timeline following bilateral talks between the Thai and New Zealand prime ministers. Continued … 

Somsak Pu Ob: The Master of Bangkok’s Crab Glass Noodles

There are few Thai eateries as nerve-racking as Somsak Pu Ob. From 5 pm onward, there is always a line, filled with would-be diners every bit as nervous as we are, watching with barely concealed envy as those who reached the steel tables on the sidewalk tuck into their glass noodles – the only dish available at this establishment.

That is, if Nai Somsak hasn’t arbitrarily decided to take a holiday, abandoning a posse of hungry and bewildered people to roam the streets in search of dinner. Continued … 

Thailand, done differently

Most travelers to Thailand take in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket in one order or another. Usually, however, each is ‘ticked off’ far too quickly, with only their staple, standard sights on the agenda. Far fewer holidaymakers think to float along Bangkok’s historic canals, weave with hill tribes on the fringes of Chiang Mai, or take time to admire Old Phuket Town’s vivid Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Whether you’re a first-timer keen on authenticity or a repeat visitor seeking extra immersion, here’s a riff on the classic itinerary with under-the-radar experiences. Continued … 

Can Thailand Adapt as Carbon Footprint Becomes a Critical Factor in Food Trade?

Thailand’s agriculture and food industry features a complex, multi-tiered supply chain, ranging from upstream inputs like seeds to downstream processing and exports. This intricate system complicates carbon management, as all elements are interconnected.

The primary challenge lies with smallholder farmers, who often question financial incentives when pressured to modify practices, such as banning burning or reducing chemical fertilizer use. Their inquiries emphasize a need for economic viability, indicating that traditional enforcement methods, like laws and penalties, are insufficient. To foster genuine compliance, there must be real economic benefits for environmentally friendly practices. Continued … 

Green Rules Called an Opportunity, Not a Burden

As pressure mounts on industries to treat climate action as systemic rather than a compliance exercise, Tetra Pak Thailand is pointing to a philosophy it says predates the current wave of ESG regulation by decades.

For Patinya Silsupadol, head of sustainability at Tetra Pak Thailand, the case for climate action was never abstract. It was written into the company’s founding purpose more than 70 years ago, when its founder identified an early form of inequality: uneven access to safe, quality food caused by weak production, storage and transport systems. Continued … 

Central African Republic gold mine landslide

The death toll from Aug.18’s gold mine collapse in Zamboye, Central African Republic, has surpassed 100. Several survivors were also critically injured. An investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the collapse, identify the victims and those responsible for operating the site, and establish any potential criminal liability. Video … 

World’s five busiest international airports revealed

Incheon International Airport became the world’s busiest airport for international passengers in the first half of 2026, moving ahead of London Heathrow and Singapore Changi, according to preliminary data compiled by Airports Council International (ACI). 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

Saturday’s news-Aug 15

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  • School Shooting Threat in PKK//Police identify person behind threat/Hard truths about youth violence in Thailand/Cha-am water cutoff Aug 21/Cha-am water supply projects/Road safety for PKK provincial court/Island mafia claims investigated/Suspected elephant attack in Kui Buri/Two Phuket Chabad sites under scrutiny/Bangkok rail fares to be capped
  • THE IRAN WAR: Strait of Hormuz a US territory?/Carrier’s Iran deployment ‘not nearly long enough’/Huge oil spill off Oman
  • ECONOMY: New investment to create up to 600,000 jobs/Thailand links AI and agriculture
  • TOURISM: 450-baht air tourist fee/3,000-baht hotel subsidy/Year-end events lift Thailand tourism/Losing appeal among Chinese tourists
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Key to the Global Clean Energy Transition
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

School Shooting Threat in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

Police from Prachuap Khiri Khan City Police Station, along with local authorities, inspected Prachuap Witthayalai School to enhance security measures after threatening messages about violence were found circulating in an open chat group on the LINE application, causing concern among students and parents.

The school held a meeting to discuss measures to handle the situation, requesting cooperation from students, parents, and the public to follow information through official school channels and refrain from forwarding messages that may cause panic. Prachuap Witthayalai School announced a one-day online learning schedule yesterday for the safety of students and staff. Continued … 

Police identify person behind Prachuap school shooting threat

Police have identified the person responsible for posting a shooting threat involving a well-known school in Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan, after the message prompted heightened security and one day of online learning.

The Prachuap school shooting threat was posted in a parents’ LINE group and stated that there would be a mass shooting the following day, causing concern among parents and school staff. Continued … 

School shooting: Hard truths about youth violence in Thailand

The recent mass shooting in Nonthaburi has ignited a national debate over gun control, but experts warn that the deeper roots of youth violence must be tackled to prevent future tragedies.

On Aug. 7, a 14-year-old student shot his paternal grandparents dead before calmly heading to Debsirin Nonthaburi School, where he killed another six people before turning the gun on himself. The rampage claimed nine lives and injured 27 others – some suffering gunshot wounds and others hurt in the stampede to escape. Continued … 

Cha-am residents warned of water cutoff Aug 21

Cha-am residents are being urged to store enough water for up to a week ahead of possible water supply disruption from Aug. 21, when water releases from Kaeng Krachan Dam are due to be temporarily suspended.

Cha-am Municipality issued the warning ahead of maintenance work at the Kaeng Krachan Dam Power Plant, where aging equipment, including the main inlet valve, is due to be replaced after more than 50 years of use. Continued … 

Cha-am water supply projects being addressed

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin has ordered work to be accelerated on two Cha-am groundwater projects worth about 301 million baht, as authorities seek to address drought and water shortages affecting local communities.

Suchart visited Ban Bo Luang School in Huai Sai Nuea subdistrict on Thursday, accompanied by senior ministry officials, to review the water situation and discuss measures with provincial and local authorities. Continued … 

New road safety efforts for PKK provincial court

Hua Hin Municipality is introducing new road safety measures outside Hua Hin Provincial Court following repeated accidents on a curved section of road leading toward Khao Chong Pradu.

Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul inspected the area on Thursday with municipal officials and representatives from the Prachuap Khiri Khan Highway District to assess the problem and discuss possible safety improvements. Continued … 

Thai island mafia claims investigated

Thailand remains a major holiday destination for travelers, but claims of organized crime, intimidation and scams have prompted renewed warnings for tourists and foreign residents.

Thai authorities have announced another crackdown on “influential figures” after reports of safety incidents and assaults involving foreign tourists on the country’s holiday islands. Officials said any state employees found to have helped offenders, turned a blind eye or facilitated offenses would face legal action to the fullest extent. Continued … 

Park volunteer dies in suspected elephant attack in Kui Buri National Park

A park volunteer is believed to have been killed by a wild elephant while he was fixing a damaged elephant alert system in the Kui Buri National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan province on Wednesday.

The park’s chief said he was informed by the head of Ban Wang Sai village in Sam Roi Yot district that a small group of villagers went into the park to install an elephant alert system and to fix a damaged one on Wednesday, but one of them failed to return home and could not be contacted. Continued … 

Phuket Governor: Two Chabad sites under scrutiny

Phuket Gov. Chotinrin Kerdsom says there are two Chabad sites in the province, both under close monitoring as authorities examine business structures linked to Israelis and other foreigners.

Chabad is a Jewish religious and community organization. The issue drew official attention after reports that the owner of premises used by Chabad Phuket held a Thai national ID card and was linked to more than 100 companies operating across several provinces. Continued … 

Bangkok rail fares to be capped at 45 baht

Thailand’s Transport Ministry is working towards a Jan. 1 launch of its common-ticket policy for electric rail services in Bangkok and surrounding provinces, with fares capped at 45 baht per trip and an initial charge of no more than 17 baht.

Under the planned common fare structure, participating electric rail lines in Bangkok and neighboring provinces would charge an initial fare of no more than 17 baht and a maximum combined fare of 45 baht per journey. Continued … 

Trump says he will soon declare Strait of Hormuz a US territory

U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday urged Americans to accept slightly higher gasoline prices as the cost of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and said he would soon declare the Strait of Hormuz a U.S territory. Video … 

Trump says carrier’s Iran deployment ‘not nearly long enough’

U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday said the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln had been “not nearly long enough,” dismissing concerns about poor conditions aboard the aircraft carrier after two military-focused outlets reported declining morale and suicide attempts among its crew. Video … 

Huge oil spill off Oman threatens disaster

Two oilslicks have appeared in Iranian waters, satellite imagery and video show, as tit-for-tat attacks on oil tankers and other vessels by Iran and the United States spark concerns about environmental damage to the Gulf. John Amos, CEO of SkyTruth, which uses satellite imagery to detect oil spills, says it’s “much larger than anything seen previously.” Video … 

Surging fuel costs dent airlines’ performance

This article is behind a Bangkok Post pay wall. Continued … 

Thailand expects new investment to create up to 600,000 quality jobs

Ekniti Nitithanprapas, minister of Finance, said realized investment through the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) reached about B250 billion in the second quarter of this year, up 31% from the same period last year. This lifted the total for the first half of the year above B500 billion.

The figures reflected the use of an investment-led economic policy, or “investment growth”, to support the economy in the short term and strengthen competitiveness over the longer term. Continued … 

Thailand links AI and agriculture in new industrial strategy

Thailand is seeking to combine artificial intelligence with agriculture innovation as part of a broader industrial strategy aimed at raising productivity, strengthening domestic businesses and spreading the benefits of technological growth more widely across the economy.

Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa outlined the approach at the Delta Future Industry Summit 2026 yesterday, describing artificial intelligence and agriculture as two engines that should work together to support Thailand’s next stage of development. Continued … 

Thailand targets 450-baht air tourist fee in 2027

Thailand is preparing to increase its foreign tourist entry fee from the initially proposed 300 baht to 450 baht per person, with implementation now targeted for April 2027 rather than late 2026.

The proposed charge would initially apply to travelers arriving by air, Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said yesterday, and that the government is considering collecting it through airline tickets, a mobile app or airport kiosks. Continued … 

Thailand plans 3,000-baht hotel subsidy from October

Thailand is preparing to offer 500,000 domestic travel subsidies under the proposed Thai Travel Thai Plus 2026 scheme, with the government paying half of accommodation costs up to 3,000 baht per entitlement.

The program, which remains subject to Cabinet budget approval, is proposed to begin on Oct. 1 through Krungthai Bank’s Paotang application. Entitlements would be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Continued … 

Year-end events lift Thailand tourism outlook as arrivals fall less than forecast

Thailand’s tourism industry remains in a slowdown in 2026, but clearer signs of improvement are emerging toward the end of the year. The latest data from KResearch indicate that the foreign tourist market is contracting less sharply than previously estimated, reflecting a combination of short-term support and structural pressures across international source markets.

Foreign tourist arrivals fell 2.9% year on year between Jan. 1 and Aug. 8, amid the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. However, the outlook for the final quarter appears more positive, supported by three main factors. Continued … 

Thailand is losing its appeal among Chinese tourists

Chinese travelers will take fewer overseas trips in the second half of 2026 than forecasters expected. A weak economy at home has made them far choosier about which trips are worth taking.

China Trading Desk, a travel data firm, now expects about 179 million outbound trips this year. It puts spending at destinations at around 258 billion US dollars. Both figures are almost 3% below its June estimate. Those numbers would still be a record and both sit above pre-pandemic levels. The recovery has not stopped. It has slowed. Continued … 

Why ASEAN Holds the Key to the Global Clean Energy Transition

ASEAN’s commitment to net-zero is crucial for global environmental targets, despite its current fossil fuel dependency. The region faces an energy crisis but has strong decarbonization goals.

With abundant renewable resources and raw materials for clean energy, ASEAN can transition by reforming policies, dismantling fossil fuel subsidies, and attracting investment. International support is vital to ease the financial burden. Continued … 

Magnitude 7.7 earthquake strikes off Indonesia’s coast

A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia early today, collapsing buildings and homes, killing at least two people and causing panic in a region prone to deadly quakes.
Authorities issued a tsunami warning but later lifted it. 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

Monday’s news-Aug 10

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  • Foreigner’s Pran Buri home robbed/Tourist Police expand 1155 service/Hua Hin has 61 EV charging stations/Si Khiri Khan Festival/Wat Huay Mongkol robe-draping/Mini Balloon Festival/Reopening of Singkhon border/Another school shooting death confirmed/Multiple factors in deadly school shooting/Thailand ranks second for gun crime/PM rejects calls to arm teachers/Deadline for school safety rules/School shifts online after threat/Bangkok hotel raid targets nominee claims/Online scam losses approach 9 billion baht/Nene Royal revives Muse’s Hysteria
  • THE IRAN WAR: Iran sets US conditions
  • ECONOMY: Thailand Faces Surge in Corporate Closures/Thai SME crisis demands action/Industrial sector’s looming labor crisis/Restaurants turn to tech/Stable Growth Amid Global Uncertainties/$26.8B in High-Tech Investment/Thai exports rise 17.6%
  • TOURISM: Spotlight on an open secret/Thailand Slashes Regional Airport Fees/Alleged no-receipt fines of tourists/Chinese Embassy tells its citizens to follow rules/Pattaya Bay to cap tour boat operators/Riyadh Air to launch Bangkok flights/Horror stories from cosmetic surgeries
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Mythical giants watch over Suvarnabhumi /Thailand’s 15 UNESCO Treasures/Bangkok ninth on street food list
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: 200 Billion Baht for Clean Energy/Rebuild for a Climate That Won’t Wait
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Foreigner’s Pran Buri home robbed, safe taken

Police in Prachuap Khiri Khan are investigating a break-in at an upmarket home in Wang Phong, Pran Buri, where burglars reportedly removed a wall-fixed safe and valuables worth several million baht.

The property belongs to businesswoman Kornchawan, whose surname has been withheld, and her foreign businessman husband. The couple were away when the burglary occurred, according to reports. Continued … 

Tourist Police expand 1155 emergency service

Thailand’s Tourist Police are expanding the 1155 emergency service as part of a nationwide upgrade that includes artificial intelligence, facial recognition, vehicle registration scanning and drone patrols.

Tourist Police Commissioner Saksira Pueak-am said the Tourist Police 1155 service had been developed into a fully digital platform operating 24 hours a day, with support available in eight foreign languages. Continued … 

Hua Hin now has 61 EV charging stations

Electric vehicle drivers in Hua Hin now have access to 61 charging stations offering 162 charging points, according to figures published by the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Energy Office. Across the province, there are 109 EV charging stations with a total of 294 charging points, covering all eight districts.

Drivers can check charging locations, connector types and other information before traveling through PlugShare.com or the PlugShare mobile app. Continued … 

Si Khiri Khan Festival opens today

Final preparations are under way at Hua Hin Railway Station ahead of the opening of “Under the Royal Patronage: Discover Si Khiri Khan”, which runs from today to Aug. 18.

The festival each day highlights a different district of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Visitors can expect live music, cultural performances, light-and-sound shows, local food and products, and special performances throughout the event. Continued … 

Wat Huay Mongkol robe-draping ceremony held

Large crowds gathered at Wat Huay Mongkol in Hua Hin yesterday for the 13th Luang Pu Thuat robe-draping ceremony, one of the region’s main faith-based tourism events.

The ceremony was held on the plaza surrounding the giant Luang Pu Thuat statue in Thap Tai, with Buddhist devotees, local residents and visitors from across Thailand attending to pay their respects and seek blessings for themselves and their families. Continued … 

Pranburi holds Mini Balloon Festival

The Pranburi Mini Balloon Festival attracted a strong turnout of tourists and local visitors over the weekend, with this year’s event featuring more balloons, food vendors and activities than in previous years.

Held at Maharaj Field in Pak Nam Pran, the Mini Balloon Festival was staged alongside the annual Sun-Dried Squid and Seafood Festival, bringing together food, live music and colorful balloon displays beside the beach. Continued … 

Possible reopening of Singkhon border crossing discussed

Prachuap Khiri Khan officials are reviewing preparations for the possible reopening of the Singkhon border crossing, as authorities look to resume trade between Thailand and Myanmar.

Gov. Sittichai Sawatsan chaired a meeting last week at Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Hall to assess whether agencies are ready for entry and exit through the Singkhon Special Border Pass in Khlong Wan, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan district. Continued … 

Another death confirmed after Nonthaburi school shooting

A girl has died from a gunshot wound to the head following the violence at a Nonthaburi School, taking the reported death toll to nine. Nonthaburi’s public health emergency operations centre said Saturday.

The girl, identified by the school as Napat Chai Ma, was shot in the head and was in a critical condition while undergoing treatment. Her relatives did not wish for cardiopulmonary resuscitation to be continued, according to Phra Nang Klao Hospital. Continued … 

Police cite multiple factors in deadly school shooting

The deadly attack by a student at Debsirin Nonthaburi School appears to have resulted from a combination of factors such as family problems, issues at school, academic pressure, conflicts with friends and exposure to violent online content, a senior police officer said yesterday.

Investigators had questioned 17 witnesses – teachers, classmates and close friends of the student. Evidence gathered so far suggested Friday’s shooting was not triggered by a single issue, Atthapol Anusit, deputy commissioner of Provincial Police Region 1, said after a meeting to review the progress of the investigation. Continued … 

Thailand ranks second in Southeast Asia for gun crime

Thailand ranks second among Southeast Asian countries for firearm-related crime, behind only the Philippines, according to 2019 data from the Global Burden of Disease study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington.

The figures have resurfaced following a shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Bang Kruai, Nonthaburi, on Saturday, which left at least six people dead and more than 15 injured. Continued … 

After school shooting, PM rejects calls to arm teachers

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has rejected suggestions that teachers should be allowed to carry firearms following the deadly shooting at Debsinin Nonthaburi School.

The attack, carried out by a 14-year-old male student, left seven people dead inside the school, including the gunman himself. The student had also shot dead his grandparents before the rampage, while more than 20 people were injured. Continued … 

Thailand sets 90-day deadline for school safety rules

Thailand’s Education, Higher Education, Social Development and Human Security, and Labor ministries have given themselves 90 days to draw up national school safety standards for Cabinet consideration following the violent incident at Debsirin Nonthaburi School.

The proposed nationwide framework will cover mental health screening, school security, emergency preparedness and bullying, while immediate support and tighter entry checks are being introduced at the affected school. Continued … 

School shifts online after threat from former South African teacher

Hatyai Wittayalai School will move classes online today and tomorrow, after its director reported alleged threats against school administrators and teachers.

The report, filed at Hatyai police station Saturday, concerns messages and images of weapons allegedly posted by a former foreign teacher in a large LINE open chat group. Continued … 

Bangkok hotel raid targets Chinese nominee claims

Thailand’s Deputy Interior Minister Polphir Suwanchawee led a raid on suspected nominee businesses and unlicensed hotels in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district yesterday.

During the operation, an operator allegedly telephoned officials to seek a “settlement”, claiming that payments were made in installments to officials connected with several entertainment venues in the area. Continued … 

Online scam losses in Thailand approach 9 billion baht over six months

People in Thailand lost nearly B9 billion to online scam networks during the first six months of 2026, when more than 170,000 online fraud cases were recorded. Average losses exceeded B52,000 per case.

The figures show that online threats are no longer a remote concern but are becoming an economic and social problem affecting consumers on a wide scale, particularly as scammers use digital platforms that people access regularly. Continued … 

Thai teen Nene Royal revives Muse’s Hysteria on AGT

Thai teenager Nene Royal has put one of Muse’s most recognizable rock tracks back in the spotlight after performing Hysteria during the Judges’ Callbacks on America’s Got Talent 2026.

The 16-year-old from Phuket took on a song built around the fast, heavily driven bassline of Muse bassist Chris Wolstenholme, making the performance a demanding test of speed, precision, stamina and control. Continued … 

Iran sets US conditions for reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran has tied the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to a series of concessions from the United States, even as Tehran says a separate agreement with Oman defining new shipping routes through the strategic waterway is nearing completion.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said yesterday that negotiations with Oman were in their final stages, but stressed that commercial passage would resume only after Washington met conditions set by Tehran. The proposed Iran-Oman arrangement would establish shipping lanes to be used once those conditions were fulfilled. Continued … 

Thailand Faces Surge in Corporate Closures as Heavyweights Collapse

Thailand is bracing for a worsening wave of corporate liquidations in the second half of the year, following fresh government data showing that major corporations are shutting down at an unprecedented rate alongside struggling small enterprises.

Figures released by the Ministry of Commerce’s Department of Business Development (DBD) reveal that 7,024 businesses officially filed for dissolution during the first six months of 2026 — a 12.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued … 

Thai SME crisis demands national action beyond cash injections

Thailand’s small and medium-sized enterprises have emerged as one of the most vulnerable parts of the economy, as financial and business indicators point to rising bad debt, prolonged credit contraction, weaker profitability and an increasing number of factory closures.

The widening gap between SMEs and large companies is also becoming more pronounced. While smaller businesses are struggling to obtain financing and withstand rising costs, large companies continue to expand borrowing and investment. Continued … 

Industrial sector confronts looming labor crisis

Thailand’s labor outlook this year remains contradictory. While layoffs are expected to reach 500,000 due to a slowing manufacturing sector, with more factories closing than opening as business revenue declines, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking is concerned about a shortage of foreign labor caused by hiring restrictions and allegations of corruption.

As layoffs become more widespread, the impact will be far-reaching, leading to declining personal incomes and household debt reaching precarious levels. Government relief measures such as the “Thai Help Thai Plus” program may prove to be insufficient. Continued … 

Restaurants turn to tech amid worker shortage

The Thai Restaurant Association says while the labor shortage remains unresolved, restaurant operators are using technology to ease the problem.

Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said both front of house and kitchen operations have struggled to address the labor shortage. Continued … 

Thailand Economy June 2026: Stable Growth Amid Global Uncertainties

The Thai economy in June remained broadly stable from the previous month. Private consumption increased, supported in part by government measures and continued growth in electric vehicle sales.

Merchandise exports and private investment also increased, driven mainly by technology-related products, although these activities relied heavily on imported inputs. Meanwhile, manufacturing production declined across several categories, while tourism-related services softened in line with lower foreign tourist arrivals. Continued … 

Thailand Attracts $26.8B in High-Tech Investment as Chipmakers Shift Supply Chains

Thailand has captured more than $26.8 billion (approx. 900 billion baht) in investment applications for its semiconductor and advanced electronics sectors over the past three years, cementing its position as a primary beneficiary of global supply chain diversification away from traditional manufacturing hubs.

Driven by accelerating global demand for artificial intelligence, next-generation semiconductors, electric vehicles, and high-performance computing, Thailand has drawn 880 high-tech projects between 2023 and mid-2026. A major catalyst is the printed circuit board (PCB) sector, which accounts for $9.85 billion (approx. 331 billion baht) across 224 projects, according to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). Continued …

Thai exports rise 17.6% in first half of 2026

Thailand’s exports rose 17.6% year-on-year to US$196.74 billion in the first six months of 2026, with technology and electronics leading the increase, the government said yesterday.

The United States remained Thailand’s largest export market, with shipments climbing 41.1% to US$47.14 billion between January and June, according to deputy government spokeswoman Lallida Periswivatana. Continued … 

Putting the spotlight on an open secret

From Soi Cowboy in the bustling Sukhumvit corridor of Bangkok to Pattaya’s Walking Street, the sex trade remains an open secret that authorities are often reluctant to acknowledge, despite its visible presence.

While Thailand promotes itself as a premium destination to lure high-spending travelers, it still struggles to reposition its image while keeping one foot in the sex tourism industry. Continued … 

Thailand Slashes Regional Airport Fees by 50% to Boost Air Travel

Thailand’s Department of Airports (DOA) has unveiled a new incentive scheme offering a 50% discount on airport fees to encourage domestic and international carriers to open new routes connecting provincial hubs with Bangkok and other key destinations.

The “New Route–New Airline” campaign, announced by the Ministry of Transport, is designed to stimulate market competition, expand travel choices for provincial residents, and drive regional economic development through increased tourism and trade. Continued … 

Pattaya probe officials over alleged no-receipt fines of tourists

Pattaya City has ordered an investigation after a video circulated online allegedly showing Special Affairs officers collecting fines from tourists without issuing receipts near Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya.

Pattaya City Police have also inspected the location, including a blue canvas tent reportedly used by the officers. The allegations concern tourists said to have been stopped over loud motorcycle exhausts and smoking in a public area at the Bali Hai Pier, Chonburi. Continued … 

Chinese Embassy tells its citizens in Thailand to follow rules

The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has urged Chinese citizens attending cultural performances, sporting events and fan meetings in Thailand to comply strictly with local laws and venue regulations, following several incidents involving Chinese tourists.

The embassy also called on visitors to respect Thai people, religious beliefs, customs and cultural traditions. It said those taking part in events should do so in an orderly way and help maintain the traditional “Thailand-China family” friendship. Continued … 

Pattaya Bay moves to cap tour boat operators

Pattaya City is preparing tighter controls for restaurant boats, tourist vessels, squid-fishing rafts and cafe boats in Pattaya Bay, amid concern that a growing number of operators is outstripping the limited space available.

Officials say overcrowding could compromise visitor safety and raise the risk of accidents. The initial policy will be to ensure the number of operators does not exceed the bay’s capacity, rather than substantially enlarging designated operating areas. Continued … 

Riyadh Air to launch direct Bangkok flights

Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier Riyadh Air has opened bookings for direct flights between Riyadh and Bangkok, with services due to begin Sept. 2.

The route will operate three times a week between King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh (RUH) and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Bangkok is the 14th destination now available for booking in the airline’s expanding network. Continued … 

Australian women share horror stories from cosmetic surgeries in Thailand

When Lynda Lazaridis gets dressed, she chooses her clothes carefully. The Melbourne grandmother’s breasts were virtually removed, and her nipples relocated up near her armpits.

Her arms and legs too are covered in a patchwork of scars. It’s the result of a slew of cosmetic surgeries Lynda had in Thailand – a gift to herself for her 60th birthday, four years ago, that she now wishes she could return. Continued … 

12 mythical giants watch over Suvarnabhumi Airport

Travelers navigating the bustling halls of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport are greeted not just by modern terminal architecture, but by 12 towering, color-splashed giants clad in golden armor.

Rooted in ancient Hindu and Buddhist mythology, these intimidating statues known as Yaks serve a sacred purpose: guarding the sprawling international hub and watching over the safe journeys of millions of passengers who pass through its gates every day. Continued and video … 

Thailand’s 15 UNESCO Treasures

Recent global recognition of Thailand’s cultural treasures celebrates the nation’s newest landmark on the international stage. This week, TheDisclosed examines Thailand’s latest UNESCO listing and what lies ahead for future nominees. Video … 

Bangkok ranks ninth on Time Out’s 2026 street food list

Bangkok has been ranked ninth on Time Out’s list of the world’s capitals with the best street food for 2026. Time Out is a global media and hospitality brand that serves as a city guide covering food, drink, nightlife, art and travel.

The cities ranked ahead of Bangkok, which scored 56%, are: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – 63%; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 62%; Jakarta, Indonesia – 59%; Taipei, Taiwan – 59%; Mexico City, Mexico – 58%; Manila, Philippines – 58%; Hanoi, Vietnam – 57%; and Johannesburg, South Africa – 56%. Continued … 

Thailand Reaffirms Plan to Earmark 200 Billion Baht for Clean Energy

Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has reaffirmed that the remaining 200 billion baht ($6.05 billion) from the government’s 400 billion baht ($12.1 billion) emergency loan decree will be strictly prioritized for Thailand’s clean energy transition.

Addressing queries regarding competing funding applications — including a tourism boost under the “Thais Travel Thailand Plus” scheme — Ekniti stated that while statutory rules permit flexibility, operational priority remains firmly on long-term energy reform. Continued … 

Why ASEAN Must Rebuild for a Climate That Won’t Wait

When 35% of a year’s rainfall falls within a single week, as it did in parts of Thailand last year, the failure is not simply meteorological. It is a failure of design, of coordination, and — increasingly — of economics.

That was the argument advanced at a CAsean Forum 2026 panel on “Strengthening ASEAN’s Physical Resilience”, held in Bangkok on Friday, where engineers, a landscape architect and a Japanese development specialist made the case that Southeast Asia’s climate exposure is no longer a side issue for environment ministries but a direct threat to the region’s economic competitiveness. Continued … 

Western Europe experienced hottest June-July on record

Western Europe experienced its hottest June-July on record as climate change fuels an historic summer of heat, drought and wildfires across the region, the EU’s global warming monitor said today. Continued … 

China races to develop brain-computer interfaces that can be inserted in 10 minutes

Chinese start-ups and researchers are racing to bring brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to market that can be implanted in just a few minutes, as Beijing pushes to nurture home-grown players in the sector to compete with Elon Musk’s Neuralink. 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

Friday’s news-June 5

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  • Hua Hin Red Cross Fair/Hua Hin record collection theft/Monsoon covers Thailand
  • ECONOMY: Rising costs may increase snack prices/US tariff could threaten Thai exports/Thai industry faces uneven outlook/Thailand’s EEC, skilled workforce draw global portfolios/Resale homes take larger market share
  • TOURISM: ATTA Cuts China Tourist Forecast/TAT sees Thai tourism rebound/CAAT Tightens Power Bank Rules/29,490 Foreigners denied entry in 2026/India’s IndiGo cuts Krabi route
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin Red Cross Fair starts tonight

The 28th Hua Hin Red Cross Fair will take place from tonight through June 14 at the 25-rai activity area on Hua Hin Soi 102, behind Bluport Hua Hin. The annual event, officially known as the Hua Hin District Red Cross and Local Products Fair, is organized by the Hua Hin District Red Cross Branch to raise funds for relief and charity work in Hua Hin and nearby areas.

This year’s fair will help raise money for disaster relief, support for low-income residents, people with disabilities, disadvantaged groups, and other public charity activities. Funds raised will be used to provide assistance, including consumer goods, survival bags, kitchen equipment, bedding, mosquito nets, medicine, home repairs for low-income residents, support for bedridden patients, and wheelchair donations. Continued … 

Bedridden Swiss man suspects Hua Hin caregiver of record collection theft

A bedridden Swiss man appealed for public assistance after a record collection, valued at more than 12.5 million baht, disappeared from his home in Hua Hin. He suspects a former Thai caregiver may have been involved.

Peter Kalt, the Swiss victim, filed a theft complaint with local police after his wife discovered that more than 1,000 vinyl records and 400 CDs were missing from a storage room at their home in the Hin Lek Fai subdistrict of Hua Hin. Continued … 

Monsoon covers Thailand as heavy rain affects 60%-70% of areas

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that upper Thailand would see more rain over the next 24 hours, with heavy rain in some areas. Very heavy rain is expected in parts of the north, the western side of the central region, the east, and the west coast of the south, as a fairly strong south-westerly monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.

Thundershowers are expected in 60% of the southern east coast area, with heavy rain in some places. Affected provinces include Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Minimum temperature: 24-27 degrees Celsius; maximum temperature: 32-35 degrees Celsius; From Surat Thani northward: southwesterly winds at 20-40 km/h. Continued … 

Rising costs may nudge up snack prices

Thai snack manufacturers face several challenges this year, from rising costs for logistics and packaging to the impact of the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

Thanakorn Burintarachart, managing director of Nature Best Food, a Thai seaweed importer, manufacturer and distributor, said the Thai seaweed market is expected to remain flat this year as consumers remain highly cautious about their spending. The company sources seaweed from Japan, South Korea, and China. Seaweed prices remain stable, but logistics costs have started to rise. Continued … 

New US tariff could threaten Thai exports

A new US tariff could pose a severe threat to Thai exports in the latter half of this year, causing fresh trade uncertainties, say economists and businesses.

Thai export growth in the second half of 2026 could remain flat from last year if tariffs under Section 301 of the US Trade Act go ahead next month, said Nuttaporn Triratanasirikul, deputy managing director of Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research). Continued … 

Thai industry faces uneven outlook as risk factors weigh on sectors

Pimjai Leeissaranukul, chair of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said at a briefing on the FTI’s management policy for the 2026-28 term, that monitoring of Thai industry groups in the second quarter (April-June 2026) found 16 industry groups had been affected by four risk factors, comprising:

The cement, steel, aluminium, ceramics, roofing materials, and glass groups faced high production costs, including energy, raw material, and transport costs. The plastics, chemicals (fertilizers), printing, and packaging groups faced raw material shortages. Continued … 

Thailand’s EEC, skilled workforce draw global location portfolios

Global businesses are moving away from the old model of anchoring headquarters, factories, or innovation centers in a single major city, as rising geopolitical, economic, and climate risks force companies to rethink how they manage location strategy.

A new approach known as a “portfolio of locations” is gaining ground among global executives, allowing companies to spread risk by operating across multiple cities rather than relying too heavily on traditional economic capitals. Continued … 

Resale homes take larger market share

Second-hand homes have become more popular among Thai homebuyers since the pandemic, with their share of both transaction volume and value increasing as new home transfers declined, reflecting weaker purchasing power amid a slowing economy.

According to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), residential transfers nationwide totaled 72,583 units worth 187 billion baht in the first quarter of 2026, up 11.2% in volume and 3.1% in value year-on-year. Continued … 

Thai tap water is not drinking water quality. Many components in tap water, such as limescale or microbiological impurities, cannot be seen with the naked eye. Nevertheless, they affect the entire water supply and ultimately also the wholesomeness and taste of the water. Water purifier systems are indispensable to improve the quality of life. Thanks to the innovative technology of our water filter systems, it is possible to turn conventional tap water into high-quality drinking water.

ATTA Cuts China Tourist Forecast

Thailand’s tourism industry faces a fresh setback after the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) cut its 2026 forecast for Chinese visitor arrivals from 9 million to 7 million. The downgrade reflects growing safety concerns among Chinese travelers, alongside rising travel costs linked to higher oil prices caused by conflict in the Middle East.

ATTA President Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said yesterday that Chinese arrivals this year are now expected to reach around 7 million, well below projections made at the start of the year. He identified two key factors behind the weaker outlook: damage to Thailand’s safety image and increasing travel expenses. Continued … 

TAT sees Thai tourism rebound despite arrivals dip

Thailand’s tourism outlook is showing signs of recovery, prompting the Tourism Authority of Thailand to consider revising its 2026 foreign tourist target after the impact of the Middle East conflict appeared less severe than previously feared.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency’s earlier downside scenario, which projected 30-32 million foreign arrivals this year if the conflict dragged on for three months, may prove too cautious. Continued … 

CAAT Tightens Power Bank Rules on Thai Flights

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has issued new regulations tightening controls on power banks carried by airline passengers, aiming to improve flight safety and reduce the risk of lithium battery fires onboard aircraft. The new rules align Thailand’s aviation safety standards with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) guidelines for the safe transport of dangerous goods by air.

Under the regulations, power banks may only be carried in hand luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. Passengers may carry power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh (20,000 mAh) without restriction, while units between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require prior airline approval and are limited to two per passenger. Continued …

Palapon Kitchen is the culinary part of Camp Palapon. For over 17 years, our camp has helped people hit their health and fitness goals. Now, we are offering our specialized, calorie-controlled meal prep directly to the Hua Hin community! What We Offer: Clean & Convenient: Calorie-controlled meals (1,400 / 1,600 / 2,000 kcal) fresh prepared. Never frozen. Great Variety: Our meals are prepared fresh weekly (never frozen) and combine Mediterranean-style meals with healthy Thai dishes, designed for weight loss, fitness, and healthier everyday eating.

Immigration Has Prevented Entry to 29,490 Foreigners in 2026

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has revealed the results of its proactive enforcement campaign, reporting that 29,490 foreign nationals were denied entry during the first five months of 2026 under its “Three No’s” strategy aimed at tackling transnational crime and preventing foreign offenders from operating in the country.

Yesterday, police ordered a nationwide crackdown on transnational criminal networks and foreigners posing as tourists who may threaten Thailand’s security, economy and society. Continued … 

India’s IndiGo cuts six international routes, including Krabi

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, yesterday said it would suspend operations to six international destinations, including Krabi, citing higher operating costs and broader pressure from continued airspace restrictions. The move comes a week after IndiGo reported a fourth-quarter loss, largely due to higher jet fuel costs.

The Iran conflict has disrupted air travel through airspace closures, longer flight reroutings, ‌and a sharp rise in jet fuel prices, increasing cost pressures on airlines globally. 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

Friday’s news-March 27

  • Hua Hin for Cancers during Songkran/Beach wedding in Hua Hin/Nakhon Hua Hin Run/Thailand’s population shrinks/E-cigarette users in Thailand rise/Monkey mayhem in Bangkok
  • THE IRAN WAR: Trump pushes back Iran strikesMinister Freezes Prices/Baht may fall further/Fuel shock hits Thailand/Cabinet Approves Oil Relief Plan/Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan ferry fares increase/Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares/Island transport operators feel fuel pinch/Businesses feel the pinch/Retailers feel pinch/Thai fishery close to shutdown/Cathay to increase fuel surcharge/Health ministry to limit some treatments/The other Pandora’s box from the war
  • ECONOMY: To ease cost of living/Thai hospital boom to continue/Bangkok International Motor Show/Thai vehicle sales fall/Thailand’s vehicle production increases
  • TOURISM: Shorter visa-free stays and repeat tourists/Thailand Leads Chinese Tourism Surge/Thai New Year surge in flights/Thailand vows to host first Disneyland
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok food tour/Ayutthaya to stage grand Songkran festival
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Huawei and Solar Rooftop Requirements/Greener Course for Phuket’s Property Market/Thailand Post to electrify fleet/Bangkok joins Earth Hour
  • HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

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Check your sign: Hua Hin best place for Cancers during Songkran

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.

Cancers, you don’t just travel, you travel with intention. Wellness retreats, slow mornings, and spaces that actually make you feel something? That’s your sweet spot. Hua Hin, with its laid-back coastal charm and unhurried pace, is exactly the kind of escape you’ll gravitate towards this Songkran. Continued … 

A beach wedding in Hua Hin

Anique Buddhdev and Shamil Patel began planning their wedding with a clear set of conditions: warm weather, open skies, and enough room for several days of celebration. With no fixed destination, they considered Tuscany, Santorini, Cyprus, and Mexico before choosing Hua Hin for their wedding in Thailand.

The beaches, food and range of spaces at the Avani+ Hotel made the decision. “We wanted the wedding to feel like an experience,” they say, “not just a ceremony, but several days where everyone could celebrate together.” Continued … 

Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026 in Khao Tao on Sunday

The “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on Sunday at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.

The event will feature several race categories, including a VIP category for distinguished guests and heads of government agencies over a distance of 3 km, and general categories for men and women covering distances of 5 km and 10.5 km. Continued … 

Thailand’s population shrinks to 65.8 million, plus 1 million foreigners

Thailand’s population fell to 65.8 million in 2025, according to the Department of Provincial Administration, which also revealed that Bangkok remains by far the country’s most populous area.

In an announcement issued by the Central Registration Office yesterday, the total population as of Dec. 31, 2025, stood at 65.80 million. Of this, 64,820,708 are Thai nationals, while 988,620 are non-Thai residents. Continued … 

E-cigarette users in Thailand rise 11-fold in three years despite ban

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.

The group cited figures from the National Statistical Office, saying the number of e-cigarette users increased from 78,742 in 2021 to about 900,000 in 2024, an increase of more than 11 times in three years, despite e-cigarettes remaining illegal throughout that period. Continued … 

Monkey mayhem forces Bangkok to act

Bangkok authorities are stepping up efforts to tackle ongoing problems caused by macaque monkeys in Bang Khun Thian, as residents continue to report damage to property and disruptions to daily life.

Currently, around 350 macaques are spread across three main areas, including the Khun Kala Monument, Soi Thian Thale 22 community, and a nearby housing project. The animals, which are protected under Thai wildlife law, have increasingly come into conflict with residents — raiding homes, damaging property, and creating safety concerns. Continued … 

Trump pushes back Iran strikes deadline

US President Donald Trump yesterday pushed back his deadline for strikes on Iran’s energy assets to April 6, saying it was at Tehran’s request and that talks were “going very well.”

Trump denied earlier that he was desperate for a deal to end the Middle East war, despite the Islamic republic’s cool response to an American peace plan. Continued … 

Commerce Minister Freezes Prices on Key Goods in Thailand

The Thai Commerce Ministry will freeze prices on essential consumer goods like canned fish, instant noodles, and milk. This decision follows a cabinet meeting concerning the economic effects of the Middle East conflict.

Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun emphasized that manufacturers must obtain approval for price hikes on these products, aiming to control consumer costs while maintaining economic stability. The ministry plans to expand the price-freeze list to include palm oil, tissues, shampoo, detergent, and soap. Currently, 59 products are price-controlled; seven additional products, such as plastic pellets and bottled water, will join this list to ensure critical supply chain components remain affordable. Continued … 

Baht may fall further on oil price exposure

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.

The baht has dropped more than 5% this month, the worst performance among Asian peers. Strategists at Kasikornbank see it weakening a further 2% from its current level of 32.80 per dollar by midyear, with rising energy import costs and seasonal dividend repatriation likely to weigh on the currency. Continued … 

Cabinet races to cut oil tax as fuel shock hits Thailand

The Cabinet has approved a set of urgent measures to tackle the escalating energy crisis, including exploring legal avenues to reduce fuel excise taxes following a sharp 6-baht-per-liter increase in oil prices.

The special Cabinet meeting yesterday came as the government moved away from its previous gradual pricing approach, instead implementing an immediate increase due to mounting pressures, including the deepening deficit of the Oil Fuel Fund, fuel shortages, and illegal cross-border smuggling. Continued … 

Thailand Cabinet Approves Oil Relief Plan Nationwide

Thailand’s special cabinet has approved in principle a seven-step relief package to ease the impact of rising fuel prices, with measures targeting households, businesses, and key industries. The decision includes potential tax cuts, financial support for vulnerable groups, and sector-specific assistance.

Officials say the plan is designed to deliver immediate relief amid surging global oil costs. Permanent Secretary for Finance Lavaron Sangsnit said the measures are urgent and intended to provide maximum public benefit. The move follows sharp increases in global oil prices, which have placed growing pressure on domestic fuel costs and the wider economy. Continued … 

Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan ferry fares increase after fuel price jump

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.

Seatran Ferry, which operates services between Don Sak Pier in the mainland of Surat Thani and the two islands, first announced a fare adjustment on March 14. At that time, prices rose by 10 baht. Continued … 

Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares Due to Rise in Diesel Prices

Passenger boat operators on Bangkok’s Saen Saep Canal and Chao Phraya River will raise fares by two baht next Monday due to an 18% increase in diesel prices. This decision impacts the transportation cost for daily commuters on these crucial waterway routes.

Recently, the diesel price jumped from 33 baht to 39 baht per liter, prompting the fare hike. Krob Krua Khonsong Co., which operates on the Saen Saep Canal, announced the fare will increase from 11-21 baht to 13-23 baht based on distance. Chao Phraya Express Boat Co. will also adjust fares from 14-33 baht to 16-35 baht for routes extending from Nonthaburi to Bangkok’s inner city. Continued … 

Tourist island transport operators feel fuel pinch

Tourism operators on Thai resort islands are bracing for the effects of the sudden sharp increase in fuel prices yesterday.

A survey on Koh Chang in the eastern province of Trat found that pump prices on the island are about three baht higher than on the mainland, with gasoline surging to 52.39 baht per liter. Diesel now costs 18% more than it did a day ago, while increases for other fuels range from 14% to 22%. Continued … 

Businesses start to feel the pinch

Business operators across Thailand have cried foul over the sudden spike in diesel and fuel prices, saying the surge has intensified already mounting cost pressures and is forcing some to consider price hikes or cutbacks.

In Chiang Mai, Thanit Chumsaeng, president of the provincial restaurant and entertainment association, said operators are beginning to feel the full impact of rising energy prices driven by ongoing global tensions. Continued … 

Retailers feel pinch as fuel prices spike

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.

Sing Buri province is facing fuel shortages, causing company trucks to queue at petrol stations to refuel, said Showsiri Treechairasmee, business development director at CS Park Co., operator of Chaisaeng Superstore in Sing Buri. Continued … 

Fuel shock pushes Thai fishery close to shutdown

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.

At the country’s largest fishing port in Samut Sakhon province on the Gulf of Thailand, over half of the fishing trawlers are already docked and those still operating would likely stop work within days, said Jumpol Kanawaree, president of the Samut Sakhon Fishmongers Assn. Continued … 

Cathay to increase fuel surcharge for all flights by 34%

Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways will increase its fuel surcharge for all flights by 34% from April – the second increase in two weeks – citing “considerable pressure” as the conflict in the Middle East impacts oil prices.

The airline said yesterday the fuel surcharge for long-haul flights would increase by HK$396 (US$50.63) to HK1,560, or 34% from the current HK1,164. The measure takes effect on Wednesday of next week. Continued … 

Health ministry to limit some treatments, control meds

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.

The war is expected to drive up the cost of drugs and medical supplies, prompting changes to treatment protocols and closer monitoring of pharmaceutical stocks. Continued … 

Beware of the other Pandora’s box from the war against Iran

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.

Monitoring groups have reported sharp spikes in hate crimes, vandalism, and online incitement immediately following the outbreak of hostilities in late February. The most visible incident in the United Kingdom was this week’s arson attack on four Jewish volunteer ambulances in North London. A group with alleged links to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has claimed responsibility. Continued … 

Initiative aims to ease cost of living

The Thai Retailers Assn. (TRA) has partnered with the Commerce Ministry to advance the “Thai Chuay Thai” initiative to ease the cost of living. The campaign offers more than 5,000 essential consumer products, particularly high-quality house brands and second-tier brands, at affordable prices through retail channels nationwide.

The TRA also proposed a structured three-phase framework to systematically manage cost-of-living pressures, and is expanding retail channels that accept state welfare cards to improve accessibility for cardholders. Continued … 

Thai hospital boom set to continue despite conflict

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.

Parin Kitchatornpitak, an analyst at KGI Securities (Thailand), said the US-Israel war with Iran will weigh on sentiment in the healthcare sector, given the exposure to revenue from Middle Eastern patients at Thai hospitals such as Bumrungrad Hospital (BH), Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), and Bangkok Chain Hospital (BCH). Continued … 

Bangkok International Motor Show in pictures

The latest Global Energy Crisis (Version 7.3) made the opening of the 2026 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) more important than it might have been just a few weeks ago. Spiking petrol pump prices act directly on the hip-pocket nerve and as the world’s car manufacturers formed up to face 2,000,000 showgoers on Wednesday morning, the mood of the exhibitors was remarkably upbeat.

Last year, 1.6 million people visited the show, purchasing 80,000 vehicles while they were there. This year, just how many visitors get to the show may be influenced by the aforementioned mobility crisis, but those who do make it can be expected to be highly motivated to buy electric vehicles as the gas pumps are running dry. The concept of refuelling your car at home at a fraction of the cost of petrol is suddenly very appealing. Continued … 

Thai vehicle sales fall 2% in February

Thailand’s new vehicle market declined by just over 2% to 48,242 units in February, from 49,313 units a year earlier, according to the latest data released by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), due mainly to a sharp fall in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales following the expiration of the government’s EV3.0 incentive program at the end of last year.

This was the first year-on-year decline for the Thai vehicle market in almost a year and followed a strong surge in January, when automakers continued to deliver BEVs purchased before the expiration of the EV3.0 programme, which has now been replaced by the EV3.5 program, which offers lower incentives. Continued … 

Thailand’s vehicle production increases in February amid electric vehicle surge

Thailand’s automotive sector recorded steady growth in February, supported by rising electric vehicle (EV) production and continued export activity, according to Xinhua News Agency. Total vehicle output reached 117,952 units, marking a 3.4% increase year-on-year.

The expansion was largely fueled by higher production of pickup trucks for the domestic market and passenger cars destined for export. A key driver of growth was the rapid expansion of electric mobility. Output of fully electric passenger vehicles surged by 53.7% compared to the same period last year. Continued … 

Shorter visa-free stays could drive away Thailand’s repeat tourists

Thailand’s decision to reduce visa-free stays has been framed by authorities as a minor adjustment unlikely to disrupt the tourism sector. Officials argue that only 6–8 million visitors might choose alternative destinations — a small fraction of the millions who flock to the kingdom each year.

But scratch beneath the surface, and the move exposes Thailand’s reliance on outdated assumptions about tourism, money, and crime. Many long-term visitors and repeat travelers come to the same Thai destinations year after year, spending significantly on accommodation, food, shopping, and entertainment. These are high-value tourists who form the backbone of the economy in beach towns like Pattaya, Phuket, and Hua Hin. Forcing shorter stays risks discouraging this loyal segment, nudging them toward competitor countries in Southeast Asia that actively court longer-term visitors with welcoming policies. Continued … 

Thailand Leads Chinese Tourism Surge Across Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is experiencing a sharp rise in Chinese tourism in early 2026, with Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos reporting increased visitor numbers. The surge has boosted regional economies, increased flight demand and reinforced the region’s role as a global travel hub.

Thailand is leading the trend, recording more than one million Chinese visitors in just the first two months of the year. The growth follows the easing of travel restrictions and the introduction of visa-friendly policies across the region. Thailand reported 6.62 million foreign visitors between January and February 2026, generating 160 billion baht in revenue, with China its largest source market. Continued …

Thai New Year to see surge in flights

Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) has forecast a surge in air travel during the Songkran holiday, with more than 25,000 flights expected nationwide during April 10–19.

Aerothai’s acting president Surachai Nuprom announced yesterday that 25,620 flights are anticipated, averaging about 2,562 per day. This represents a 1.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued … 

Thailand vows to host first Disneyland in region

The government remains committed to bringing the first Disneyland theme park to Southeast Asia as part of the EEC Capital City project, with potential investors from the Middle East already indicating interest in becoming partners.

Caretaker deputy prime minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said mass traffic to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which should accelerate development of the long-delayed high-speed railway linking three regional airports, mega-projects in the area such as EEC Capital City are necessary. Continued … 

Bangkok food tour: Michelin street eats to luxury rooftop dining

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.

Enjoy mouthwatering Tom Yum, Pad Thai, crispy pork, and indulgent fine dining experiences at Michelin-starred Yu Ting Yuan and stunning rooftop bars. Discover where to eat in Bangkok, from bustling food markets to luxury restaurants, perfect for every taste and budget. Video … 

Ayutthaya to stage grand Songkran festival with floats, sacred rites, and elephants

Ayutthaya is preparing to hold its Maha Songkran Krung Kao 2026 celebrations on a grand scale, under the theme “Maha Songkran Krung Kao: Water, Faith and the Heritage of the Land”, as the province aims to attract tourists and stimulate the local economy.

Yesterday, organizers staged a preview of the festivities, including a tuk-tuk parade, Buddha image bathing rituals, the traditional Rod Nam Dam Hua ceremony to pay respect to elders, cultural performances, and Songkran water-play activities with elephants. Continued … 

Huawei the Only Brand Meeting New Solar Rooftop Requirements

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.

The program will be effective from March 3 to December 31, 2028. The tax support scheme for solar installations is divided into two main categories: Continued … 

British Developer Charts a Greener Course for Phuket’s Booming Property Market

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.

Yesterday, Bygraves outlined plans for two landmark residential developments in Phuket that, he argued, are perfectly positioned to capture the wave of international capital now flowing into the Thai property market. Continued … 

Thailand Post to electrify fleet of trucks and motorcycles

To conserve fuel, Thailand Post is converting its current fuel-powered fleet of last-mile delivery vehicles to electric trucks and motorcycles. Rising fuel prices have prompted the logistics provider to reduce its operational costs, a third of which goes to petrol.

Prior to this decision, Thailand Post had been using some EVs for delivery. Ten percent of its current fleet of delivery pick-ups are electric and another 100 motorcycles are electric, as well. Due to the ongoing global energy crisis, the organization has now decided to accelerate its transition toward electrification. Continued … 

Bangkok joins Earth Hour 2026 with one-hour lights-out tomorrow

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.

Chadchart said the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is working with network partners to continue the annual Earth Hour drive. He called on government agencies, private sector organizations, businesses, and the public to reduce energy consumption by turning off unnecessary lighting for one hour, such as decorative lights, building and high-rise lighting, advertising signs, and household lights. Continued … 

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Saturday’s news-Feb 28


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  • Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash
  • ECONOMY: Thailand economic plan targets 3%-5% GDP growth/Border Trade Crisis/European business eyes Thai rail investment/Global labor crunch
  • TOURISM: Dual pricing as tourism dilemma/Too soon to predict China tourism rebound/Why Tomorrowland’s Chose Thailand/MotoGP 2026 Season Starts
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Soi ranks second in world noodle list/Thailand’s Night Markets and Street Eats/Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities/How Thais Will Holiday in 2026
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Oil Spill Near Phuket/Similan divers lift ‘ghost nets’
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin 4th best choice in Thailand for Chinese tourists

Chinese New Year is one of the most important times in many Asian countries, particularly in China, where people travel back home, go sightseeing, and spend to celebrate the lunar new year. According to China’s People’s Daily, Chinese consumers tend to spend more during the holiday across six key industries: restaurants, accommodation, transportation, tourism, personal goods, and entertainment.

The top popular destinations in Thailand for Chinese travelers during Chinese New Year were: Ao Nang Beach, Krabi; Koh Samet, Rayong; Koh Lipe, Satun; Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan; Chiang Mai; Kata Beach, Phuket; Karon Beach, Phuket; Patong Beach, Phuket; Bangkok; and Phuket Town. Continued …

Vehha Hua Hin

PROUD posts record revenue of B6.4 billion, up 183%

Pasu Liptapanlop, director of Proud Real Estate Public Co. (PROUD), revealed the company achieved its highest success in history, setting an all-time high with total revenue of 6,407 million baht, up from 2,268 million baht in the same period last year, representing growth of 183%, and net profit of 168 million baht, up from 57 million baht a year earlier.

This performance was driven by continuous recognition of ownership transfers from three key projects: Nue District R9, which recorded the highest revenue of 4,706 million baht; VEHHA Hua Hin at 1,267 million baht; and VI ARI at 294 million baht. Continued … 

Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target

Central Plaza Hotel Public Co., parent company of Hua Hin’s Centara’s Grand Beach Resort and Villas, is setting robust growth targets for 2026, aiming for total revenue of T35 billion, a subsubstantial 14%-15% increase from the previous year, according to CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat.

This growth will be driven by both hotel and food business segments — hotels are projected to contribute between B15.7-15.9 billion, while the food business is forecast to bring in approximately B19.1-19.3 billion, each reflecting around 14%-15% growth. Continued …

Thai Red Cross urges urgent blood donations as reserves fall

The Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS) is appealing for blood donations from the public, as reserves in its blood bank have dropped drastically below acceptable levels, posing a direct threat to patients who require transfusions.

The TRCS says that blood reserves at its blood bank and at hospitals normally fall to their lowest levels during February and March each year. However, accidents and emergencies can occur at any time, requiring blood to be readily available. Continued …

Repair of Bangkok sinkhole to cost 1 billion baht, reopening in March 2027

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has unveiled its plan to repair the sinkhole on Samsen Road, caused by the ongoing construction of the Purple Line from Tao Poon to Rat Burana.

The repair work, which involves a series of complex engineering tasks, is expected to cost at least 1 billion baht, with the private contractor responsible for the expenses. Continued … 

Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash to 1–2 Baht

Farm-gate prices for Thailand’s Nam Hom (aromatic) coconuts have fallen sharply to just 1–2 baht per fruit, pushing growers toward financial ruin. The slump has prompted urgent action from Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun.

Has ordered officials to closely monitor the situation and assist farmers and entrepreneurs across the supply chain. Authorities are also expanding export efforts and investigating nominee firms accused of distorting the market. Continued …

Thailand economic plan targets 3%-5% GDP growth

Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday.

He said the NESDC is currently drafting Thailand’s 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2027-2032), with a focus on restructuring the Thai economy to deliver quality growth, while also putting in place mechanisms to cope with risks stemming from a rapidly changing global context and rising uncertainties. Continued … 

Ban Khlong Luek border crossing in Sa Kaeo

Border Trade Crisis: Businesses Seek Government Help

Businesses along the Thai-Cambodia border are urging the government to intervene as prolonged checkpoint closures cause significant financial losses. The ongoing tensions have halted cross-border trade, impacting local economies and export revenues.

Before the closures, border trade was a vital economic activity, generating substantial income. However, the estimated losses in 2025 have reached around 30 billion baht. Industries like construction materials are particularly affected, with annual losses of at least 100 million baht due to halted exports of concrete products and cement. Continued … 

European business group eyes Thai rail investment

A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.

The interest was conveyed during a meeting yesterday between the Ministry of Transport and an EABC delegation led by Roderich Hoffmann, head of the working group on transport, rail systems, and logistics. Continued … 

World Bank warns of global labor crunch: 1.2B entrants chasing just 400M jobs

Melinda Good, the World Bank’s country director for Thailand and Myanmar, outlined the challenges facing the global and Thai economies from a labor-market and investment perspective at the “Futuready Dinner Thought” event. She said the world is entering an era of the highest uncertainty on record — akin to a “tax” that drags on private-sector investment decisions — amid the rapid advance of AI and robotics, which are significantly reshaping the global value chain.

She said that over the next decade, 1.2 billion people worldwide are expected to enter the labor market, but forecasts suggest there will be only 400 million jobs available. The resulting gap of more than 800 million jobs represents a major crisis for young people globally, who will face intense competition and a shortage of opportunities. Continued … 

Dual pricing as Thailand’s tourism dilemma

Thailand welcomed 32.9 million foreign visitors in 2025, a 7.23% decline from the year before. While no single factor explains the drop in visitor numbers, the question of whether tourists feel fairly treated is one the industry cannot afford to ignore, and it is a debate that cuts deeper than the price gap alone.

Dual pricing is not unique to Thailand. The Taj Mahal in India and Petra in Jordan both charge foreign tourists more than local visitors, typically framed as a maintenance fee. In Thailand, public attractions like temples and national museums operate under ministerial regulations, while private operators are overseen by the Department of Internal Trade, though the latter are considerably harder to regulate. Continued … 

Too soon to predict China tourism rebound

Despite early signs of a rebound in Chinese arrivals during the first two months, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is downplaying expectations for a strong recovery, preferring to wait until May to assess whether demand has stabilized.

Chinese arrivals rose 0.3% to 991,718 as of Feb. 23, up from 988,451 year-on-year. According to the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the total number of Chinese arrivals for the first two months is projected to tally 1.08 million, increasing 4.5% year-on-year. Continued … 

Tomorrowland’s CEO on Choosing Thailand for First Asian Launch

WEAREONE.world (Thailand) Co. has received approval from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) to host “Tomorrowland Thailand,” marking the festival’s first venture into Asia. Scheduled for Dec. 11-13, the event will take place at Wisdom Valley in Pattaya and aims to attract 50,000 attendees per day. This move is expected to significantly boost the local economy and tourism industry.

Tomorrowland, a renowned electronic music festival, chose Thailand due to its strong cultural appeal, excellent tourism services, and supportive infrastructure, according to CEO Bruno Vanwelsenaers, who noted Thailand’s readiness in terms of transportation and amenities. The government’s facilitation in areas like visas and taxes has also played a crucial role in making Thailand an attractive destination for the festival. Continued … 

MotoGP 2026 Season Starts in Thailand

The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.

This race marks the last year of the 1,000cc engines before transitioning to 850cc in 2027. Fans can view the new bikes as part of the season’s “kick-off.” Participants include Marc Márquez with Ducati Lenovo, Álex Márquez from Gresini Racing, and Marco Bezzecchi from Aprilia Racing. Continued … 

Khao Soi ranks second in TasteAtlas world noodle list

Thailand’s Khao Soi has been ranked No.2 in the 2026 “Best Rated Noodle Dishes in the World” by TasteAtlas, placing the northern Thai specialty among the top noodle dishes globally.

The coconut curry noodle soup is known for its rich broth made with coconut milk and red curry paste, served with egg noodles and a choice of chicken, beef, or pork. It is topped with crispy fried noodles and accompanied by condiments such as lime, pickled cabbage, shallots, and chilies. Continued … 

Chiang Mai night market

Thailand’s Night Markets and Street Eats

There’s something magical about Thailand after sunset. Lemongrass, charcoal, something frying in oil nearby, and underneath it all, that warm evening air that Thailand does better than almost anywhere. Travelers talk about the temples and the beaches and the sunsets, which are all deserved, but ask anyone who has spent real time in Thailand, and nine times out of 10, the food memories are what they actually go on about.

Bangkok is a city of contrast, with all its different faces and styles. If you’ve only seen it during the daylight, then you haven’t seen the “real” Bangkok – perhaps just half of it. At about 7 pm, it becomes a very different city, as the temperature drops ever so slightly and the streets, which were previously gridlocked and filled with chaos, start to loosen and feel more like a fabulous party to which you didn’t know you had been invited. Continued … 

Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has invited tourists to embark on a journey to discover the meaning of nature and local wisdom, while enjoying the happiness of the UNESCO Creative Cities Thailand routes.

Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), along with one aspiring creative city, is preparing special pilot activities in three provinces to raise awareness and encourage travel. The first province to kick off the initiative is Sukhothai, a city renowned for its handicrafts and folk arts. Continued … 

Three Generations, Three Travel Styles: How Thais Will Holiday in 2026

A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.

From how far ahead they book to what they’re willing to pay extra for, the differences between Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y (Millennials) are shaping how Thailand will be traveled in 2026 — especially within the country, as more Thais chase experiences that fit their lifestyles, budgets and time. Continued … 

Oil Spill Near Phuket Raises Environmental, Tourism Concerns

A sunken Panama-flagged cargo ship has caused large oil slicks to wash ashore near Phuket, posing threats to marine life and tourism. The incident began when the vessel sank off Koh Kaew Noi on Feb. 7. Since Feb. 25, oil clumps have been seen on Koh Hey’s beaches, heightening concerns.

The ship carried 297 containers and over 90 tons of fuel oil, leading to environmental worries as oil-coated marine life has been observed. Crabs along the shores are visibly impacted, with some appearing weakened, reflecting growing ecosystem damage. The threat to Phuket’s tourism industry is also significant, given its reliance on clean and safe beaches. Continued … 

Similan divers lift ‘ghost nets’ from deep-sea coral reef

Divers have recovered abandoned fish aggregating devices (FADs) tangled around deep-sea coral reefs, preventing serious harm to marine life, including turtles, dolphins, and dugongs in Mu Ko Similan National Park.

Rangers spotted two large FADs drifting near Koh Payan (Similan No.3) during a patrol on Thursday. The devices are believed to have dragged lost or abandoned fishing nets — known as ghost nets — into a sea fan coral formation about 45 meters below the surface, park chief Siriwat Suebsai said yesterday. Continued … 

Pakistan is in ‘open war’ with Afghanistan after latest strikes

Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” Continued … 

Court orders Greenpeace to pay $345 million to US oil pipeline company

Greenpeace must pay US$345 million in damages to the operator of the US oil pipeline it protested, a North Dakota court ordered yesterday. The decision finalizes this phase of the explosive, years-long case that has pitted the environmental organization against the company Energy Transfer, opening the door to an appeals process in the closely watched legal saga. Continued … 

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Wednesday’s news-Feb 18


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  • Traffic nightmare expected on Rama 2/PKK province’s public relations plan
  • ECONOMY: Finance proposes excise tax restructuring/10 Plus economic plan/Five Nations Invest B33.8 billion/110,000 companies at risk
  • TOURISM: Foreign arrivals down 7.6%/Chinese flock to Thailand/Tourism’s 2-speed economy/Visa plan upsets Phuket tourism
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Ten species flagged as birdstrike threat/Monitor lizard invasion in Korat
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Severe heat alarm sounds
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Traffic nightmare expected from partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months

The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.

Samart Ratchapolsitte, former deputy leader of the Democrat Party and former deputy governor of Bangkok, said this partial shutdown of a major artery connecting Bangkok with Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, and the south, and with there being large business and residential areas of both sides, is a gamble between safety and traffic paralysis. Continued …

PKK province’s public relations plan: Inform residents of policies

Prachuap Khiri Khan province has approved a new public relations plan aimed at improving awareness and understanding of key government policies among local residents. The Provincial National Public Relations Plan for the 2026 fiscal year was endorsed during the first meeting of the year of the Provincial Subcommittee on National Public Relations, held on Monday.

The public relations plan focuses on raising domestic awareness across five main areas: the economy; society and culture; natural resources and the environment; security and political governance; and public administration. Continued …

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Finance proposes excise tax restructuring to boost revenue by 7.6%

The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.

This includes revising tax rates on various products, including a unified rate for cigarettes, adjustments to fuel and alcohol taxes, and the introduction of new taxes on health and environmental hazards, such as salt and carbon taxes. Continued …

10 Plus economic plan targets B1.1 trillion investments

The general election on Feb. 8 concluded with a landslide victory for the Bhumjaithai Party, sweeping 193 MP seats (unofficial data). They have become the core leaders in forming the new government led by Anutin Charnvirakul.

The key figure driving the economy is Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and minister of finance. Ekniti’s mission is to restructure the Thai economy through the “10-Pill” or “10 Plus” policy. Continued …

Five Nations Invest B33.8 billion in January

Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.

The approvals were granted under the Foreign Business Act 1999, according to Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development and secretary of the Foreign Business Commission. A total of 262 Thai nationals were employed by investors holding foreign business licenses, representing a 15% increase. Continued …

DBD targets 110,000 companies at risk of nominee and shell accounts

Yesterday, the Department of Business Development announced plans to conduct in-depth investigations of over 110,000 companies with foreign investments to prevent the use of Thai nationals as nominees and the opening of shell accounts. This is part of a broader effort to safeguard Thailand’s business environment.

The focus will be on 12 key provinces, including Bangkok, Chonburi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, which are major economic and tourism hubs. Measures to prevent new nominee companies have helped reduce the problem, but a new loophole has emerged: criminals are buying up defunct companies to use them for fraudulent purposes. Authorities are closely monitoring these activities. Continued …

Foreign arrivals down 7.6% so far this year

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals dropped 7.6% year-on-year in ‌the period Jan. 1 to Feb. 15, to about 5.07 million people, the Tourism Ministry said ‌yesterday.

China was the biggest source market with 770,427 visitors, followed by Malaysia with 461,742, the ministry said. Continued …

Many tour packages sold out as Chinese flock to Thailand

So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.

Top Thai tourist destinations are currently packed with Chinese tourists, but those who had not purchased a tour package in advance now have to wait until at least the end of February. Several travel companies in Beijing, Wuhan, Xi’an, and other cities said that tour packages to Thailand were sold out approximately a week ago. Continued …

Tourism’s 2-speed economy

Tourism is a key industry for Thailand, but over the past decade it has faced a critical challenge: income disparity, with a sharp divide between a handful of major destinations and second-tier locations.

Although the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recognized the imbalance and introduced a scheme in 2018 separating 22 major provinces from 55 second-tier ones to grant privileges aimed at boosting less popular destinations, such as tax deductions for travel expenses, the disparity persists. Continued …

‘Buy property, get visa’ plan upsets Phuket tourism operators

Phuket tourism operators oppose the government’s policy allowing foreigners who buy real estate worth 3 million baht to qualify for a long-stay visa, arguing the investment threshold is too low and could attract “non-quality” visitors, as well as risking an increase in property prices.

According to the Immigration Bureau, since Oct. 1, 2025, foreigners who bought a condo worth a minimum of 3 million baht or rent housing for at least 85,000 baht per month can apply for a one-year long-stay visa. Continued …

Ten species flagged as birdstrike threat to flights in Thailand

Ten species of bird have been flagged as a growing threat to aviation safety in Thailand, with 6,118 birdstrikes reported nationwide over the past five years, causing damage worth hundreds of millions of baht.

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has sounded the alarm over the mounting menace birdstrike poses to flight safety. The problem has intensified in recent years, with birdstrikes in 2024 and 2025 alone causing direct damage costing more than 530 million baht to repair, underscoring mounting safety and cost pressures on the aviation industry. Continued …

Monitor lizard invasion in Korat sees 200 to 300 reptiles gather

Safety concerns are rising in Nakhon Ratchasima after hordes of water monitor lizards turned up along the city moat and wandered into the nearby market, prompting residents to call for agencies to manage the animals.

Lizard numbers reportedly vary by area, with some stretches said to have 200 to 300 animals, including several large ones that residents say roam roadsides and drift close to homes and market shops. Continued … 

Severe heat alarm sounds

The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.

DoMS Deputy Director-general Dr. Akkarathan Jitnuyanon said global temperatures are rising, with Thailand facing particular risks of heatstroke. He noted that hot weather can also exacerbate chronic illnesses, especially cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Continued …

  • Chinese Call Center Gang Arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
  • Two Russians Arrested Over Pattaya Condo Theft – Continued …
  • Gold Lion Statue Stolen From Chiang Mai Pub by Foreign Duo – Continued …

The Epstein Files Unraveled: How Millions of Secret Documents Are Shaking the Global Elite

Epstein files link

One story has dominated global headlines entering 2026 with unusual ferocity — and unlike trade wars or geopolitical tensions, this one strikes at the personal reputations of the world’s most powerful individuals. The United States Department of Justice has released classified documents relating to the case of Jeffrey Epstein, the late American financier and convicted sex offender who ran one of history’s most far-reaching sex trafficking networks. Continued …

Canada launches huge defense plan to curb reliance on US

Prime Minister Mark Carney yesterday launched a multi-billion dollar plan to strengthen the Canadian military and rely less on the United States. Carney’s announcement of Canada’s first defense industrial strategy built on themes he has emphasized throughout his 11-month tenure as President Donald Trump rips through traditional US alliances. Continued …

Google launches new feature to purge explicit images and personal data

Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. Continued …

US towns resist Trump plans to jail immigrants in warehouses

Residents in a leafy, conservative New Jersey suburb have erupted in protest against plans to convert a vast warehouse into an immigration detention center as part of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign. Continued …

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Friday’s news-Feb 13


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  • British Chamber networking event/Wyndham Hua Hin wins award/Is family health insurance worth it?/Foreigners wanting to adopt a Thai stray dog/IT prices soar/Nine mild earthquakes in Surat Thani/Thailand Election 2026: Vote recount?
  • ECONOMY: Top IT risks for Thai SMEs/Demand for longevity courses/Thailand remains a strategic hub for investors/Gold’s going wild
  • TOURISM: Thailand among top Lunar New Year destinations
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The women of the Tha Kha Floating Market
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: PM2.5 crisis hits Bangkok/Waste-to-energy power plants for Bangkok
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

British Chamber of Thailand to host networking event in Hua Hin

The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.

The event will bring business leaders and professionals together to explore new opportunities, expand networks, gain fresh insights, and reconnect in a relaxed coastal setting along Thailand’s Western Seaboard — while enjoying a buffet and free-flow drinks. Continued … 

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi wins health and wellness award

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has been awarded the R5 Guarantee Award under the “R5 Guarantee to Global” initiative, organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the Thai Food and Drug Administration. This accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to quality, safety, and internationally aligned health and wellness standards.

The R5 Guarantee initiative, part of Thailand’s medical and wellness hub policy, aims to elevate local health and wellness products and services to globally recognized standards. The award was given to health product manufacturers and wellness establishments across eight provinces in western Thailand, including Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan, that meet the rigorous R5 standards. Continued …

Is family health insurance in Thailand worth it?

A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.

For families living in Thailand long-term or meeting visa requirements, family health insurance helps control expenses, secure access to quality care, and provide peace of mind when the unexpected happens. Continued …

Foreigners wanting to adopt a Thai stray dog — here’s how

Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.

The answer: not in two days. International pet adoption requires careful planning, health tests, and time, but it is possible with the right approach. Continued …

IT prices soar from rising memory costs

The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.

The primary driver of this uptick is a sharp increase in the general-purpose server DRAM (dynamic random-access memory). Furthermore, NAND memory, which was relatively quiet in the fourth quarter last year, recorded a parallel jump of 80%-90% for the period. Continued …

Nine mild earthquakes recorded in Surat Thani over two days

A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.

The largest tremor, measuring 3.2 at a depth of 2 kilometers, occurred at 2.07 am on Thursday, but is still classified as minor event. As of 8.30 am Thursday, nine seismic events had been recorded in the area, said the department, part of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Continued …

Thailand Election 2026: How justified is the call for a nationwide vote recount?

Recount. Nationwide vote recount. The Election Commission must resign. A new election altogether. These are the growing demands of some voters, particularly supporters of the People’s Party, who believe the Feb. 8 snap election was not just rigged here and there but systemically manipulated.

A recount in evidently problematic constituencies or even provinces makes sense, but a nationwide recount or reelection? That is major and should not be demanded lightly. We would need evidence of more widespread irregularities to infer that rigging was nationwide and systemic. Continued …

Top IT risks Thai SMEs cannot afford to ignore

Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.

Passwords remain a glaring vulnerability. Dull as it sounds, weak or reused passwords are still one of the easiest ways into a business network. Disturbingly, some people still use “123456” or pet names as default passwords and wonder why they keep getting hacked. Continued …

Demand for longevity courses soars as health sector booms

Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.

The Department of Business Development from the Ministry of Commerce reports that the wellness business is one of the fastest-growing industries in Thailand, covering everything from health products and services, beauty, food, spa, fitness, and even health tourism. Continued …

Why Thailand remains a strategic hub for investors in ASEAN

Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.

Thailand achieved its highest investment application value in a decade in 2024. According to the Board of Investment (BOI), investment promotion applications reached 1.13 trillion baht across 3,137 projects, driven by the digital, electronics, electric vehicle (EV), agro-processing, and petrochemical sectors. Continued …

Gold’s going wild, affecting Thai investors and the baht

The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.

The price of spot gold in the global market has swung widely up and down since early this year, following a 64% rise last year. Local spot gold has moved in line with the global market, crossing over 82,000 baht per baht weight (around 15.2 grams) on Jan. 29. Continued …

Russia and Thailand among top Lunar New Year destinations for Chinese

More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, ‌with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.

The Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is one of China’s longest holidays, running for nine days this year from Feb. 15, or a day longer than usual. The Year of the Horse officially begins on Feb. 17. Continued …

Your Turnkey Energy Provider

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency.

And now, we’ve been recognized by Asia Business Outlook as one of the Top 10 renewable energy companies in Southeast Asia.

Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

The women of the Tha Kha Floating Market

The traditional floating market of Tha Kha draws buyers and sellers from all over the province of Samut Songkhram, southwest of Bangkok. For over 100 years, the market – tha means pier, kha means stuck – has been a scene of vibrant bustle, a hub for traders selling mostly agricultural goods and items made within the community.

Bangkok-based photographer Athikhom Saengchai traveled to the Tha Kha market to photograph the mostly female vendors who sell goods on the water. He also captured other locals who cook food and make traditional products like baskets handwoven from coconut palm; coconut sugar; and miang kham, traditional one-bite snacks wrapped in leaves. Continued …

PM2.5 crisis hits Bangkok hard

The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.

The air quality index in Bangkok is worsening, and authorities are urging all residents, particularly those in affected areas, to take precautions to protect their health. Continued …

Two waste-to-energy power plants planned for Bangkok

Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.

C&G has operated its first waste-to-energy facility since 2016, which processes 500 tons of garbage daily and generates 9.8 megawatts of electricity for the Metropolitan Electricity Authority grid. Continued …

  • Thai Police Raid Alleged Russian-Run Poker Den – Continued …
  • Russian Arrested for Assault on Thai Woman in Pattaya – Continued …
  • 46 Foreign Extras Arrested on Krabi Film Set – Continued … 
  • Chinese Bank Manager Held in Pattaya Over Fraud – Continued …
  • Chinese fugitive wanted for child prostitution arrested in Bangkok – Continued …

Trump revokes greenhouse gas health findings, cancels emissions standards

The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks,  This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. Continued …

Surviving the collapse of the population

The global average birth rate has halved since 1960 and is now just above the “replacement” rate of 2.1 children per woman. However, that is misleading, as averages often are. Only sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East still have the old, high birth rates. Everywhere else there is a rising panic about a future where the old will outnumber the young. Continued …

How world’s super-rich are rewriting the rules

Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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Friday’s news-Dec 19


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  • Law Bans Alcohol Sales to Intoxicated Customers/Flood alert in Hat Yai
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Sa Kaeo remains tense/3 terms for ceasefire/Jets strike Poipet/Civilian areas endure more strikes/China defends weapons sales
  • TOURISM: Bangkok world’s most visited city/Pattaya tourists slam strong baht and bank fees/Thailand Targets 6.7 Million Chinese Tourists
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai businesses on path to sustainability
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

New Thai Law Bans Alcohol Sales to Intoxicated Customers

A new law banning the sale of alcohol to intoxicated people is now in effect across the country. This law holds sellers jointly responsible for any resulting harm, including property damage, injury, or death. This regulation forms part of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, Amendment No. 2, B.E. 2568 (2025), aiming to enhance public safety by imposing stricter controls on alcohol sales.

Article 29 of the new amendment explicitly states that sellers or shops selling alcohol to intoxicated individuals will face joint liability, including financial compensation for any damages caused. This measure is designed to encourage responsible sales practices and reduce alcohol-related incidents. Continued …

‘Yellow flag’ flood alert at four Hat Yai communities

A “yellow flag” flood alert has been declared at four communities in Hat Yai after two consecutive days of heavy rain led to retention ponds and reservoirs nearing full capacity.

The Hat Yai Municipality Flood Prevention and Mitigation Center said heavy rain that started Wednesday night and is still continuing reached 140 millimeters at Khlong Mae Rian retention pond station with downpour expected to continue until evening. Continued …

Sa Kaeo remains tense: First Army summarizes Day 11 clash

The First Army has summarized the situation yesterday regarding the border clashes in Sa Kaeo Province. The clash is now entering its 8th day with heavy artillery attacks from the Cambodian side.

The First Army’s Eastern Operations Center reported that heavy fighting took place in three key areas: Continued …

Thailand sets 3 terms for ceasefire

Thailand has stipulated three conditions for a ceasefire: Cambodia must officially declare it first, the ceasefire must be continuous and observed in practice, and Cambodia must cooperate in joint demining operations.

These terms have been set ahead of a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting, which was postponed at Thailand’s request to allow its military to secure a tactical advantage. Continued …

Air force jets strike Poipet

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has stepped up air operations along the Thai-Cambodian border, insisting the response is defensive and proportionate.

The RTAF confirmed that it had carried out air strikes using F-16 fighter jets to hit military targets outside the city of Poipet in Cambodia, after detecting the movement of heavy weapons in the area, particularly BM-21 multiple rocket launchers that have been repeatedly used in attacks on Thai territory. Continued …

Thai civilian areas endure more Cambodian strikes, says military

Cambodia is increasingly firing rockets and shells at Thai civilian areas along its border with Thailand and the Thai military has vowed to do its best to stop it.

On Wednesday alone, Cambodia fired over 120 rockets from its BM-21 launchers at civilian targets in the eastern province of Sa Kaeo, according to Rear Adm. Surasant Kongsiri, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense. Continued …

Your Turnkey Energy Provider

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

China says defense trade with Cambodia, Thailand unrelated to border conflict

China’s long-standing defense cooperation, including arms trade, with Cambodia and Thailand is fully in line with international law and practice and is unrelated to their recent border conflict, a Chinese defense spokesman said yesterday.

Ministry of National Defense spokesman Jiang Bin made the remarks in a statement responding to media reports that Thai forces had seized Chinese-made anti-tank missiles, rocket launchers, and other equipment from Cambodian positions during the conflict. Continued …

Bangkok world’s most visited city with 30 million arrivals

In 2025, Bangkok emerged as the world’s most visited city with 30.3 million arrivals, according to Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. This underscores Bangkok’s robust tourism ecosystem and its capability to offer enriching visitor experiences.

Euromonitor evaluated 100 cities using over 50 indicators, considering factors like tourism performance, sustainability, and safety. Despite global economic challenges, Bangkok’s strong fundamentals supported it as the most visited city. Continued …

Pattaya tourists slam strong baht and bank fees

As the Thai baht edges closer to 31 baht to the US dollar, frustration among foreign visitors and long-term residents in Pattaya is becoming harder to ignore. What was once marketed as unbeatable value for money now feels, to many, like a destination where currency strength and banking fees quietly drain holiday budgets before the first beer is even ordered.

For years, Pattaya thrived on affordability. Today, tourists arriving from Europe, North America, and Australia are discovering that exchange rates and ATM fees are cutting deeply into spending power. The standard 250-baht foreign ATM withdrawal fee, combined with unfavorable bank exchange rates, has become a recurring point of anger — often described as excessive, outdated, and out of step with modern tourism economies. Continued …

Thailand Targets 6.7 Million Chinese Tourists in 2026

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set an ambitious target to attract 6.7 million Chinese visitors in 2026. This goal follows a significant downturn in Chinese arrivals this year, driven by negative sentiment and unforeseen events. TAT is actively working to restore confidence through various partnerships, including agreements with a leading Chinese travel agency and the Haikou tourism authority.

In 2025, TAT anticipates welcoming 4.5 to 4.6 million Chinese tourists, a noticeable drop from the 6.7 million recorded in 2024. Challenges such as the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing and natural disasters affected tourist sentiment this year. Continued …

Accelerated climate goals put Thai businesses on path to sustainability

With the Thai government accelerating its net-zero emissions target, local businesses are now positioned to gain competitive advantage by embracing sustainable practices. Transitioning to greener operations not only aligns with global market expectations but also opens access to new financing, partnerships, and innovation-driven growth.

Pisal Kattiyothaivong, head of investment banking at UOB Thailand, said the bank has long supported Thai businesses in their transition to sustainability, in line with government policy and international standards. Continued …

  • Police bust Indian-run online black market in Pattaya – Continued … 
  • British Man Arrested For Illegal Birdwatching Tours – Continued …
  • Uzbek Woman Held in Pattaya on Interpol Red Notice – Continued …

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Monday’s news-Nov 3


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Loy Krathong Festival to Proceed/Crime suppression operation for Loy Krathong/Hua Hin World Cup/Moon x Moonlight Party/New Year Holiday now 5-Day Break/Gold card healthcare ‘on the brink’/Welfare cardholders get cash boost/Tropical storm to bring more rain/Thailand Secures MotoGP Hosting Rights/Elephant Kills Mentally Ill Man/Rising southern violence/M81 motorway bans motorcycles/Vietnam food beats Thailand/ECONOMY: Thailand’s Bt3.45-Trillion Property Waste/Tariff deal still being negotiated/Shippers push for balanced trade deal/Co-payment figures at odds/Bailout to Tackle Household Debt/Thailand’s Return to Global Stage/Auto industry faces rising global competition/TOURISM: Full Moon Party Axed/TAT targets 8.45 million European visitors/Slump in Chinese arrivals/Nakhon Phanom tourism/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS 

Loy Krathong Festival to Proceed Across Thailand, But With Solemn Tone

The Thai government has confirmed that the ancient Loy Krathong festival will take place as scheduled this year, but with a request that organizers ensure all celebrations maintain a respectful and solemn atmosphere.

Airin Phanrit, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, announced that no nationwide ban has been imposed on the festival, which falls on Wednesday. However, communities are being asked to scale back overtly festive activities, such as live music and elaborate light-and-sound shows. Continued …

Police launch crime suppression operation for Loy Krathong

The Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Police have launched a large-scale crime suppression operation to ensure public safety during Halloween and the Loy Krathong Festival 2025.

A ceremony at Hua Hin Clock Tower marked the official start of enhanced law enforcement efforts aimed at protecting residents and tourists throughout the province during the festive period. Continued …

Hua Hin World Cup set for Dec 13-14

The Hua Hin World Cup 2025, one of Thailand’s most popular amateur football tournaments, will take place Dec. 13-14 and is expected to draw hundreds of visitors to the city. Now in its 13th year, the event is forecast to generate between 4 million and 5 million baht for the local economy and further strengthen Hua Hin’s reputation as a destination for sports, wellness, and recreation.

Organized by the Viking Club Hua Hin, the two-day tournament will feature more than 250 players from Thailand and abroad, competing on FIFA-standard 7-a-side grass pitches at the new Arena Hua Hin Soccer Pitch Branch 2. Continued … 

Moon x Moonlight Party at Hua Don Beach on Dec 6

The To the Moon x Moonlight Party will be held on Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab on Dec. , transforming the beachfront into a lively dance arena from 4 pm to midnight.

The party will feature a line-up of well-known Thai and international DJs, each bringing their unique sound to the stage. Early evening sets will start with DJ Leebreee, followed by DJ Plearnplreng, and DJ Ben.G. As the sun sets, DJ Uccello and DJ Sunday will keep the crowd moving, leading into the headline performances by DJ Evan Pierin, DJ Roxy June & MC Lexize, and DJ Chilee & MC. Continued … 

Thailand Adds Jan 2, 2026, to New Year Holiday for 5-Day Break

Thailand’s Cabinet has declared Jan. 2, 2026, a special holiday, turning the New Year break into a five-day festivity. This move aims to give people extra time to celebrate and plan their holidays. The decision aligns with a previous government resolution to add more holidays for 2025 and 2026.

The announcement was originally made under Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leadership and recently confirmed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. With the extension now official, there’s excitement in the air as travel agencies and businesses anticipate increased activity and economic benefits. Continued …

Gold card health care scheme ‘on the brink’, experts warn

The controversy over funding the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme has exposed a stark reality: Thailand’s healthcare system may be teetering on the brink of financial collapse.

In recent months, a war of words between the National Health Security Office (NSHO) and the director of privately owned Mongkutwattana Hospital has given the public a glimpse into how the universal healthcare scheme is run. Continued …

Thai welfare cardholders get year-end cash boost from November

The Thai government will grant state welfare cardholders an extra 1,700 baht over two months to ease living costs and boost year-end economic activity.

Starting last Saturday, over 13.4 million welfare cardholders across Thailand will receive an additional 1,700 baht in total, spread over two months. The new measure was confirmed by government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat following a Cabinet resolution aimed at increasing purchasing power and stimulating the economy. Continued …

Tropical storm to bring days more rain

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a fresh weather alert today, warning of heavy rainfall across 34 provinces. Bangkok and surrounding areas are set to bear the brunt, with 70% of the capital expected to be hit by thunderstorms and isolated heavy rain.

On the east coast of the south, 60% of the region will be hit by thunderstorms, with heavy rain expected in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will fall to between 23 and 25°C in the early morning and climb to 30 to 34°C in the afternoon. Westerly winds will blow at 15 to 30 km/h. Continued …

Thailand Secures MotoGP Hosting Rights Through 2031

Thailand has confirmed a five-year extension with Dorna Sports to host the MotoGP World Championship until 2031, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) announced. SAT Gov. Gongsak Yodmani said the renewal will be submitted to the cabinet for approval tomorrow, ensuring the country remains a leading venue for international motorcycle racing.

Since its debut at Buriram’s Chang International Circuit in 2018, the Thailand Grand Prix has gained recognition for its high standards and lively atmosphere. Sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), MotoGP is considered the pinnacle of international motorcycle racing. The event has become a key part of Thailand’s sports tourism policy, highlighting its capability to host global sporting events. Continued …

Wild Elephant Attack Kills Mentally Ill Man in Rubber Plantation

A 52-year-old man with a mental health condition was killed by a wild elephant in a rubber plantation in Chachoengsao Province early yesterday morning. The victim was found unconscious and covered in blood at around 3 am local time and later died despite being rushed to hospital.

According to local officials, villagers alerted the village headman after discovering the injured man. Rescue teams responded to the scene and confirmed signs of a wild elephant attack, including traces suggesting the victim had been dragged and struck against rubber trees. Continued …

Senate ‘alarmed’ by rising southern violence

The Senate Committee on Military and National Security has raised alarm over the surge in violent incidents across the southern border provinces, allegedly orchestrated by the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) militant group.

Committee spokesman Chaiyong Maneerungsakul yesterday highlighted the latest string of attacks across Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, which he said suggested an escalation of violence across the nation’s southernmost provinces. Continued …

New M81 motorway bans bikes, motorcycles, tractors

Thailand’s Royal Gazette has issued a new directive banning several types of vehicles from using the new Motorway Route 81 (M81), which connects Bang Yai in Nonthaburi to Kanchanaburi.

The announcement, signed by the Director of Special Highways, was made under Section 54 of the Highways Act 1992 and came into effect on Oct. 31. The regulation prohibits the following vehicle types from entering the M81 motorway: Continued …

Vietnam beats Thailand, Malaysia as Asia’s best culinary destination

Vietnam has outperformed regional neighbors such as Thailand and Malaysia to be named Asia’s best culinary destination at this year’s World Culinary Awards. The awards honor Vietnam in two other categories.

Hanoi was named “Asia’s best emerging culinary city destination”, while Capella Hanoi was voted “world’s best brunch venue,” the organizing board announced at a recent ceremony in Italy. Continued …

Thailand’s Bt3.45-Trillion Property Waste: 1.6 Million Homes Empty

A staggering 1.64 million homes across Thailand lie empty, creating a huge economic waste valued at 3.45 trillion baht. This figure nearly equals the nation’s yearly budget, according to a Thai Real Estate Research and Valuation Center (AREA) survey. The “ghost housing” crisis is most severe in Bangkok, with more than 730,000 vacant units largely due to aggressive market speculation.

The issue is particularly acute in the condominium market, where the vacancy rate stands at a significant 24.8%. Condominiums make up 58% of all empty homes in Bangkok, with low-cost units especially vulnerable. Condos priced under 500,000 baht have a 21.1% vacancy rate, often leading to quick deterioration due to insufficient maintenance fee collection. Continued … 

Thailand-US tariff deal still being negotiated

The negotiations between Thailand and the US on reciprocal tariffs advanced with the recent announcement of a joint statement on a framework for the agreement on reciprocal trade. The statement is not legally binding, but serves as a guideline for future consultations.

While both nations must work hard on further negotiations of technical details to meet their goal of finalizing a deal by year-end, pundits and industry professionals voiced several concerns about issues Thailand must negotiate carefully to ensure fair trade and protect the interests of its domestic industries. Continued …

Shippers push for balanced trade deal

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) supports deeper cooperation between Thailand and the US under a reciprocal trade framework and urges the government to prioritize the country’s interests during the negotiations process.

Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the TNSC, said it is essential such cooperation be pursued on a balanced, transparent, and sustainable basis, protecting Thailand’s trade interests, industrial competitiveness, and long-term economic security. Continued …

Co-payment spending figures at odds

The government is being urged to recruit more shops to join the Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment scheme, as spending on its first day was disappointing, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

However, the government has taken a different view, with spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat reporting robust economic activity, with total spending reaching 1.9 billion baht. Thanavath Phonvichai, the UTCC president, said government data indicated eligible Thais spent an average of only 250 baht each, totaling 750 million baht from 3 million participants on the first day. Continued …

Government Proposes Bt20-Billion Bailout to Tackle Small-Scale  usehold Debt

The Thai government is set to take a decisive step in tackling the nation’s severe household debt crisis, with a proposal to use a 20-billion-baht state fund to buy up small-scale non-performing loans (NPLs).

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas confirmed that the Ministry of Finance will present the debt resolution scheme to the Economic Cabinet today, before seeking final approval from the main Cabinet. Continued …

Commerce Minister Vows Return to Global Stage After ASEAN and APEC Wins

Thailand Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has announced a successful diplomatic push, declaring that the country has re-established its presence on the world trade stage following a series of high-level meetings at the ASEAN Summit and the APEC forum.

Speaking after returning from Gyeongju, South Korea, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and a multi-ministerial delegation, Suphajee emphasized the urgent need for new global alliances in light of shifting geopolitical and economic power dynamics. Continued …

Thai auto industry faces rising global competition and regulatory pressures

Kasikorn Research Center has warned that U.S. import tariffs, aggressive expansion by Chinese automakers, and tighter environmental and safety standards among trade partners are challenging the competitiveness of Thailand’s automotive industry, requiring urgent adaptation.

Dr. Rujipan Assarat, assistant managing director at Kasikorn Research Center, noted that while Thailand exports a relatively small portion of vehicles to the U.S., Section 232 import tariffs could indirectly affect Thai auto exports worldwide. Major producers from Japan and South Korea may redirect exports to other markets to reduce reliance on the U.S., intensifying global competition. Continued … 

Full Moon Party Axed in Thailand Amid National Mourning

The popular full moon party on Koh Phangan’s Haad Rin Beach, scheduled for Nov. 5, has been canceled. This decision follows the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit. In honor of her legacy, Thailand is now in a national mourning period, resulting in a halt to significant public gatherings.

The event organizers have confirmed the cancellation, stating, “The full moon party will not take place this month.” The Jungle Experience event, originally set for Nov. 4, has also been called off. Meanwhile, the traditional Loy Krathong celebrations are still on, but they will reflect cultural and respectful practices during this mourning period. Continued …

TAT targets 8.45 million European visitors through airline deals, soft power

Suladda Sarutilavan, director for Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that European arrivals to Thailand have continued to grow steadily. Between Jan. 1 and Sept. 14 Thailand welcomed 5.48 million European tourists, marking a 14% increase year-on-year. Tourism revenue has risen at a similar rate, with long-haul travelers spending an average of 64,000 baht per trip.

Major European markets continue to perform well: arrivals from Germany grew by 12.4%, France by 17.1%, the United Kingdom by 14.7%, and Russia by 10.4%. Promising growth was also recorded in emerging markets such as Turkey (+23%) and Poland (+30%). Continued …

Slump in Chinese arrivals drags foreign tourist numbers to 32 million

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has warned that a decline in Chinese tourists could drag Thailand’s total foreign arrivals this year down to 32 million, below the government’s target.

ATTA President Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said the top five source markets for Thailand in 2025 are projected as follows: Continued …

Nakhon Phanom tourism takes off

Nakhon Phanom Airport is recording its highest passenger numbers in two decades, reflecting the northeastern province’s rapid rise as a tourism and economic hub.

This year, from January until the annual Lai Ruea Fai (illuminated boat procession) festival in October, more than three million tourists visited the province, double last year’s figure, according to local authorities. Continued …

  • Israeli Man Wanted for Armed Robbery Arrested in Koh Samui – Continued …
  • Nine Chinese Men Arrested With 48 Phones, Suspected Scammers – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested Over Illegal Crypto Exchange – Continued …
  • Australian Arrested for Shoplifting in Phuket – Continued …

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