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• Fuel shortages affect Hua Hin/New traffic lights at Hua Hin Hospital/Rainmaking operation over Hua Hin/Five ticking time bombs/Fake Building Permits Scandal/Thai snooker star wins World Open
• THE IRAN WAR: Iran threatens to close Hormuz/Economic growth could be slashed/Driving up Thailand’s costs/Baht Set to Weaken/Diesel shortages hit provinces/Fuel panic spreads/Farmers, truckers ‘need help’/Samut Sakhon fishing crisis/Plastic packaging at risk/Bangchak flags fuel demand/Energy security a daunting problem/Poll Raises Doubts Over Oil Reserves/Daily online fuel station updates/Fuel shock hits Pattaya
• ECONOMY: Pork, chicken, and egg prices jump/Pattaya Nominee Crackdown/Thailand’s technology hub ambitions
• TOURISM: Majority not planning Songkran travel/War, Oil, and the Future of Tourism/Airspace turmoil hits long-haul travel/Thai Airways increases ticket prices/Visa change to 30 days/Songkran celebrations in 76 provinces/Sustainability Dominates Asian Travel/Thailand Plans Mega Cruise Ports/12 Tourists Rescued in Krabi
• THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Tranquility on the trail/Naga Cave’s giant rock snake/Golden Triangle Highlights Community Connections
• CLIMATE THAILAND: Phetchaburi refinery expansion faces backlash/Valuing electronic waste/EV demand surge in Korat//BYD’s bet on EVs is paying off
• INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Fuel shortages affect Hua Hin emergency response

The current fuel shortage in Hua Hin has forced local rescue teams to prioritize emergency cases, as limited supplies begin to affect frontline response capacity in the district. The Sawang Hua Hin Thammasathan Foundation recently issued a public notice via social media outlining temporary changes to its services.

According to the foundation, the disruption to the supply of fuel has significantly reduced the availability of petrol and diesel for ambulances and rescue vehicles. Officials said current reserves are no longer sufficient to support normal daily operations, particularly as the number of road accidents and medical emergencies remains high. Continued … 

New traffic lights at Hua Hin Hospital, Phetkasem Road

If you’ve been driving around town recently, you might have noticed some new infrastructure going up. Officials are currently installing new traffic lights, road markings, and CCTV camera systems at two very busy intersections.

New lights are being installed in front of Hua Hin Hospital, on Phetkasem Road, as well as the new lights previously announced at Soi 51 and Phetkasem Road. Continued … 

Rainmaking operation conducted over Sam Roi Yot, Hua Hin

A royal rainmaking operation over Sam Roi Yot and Hua Hin has resulted in a lower cloud base and increased rainfall across parts of Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to an update from the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department.

The department said its Prachuap Khiri Khan rainmaking operations unit conducted its fourth flight mission covering the area from Sam Roi Yot district to Hua Hin district. The operation was aimed at stimulating rainfall under suitable atmospheric conditions. Continued … 

Five ticking time bombs for Anutin’s second government

Anutin Charnvirakul has formally taken office for a second term as prime minister and is now moving into the process of forming a new cabinet under a Bhumjaithai Party-led administration.

His second term begins at a time of mounting challenges — especially on the economic front — described as a series of “ticking time bombs” that will require urgent management. Key pressure points include: Continued … 

Fake Building Permits Scandal on Koh Samui

A growing scandal over forged construction permits in Koh Samui has triggered widespread concern, particularly regarding the safety of luxury villas owned by foreign nationals. Local officials have confirmed that fake documents bearing forged signatures were issued, with allegations that bribes of around 100,000 baht per permit were taken.

The controversy came to light on Saturday after villa and building owners were urged to check their construction permits. They were warned that irregularities had been detected and advised anyone with suspicious permits, to contact the municipality immediately. The post quickly drew attention across Koh Samui, with residents expressing concerns about the structural safety of hillside and elevated properties. Continued … 

Thai snooker star wins World Open 2026

Thailand’s world No. 39 Thepchaiya Un-Nooh staged a remarkable comeback to beat seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan 10-7 in the World Open 2026 final in Yushan, China, yesterday.

In the best-of-19-frames title match, O’Sullivan surged into a 4-0 lead, but Thepchaiya reeled off five straight frames to move 5-4 ahead after the opening session. He kept that momentum going in the second session and closed out the match with a maximum 147 break in the penultimate frame. Continued … 

Iran threatens to close Hormuz, target power plants after Trump ultimatum

The United States and Iran threatened to target critical infrastructure yesterday as the war in the Middle East, now in its fourth week, puts lives and livelihoods at risk throughout the region.

Iran said the Strait of Hormuz, crucial to oil and other exports, would be “completely closed” immediately if the U.S. follows up on President Donald Trump’s threat to attack its power plants. Trump late Saturday set a 48-hour deadline to open the strait. Continued … 

2026 economic growth could be slashed to 0.5% if war with Iran rages on

The Thai baht has weakened 6% since the war with Iran broke out on Feb. 28 and is forecast to fall to B35 against the US dollar if the conflict continues. A Friday briefing by the Kasikorn Research Center and the Bank of Thailand made clear that if fighting lasts another month or two, Thailand’s 2026 GDP growth could drop well below 1%, possibly as low as 0.5%.

Undoubtedly, the conflict has already ushered in shifts in the geopolitical outlook. For now, the government in Bangkok can only watch as the world order of the past 50 years begins to shatter. Continued … 

Oil war shock is driving up Thailand’s costs and testing state intervention

Thailand is now feeling the full economic aftershock of the war that began when the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on Feb. 28. By yesterday, the conflict had already escalated beyond geopolitics into a full-blown global energy shock, with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupting a critical artery of world oil transport and sending Brent crude above US$100 a barrel, peaking at US$126 in early March.

For Thailand, the impact has not arrived in the form of an immediate supply collapse, but through a widening chain of higher costs. Fuel prices, transport expenses, raw material shortages, and logistics disruption are now feeding into household budgets and business operations alike, turning an overseas conflict into a domestic cost-of-living problem. Continued … 

Thai Baht Set to Weaken Amid Middle East War

The Thai baht is expected to weaken further as the escalating Middle East war and delayed US interest rate cuts put pressure on the currency. On March 20, the baht had already fallen to just above 32.80 per US dollar, its weakest level in five months. Analysts forecast the currency will remain in a range of 32.60 to 33.10 against the dollar over the next month.

The downward trend is being driven by intensifying conflict in the Middle East, particularly ongoing attacks by Israel on Iran, including strikes on energy infrastructure. This escalation has reduced the likelihood of any near-term agreement between the two countries. Continued …

Diesel shortages hit provinces, pumps dry

Fuel shortages, particularly diesel, have intensified across several provinces, with long queues forming at petrol stations, supplies running out within hours, and motorists left waiting without certainty of refueling.

The shortfall deepened in northern and northeastern provinces where limited deliveries could not keep up with surging demand and strained supply, local media reported yesterday. Continued … 

Fuel panic spreads as pumps run dry

Long queues at petrol stations across Thailand and “out of fuel” signs for diesel, the backbone of the transport sector, have raised public concern over the past week about the country’s ability to manage energy reserves.

The situation also highlighted what appears to be weak crisis communication, which helped fuel unnecessary panic. This contrasts with many other countries that did not experience widespread fuel hoarding during the same period. Continued … 

Farmers, truckers ‘need help’

Mounting fuel shortages are prompting farmers and logistics groups to demand urgent government action to ensure supply, warning of transport disruption and potential crop losses.

Suthi Tinrat, head of a community enterprise in Ban Hat district, described growing anxiety among 40 households exporting Nam Dok Mai mangoes. “This is our peak harvest period. If trucks cannot come, the mangoes will be left to spoil,” he said. Continued … 

Samut Sakhon fishing crisis: fuel price hike forces boats to dock

The Samut Sakhon fishing industry is under mounting financial pressure as the price of “green oil” rises by 6.5 baht per liter yesterday, forcing many fishermen to dock their boats and prompting growing calls for government intervention.

Mongkhon Mongkhontrilak, chairman of the Samut Sakhon Fisheries Assn., said the price will rise from 34.3 baht to 40.8 baht per liter for cash purchases, with credit purchases carrying an additional 10 satang on top of that. The increase is placing immense pressure on fishing fleets, particularly trawlers already facing operational challenges. Continued … 

Plastic packaging at risk as war hits crucial raw material supplies

Packaging may be the next industry to bear the brunt of petrochemical supply disruptions if the Israel-US war on Iran does not abate, says Veera Kwanloetchit, a director of the Public Private Partnership for Sustainable Plastic and Waste Management.

The prices of petroleum-derived plastic feedstocks, notably polyethylene, polypropylene, and low-density polyethylene, have soared by 30%-40%, pressuring the production costs of packaging products, said Veera. Continued … 

Bangchak flags fuel demand above output, some petrol stations temporarily shut

Bangchak Corp. has issued a clarification on the fuel situation, stating that, in light of the unrest in the Middle East, the company has been operating at full capacity across procurement, refining, and distribution.

It says it has continuously raised refinery throughput over the past three weeks, with total refining at approximately 290,000 barrels per day, or 110% of installed capacity, equivalent to around 19 million litres of diesel per day. At the same time, overall fuel demand in the country has risen rapidly, with sales in some periods exceeding production levels. Continued … 

Energy security now a daunting problem

Amid spikes in global crude oil and gas prices, the government has deployed several measures, including price caps, to ensure energy security and ease the cost of living. A windfall tax on gross refining margin (GRM) is also being considered due to supply disruption from the Middle East.

According to analysts, while petrol price subsidies are unsustainable over the long term, collecting a windfall tax on GRM will hurt rather than help energy security in Thailand, which is largely dependent on imported oil. Continued … 

Poll Raises Doubts Over Oil Reserves and Songkran Travel

A nationwide poll has revealed growing concern among Thais over the country’s oil reserves and the potential impact on Songkran travel, with many expressing doubts about supply security. The findings suggest that uncertainty over fuel availability could disrupt domestic travel plans during one of the year’s busiest holiday periods. Some respondents indicated they would cancel or adjust trips if the situation persists.

The survey, conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida), polled 1,310 people by telephone on March 17 and 18. It examined public confidence in oil reserves, which were stated to be sufficient for 98 days as of March 13, as well as the government’s ability to secure additional supplies. Continued … 

Thailand starts daily fuel station updates on Facebook

Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched daily local fuel station updates through the Provincial Energy Office network on Facebook, aiming to help motorists plan refueling and travel as some areas face tighter supplies. The ministry says the system is being expanded nationwide, with some provinces also developing additional apps to improve access to information.

Provincial offices are compiling daily tables showing station locations, available fuel types, and operating status so the public can track conditions more easily. He said the data may occasionally lag behind actual deliveries, but should still help people judge local conditions and plan ahead. Continued … 

Fuel shock hits Pattaya as island and fishing trip operators face soaring costs

Rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East are beginning to impact the tourism sector in Pattaya, as passenger boat operators report mounting fuel costs that are increasingly difficult to absorb.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel/US has pushed energy prices upward in international markets, creating ripple effects for businesses that rely heavily on fuel, including marine transport services operating along the Pattaya coastline. Continued … https://www.pattayamail.com/news/fuel-shock-hits-pattaya-as-island-and-fishing-trip-operators-face-soaring-costs-540125

Pork, chicken, and egg prices jump despite price freeze pledge

Thai consumers are being squeezed by rising living costs, with fresh food prices climbing sharply, particularly for pork, chicken, and eggs.

The increases come amid conflict in the Middle East, which has driven up energy costs and disrupted global supply chains, in contrast to the Commerce Ministry’s insistence that no controled goods have been allowed to raise prices and that price controls remain in place. Continued … 

Pattaya Crackdown Shuts Four Nominee Tour Firms

Authorities have launched a multi-agency crackdown in Pattaya targeting illegal “nominee” businesses, resulting in the immediate closure of four tour companies and the revocation of their licenses.

The firms affected were Aletia Tours Co., Yor Indo-Thai Group Co., Y J H Co., and Di V-Ext Co. The operation also uncovered a Thai national suspected of holding shares in more than 100 companies on behalf of foreign interests. Continued … 

Thailand’s technology hub ambitions face energy and power cost pressures

The Office of the Board of Investment (BOI) said investment promotion applications had surged by nearly 70%, reflecting continued confidence among foreign investors, who have kept flowing into Thailand without pause.

Even as the world faces economic and geopolitical headwinds, Thailand remains a key strategic production base in the region, particularly in advanced technology and green industries. Continued … 

Poll shows majority not planning to travel during Songkran

The domestic oil crisis seems to be affecting Songkran travel plans, with a NIDA opinion poll showing that over 50% of the respondents had not made advance plans to travel during this period.

The survey took place during March 17-18 with 1,310 respondents aged over 18 , representing all regions, educational levels, occupations, and income levels nationwide being reached. Altogether 31.8% of respondents were somewhat alarmed by the oil crisis, but 33.9% believed they would not face a shortage of fuel in their daily life. Continued … 

Shockwaves in Asia: War, Oil, and the Future of Tourism

The global power shifts currently underway do not remain confined to geopolitics. They move quickly — often invisibly – through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences are both immediate and tangible.

The most direct transmission channel is energy. Any sustained disruption in Middle Eastern supply routes drives oil prices higher. This feeds directly into aviation fuel costs, pushing airfares upward. The result is predictable: long-haul travel demand softens, especially from Europe, where consumers are already sensitive to economic uncertainty. Continued … 

Airspace turmoil hits long-haul travel

Airlines are being forced to avoid airspace around Iran and other conflict-sensitive areas, sending planes on longer routes that burn more fuel and raise operating costs.

With much of the Middle East still under tight airspace restrictions, tens of thousands of flights have been canceled or rerouted since the conflict erupted on Feb.28, disrupting key Asia-Europe corridors and spilling into Southeast Asia’s tourism sector. Continued … 

Thai Airways forced to increase ticket prices

The war in the Middle East has driven up operating costs for Thai Airways International (THAI), with jet fuel prices rising by more than twofold, forcing the national carrier to increase average ticket prices by 10%-15% to stay afloat.

Chai Eamsiri, THAI chief executive, said jet fuel prices had surged from around US$80 per barrel before the conflict to US$220, and could climb further to US$240 under a worst-case scenario if the war drags on for another two months through the end of May. Continued … 

Visa change from 60 to 30 days given green light, Cabinet is next

The Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a high-level meeting approved reducing the tourist visa waiver from 60 to 30 days for citizens of 93 countries, with a possible 30-day extension. The proposal requires Cabinet approval. Authorities insisted, however, that there will be adequate notice for travelers.

Officials say the proposed change would close loopholes in the current system. In particular, authorities cite concerns about scammers and individuals posing security risks. Moreover, the ministry says some visitors use the extended stay for non-tourism purposes. Continued … 

Culture Ministry rolls out Songkran celebrations in 76 provinces

The Ministry of Culture is inviting Thais and tourists to experience the charm of Thai New Year traditions through the 2026 “Grand Songkran Across 76 Provinces Nationwide” celebrations, with events set to take place across every region of the country.

The nationwide lineup offers a broad mix of activities for different kinds of visitors, from merit-making and cultural experiences to lively water-splashing festivities. The program covers 76 provinces and showcases both local identity-based celebrations and more contemporary Songkran events. Continued … 

Sustainability Dominates Asian Travel, Over 75% of Tourists Now Choose Eco-Friendly Options

Sustainability has firmly established itself as a top priority for tourists across Asia, marking a significant shift in travel preferences toward eco-conscious travel choices. About 77% of Asian travelers now prioritize sustainable travel options, showing a notable increase from last year’s 68%.

This shift highlights the growing importance of sustainability in shaping travel decisions throughout the region. The focus is no longer solely on the destination but also on the impact that travel choices have on the environment and local communities, driving a change in how travelers plan and experience their journeys. Continued … 

Thailand Plans Mega Cruise Ports to Boost Tourism

Thailand is accelerating plans to develop new cruise terminals on both its Gulf and Andaman coasts, aiming to strengthen its position in cruise tourism and increase visitor numbers. The Transport Ministry confirmed discussions with Royal Caribbean Group (RCG), which is targeting 120,000 visitors to Thailand this year through more than 45 cruise calls.

The initiative is expected to ease port congestion and improve the country’s ability to handle large cruise vessels. The proposal forms part of a broader government push to expand tourism infrastructure and capture higher-value travel segments. Continued … 

12 Tourists Rescued After Boat Capsizes in Krabi

Twelve tourists were rescued after a long-tail boat capsized at sea off Krabi on Saturday, with two people injured and taken to hospital. The incident occurred on the route between Koh Poda and Ao Nam Mao Pier, prompting an urgent response from authorities.

The Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park received the alert from the Narenthorn Krabi Center and immediately dispatched officials to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found the overturned vessel in the water, while a speedboat named “Poolpol Marine” had already begun assisting those affected. Continued … 

Tranquility on the trail

Just a short ride from Chiang Mai City in northern Thailand, a small dirt path leads away from the city outskirts to the dense, green slope of Doi Suthep mountain.

Known to the locals as the Monk’s Trail, this overlooked path was once taken by Buddhist monks and devotees undertaking a pilgrimage from the foot of the mountain to the sacred summit above. Continued … 

Naga Cave’s giant rock snake

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle Highlights Community Connections

Set among the mist-covered hills where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is home to a team of women whose work connects guests with the traditions and communities of the region. From locally sourced ingredients in the kitchen to traditional wellness practices and handcrafted village textiles, these colleagues play an important role in shaping the camp experience while supporting local artisans and producers.

Here, hospitality goes beyond luxury. It is rooted in care and intention, where each gesture creates a sense of connection and shared purpose. Every detail at the xamp tells a story, from the fragrant spices in the kitchen to the handwoven textiles that drape each tent. Guided by women leaders, these thoughtful touches extend beyond the camp, linking guests with local communities and supporting livelihoods, while creating an experience that feels both personal and meaningful. Continued … 

Phetchaburi refinery expansion faces backlash over threat to salt farms and birds

On Saturday, the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand, along with environmental partners and members of the local community, joined a campaign march under the slogan: “No refinery, no power plant — for the peaceful lives of our families and communities.”

The march went from Bang Tabun subdistrict in Ban Laem district to Hat Chao Samran subdistrict in Mueang district, Phetchaburi. Public forums were held along the route to declare opposition to the planned power and steam generation unit, with a capacity of 90 megawatts, as well as the proposed oil refinery expansion. Continued … 

Valuing electronic waste

The trio of Advanced Info Service (AIS), Central Group, and Japan Airlines have strengthened their collaboration on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) missions to ensure an improved and sustainable future.

Their partnership creates a national model based on the circular economy and highlights a comprehensive approach that connects consumers, collection points, and international recycling facilities. Continued … 

Soaring oil prices drive EV demand surge in Korat

A major electric vehicle (EV) dealer in Korat says tensions in the Middle East and surging global oil prices are driving a sharp rise in EV demand, with bookings increasing significantly.

Sudtirak Phansai-chuea, an executive at Ek Saha Group, said the current spike in global fuel prices and emerging shortages have directly influenced consumer behavior, forcing many to adapt more quickly than before. He noted a clear surge in interest about EVs, reflected in a sharp increase in showroom visits and enquiries. Compared with late last year, the number of prospective buyers has risen markedly. Continued … 

(Editor: Regarding the reports above and below, it should be noted, and is probably obvious, that switching to an electric vehicle may reduce drivers’ costs at fuel pumps, but if the electricity used by such vehicles is still produced by fossil-fuel burning power plants, then the cost savings are in question, as are EVs’ contributions to lowering carbon dioxide emissions and mitigating climate warming.)

BYD’s bet on EVs is paying off as drivers ditch gas amid rising oil prices

Since it stopped building vehicles powered solely by internal combustion engines (ICEs) in 2022, BYD has become the world’s largest EV maker. The Chinese automaker ranked sixth in global sales in 2025, surpassing Ford for the first time, with over 4.6 million electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold.

While sales growth has slowed over the past few months amid new competition and shifting policies, BYD is seeing an uptick in EV demand as buyers seek alternatives amid rising oil and gas prices. Continued …

Indonesia moves toward all-electric transport in bid to curb imports

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for the country to shift entirely to electric, solar-powered vehicles across personal, public, and commercial transport, as part of a broader plan to revive domestic industry and cut reliance on imports. Continued … 

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