- Hua Hin–U-Tapao flights open faster link/Israeli reported murdered on Koh Phangan/All 76 provinces on rain alert/More rain coming Oct 11-14/Flooding raises vegetable and egg prices/Flood impact on Thai economy/Floods hit Thai farms, exports/1.64 million SMEs at risk/Toyota suspending work at three plants/Online system links flood victims to free repairs
- THE IRAN WAR: G7 agrees to 100-million-barrel oil and diesel release
- ECONOMY: Chiang Rai Airport cargo hub/Housing supply in northeastern Thailand
- TOURISM: Can Thailand Contain Rising Costs While Reviving Tourism/Thailand’s soft power play/Thai Airways CEO removed/Thai Airways offers 3 flood relief options/Phuket hotelier returns 100,000 baht
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Coffee Is Helping Thailand Reduce Human-Elephant Conflict
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Plankton bloom turns Thai island waters smelly green
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
New Hua Hin–U-Tapao flights open a faster link between Thailand’s resort cities
A new air service linking Hua Hin with U-Tapao has opened, creating another travel option between two important resort destinations and improving air connections between Thailand’s central and eastern regions.
The service is operated by EZY Airlines using a Cessna Caravan C208B aircraft with 10-12 passenger seats. It forms part of a network that includes flights between Hua Hin and U-Tapao, as well as U-Tapao and Surat Thani. Additional routes are reportedly being developed. Continued …
Israeli reported murdered on Koh Phangan
Israeli media have reported that an Israeli citizen was murdered on Koh Phangan on Wednesday evening. The victim has not been identified, and there had been no confirmation of the report from Thai authorities and little covered by local Thai media sources.
The report, published by for Ynetnews said the circumstances surrounding the killing remained unclear. It did not provide further details about where on the island the death occurred or whether anyone had been detained. Continued …
Anutin puts all 76 provinces on rain alert
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has told governors in all 76 provinces to prepare for widespread thundershowers forecast for tomorrow and Monday. Anutin said the flood situation appeared to be improving but weather conditions remained uncertain, citing an assessment by the Thai Meteorological Department.
He ordered agencies to have staff, equipment, food, essential supplies, emergency shelters and operational plans ready in case flooding develops. Provinces already seeing water levels ease must nevertheless remain prepared for new flooding. Continued …
More rain coming Oct 11-14
The government has issued a heavy rain warning for residents in the central plains and areas situated along the Chao Phraya River, with significant rainfall expected between Oct. 11-14.
This upcoming weather event is expected to bring persistent rain across the northern and western regions, potentially affecting areas such as Nakhon Sawan. Authorities are currently maintaining water-management operations and flood relief efforts in response to previous rainfall, as officials monitor the Chao Phraya River to manage potential increases in water levels. – Bangkok Post AI
Flooding raises vegetable and egg prices
Reporters surveying a large fresh market in central Phitsanulok yesterday found that prices had risen for all types of vegetables, averaging 10–15 baht more per kilogram. Pork and chicken egg prices remained stable.
The latest prices include: Chinese kale: THB50–60 baht per kilogram, Chinese cabbage: 30 baht per kilogram. Jinda chillies: 90–110 baht per kilogram, tomatoes: 45 baht per kilogram, pork: 120–150 baht per kilogram, chicken eggs, size 0: 155 baht per tray, and chicken eggs, size 4: 125 baht per tray. Continued …
Flood impact on Thai economy greater than initially expected
Economists warn that the economic impact of the recent Bangkok floods could be significantly greater than originally anticipated due to rising financial burdens on households and forecasts of further rainfall. There are concerns that what initially appears to be a short-term disruption could evolve into a medium-term economic problem if significant support for affected businesses and households is not provided.
The flooding is projected to cause a reduction in Thailand’s GDP growth by approximately 2.0%, a figure that is notably higher than the 0.3% impact seen during the 2011 floods. Beyond direct GDP hits, the banking sector faces pressure as lenders implement debt-relief measures for retail customers and small to medium-sized enterprises, which may weigh on net interest margins and credit costs. Additionally, logistics and supply chain disruptions are expected to impact export and import shipments, while the tourism sector is seeking government relief to mitigate business losses. – Bangkok Post AI
Floods hit Thai farms, exports and growth as losses top 69 billion baht
Thailand’s economy is facing additional pressure in the final months of 2026 as widespread flooding disrupts agriculture, food supplies, manufacturing, transport, exports and consumption, forcing businesses in sectors ranging from retail and tourism to property to adjust their plans.
The disruption comes as tourism and the housing market are still recovering cautiously, raising concerns that flood-related damage could extend into the fourth quarter and weigh on full-year economic growth. Continued …
1.64 million SMEs at risk from floods as liquidity concerns mount
The flood crisis is not over just because floodwaters have receded, as around 1.64 million small and medium enterprises (SMEs) face major challenges regarding capital and employment, raising the risk of liquidity crunches – or even business closures.
Saengchai Teerakulvanich, chairman of the strategy committee of Federation of Thai SMEs, revealed that the floods, affecting 29 provinces and Bangkok as declared by the government, has impacted SME operators across many areas. Continued …
Toyota suspending work at three Thai plants from Oct 5-10
Toyota Motor Thailand Co. said yesterday it would suspend production at three plants from Oct. 5-10 due to flooding that has disrupted parts deliveries in Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao and Chon Buri provinces.
The announcement updates a notice issued on Wednesday about production suspensions because of flood impacts on suppliers, as well as employees who were unable to travel to work. Continued …
Online system links flood victims to free repairs
The Traffy Fondue Repair, Rebuild, Fight Floods system is a government-launched initiative designed to connect flood-affected residents with agencies that offer free repairs for homes, vehicles, appliances, and electrical systems as floodwaters recede. The system serves as a central channel for residents to request assistance and track their progress.
Developed by the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center, the system is overseen by the Ministry of Labor and is intended to facilitate requests for various services, including cleaning and food, depending on local capacity. To support the recovery process, requests can be submitted by residents via a dedicated LINE account by adding @TraffyFondue, providing details such as photos and location information. – Bangkok Post AI
G7 agrees to 100-million-barrel oil and diesel release over 4 months
The Group of Seven (G7) agreed yesterday to release 100 million barrels of diesel and crude oil from emergency reserves following pressure from US President Donald Trump to ease soaring fuel prices. G7 members also pledged to refrain from restricting energy exports to one another. Trump ruled out a US diesel export ban after his administration had warned that such a measure could follow unless Europe released emergency stocks.
The G7 said releases would begin immediately and continue over four months, with members and partners supplying a substantial amount of diesel within the first 20 days. The joint statement did not identify participating countries or specify the quantities of crude oil, diesel and other products involved. Continued …
Chiang Rai Airport targets China and Middle East cargo hub
Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport has set out plans to become an aviation and logistics hub for Thailand’s upper north, including cargo links to China and the Middle East.
The airport marked its 28th year of operations yesterday6, when director Kritsada Phukasap said the next phase would build on its role as a tourism gateway while strengthening links for travel, trade and logistics. Continued …
New housing supply grows faster than sales in northeastern Thailand
A Real Estate Information Center (REIC) survey of five major northeastern provinces in the first half of 2026 points to a shared finding that “purchasing power remains”.
Managing supply is the main challenge, as Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani and Maha Sarakham have distinct sales trends, inventories and demand patterns. Continued …
Thailand’s Double Challenge: Can It Contain Rising Costs While Reviving Tourism
Thailand’s tourism recovery is entering a more complicated phase. The country is trying to revive travel demand while higher fuel and food costs continue to put pressure on households and businesses.
At the same time, international arrivals are falling unevenly across key markets. The result is a harder question than simply whether tourists are returning: can Thailand remain competitive while managing higher costs and changing travel demand? Continued …
Thailand’s soft power play: Culture as global currency
Asia’s growing soft-power, led most visibly by Japan and South Korea through cultural exports such as anime and K-pop, has helped drive global interest in the region and intensified competition for tourists within it.
In Southeast Asia, Thailand has long been the destination of choice for many travelers, but by investing in infrastructure, introducing flexible visa policies, and expanding aviation access, neighboring countries have gained ground. Malaysia in June overtook Thailand as the regions’ most visited nation. To regain momentum, the Thai government and its citizens are reintroducing the country to the world and diving into their soft power strengths. Continued …
Thai Airways CEO removed after baggage disruption
Thai Airways International’s board has suspended and removed chief executive Chai Eamsiri from his post, effective yesterday, following disruption to baggage, flights and ground services at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The board appointed Samrit Samniang, a company director and executive director, as acting chief executive.
The airline’s operational problems followed flooding in Bangkok and surrounding areas in late September. Some staff were unable to travel to work normally, affecting baggage handling, flight operations and ground services at Suvarnabhumi. Continued …
Thai Airways offers 3 flood relief options for Bangkok flights
Thai Airways International has announced three ticket-assistance measures for passengers affected by flooding who were scheduled to fly to or from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport between Sept. 26 and Oct. 11.
The measures cover tickets issued on or before Sept. 29 and provide options to change travel dates, change routes or request refunds, subject to the conditions for each option. Continued …
Phuket hotelier returns euros worth 100,000 baht to French man
A French tourist has recovered a bundle of euro banknotes worth about 100,000 baht after leaving them in a wardrobe at accommodation near Phuket airport. The guest had already travelled on to Koh Samui, Surat Thani province, when a housekeeper at OASIS Phuket Airport found the envelope after he checked out.
Guy Petcharat, the accommodation owner, said he personally contacted the Frenchman to tell him that the cash had been found. The tourist had not realized the money was missing. He then flew back to Phuket to collect the envelope, Petcharat said. Continued …
How Coffee Is Helping Thailand Reduce Human-Elephant Conflict
A unique coffee-growing initiative in Thailand is demonstrating how agriculture can serve as a conservation tool, with farmers replacing elephant-attracting crops such as sugar cane and bananas with robusta coffee in an effort to reduce crop losses while improving incomes.
The project, which has attracted growing attention from conservation groups and agricultural researchers, offers an example of how coffee production can create value beyond the traditional supply chain and may provide lessons for other coffee-producing regions facing wildlife conflicts. Continued …
Plankton bloom turns Thai island waters a bright, smelly green
The sea off Thailand’s popular tourist island of Ko Lan turned a bright, pungent green this week as heavy rains and floods helped spark a plankton bloom that kept some swimmers on shore.
Dense patches of green could be seen stretching along parts of the coast, with jet skis floating in discolored waters around the island in the northern part of the Gulf of Thailand, while other stretches of the shoreline were unaffected. Continued …
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Chinese Fugitive Held in Bangkok Drug Smuggling Probe – Continued …
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Nigerian held in Bangkok with 10 kilograms of heroin – Continued …
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Three Foreigners Fined After Phuket Road Fire Party – 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
Hua Hin Food Fest 2026 will return to Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab Aug. 28-30, featuring local food, fresh seafood, cooking competitions and live entertainment. The three-day festival will bring together restaurants, hotels and food businesses from Hua Hin and Cha-am, giving visitors the opportunity to sample regional dishes beside the beach.
New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule
A nine-day Hua Hin cultural tourism event will be held at the old Hua Hin Railway Station Aug. 10-18, showcasing the art, culture and historical identity of Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Thai authorities have expanded an enforcement campaign targeting suspected nominee-owned businesses in Phuket, with more than 361 companies now facing inspection following a confrontation at Chabad House in Patong.
Thailand has launched a digital application that allows diners to find certified street-food vendors, forming part of a government program to raise operating standards and expand market opportunities for small businesses.
Concerns over children’s mental health is renewing debate whether excessive use of mobile devices is harming academic performance and learning capability, while boosting social isolation and criminal behavior influenced by online personalities.
Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a native plant closely associated with local ways of life and traditional Thai medicine. Its removal from Thailand’s narcotics list in 2021 marked an important turning point, opening the way for broader research, economic value creation and commercial development.
A police sergeant fought back after being shot in a daylight ambush by four gunmen in Thailand’s insurgency-hit deep south yesterday, returning fire despite a bullet wound before his attackers escaped by motorcycle and boat.
Amid a slowing economy and intense competition in the property market, developers of new housing projects are accelerating promotional campaigns offering discounts, giveaways and added incentives.
Despite US efforts to impose tariffs, Thai exports to America expanded over the first nine months of the fiscal year, up by nearly 34% year-on-year for a value of 2.13 trillion baht. In contrast, exports to China grew by only 0.78%, totaling 1 trillion baht.
The private sector is optimistic that new US tariffs will not have a major impact on Thai exports, though businesses are urging the government to expedite trade negotiations to enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
China’s ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Zhang Jianwei, has set out a three-point plan for expanding trade, investment and industrial links between Thailand and China. Speaking at the Thailand-China Cooperation Expo 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani Friday, Zhang said closer business cooperation could turn high-level agreements into practical economic results.
Thailand is tightening its screening of data center investments, shifting its focus from the number and value of projects to their quality as the expansion of artificial intelligence drives demand for electricity, water and large-scale computing infrastructure.
The robot army is coming
Thailand Food Supplement Market to Reach US$ 2.52B by 2033
Thailand has built a strong medical-tourism industry and begun investing in genomic medicine and connected health data, but it still lacks a clear national strategy for competing in the emerging longevity economy.
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), one of Asia-Pacific’s leading healthcare providers, has unveiled WellEra Bangkok, an approximately US$865 million (THB 29 billion) wellness-integrated development that reimagines how the built environment can actively support healthier, longer lives.
The decision to give Indians 30-day visa-free entry is expected to drive the market to a new record of 2.7 million visitors next year, supported by more flights from second- and third-tier cities to Thailand, say authorities.
Nakhon Si Thammarat Temple Wins UNESCO Status
Mitsubishi Motors is set to invest B16 billion ($473.23m) in Thailand by 2030, backing the automotive sector’s move toward electric vehicles (EVs). The funding will be channeled into EV technology.
The world is sinking under more than 460 million tons of plastic waste each year. More alarming than the figure itself is the fact that about 19 million tons escape into the environment, wreaking havoc, damaging biodiversity, worsening the greenhouse-gas crisis and ultimately harming our own health.
Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Phuket top Forbes’ 2025 retirement destinations
Grassy Hua Hin Wine Festival returns Nov 22
Thai Industrial Confidence Rises First Time In Seven Months
Fueled by air pollution, storms in Southeast Asia are becoming stronger
