Tag Archives: indian tourists thailand

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, thailand wellness, tourism

Monday’s news-July 27

July 27, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin Food Fest returns/Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flights/New Hua Hin municipal office building/Cultural event at Hua Hin Railway Station/Thailand Riviera promotion/Phuket Widens Business Probe/Thailand launches street-food app/Fighting the phone addiction/Thailand Drives Kratom Use//Police sergeant fends off four attackers
THE IRAN WAR: Conflict spreads to Red Sea and Caspian
ECONOMY: Thai sellers cut home prices/Exports to the US skyrocket/Exporters shrug off Trump tariffs/China envoy sets three-point plan/Thailand tightens data center rules/Robot army is comin/Thailand Food Supplement Market
TOURISM: Global longevity race/BDMS Launches Wellness Complex/Indian arrivals may surge/Phuket cracks down on jet skis
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Temple Wins UNESCO Status/Kai yok krok-Thai Street Food
CLIMATE THAILAND: Mitsubishi Motors to Invest B16 billion/Global plastic pollution efforts
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Italian students apologize
HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS

Hua Hin Food Fest returns August 28-30

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.

(Editor: Check out our page dedicated to Hua Hin events – HERE.)

The program will include live cooking demonstrations, concerts and other entertainment. Popular artists are scheduled to perform during the festival, with admission to the concerts free. Continued …

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin Airport has confirmed the latest schedule for Thai AirAsia flights between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai, which will remain in effect until Oct. 24. The airline will operate four return flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

(Editor: Check out our page dedicated to Hua Hin transport information – planes, trains, buses and minivans – HERE.)

Flight FD3900 will depart Chiang Mai at 3:40 pm and arrive in Hua Hin at 5:05 pm. The return flight, FD3901, will leave Hua Hin at 5:35 pm and arrive in Chiang Mai at 6:50 pm. Continued …

New Hua Hin municipal office building design reviewed

Hua Hin municipality is moving ahead with plans for a new seven-story municipal office designed to improve public services and provide additional space for local government departments.

The building will be constructed behind the existing municipal offices and will accommodate the Office of the municipal clerk and other departments. Continued …

Cultural event set for old Hua Hin Railway Station

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.

The event, titled “Under the Royal Patronage: Discover Si Khiri Khan”, is being organized by the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Tourism and Sports Office as part of a project to promote tourism, local products and tourism-related services. Continued …

Thailand Riviera promotion discussed by four provinces

Officials from four lower central provinces are preparing new measures to raise awareness of the Thailand Riviera route and encourage motorists to visit attractions and communities along the western Gulf coast.

The proposals were discussed last Thursday July during a meeting of the Joint Public-Private Consultative Committee for Lower Central Provinces Cluster 2, which includes Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phetchaburi, Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram. Continued …

‘This Is Israeli Territory’: Phuket Widens Business Probe

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.

The move was announced after officials inspecting the premises were reportedly challenged by an unidentified person who asked: “Don’t you know that this is Israeli territory?” Deputy Interior Minister Polpee Suwanchawee responded: “This is Thailand. Everyone on Thai soil must comply with Thai law. No one has the right to claim sovereignty over Thai territory.” Continued …

Thailand launches street-food app and certification scheme

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.

The Thai Street Gold Star app lists participating outlets alongside recommended dishes, locations and travel information. It is being introduced initially in Bangkok, Pattaya in Chonburi and Chiang Mai. Continued …

Fighting the phone addiction scourge

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.

At the heart of the debate is a tug-of-war between schools and families over who should bear primary responsibility for regulating children’s mobile device use and setting appropriate boundaries for the digital age. Continued …

Thailand Drives Kratom Toward Global Herbal Innovation Economy

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.

In traditional practice, particularly in southern Thailand, kratom leaves have been chewed or brewed to reduce fatigue during physically demanding work. They have also been used in folk remedies for pain and diarrhea. Continued …

Police sergeant fends off four attackers in latest southern insurgency attack in Pattani

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.

The brazen attack has triggered an intensive manhunt across Pattani, with checkpoints, roadblocks and forensic teams deployed as investigators race to identify the assailants, reconstruct their escape and uncover who carried out the carefully coordinated assault. Continued …

US pauses Iran strikes but conflict spreads to Red Sea and Caspian

The Iran war broadened over the weekend despite a pause in U.S. strikes, as Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis attacked Saudi oil installations along the Red Sea coast and Iran accused Ukraine of targeting one of its vessels in the Caspian Sea. Video …

Thai sellers cut prices on new and second-hand homes amid tight lending

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.

These include price cuts, support for expenses on the ownership-transfer date and all-inclusive free extras, aimed at encouraging purchase decisions and closing sales more quickly. Continued …

Thai exports to the US skyrocket despite tariffs

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.

According to the Customs Department’s trade statistics, for the first nine months of the fiscal year (Oct. 1 to June 30), Thailand’s total trade value (imports and exports combined) tallied 19 trillion baht, rising from 11 trillion year-on-year. Continued …

Exporters shrug off new Trump tariffs

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.

Starting from midnight US time on Friday, the Trump administration has imposed new tariffs of either 10% or 12.5% on goods from its top 60 trading partners, including Thailand, due to allegations of forced labor violations, according to US officials. Continued …

China envoy sets three-point plan for Thai trade

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.

Zhang said Thai companies should make greater use of China’s domestic market, particularly as China pursues growth in green technology, digital development and smart manufacturing. He described these sectors as potential entry points for high-quality Thai goods and services. Continued …

Thailand tightens data center rules as AI demand grows

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 Board of Investment (BOI) approved 26 data center projects worth 498.716 billion baht in 2025 and a further eight projects valued at 162.044 billion baht in 2026. Authorities have slowed consideration of new projects while drawing up additional investment criteria based on project readiness, resource availability and the overall benefits to the country. Continued …

The robot army is coming

Thailand is positioning itself to become a regional hub for humanoid robotics by leveraging its established automotive and electronics infrastructure. Addressing national security concerns is vital, as domestic control over artificial intelligence (AI) systems prevents reliance on foreign technology that could be remotely compromised.

“Rather than focusing solely on manufacturing complete humanoid robots, Thailand should develop a robot orchestration platform that enables multiple robots to work together,” Djitt Laowattana, executive board member of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and board chairman of the Robotics and AI Committee, said. Continued …

Thailand Food Supplement Market to Reach US$ 2.52B by 2033

The Thailand food supplement market is on an upward trajectory, anticipated to grow from approximately USD 2.02 billion in 2025 to USD 2.52 billion by 2033, maintaining a CAGR of 5.9%.

This growth is fueled by rising health consciousness, a shift toward preventive healthcare, and increasing interest in nutritional supplements. Consumers are keen on products that enhance overall wellness, immune function, weight management, and beauty. Continued …

Thailand risks falling behind as global longevity race gathers pace

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.

Countries worldwide are shifting beyond the wellness economy, which centers on businesses such as fitness, spas, healthy food and wellness tourism. They increasingly view longer, healthier lives as a source of economic growth, investment and national policy. Continued …

BDMS Launches WellEra Bangkok, a US$865 Million Wellness Complex

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.

Scheduled to open in 2030, WellEra defines a new paradigm for wellness real estate, integrating scientific wellness, preventive healthcare, luxury residences, hospitality and lifestyle within a single ecosystem. The project combines BDMS’ medical expertise with Capella Hotel Group as its residential partner. Continued …

Indian arrivals may surge with visa waiver

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.

Patsee Permvongsenee, executive director of the ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific region at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said the outlook for the Indian market remains positive following cabinet approval of visa-free entry for 30 days for Indian visitors. Continued …

Phuket cracks down on jet skis

Phuket authorities have taken legal action against eight jet ski operators following a province-wide inspection campaign targeting unlicensed businesses and illegal foreign nominee arrangements.

Led by Deputy Gov. Romdon Hayiawae and officials from the Phuket Regional Harbor Office, the inspections on Saturday covered operators across the island. Teams checked operating licenses, business ownership structures and whether Thai nationals were unlawfully acting as nominees for foreign business owners. Continued …

Nakhon Si Thammarat Temple Wins UNESCO Status

Thailand has secured a new place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List after Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat was officially recognized as a cultural World Heritage Site.

The decision was made unanimously during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, on Saturday. The temple becomes Thailand’s ninth World Heritage Site, the country’s sixth cultural World Heritage Site, and the first in southern Thailand to receive the designation. Continued …

Making Kai yok krok on the street

Video …

Mitsubishi Motors to Invest B16 billion in Thailand’s EV Push

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 Japanese carmaker is currently assessing options for manufacturing and exporting pickup trucks, alongside developing an electric variant of its Pajero sports utility vehicle, with Thailand positioned as the production hub for these plans. Continued …

Global plastic pollution efforts focus on recycling and cooperation

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.

If the trend continues, global plastic use could triple by 2060. The message from global forums, from London Climate Action Week to efforts to advance the Global Plastics Treaty, is consistent: “incremental” measures are no longer enough. Continued …

Italian students apologize as BTS dispute ends following fines

Five Italian students and their supervisor apologized to a Thai woman known as Sugus at Samrae Metropolitan Police Station on Saturday after a dispute over their conduct on a BTS train. Police fined five members of the group, and both sides agreed to end the matter and pursue no further legal action against each other. Continued …

Chinese Gray Network Busted at Nonthaburi Hotel –Continued …
Drunk Myanmar Driver Kills Two in Phuket Crash – Continued …
Russian Crime Boss Arrested in Phuket Extradition Case – Continued …
Indian Man Held with 6kg of Etomidate at Bangkok Airport – Continued …
Chinese Fugitives Held in Pattaya Villa Raid – 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

hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Wednesday’s news-July 15

July 15, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Time is short when you’re on the road, so while Expat News travels, our daily news report will use headlines only to save some time. Regular coverage resumes Friday.

Hua Hin water supply sufficient,/Mini-Balloon Festival/Hua Hin videos/Deportation Rules For Foreigners/Five Targets in Nominee Probe/How licensing loopholes put customers at risk
THE IRAN WAR: Trump threatens to hit Iran power plants/BOT Monitors Middle East Tension
ECONOMY: Three-airport rail deadlock/Krabi island up for sale
TOURISM: Thailand revamps visa rules/Thailand buckles to India/Cash Fine Racket in Pattaya/Phuket beaches to be ‘restored’
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: What Americans Get Wrong About Thailand
HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS

Hua Hin water supply sufficient, officials say

Continued …

Mini-Balloon Festival returns to Pak Nam Pran

The MiniBalloon Festival Pranburi will return to the Pak Nam Pran beachfront Aug. 7-9, alongside the annual Sun-Dried Squid and Seafood Festival.

The free event will take place from 4 pm to 9 pm each day at Maharaj Field in Pak Nam Pran, with balloon displays, live music and local seafood. Continued …

Finding the Forgotten Side of Hua Hin

Searching for the, older, local and lesser seen parts of Hua Hin in between the popular tourists streets. Trying to find small alley ways, old wooden thai houses, beach side restaurants, local fisherman casting their nets for their daily catch. Come along for the journey as we see the contrast between the luxury resort style side of Hua Hin and the laid back local side. Video …

Saphan Pla Night Market (fishing pier)

One of Hua Hin’s most unique local night markets is the Saphan Pla Night Market on the fishing pier. Video …

Monday’s news-June 15

June 15, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Food festival returns/Turkish man arrsted in Hua Hin/Turtle found on Cha Am beach/Cha Am drug seizure/Road works on Soi 102/Briton Details Thai Prison Ordeal/Vaping and erectile dysfunction/Lisa Performs at World Cup/Underage prostitution ring
THE IRAN WAR: US and Iran Reach Agreement
ECONOMY: 10 proposals for Thai economy/Thai Baht Weakens/Safety and health risks in the workplace/Koh Phangan Property Investment/Thailand’s AI Optimism/AI layoff trap raises wider risks/How China is replacing Japan/Thailand urged to close trade loopholes/Four influencer groups stay in demand
TOURISM: CAAT Allocates Winter Slots/Krabi set for 126 winter flights/India visa-free review
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Sunday at Khlong Tan
CLIMATE THAILAND: Waste-to-Energy Drives Clean Power Shift/Green Revolution in the Paddy Fields/Warning when EVs subsidies end
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS

Food festival returns Aug 28-30

The Hua Hin Food Festival will return to Hua Don Beach Aug. 28-30, bringing together leading hotels, restaurants, and food vendors for one of the town’s best-known annual events. The festival is one of Hua Hin’s most popular food events and has gained national recognition over the years for showcasing the town’s dining scene in a beachfront setting.

The event is being organized following a meeting between Hua Hin officials and the Cha Am-Hua Hin Chefs’ Club. The aim is to promote local food, support restaurants and hotels, and help stimulate the local economy. Continued …

Turkish man arrsted in Hua Hin over 274-day overstay

A Turkish national has been arrested in Hua Hin for overstaying his visa by 274 days, Prachuap Khiri Khan Immigration announced on Friday.

Immigration officers said the man was found in Hua Hin District and charged with remaining in Thailand after the expiry of his visa. Continued …

Dead green turtle found on Cha Am beach

A green turtle weighing more than 50 kilograms has been found dead after washing ashore on Cha Am beach, with officials preparing to carry out a necropsy to determine the cause of death.

Tourists discovered the carcass near the Cha Am beach viewpoint on June 11 and alerted officers from Cha Am Police Station. Police then coordinated with officials from the Marine and Coastal Resources Office 3 in Phetchaburi to inspect the scene. Continued …

Prison tip-off leads to Cha Am drug seizure

A Cha Am drug seizure involving more than 8 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 10,000 methamphetamine pills followed a tip-off from inside Phetchaburi Central Prison, officials said.

Officials said the operation began after prison officers monitoring a visitation room noticed suspicious behavior during a visit to an inmate. According to authorities, the inmate allegedly used the prison communication system to give coded instructions to relatives, telling them to go to a location in Cha Am district and dig up drugs that had been buried before his arrest. Continued …

Road works to begin on Soi 102

Roadworks on Hua Hin Soi 102 will begin near Laguna Village tomorrow. The project will involve the construction of a reinforced concrete road and drainage system in the Laguna Village area of Soi 102.

During the works, traffic and access to the area may be affected at certain times. Motorists are advised to avoid the route where possible while construction is taking place. – HHT

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.

Briton Details Thai Prison Ordeal in Bangkok

British national Oliver Hardy has described his experiences inside Thai prisons after serving one year and four months following convictions related to visa fraud and forged immigration documents.

Hardy, 27, a heating engineer from Croydon, said he traveled to Thailand in January 2023 after saving for five years for what he described as the holiday of a lifetime. He was later convicted of remaining in Thailand after permission to stay had expired, leaving through an unauthorized route without immigration inspection, forging immigration stamps used for international travel, forging official seals and official documents, and using forged immigration stamps and documents. Continued …

Vaping and E-Cigarettes said sharply increase chances of erectile dysfunction

A new Thai health study has linked regular e-cigarette use to a sharply higher risk of erectile dysfunction, finding users face double the risk even without underlying medical conditions.

The findings add to concerns over nicotine’s impact on blood vessels as Thailand enforces some of the world’s toughest anti-vaping laws, with heavy fines and possible prison terms for offenders. Continued …

Lisa Performs at World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles

Thai superstar Lisa performed at the US opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of the Group D match between the United States and Paraguay in Los Angeles, helping launch the tournament before a packed crowd. The Blackpink member appeared alongside Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian artist Rema to perform “GOALS”, FIFA’s official song for the 2026 World Cup. (aseannow.com)

Underage prostitution ring run from a Kanchanaburi hotel busted

An elite Royal Thai Police raid smashed a hidden child-trafficking ring operating inside a Kanchanaburi hotel, exposing the sexual exploitation of children under 15 and leading to the arrest of two hotel workers accused of arranging children for paying guests.

The anti-trafficking probe uncovered a commission-based operation in which a cashier and housekeeper used their access to rooms, guests, and payments to broker the abuse in a rural border region near Myanmar and Laos. Continued …

US and Iran Reach Agreement to End War, Signing Set for Friday

US and Iranian officials said yesterday they had agreed on a framework to end their war, halt the US blockade of Iran, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The preliminary pact sent oil prices falling but leaves the fate of Iran’s nuclear program to further negotiations.

The memorandum of understanding is scheduled to be officially signed on Friday in Switzerland. The precise terms were not immediately known. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the pact called for “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” 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.

Thai Chamber lists 10 proposals to pull Thai economy out of ICU

Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, led the Board of Trade of Thailand’s executive committee to meet Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the government’s economic agencies at Government House last week.

At the talks, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand presented a survey report based on opinions from members and business networks nationwide. It found that Thai business operators were facing a confidence crisis and cost pressures across the board. Continued …

Thai Baht Weakens as April Trade Deficit Hits Record USD 10 Billion

Thailand’s economy is currently facing a significant challenge, as its currency, the baht, weakens despite the presence of portfolio inflows. A record USD 10.0 billion trade deficit in April, primarily driven by robust import activity, is exerting considerable downward pressure on the baht.

This widening gap between exports and imports has surpassed expectations, marking the seventh consecutive monthly deficit and representing the largest on record. The concerning trade imbalance is a central factor influencing the baht’s stability in the near future, overshadowing other economic indicators. Continued …

Thai trade unions address reduction of safety and health risks in the workplace

Thai trade unions are strengthening their role in helping workers prevent occupational accidents and diseases, as Thailand advances efforts to enhance occupational safety and health (OSH), with support from the ILO and the government of Japan.

In today’s evolving work landscape, which is causing multiple challenges in both physical and mental health and safety of workers, stronger worker participation in OSH management is becoming more important for preventing accidents and diseases. Continued …

Israel, Europe, and Australia Driving Koh Phangan Property Investment Past B7.9B

The international real estate landscape in the Gulf of Thailand is undergoing a profound structural shift. Koh Phangan, long celebrated as a world-renowned holiday destination, has successfully transitioned into a mature international property market. Inflows into residential developments have soared past 7,940 million baht, propelled by robust purchasing power from Israel, Europe, and Australia.

According to a comprehensive market analysis, the island is rapidly shedding its singular identity as a tourism hotspot. Instead, it is emerging as a premier investment center and a highly sought-after “second home” destination for expatriates seeking long-term residency. Continued …

Thailand’s AI Optimism Signals Robust Investment Potential

Thailand is emerging as one of the world’s most promising markets for AI-driven investment, as artificial intelligence in global finance moves beyond experimentation and into serious real-world use.

The country has ranked sixth globally in the Global Wealth AI Optimism Index, according to BridgeWise’s State of AI for Wealth in 2026 report, underlining strong confidence among Thai investors in AI’s role in wealth creation. Continued …

AI layoff trap raises wider risks for workers, firms, and demand

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is sending another tremor through the economy, as organizations around the world continue to cut jobs and adopt AI to replace workers and reduce costs. But when workers are laid off and lose income, consumer purchasing power also falls, affecting sales of goods and services across the wider economy.

The study, The AI Layoff Trap, indicates that while AI can raise productivity and reduce costs for businesses, broad labor replacement may cause people’s income and purchasing power to decline, creating a new risk that affects not only workers but also businesses and the economy as a whole. Continued …

How China is replacing Japan as Thailand’s dominant industrial partner

For more than half a century, Thailand held a proud title: the “Detroit of the East.” This economic engine was built almost entirely on Japanese blueprints. Beginning in the 1960s, Japanese auto giants like Toyota, Honda, and Isuzu constructed vast industrial networks across the country, establishing a seemingly unshakeable dominance.

But a profound structural shift is rewriting the rules of Southeast Asian industry. Driven by a global transition toward electrification and high-tech supply chains, China is structurally replacing Japan as Thailand’s dominant industrial partner. Continued …

Thailand urged to close trade loopholes as US tariff talks intensify

Thailand is being urged to close legal loopholes and revise its import strategies as the country seeks to secure a lower tariff rate under Section 301 in negotiations with the United States.

Along with 46 countries, including China, Thailand would face a higher tariff rate of 12.5%, while another 14 economies, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan, would be subject to a lower tariff rate of 10%. Continued …

Four influencer groups stay in demand as brands chase sales over likes

Foodie, mom and kids, lifestyle, and beauty influencers remain the four groups most sought after by businesses as Thailand’s influencer marketing industry enters a more performance-driven era, according to IdeasLabs.

Thanadol Pittayanuwat, executive director and founder of IdeasLabs, a developer of influencer and MarTech solutions, said brands are shifting marketing budgets away from vanity metrics such as likes, shares, and views toward creators who can prove sales, return on investment, and tangible business results. Continued …

CAAT Allocates Winter Slots to New Airlines to Thailand

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has allocated airport slots to four new airlines for the winter 2026/2027 schedule, paving the way for additional international services during Thailand’s peak tourism season. The new routes will strengthen air connectivity between Thailand and key markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Under the new allocations, Riyadh Air will operate seven weekly return flights between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Virgin Atlantic will launch a new service linking London Heathrow and Phuket with three return flights per week. Continued …

Krabi set for 126 winter flights as Nordic demand rises ahead of high season

Krabi is attracting fresh interest from international airlines, with new direct routes from Helsinki and Copenhagen planned for the 2026–27 winter schedule as Thailand prepares for the high-season tourism period.

The Ministry of Transport reported strong demand for slots at Krabi Airport following the 158th IATA Slot Conference, organized by the International Air Transport Assn. in Bangkok. Airlines have requested a total of 126 flights to Krabi during the winter schedule. Continued …

Andaman tourism groups seek India visa-free review

The Thai Hotels Association – Southern Chapter and 12 private-sector tourism and economic organizations in the Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, have submitted a letter to the minister of Tourism and Sports and the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), proposing that the government consider reviewing the measure to end visa-free entry for Indian tourists.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said the Cabinet had approved revisions to visa-exemption measures, particularly the cancellation of visa-free entry for India, which would affect Indian tourists traveling to Thailand. Continued …

Sunday at Khlong Tan: Railside stalls serve rare Thai delicacies

Discover one of Bangkok’s lesser-known gems: the Khlong Tan Railway Market, also known as the Lao Market. Tucked along active tracks in the heart of the city, this lively food hub requires vendors and visitors to stay alert and step back safely whenever a train approaches.

Stalls brim with authentic and rare Thai dishes made from local herbs, fresh seafood, wild vegetables, and other regional produce. The market opens every Sunday from 5 am to 11 am. Video …

Waste-to-Energy Drives Thailand’s Clean Power Shift

Thailand is increasingly using waste-to-energy projects as part of its drive to reduce landfill, generate electricity, cut pollution, and support the country’s clean-energy transition.

Waste-to-energy is emerging as one of the country’s key approaches to turning municipal waste into a domestic energy resource. The concept allows solid waste to be converted into electricity, making use of materials already available in urban areas while helping strengthen local power generation. Continued …

Green Revolution in the Paddy Fields

Thailand’s central plains are set to become the frontier for sustainable agriculture as the Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Rice Research Center aggressively deploys the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economic Model to pioneer low-carbon rice production.

The state-backed initiative targets a massive 50,000-rai pilot area across eight central provinces, looking to tap into the lucrative international green agriculture market and secure a foothold in the burgeoning global carbon credit ecosystem. Continued …

Warning over risk to Thai EVs when subsidies end

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is concerned that the expiration of the government’s electric vehicle (EV) incentive program in 2027 could leave Thailand vulnerable to a surge of Chinese EV imports and weaken local automotive supply chains.

The scheme, known as EV3.5, runs from 2024 to 2027 and provides tax cuts and subsidies to automakers in exchange for investment in battery electric vehicle (BEV) assembly plants in Thailand. Continued …

Indian Tourists Asked to Leave Songkhla Resort

A seaside camper resort in Songkhla has shared details of a dispute with a group of Indian tourists, describing it as the worst experience in its five years of operation. The incident ended with the resort issuing a full refund and asking the guests to leave the property. Continued …

Chinese Investor Arrested in Bangkok Property Nominee Probe – Continued …
Chinese Migrants Caught After 120k Chase to Bangkok – Continued …
Chinese Fugitive Arrested at Rayong Hotel – Continued …
Pattaya Taxi Rider Assaulted by Foreign Men – Continued …
South African Woman Arrested With Heroin at Phuket Airport – Continued …
Nigerians Held in Bangkok Drug Smuggling Case – Continued …
Foreign Tourist Pulled From Sea Again at Patong Beach – Continued …
Russian Fugitive Held at Phuket Villa – Continued …

‘This is our culture’: Japan fans clean up World Cup stadium

Japan fans left the stands spotless after their World Cup opener against the Netherlands in Texas yesterday, saying it was “Japanese culture” to tidy up after themselves. Spectators stayed behind after the 2-2 draw to make sure they left the stadium as they found it, meticulously picking up litter and stuffing it into blue plastic bags. Continued …

Deadly strikes on Ukraine leave Kyiv cathedral in flames

Russia fired a barrage of missiles at several major Ukrainian cities, setting Kyiv’s historic Dormition Cathedral on fire and killing nine, while Ukraine strikes claimed three lives south of Moscow. Continued …

Swiss voters set to reject population cap, avoiding EU clash

Switzerland yesterday rejected a proposal to cap its population at 10 million, a projection showed, as voters prioritized economic stability and ties with the European Union over worries immigration was straining public services and pushing up rents. Video …

Hua Hin Links and Transport

chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thai economy, thailand, thailand wellness, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-June 13

June 13, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Dark Side of Hua Hin Retirement/Bangkok to Hua Hin by train/Record Collection Theft in Hua Hin/Thailand 8th for Healthcare/Data of 36 Million Thai Citizens/Heavy rain alert/Moscow alleges US targeting of Russians
THE IRAN WAR: Thailand hoping to regain confidence/US and Iran have agreed deal
ECONOMY: Thailand said facing deep crisis/Thailand’s hotel business still hot/Wider co-pay eligibility
TOURISM: Visitor spending lifts revenue/Long-term visas by country/Visa shift unlikely to deter Indians/Thailand targets Africa/IndiGo to suspend Krabi flights
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Briton Cuts Living Costs/3-day Lamphun-Lampang road trip/Phitsanulok’s rainy season greens
CLIMATE THAILAND: Questions raised about tilapia imports
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS

The Dark Side of Hua Hin Retirement

Is Hua Hin really the perfect retirement destination in Thailand… or is there a side of life here that most YouTube videos never show? In this video, I take an honest look at what happens after the honeymoon period ends for many expats and retirees living in Hua Hin.

We all see the beautiful beaches, modern shopping malls, beachfront cafés, golf courses, and relaxed lifestyle. But what happens after six months, a year, or even longer? Many people visit Hua Hin and fall in love with the sunshine, lower cost of living, and slower pace of life. But retirement in Thailand is about much more than holidays and sunsets. It’s about building a life, finding purpose, creating friendships, and adapting to life in a different country. Video …

The real way to travel Thailand: Bangkok to Hua Hin by train

Traveling from Bangkok to Hua Hin on a local second-class train turned out to be one of the most authentic experiences in Thailand. With open windows, no air conditioning, and a slow ride through rural landscapes, this journey showed the real side of Thai travel.

From last-minute plan changes and budget hotel life in Bangkok to catching the night train and dealing with bugs, heat, and open-air seating, everything made the trip unforgettable. Video …

Thai Caretaker Arrested Over Record Collection Theft in Hua Hin

A Thai caretaker has been arrested after allegedly stealing a valuable record collection, claimed to be worth more than 12.5 million baht, from a Swiss man in Hua Hin.

Swiss national Peter Kalt reported that more than 1,000 vinyl records and 400 CDs had disappeared from his home in Hin Lek Fai subdistrict. The collection, built over many years while he lived and worked in Chicago and Switzerland before relocating to Thailand, was described as both financially valuable and deeply personal. Continued …

Thailand Ranks 8th Globally for Healthcare, Tops Southeast Asia

Thailand has secured a place among the world’s top 10 healthcare systems, ranking eighth globally and first in Southeast Asia with a score of 77.5, reflecting the strength of its medical personnel and healthcare services.

Numbeo, a global quality-of-life data website, has released its World’s Best Healthcare Systems 2026 ranking, which assesses the overall quality of healthcare systems in various economies and territories around the world. The ranking is based on key factors including the skills and expertise of medical personnel, medical equipment, service systems, and healthcare costs. Continued …

Data of 36 Million Thai Citizens Offered on Dark Web

A database allegedly containing personal information belonging to around 36.1 million Thai citizens has been offered for sale on an underground online forum for US$100,000. If authentic, the data exposure could affect between 50% and 70% of Thailand’s adult population and may pose significant risks for identity-related crime.

According to the listing, the database contains full names, phone numbers, dates of birth, genders, and current addresses. The seller claimed the information was collected from a combination of government and private sector sources and requested payment in Monero (XMR), a cryptocurrency widely regarded as more difficult to trace than many other digital currencies. Continued …

Heavy rain alert for Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department has warned people in the north, northeast, east, and south to prepare for heavy rain in some areas over the next 24 hours, while Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are forecast to see thunderstorms across 70% of the area.

Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the southern east coast area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures: 23-35C. Waves are about 1 meter high and 1-2 meters offshore, rising above 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Continued …

Moscow alleges US targeting of Russians in Thailand

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise “extreme caution” when traveling to Thailand for business or leisure, saying they face a heightened risk of detention or arrest at the request of US law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

The advisory specifically targeted individuals who believe they may be vulnerable to criminal prosecution by the US, urging them to avoid traveling to or transiting through Thailand, which maintains a bilateral extradition treaty with the United States. Continued …

Thailand hoping to regain confidence after Middle East War jolt

Thailand faces a pivotal economic challenge as the Middle East War drives inflation higher, weakens consumer confidence, and pushes the current account into deficit, exposing a widening divide between pressured households and the country’s strongest sectors.

While confidence fell to a four-year low in April and businesses report rising costs and weaker demand, a B701 billion tourism surge and a sharp export recovery led by technology are helping support the economy. Continued …

US and Iran have agreed deal to end their war, Pakistan’s prime minister says

Pakistan’s prime minister yesterday the United States and Iran have agreed to wording of an agreement aimed at ending their war in the Middle East and that mediators were working with both sides to finalize a deal.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the US and Iran have reached a “final, agreed upon text.” He said Pakistan, which has taken the lead in mediation efforts, was working with the warring countries on next steps. “Peace has never been this close as it is now,” Sharif said. Continued …

Thailand said facing a deep crisis with falling tax income and more debt

Thailand’s public finances are under intense scrutiny after Prachachart Party leader Thawee Sodsong exposed a widening budget crisis marked by a B138-billion revenue shortfall, a B754-billion borrowing bill, and billions more in unused loans and stalled stimulus funds.

The senior MP warned the fiscal year 2025 figures revealed severe economic strain and failing fiscal discipline, with falling business taxes, weaker consumer spending, and more than B80 billion trapped in bureaucracy, as SMEs and households face financial pressure. Continued …

Why is Thailand’s hotel business still hot despite lower overall investment?

Thailand’s hotel investment market is no longer seeing the same transaction value as during its peak years, but investor appetite remains strong as the sector enters a new growth cycle after the Covid-19 crisis.

Colliers Thailand expects hotel transaction value in 2026 to stand at around 60-70 billion baht, down from a previous high of more than 100 billion baht a year. However, the softer overall value has not stopped investors from looking for quality assets in major tourism destinations. Continued …

Firms push for wider co-pay eligibility

The Thai Retailers Assn. (TRA) wants to unlock the conditions for the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” co-payment scheme by expanding eligibility to business of all sizes, supporting business continuity and employment.

The latest findings from the Retail Sentiment Index (RSI), jointly conducted by the Bank of Thailand and the TRA, indicate retail operators hold a more positive outlook toward the economy and consumer purchasing power from July to September, supported by the government’s stimulus scheme, which is expected to inject liquidity into small shops and vulnerable micro-entrepreneurs. Continued …

Visitor spending lifts revenue by 12.8%

Thailand’s tourism sector expanded 3.5% in May, supported by higher foreign arrivals and rising revenue. Deputy government spokesperson Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan said 2.35 million foreign tourists visited Thailand between May 1 and May 31, an increase of 3.5% compared with the same period last year.

Tourism revenue reached 108 billion baht, marking a 12.8% rise year-on-year, reflecting stronger spending per visitor despite moderate growth in arrivals. Malaysia, China, India, Russia, and Singapore were the top five source markets during the month. Continued …

Long-term visas by country

Visa shift unlikely to deter Indians

Replacing visa-free entry with a visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian tourists will not affect this market as affordable prices remain the decisive factor for them, while the policy change can help curb visa abuse, according to an Indian travel agent.

The cabinet decided to end the 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries, including India, which will be granted a visa-on-arrival (VoA) service similar to the one used prior to 2024. Continued …

Thailand targets Africa for tourism growth amid Middle East uncertainty

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positioning Africa as a key growth market as it seeks to diversify visitor sources amid ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East.

The continent is showing strong growth, particularly from Mauritius, where visitor numbers have risen 22%, and Nigeria, which has recorded growth of 35%. TAT attributes the increase to a growing middle-class driving demand for luxury and honeymoon travel, supported by air connectivity through hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Addis Ababa. Continued …

IndiGo to suspend Krabi flights as jet fuel crisis drives up costs

India’s largest low-cost carrier, IndiGo, has announced that its direct service to Krabi will be suspended from July 1 to Sept. 30 as part of a restructuring of its international route network.

The move is aimed at responding to higher operating costs and slower passenger demand during the third quarter, which falls outside the peak tourism season. Continued …

Briton Cuts Living Costs With Move to Chiang Mai

A British man who left the UK due to rising living costs says he now lives comfortably in Chiang Mai on just GBP800 a month, compared with more than GBP3,000 a month previously. Robert Hoadley, 45, from Portsmouth, relocated in 2025 and says the move has given him greater financial freedom, improved work-life balance, and a healthier lifestyle.

Robert spent years working in construction before deciding to leave the UK. He said he had become frustrated by working long hours simply to cover increasing expenses and felt he had little freedom to enjoy life. After deciding he did not want to wait until retirement to pursue a different lifestyle, he sold everything he owned and moved more than 6,000 miles away to Thailand. Continued …

Skip Chiang Mai’s usual northern loop for this 3-day Lamphun-Lampang road trip

Chiang Mai tends to dominate conversations about northern Thailand, but head south by car and the pace slows down. Lamphun, just under an hour away, offers a quieter window into some of the region’s oldest history, with ancient temple sites, Mon heritage, and long-running craft traditions.

Continue onward to Lampang and the atmosphere shifts again. Once an important commercial center in the north, the city still carries traces of that legacy, from historic trading-era buildings and early railway connections to its enduring ceramic industry. Continued …

Little wonders among Phitsanulok’s rainy season greens

While Thailand’s rainy season might turn some areas glum and gloomy, the flora in Phitsanulok beams with radiance as Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is enlivened by rare “Devil’s Eye” plants and vibrant begonias.

The park has come into full bloom as the early rainy season has brought renewed life to the ecosystem. Wildflowers are blossoming throughout the park, including one of its most fascinating natural attractions, the “Devil’s Eye” plant, or Thismia submucronata, which has emerged near Romklao Paradon Waterfall. Continued …

How Could 11 Companies Export More Than 200,000 Fish Without Any Import Records?

At first glance, it may appear to be a simple question. Yet, it exposes a potentially significant anomaly within Thailand’s fisheries data system. While government agencies have consistently maintained that Thailand legally imported blackchin tilapia only once — and solely for research purposes — official records indicate that the same species was subsequently exported in remarkably large quantities to foreign markets during roughly the same period.

To this day, the most critical question remains unanswered: why have these commercial traces never been fully and transparently explained to the public? Continued …

Turkmenistan Tourist Refuses to Pay on Walking Street – Continued …
Immigration Police Revoke Student Visas in Bangkok – Continued …
Chinese Fugitive Held in Bangkok Over Pet Investment Scam – Continued …
Chinese-Backed Chon Buri Site Raided, 25 Workers Held – Continued …

Hua Hin Links and Transport

bangkok, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Jan 15

January 15, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News 2 Comments

Subscribe to Blog via Email

32 Killed in Train–Crane Crash/Company responsible/Crane Collapses on Rama II/Rise in Thailand Construction Accidents/Hua Hin Wine Expo/Amazing Three Bays festival/ PKK police officers pass drug tests/US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing
ECONOMY: Worst Property Slowdown in Nearly 30 Years/Investment reboot said needed/5 key trends defining ASEAN’s future/Thai giants ramp up restaurant investments/Increased revenue from foreign film productions/Gold and silver hit record highs
TOURISM: 2.5 million Indian tourists/To ban sales of cannabis/Speedboat Driver Arrested/Boat workers test positive for drugs
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand dominates global night market rankings
CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok 12th for worst air quality
INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Two Foreign Nationals Among 32 Killed in Train–Crane Crash

Two foreign nationals are among the 32 people confirmed dead following a collision between a train and a crane in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The victims have been identified as Friedrich Wilhelm, a German national, and Kim Yongho, whose nationality has not yet been confirmed.

The collision occurred when a train struck a crane, resulting in mass casualties and significant disruption. Emergency services were deployed to the scene, and recovery operations led to the confirmation of fatalities and the identification of victims. Continued …

Company responsible for Bangkok building collapse headed project

Italian-Thai Development Public Co. (ITD) issued an official statement expressing condolences and accepting responsibility following a crane collapse that struck a passenger train in Nakhon Ratchasima province on Tuesday morning.

The project is jointly supervised by ITD and China Railway Engineering Corp. The two companies previously worked together on the construction of the Office of the Auditor General building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, which collapsed in March last year. Continued …

Two Killed After Crane Collapses on Rama II Elevated Road

Two people were killed after a construction crane collapsed onto vehicles on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon province this morning, prompting road closures and warnings for motorists to avoid the area.

The crane fell from an elevated road construction site onto the outbound southern lanes, crushing at least two cars below. Emergency services confirmed the fatalities at the scene, while access to the site was initially restricted due to safety concerns. Continued …

Crane Crash Exposes Rise in Thailand Construction Accidents

Tragedy struck in northeastern Thailand yesterday as a crane collapse resulted in the deaths of dozens aboard a moving train. This incident highlights a worrying trend of increasing construction accidents in the country over recent years.

Recent incidents paint a grim picture. On March 28, 2025, a 30-story building in Bangkok crumbled during a 7.7 magnitude quake from central Myanmar, claiming at least 96 lives. This project was led by Italian Thai Development Plc, also involved in the latest rail link mishap. ITD President Premchai Karnasuta faces charges of negligence for the March disaster, with legal proceedings ongoing. Continued …

Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 confirms new March dates

The Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 has officially confirmed a strategic move to March 19-20, promising a larger, more refined evolution of the event that has become part of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors.

The decision to move the event to March was made to align with the new vision and leadership team. This shift provides a “longer runway” to transition the expo into a landmark international-standard showcase. By moving the dates, the event gains the necessary preparation time to match an ambitious new scale and deliver the high-caliber experience that local and international guests expect. Continued …

Amazing Three Bays City Prachuap Khiri Khan festival set for late April

A major tourism event in Prachuap Khiri Khan will return later this year, with organizers confirming that the 16th Amazing Three Bays City Prachuap Khiri Khan Tourism Festival will take place from April 24 to May 3.

Provincial authorities met this week to finalize preparations for the annual festival, which aims to promote tourism, support the local economy, and highlight the cultural identities of the province’s eight districts. Continued …

Congratulations to our sponsor, Solar Solutions

Your Turnkey Energy Provider

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.

Every PKK police officer passed drug tests

Prachuap Khiri Khan has pushed ahead with the White Police project, with drug tests carried out on every serving police officer in the province returning negative results, according to provincial police commanders.

Police Maj. Gen. Athorn Chinthong, commander of Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Police, said the operation was conducted in line with policy set by Royal Thai Police leadership. The initiative forms part of the White Police project, which aims to reinforce professional standards and public confidence in the police force. Continued …

US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for Thailand

The United States has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Thailand, aiming to prevent the entry of individuals deemed likely to become a public charge. This decision, effective from Jan. 21, results from the US State Department’s reassessment of its screening and vetting procedures under current immigration law. The suspension aims to block applicants potentially dependent on public benefits in the US.

The State Department has instructed consular officers worldwide to refuse visas under existing legal provisions while conducting a comprehensive review. This pause, without a set end date, will last until the reassessment concludes. Other affected ASEAN nations include Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, alongside countries such as Russia, Somalia, and Brazil. Continued …

Thai Property Market Faces Worst Slowdown in Nearly 30 Years

The Thai real estate market is experiencing its most severe downturn in nearly three decades, since the 1997 financial crisis. The stock of unsold residential properties has skyrocketed, with new project launches falling sharply. Consumer purchasing power has weakened due to high household debt, and the mortgage lending situation is tighter than ever before.

Experts are uncertain whether the market will recover within the next 2–3 years, especially given the ongoing low economic growth in Thailand. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts that Thailand’s economy will grow by only 1.6% in 2026, reflecting the deep structural issues still present in the economy. This downturn may not just be a cyclical slow down but could be a prolonged adjustment, with no clear end in sight. Continued …

Investment reboot said needed to revive Thai economy

The next government is urged to reform investment strategy and streamline working processes to lift economic growth, including attracting high-value sectors such as wellness tourism, high-tech industry, and green infrastructure.

Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said the nation needs an investment reboot as the traditional economic engine is insufficient for the current context. Continued …

Bangkok Bank outlines 5 key trends defining ASEAN’s future in 2026

Chartsiri Sophonpanich, president of Bangkok Bank, pointed out that in 2026 the world will continue to face risks, volatility, and uncertainty, driven by five key factors that will serve as both obstacles and opportunities in shaping ASEAN’s future. He made this remark during the opening of the AEC Business Forum 2026 yesterday.

Chartsiri explained that we live in a multipolar world, shaped by the rise of China, Russia, and the BRICS, challenging the global rule-based order. This rivalry is leading to trade fragmentation and disruptions in technology and supply chains. Continued …

Thai giants ramp up Japanese, Korean restaurant investments

Thai business giants Saha Group and Central Restaurants Group (CRG) are aggressively expanding their restaurant portfolios. Despite a competitive landscape, both groups see the Thai food market, valued at Bt572 billion, as a high-growth sector where “Capital, Brand, and Culture” create long-term value.

Saha Group, through its subsidiary Saha Ocha Co., has entered a strategic joint venture) with Reins International, a subsidiary of Japan’s Colowide Group. The partnership aims to systematically scale Japanese dining in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand targets increased revenue from foreign film productions

Thailand has set a target to increase revenue from foreign film productions by at least 10% in 2026, building upon a record-breaking performance in the previous year, the Department of Tourism said yesterday.

The Southeast Asian country welcomed more than 546 international film productions in 2025, generating a record high of over 7.717 billion baht (about 246.944 million U.S. dollars) in circulating revenue, said the department’s Director-General Jaturon Phakdeewanit. Continued …

Gold and silver hit record highs as geopolitical tensions rise

Gold and silver prices reached historic highs yesterday, driven by mounting geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Gold surged to a record $4,641.40 per ounce, and silver followed with a 5.2% rise, touching $92.23 per ounce.

The rise in precious metals was largely attributed to global geopolitical risks, particularly tensions between the US and Iran. Iran warned that it would attack US military bases in neighboring countries if the US intervened in protests within Iran. These threats, combined with broader economic concerns, pushed investors toward safe-haven assets like gold and silver. Continued …

Thailand eyes 2.5 million Indian tourists

Riding on a record-breaking 2024 and strong momentum in 2025, Thailand is setting an ambitious target of welcoming 2.5 million Indian visitors this year. With more than 1.3 million Indians having already traveled to the country by July, the market is emerging as one of Thailand’s most important growth drivers, underpinned by a strategic shift from volume-led recovery to value-focused tourism.

India remains among Thailand’s top three source markets. In an exclusive interaction with TravTalk, Nattachit Oonsiam, director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai office, said the market has exceeded expectations since the post-pandemic rebound. Continued …

Parties vow to ban sales of cannabis

Three political parties – the People’s Party, Democrat, and Pheu Thai – have pledged to put cannabis back on the narcotics list and allow its use only for approved medical purposes, while operators urged the future administration to eliminate foreign businesses using nominees and unfair competition from illegal businesses.

In the run-up to next month’s general election, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) and Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) hosted a political forum yesterday titled “Thai Tourism: What to Do Next?”, bringing together representatives from three political parties. Continued …

Speedboat Driver Arrested After Fatal Krabi Sea Collision

Tourist police have arrested a speedboat driver following a marine collision in Krabi province that killed a Russian tourist and injured 13 tour passengers. The arrest comes after investigators confirmed the suspect had used illegal drugs, prompting authorities to pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law to protect tourist safety and confidence.

The incident occurred when a tourist speedboat collided with a fishing trawler near the Phi Phi islands. The crash resulted in the death of one Russian national and left multiple passengers injured, triggering an urgent investigation by marine and tourist police. Continued …

6 boat workers at Chalong Bay Pier in Phuket tested positive for drugs

Phuket Tourist Police intensified safety measures at Chalong Bay Pier following a fatal speedboat accident involving a drug-fueled driver, with random drug tests revealing that six boat workers tested positive for illegal substances.

On Monday, authorities conducted urine tests on more than 100 workers employed by various tour boat operators at Chalong Bay Pier. Six of them were found with drugs. However, officials did not disclose the specific substances detected or the legal penalties imposed at this stage. Continued …

Thailand dominates global night market rankings with 3 markets in the top 10

When was the last time you wandered through a night market surrounded by sizzling street food and that electric energy that only comes alive after dark? If you’re in Thailand, you’re spoiled for choice, and now there’s proof the Kingdom’s night markets rank among the planet’s best.

A new study by long-haul travel specialists Travelbag has crowned Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend Market as the world’s best night market for 2026. Better yet? Thailand claims three spots in the global top 10, with two Bangkok markets making the top three. Continued …

Bangkok ranks 12th worldwide for worst air quality

Bangkok has been ranked 12th in the world for the worst air quality, as PM2.5 levels soar to dangerous levels. According to the IQAir real-time air quality index on Wednesday, the capital’s air quality index (AQI) hit 161, marking it in the red zone, which is unhealthy for all groups.

This follows a global trend of dangerous pollution levels, with several Asian cities facing critical air quality, including Delhi, India, which remains at the top spot with an AQI of 291, signifying hazardous air quality. Continued …

One year on, Trump shattering global order

One year into his second term, US President Donald Trump is shattering the post-World War II order as never before, leaving a world that may be unrecognizable once he is through. Far from slowing down, Trump — who turns 80 in June — has rung in the new year with a slew of aggressive actions that brazenly defy the decades-old structure that was championed by the United States. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

baht, hua hin, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Wednesday’s news-Dec 10

December 10, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Intensifies Military Response/Cambodia Unleashes Artillery, Rocket Barrage/Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight/Thailand unlikely to ease up/Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks/Conflict Threatens Thailand PM Seeks Full War Powers/Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared/5 Thai soldiers killed/7 Cambodia civilians/61 Cambodian Troops Killed/Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base/Marines launch offensive n Trat/US and UN Call For Halt/Thailand-Cambodia Economic War/Cambodian withdraws from 33rd SEA Games/990 schools being closed
Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16/Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal
ECONOMY: The Baht’s Risky Rise/10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht/Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk/Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into EV project/Online shoppers value-conscious
TOURISM: 30 million Tourist Arrivals/9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025/The transformation of wellness tourism/Another tourist ‘falls’ from hotel balcony/Minister Pitches Park and Stadium/Indian tour groups cancel trips
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The Thailand food experience/Is it better to travel before or after the New Year?
CLIMATE THAILAND: The greening of power/Prices of BEVs set to rise
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Thailand Intensifies Military Response as Border Conflict with Cambodia Escalates

Thai military forces engaged in sustained combat operations along the Thailand-Cambodia border yesterday, responding to what officials described as intensified attacks by Cambodian forces across multiple strategic positions. Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri briefed reporters at the Joint Press Center on Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, detailing significant military activity in the preceding hours.

In the Second Army area, Thai positions came under sustained bombardment from Cambodian BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, explosive drones, and kamikaze drones throughout the morning. Continued …

Cambodia Unleashes Heavy Artillery and Rocket Barrage

Full-scale hostilities have resumed along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, with Cambodian forces launching a sustained bombardment against four provinces in Thailand’s southern Isaan region since the early hours of this morning.

The Second Army Area Command confirmed that Cambodian soldiers initiated the attack at approximately 5:20 am local time, firing artillery shells and BM-21 rockets into Thai territory along the entire border. Continued …

Cambodia Vows Fierce Fight Against Thailand

Cambodia’s powerful Senate President Hun Sen yesterday vowed that his country would carry out a fierce fight against Thailand as a second day of widespread renewed combat between the Southeast Asian neighbors drove tens of thousands of people to flee border areas.

Hun Sen claimed that his country had refrained from firing back on Monday, but overnight began to shoot back at Thai forces. He wrote that a strategy of concentrating on where Thailand was advancing would allow Cambodia to “to weaken and destroy enemy forces through counterattacks.” Continued …

Thailand unlikely to ease up on military actions – at least for now

Judging from statements from the prime minister down to the army generals and the country’s top diplomat, it’s quite clear that Thailand is unlikely to ease up on its military operation against Cambodia any time soon, as fighting along several border areas continues for the fourth day today.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday reaffirmed that his government fully supports the armed forces in their operation in response to Cambodian aggression. “There is no stopping now. We have pledged our full support for the armed forces to proceed with their operation,” he said in response to a reporter’s question about whether his government might agree to a pause in the military operation as the last government did at the height of the previous round of border skirmishes in late July. Continued …

Cambodia ‘ready at any time’ for talks to end conflict, PM adviser says

Cambodia is open to immediate bilateral talks with Thailand to halt their border conflict, a top adviser to its prime minister said yesterday, after the neighbors accused each other of violating a truce.

The countries fired at each other, including using artillery, along much of their 817-km (508-mile) land border on a second day of sustained hostilities. At least 13 people have died and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes on both sides of the border in the two days since the heaviest fighting resumed. Continued …

Border Conflict Threatens Thailand’s Political Timetable as PM Seeks Full War Powers

The renewed eruption of conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border is poised to redraw Thailand’s domestic political timeline, placing significant pressure on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his government’s tenure.

The hostilities may compel the government to postpone the dissolution of Parliament, ensuring it retains the full executive authority necessary to manage a state of war and potentially leverage a wave of nationalist fervor to recoup political popularity diminished by recent flooding crises. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia Militaries Compared Amid Border Clashes

Thailand has launched air strikes along its disputed border with Cambodia, escalating tensions after both countries accused each other of violating a ceasefire. The Thai military confirmed the strikes on Monday, marking a sharp deterioration in an already volatile situation. The immediate impact has heightened regional concerns as military activity intensifies on both sides of the frontier.

The latest confrontation follows Thailand’s suspension of de-escalation measures last month after a Thai soldier was maimed in a landmine incident. Bangkok alleges the mines were newly laid by Cambodian forces, a claim that Cambodia rejects. Tensions have been simmering for weeks as both nations trade accusations over responsibility for repeated border incidents. Continued …

5 Thai soldiers killed amid escalating clashes with Cambodia

Five Thai soldiers have been killed in ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, with fresh confrontations reported this morning, the fourth consecutive day of fighting since hostilities resumed.

Prime Minister Anutin expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, promising that the government would ensure their relatives received proper support. Continued …

7 Cambodia civilians killed in border clashes

At least seven civilians have been killed and approximately 20 others have been injured in Cambodia amid renewed border clashes with neighboring Thailand, according to the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense.

This week’s Thai attacks, which stem from a long-running border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations, have also forced more than 20,000 from their homes in several communities, the Cambodian ministry said, along with destroying infrastructure, damaging templesm and disrupting public services. Continued …

Thai Army Reports 61 Cambodian Troops Killed in Border Clashes

Thai Army Region 2 reported yesterday that Cambodian forces launched heavy cross-border attacks between 9 am and 5 pm, resulting in intense clashes and significant casualties on both sides.

The operations center confirmed that Thai forces have lost four soldiers killed in action and 68 wounded, while Cambodian forces suffered 61 deaths, with their number of wounded still being assessed. The most heavily affected sectors included Chong An Ma and Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani, Thiang Ta Mok in Sisaket, and Chong Kana and Ta Kwai Temple in Surin. Continued …

Gripens Strike Next to Scammer Base as Cambodia Fires rockets

Thai military forces launched coordinated air and artillery strikes yesterday against a scam-operating base in Cambodia’s O Smach area, causing significant damage to an under-construction building and prompting further cross-border escalation.

The attack involved a Gripen fighter jet dropping bombs and self-propeled artillery targeting sites east of the Or Smach Resort Casino community in Uddar Meanchey Province, close to Thailand’s Chong Chom permanent checkpoint in Kap Choeng District, Surin. Explosions were heard across nearby Thai villages and fires were reported at the struck construction site, with initial reports indicating one guard dead pending confirmation. Continued …

Marines launch offensive to regain occupied Thai territory in Trat

Thai navy marines launched an operation against Cambodian troops yesterday to reclaim a border area seized by Cambodian forces. The fighting in Trat leaves neighboring Chanthaburi as the only border province free of armed clashes between the two countries.

Capt. Thammanoon Wanna, commander of the Trat Marine Task Force, said the operation to regain an area of Ban Nong Ri in tambon Chamrak, Muang district, started at 5.30 am. Three houses in the area were the prime target. Continued …

US and UN Call For Halt to Thailand–Cambodia Border Clashes

The United States and the United Nations have issued urgent appeals for an immediate halt to armed clashes along the Cambodia–Thailand border, as fighting entered its fourth day and casualties continued to rise.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a statement yesterday expressing deep concern over “continued fighting and casualties in multiple locations” and urging both sides to protect civilians. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced alarm, warning that renewed hostilities risk escalating further unless both countries recommit to dialogue. Continued …

Thailand-Cambodia Economic War Paralyzes $5 Billion Trade, Threatens Vast Gas Reserves

The escalating border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has transcended a mere territorial dispute, morphing into a full-scale “economic, political, and geopolitical war.” The clashes have inflicted profound and deepening economic wounds on both nations, with the indefinite halt of cross-border trade and the dark prognosis for a multi-trillion-baht energy project threatening regional stability.

The conflict’s immediate consequence was the paralysis of trade at the vital Klong Luek–Poipet crossing, generating immense economic damage and disrupting established regional supply chains. Continued …

Cambodian athletes withdraw from 33rd SEA Games

The Cambodian team announced its withdrawal from the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand and will return home tomorrow, citing safety concerns arising from the Thai–Cambodian border conflict.

The team was reportedly planning to submit an official letter confirming its withdrawal to the organizers today. The Cambodian delegation had taken part in the opening ceremony at Rajamangala National Stadium. Continued …

Escalating border clashes lead to 990 schools being closed

Almost 1,000 schools along the Thai-Cambodian border have been ordered closed as a precaution following renewed armed clashes, Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat said yesterday.

The closures increased from just over 600 on Monday to 990 by yesterday afternoon, according to the Office of the Basic Education Commission. The ministry is now awaiting clearance from local security agencies before allowing schools to resume operations. Continued …

Heavy rain and strong waves in south Dec 11–16

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for heavy to very heavy rain in the south and strong winds and waves in the Gulf of Thailand, with impacts expected from Dec. 11–16. Upper Thailand will also see unstable weather, with thunderstorms followed by a sharp drop in temperature.

From Dec. 11–13, rain will increase across the south, with heavy rain in many areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun, and heavy to very heavy rain in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Teen taekwondo talent wins Thailand’s first gold medal

Teenage fighter Watcharakul Limjittrakorn has won Thailand’s maiden gold medal of the 33rd SEA Games, with a victory in the women’s freestyle Poomsae event of the taekwondo competition today. The 19-year-old delivered a performance in front of the home crowd at the Fashion Island shopping mall, scoring 7.900 points to take the title.

The silver and bronze medals went to Nicole Alethea Khaw of Singapore and Phouttavan Chanthakhammany of Laos, respectively. Continued …

The Baht’s Risky Rise: Can the BoT Curb Its Momentum?

The rapid appreciation of the Thai baht, up nearly 7% year-to-date and now trading significantly below the 32-per-dollar mark, presents a mixed signal that Thailand’s economy may struggle to accommodate.

This sharp currency appreciation could potentially hinder export competitiveness, a critical driver of Thailand’s economy, while benefiting importers and dampening inflationary pressures. However, it also raises concerns for industries reliant on tourism and foreign investment, as a stronger baht makes Thailand a more expensive destination and investment option. Continued …

10 Million Set to Receive 2,000 Baht Under Khon La Khrueng Plus2

The government is preparing to approve the second phase of the Khon La Khrueng Plus scheme, which will provide 2,000 baht to 10 million eligible recipients, with spending expected to begin in January 2026.

The initiative aims to maintain economic momentum into the new year. According to government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat yesterday, the Ministry of Finance will submit the proposal to the Cabinet next week. Continued …

First Alert in 50 Years Over Global ‘Double Bubble’ Risk in Gold and Stocks

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has sounded the alarm over an unprecedented “double bubble” risk, noting that the prices of both gold and global stocks have surged simultaneously for the first time in at least 50 years. The rare warning from the BIS, often referred to as the central bank of central banks, questions the resilience of the current “risk-on” environment across global financial markets.

While the stock market has been propeled by the hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) technology, gold prices have soared by 60% this year, putting 2025 on track to be the metal’s biggest annual price leap since 1979. Continued …

Mazda to sink Bt5 billion into new mild hybrid EV project

Mazda Motor Corp. is preparing to spend 5 billion baht early next year on building a new mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) production base in Thailand, marking a major step in the country’s transition toward electric mobility, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

The project will have a production capacity of 100,000 units annually, with operations scheduled to begin in 2027. Vehicles manufactured in Thailand will be exported to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asian markets. Continued …

Thai online shoppers more value-conscious

The Thai e-commerce market has been growing rapidly, with a high usage rate among Thais, but platforms still need to close the satisfaction gap for buyers, a survey by the market research firm Milieu Insight has found.

The report highlights five missions that e-commerce platforms must dynamically adapt to, and which Thai consumers and businesses should closely monitor for future developments. Continued …

Thailand Surpasses 30 million Tourist Arrivals

Thailand has exceeded 30.2 million foreign tourist arrivals for 2025, according to new data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The milestone reflects strong short-haul demand and steady revenue generation, with visitors contributing more than 1.4 trillion baht so far this year. However, despite the high volume, total arrivals remain 7.2% lower than during the same period in 2024.

Malaysia and China were the top two source markets, each surpassing 4 million arrivals. India followed with 2,280,823 visitors, while Russia and South Korea contributed 1,685,931 and 1,438,827 arrivals, respectively. These five countries formed the backbone of Thailand’s inbound tourism throughout 2025. Continued …

Foreign tourism sector in crisis, visitor decline accelerates, 9.8% fewer arrivals than 2025

Thailand is heading for a steep plunge in foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, driven by a disastrous chain of events that began with the high-profile kidnapping of a Chinese actor earlier in the year and has only worsened since.

A surging Thai baht, conflict with Cambodia, and the Hat Yai flooding disaster have all compounded the damage, while political instability continues to erode confidence. Vietnam, meanwhile, is racing ahead with fresher experiences and far better value for money. Continued …

From pampering to purpose: the transformation of wellness tourism

For three decades, Asia’s first wellness resort, Chiva-Som, has been welcoming guests with wellness in mind. Chiva-Som Hua Hin General Manager Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen says over that time the luxury traveler’s demands and overall behavior have seen a dynamic change in terms of knowledge, innovation, and a lifestyle shift.

“The biggest change we have seen is a shift from passive pampering to proactive, personalized transformation. It has shifted from an eat-drink-relax style to a more purposeful and meaningful holiday. In the past, they purely sought physical relaxation – sun, spa treatments, and indulgence.” 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.

Another tourists ‘falls’ from hotel balcony, this time in Phuket

A Mexican-Canadian tourist died yesterday afternoon just hours after checking into a Phuket hotel. She was due to check out the next day. She fell from the balcony of her ninth-floor suite.

The death is the latest in a series of foreign tourist fatalities from hotel heights in Thailand. Similar incidents occur regularly in Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok. The southern island, along with Pattaya, is notorious for such cases. Police confirmed her room was undisturbed. Her sandals were left on the balcony, suggesting she stepped out moments before the fall. Continued …

Minister Pitches Disneyland-Scale Park and 80,000-Seat Stadium

The Transport Minister has unveiled proposals for two major “magnet projects” in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), outlining plans for a world-class amusement park and a new 80,000-seat national stadium.

The developments are designed to boost tourism and investment in the region, particularly to support the financial viability of the high-speed rail (HSR) project linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. The announcement signals a significant push to transform the Pattaya-Chonburi area into a regional hub for entertainment, sports and international events. Continued …

Indian tour groups cancel trips after flight chaos at home

Travel agents say 20% of Indian tour groups to Thailand have canceled following massive flight cancellations by IndiGo, India’s largest airline, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) views the impact as short term, expecting the market to still reach 2.4 million arrivals this year.

Meanwhile, TAT says the overall number this year might drop by 9.8% year-on-year to 3.2 million. IndiGo has canceled thousands of flights since last week after it failed to plan for new pilot rest rules, creating chaos for air travel in India over the past several days. Continued …

The Thailand food experience

You can have your food delivery riders. Even better are food vendors who come to your front door to make meals while you watch. Here, a noodles with pork soup is prepared for a Thai woman in front of her house. Want Thailand’s popular, and spicy, som tom green mango salad? They come by also, or a phone call brings them to your door. At night, cart vendors can be found selling grilled seafood or sausages, roti with different ingredients (banana, peanut butter, etc.), fried chicken, dried squid, and many other options. (HHEN)

Is it better to travel before or after the New Year in Thailand?

Thailand’s year-end holiday period presents travelers with a dilemma: join the festive chaos of late December, or wait until January when things calm down?

With the 2025 to 2026 season approaching, this decision carries more weight than usual. The Thai government has declared an extended five-day holiday from Dec. 31 to Jan. 4, creating a double-peak where international tourists and domestic travelers converge simultaneously. Continued …

The greening of power

‘It is full of concrete. Dry and barren.” That was his first impression of Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road when Nalikatibhag Sangsnit took the helm at Dhanarak Asset Development (DAD).

Supervised by the Treasury Department, DAD, a state enterprise, is the administrator of the country’s largest bureaucratic hub, as well as other public assets. Covering 378 rai, Government Complex in Bangkok’s Lak Si district houses more than 50 agencies, serving over 40,000 staff and visitors daily. Continued …

Prices of BEVs set to rise next year

The prices of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Thailand are expected to rise by an average of 200,000 baht next year, following the expiration of the government’s EV3.0 incentive scheme, a move that could dampen domestic demand for BEVs, which has grown steadily over recent years, warns the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).

Introduced to promote BEV consumption and production, the EV3.0 scheme offered automakers reduced excise tax and import duties, along with subsidies to support sales. Continued …

Nightclub Owners Flee to Phuket After Deadly India Fire

A tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa, India, resulted in 25 fatalities, prompting the club’s owners, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, to flee to Phuket. The brothers left on an IndiGo flight shortly after the incident on Sunday, escaping before police could apprehend them. Indian authorities are now seeking Interpol’s assistance to locate and arrest the duo. Continued …

Hua Hin Links

cha am, exports, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-Aug 4

August 4, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Huay Mongkol Temple robing ceremony/Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’/Cha Am Police High-Speed Chase/PM2.5 behind lung cancer spike/New traffic ticket formats/Underlying Conflict Between Thailand and Cambodia/Thai Developer Buys 500 eVTOL Aircraft/Monks’ misconduct calls for change/ECONOMY: Thai CEOs Unveil Survival Strategies/DITP forecasts 5%–7% export growth/’Opportunity’ to reorient economy/Economic anxiety, cost-of-living concerns/Thai-Cambodia Trade Rises/Coffee consumption surges/TOURISM: Domestic Tourism Sees Modest Growth/Tariff may affect Indian tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Why Thailand Is Known as the Land of Smiles/CLIMATE THAILAND: Asia’s Fight Against Plastic Pollution/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Huay Mongkol Temple robing ceremony set for this weekend

Huay Mongkol Temple in Hua Hin will host the 12th “Robing of the Giant Luang Pu Thuat” ceremony on Aug. 8–9 to mark Mother’s Month and honor the 93rd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.

The event, organized in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Central Region, will begin on the evening of Aug. 8 with a blessing ceremony at the plaza in front of the giant Luang Pu Thuat statue. Continued …

Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’ set for this weekend

Monsoon Valley Hua Hin will hold its annual Vineyard Fest, a four-day event celebrating the release of its new 2025 vintages, from Aug. 9-12. The event offers a mix of wine tastings, outdoor dining, and relaxed afternoon entertainment set against the scenic backdrop of the vineyard.

The festival begins on Aug. 9 with the launch of Monsoon Valley’s latest vintages. Visitors can sample a selection of five wines served by the glass. Continued …

Cha Am Police Nab Man After High-Speed Chase

A 34-year-old man from Nakhon Pathom was arrested following a 70-kilometer police pursuit that began in Hua Hin and ended in Cha Am, after he allegedly fled a checkpoint out of fear police would discover two illegal firearms and a counterfeit license plate hidden on his vehicle.

The chase, which involved multiple patrol units, concluded when the suspect’s red Toyota Yaris lost control and crashed into a utility pole before careening into a rice field near Ban Nai Yang, rendering the vehicle inoperable. No injuries were reported. Continued …

PM2.5, gene changes behind lung cancer spike

PM2.5 air pollution and mutations in the EGFR gene are major drivers behind the increasing incidence of lung cancer among non-smoking women, particularly across Asia, says a leading Thai oncologist.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Naiyarat Prasongsook, a medical oncologist at Phramongkutklao Hospital, said more than 2.48 million people worldwide are living with lung cancer. Of these, Asia accounts for the largest share of 63.1%, or about 1.56 million patients, while Europe reports about 484,000 cases, or 19.5% of the global total. Continued …

Thailand unveils new traffic ticket formats

The Royal Gazette has published an announcement from the Royal Thai Police (RTP) detailing the new formats for traffic tickets, effective today. The updated designs, intended to align with administrative fine orders, include three formats as part of its 2025 implementation.

The new traffic ticket formats include: A format for traffic tickets given to drivers, either attached, tied, or displayed on vehicles. This format consists of four sheets, each serving a distinct purpose: the first is white and is affixed to the vehicle. The second is yellow and sent to the administrative fines authority for data entry into the National Police’s central information system. The third is pink for state officials authorized to impose fines, and the fourth is blue, serving as a duplicate record for the issuer. Continued …

The Truth About the Deep Underlying Conflict Between Thailand and Cambodia

Much has been written about how the five-day undeclared war between Thailand and Cambodia was a result of a nasty feud between two very powerful families: the Shinawatra in Thailand and the Hun family in Cambodia. Too much has been read into it, even.

Too much has been attributed to the two egoistic, yet very influential families, the damning leaked phone call between Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen and Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and even the call-center scams and casinos in Cambodia. Continued …

Thai Developer Buys 500 Passenger eVTOL Aircraft

A Thai private firm has signed up for 500 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from a Chinese developer. Valued at $1.75 billion (around 62 billion Thai baht), this transaction marks the largest single eVTOL order in China’s burgeoning industry.

Pan Pacific Co., a leading Thai property developer and infrastructure investor, has partnered with Shanghai Volant Aerotech Co. The agreement was inked alongside China National Aero-Technology International Engineering Corp. (CAIEC) at the International Advanced Air Mobility Expo in Shanghai. Continued …

Monks’ misconduct prompts calls for change

The monastic community is deep-rooted in Thai society, where the clergy has long been held in high esteem. But a series of headlines about Thai Buddhist monks, many of them high-profile, caught in scandalous acts with a 35-year-old woman, has brought the clergy into disrepute.

The most recent case involving a high-ranking monk accused of embezzling hundreds of millions of baht in temple funds and having an affair with a woman, in particular, has deeply shaken Thai Buddhists’ faith. Continued …

Thai CEOs Unveil Survival Strategies as Trump Tariffs Threaten Economic Growth

Thai business leaders are bracing for economic turbulence as new US tariff policies threaten to disrupt the kingdom’s export-driven economy, which relies on foreign revenue for more than 50% of its GDP.

Following the clarity on US customs tariff rates after Aug. 1, corporate executives across key sectors have outlined comprehensive strategies to weather the anticipated economic storm while maintaining operational resilience. Continued …

DITP forecasts 5%–7% export growth, rolls out measures to counter Trump tariffs

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) expressed confidence yesterday that Thailand could achieve export growth of 5%–7% in 2025, supported by strategic measures to cushion the impact of the 19% reciprocal tariff imposed by the United States.

DITP Director-general Sunantha Kangwalakulkij said she agreed with the Thai National Shippers’ Council’s forecast of 5%–7% growth, despite the Commerce Ministry’s more conservative estimate of 2%–3%. Continued …

US tariff opens ‘opportunity’ to reorient economy

An economist is urging the government to adopt a three-phase strategy to cushion the impact of the newly imposed 19% US tariff, warning that while the immediate effect may not be catastrophic, the move exposes deeper structural vulnerabilities.

Asst. Prof .Kiatanantha Lounkaew, of Thammasat University’s Faculty of Economics, said on Saturday the tariff, which came into effect on Friday, should not only be seen as a threat but as an opportunity to reorient the economy for long-term resilience. Continued …

Voices of social media reflect economic anxiety, cost-of-living concerns

Wisesight, a Thai social analytics firm, has released its mid-year report on online consumption behavior, entertainment trends, societal concerns, and emerging platform usage.

Video-based entertainment dominates online consumption, according to the report. Thai users spend an average of 42 hours and 14 minutes per month on YouTube, followed by TikTok at 37 hours and 40 minutes, and Facebook at 16 hours and 23 minutes. Continued …

Thai-Cambodia Trade Rises in Early 2025, Despite Border Tensions

Trade between Thailand an d Cambodia has seen continued growth in the first half of 2025, reaching a total value of 95.147 billion baht and growing by 3.3%, according to figures released by Thailand’s Commerce Ministry today. This performance has resulted in a substantial trade surplus for Thailand, amounting to nearly 50 billion baht.

Overall, Thailand’s border trade with its four neighboring countries – Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia – has surpassed 1 trillion baht, marking a 12% increase for the same period. Continued …

Coffee consumption surges as Thai market defies economic slump

Thailand’s coffee industry continues to expand in line with global growth, according to a market analysis by the Department of Business Development (DBD) under the Ministry of Commerce.

Coffee has become a daily staple for many Thais, who now consume an average of over 340 cups per person annually. This growing consumption has pushed the domestic market value to 65 billion baht — an increase of 8.3% from the previous year. Continued …

Thai Domestic Tourism Sees Modest Growth Amid Economic Headwinds

Thailand’s domestic tourism sector has shown a positive trajectory, recording a 2.49% increase in Thai citizen travel during the first half of 2025. This growth signals a continued recovery for the industry, even as the country grapples with deflationary pressures and significant household debt burdens.

Sorawong Thienthong, the minister of Tourism and Sports, revealed data from the Ministry’s Tourism and Sports Economics Division, indicating that from January to June 2025, the total number of domestic trips made by Thai citizens – commonly referred to as “Thai Thiew Thai” – exceeded 100.23 million. Continued …

Tariff may affect Indian tourism

After securing solid growth from the Indian tourism market in the last two years while Asian markets stagnated, 2025 is an uncertain year for arrivals from the subcontinent as US tariff rates are expected to have an impact.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) anticipates growth of more than 10% for the Indian market until 2026, after recording a surge of 14.4% to 1.3 million as of July 20. Continued …

Why Thailand Is Known as the Land of Smiles

Thailand has long been known as “The Land of Smiles”, a phrase that has come to symbolize the country’s warmth, hospitality, and cultural charm. But where did this nickname come from?

Was it an organic reflection of Thai culture — or the result of a clever public relations campaign? Historians and cultural commentators often point to two major origins. Continued …

How Asia Can Lead the Fight Against Plastic Pollution

Southeast Asia is becoming a global force in plastic waste solutions — once seen as a major source, the region is now crafting ambitious, locally led responses supported by cross-border collaboration.

From the Bangkok Declaration (2019) to the ASEAN Declaration on Plastic Circularity (2024), ASEAN nations have laid a policy framework that fosters innovation, regulatory alignment, and local engagement. Continued …

Nigerian linked to international drug smuggling cartel on Koh Samui arrested – Continued …
Drunken Foreign Couple Caught Rocking Pattaya Baht Bus – Continued …
German Man Held Over $1.1M Crypto Scam – Continued …Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:
- Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
- Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
- Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
- Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
- Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)
The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:
- - - - Emergency hotline – 191
        
        Emergency medical services – 1554
        
        Water accident – 1196
        
        Motorway hotline – 1586
        
        Emergency medical – 1669
        
        Highway police – 1193
        
        Tourist police – 1155
        
        Bus ticket – 1490
        
        Department of Highways – 1586
        
        State Railway – 1590

baht, chiang mai, climate change, exports, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Friday’s news-May 23

May 23, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Coca-Cola Promotion/Heavy rainfall expected/True’s network outage/Thai Court Orders Ex-PM Yingluck to Pay/Ruling destabilizes Thai politics/Coup risk remains/Gang Clash Turns Deadly/Man Rides Motorbike on Mattress/’Queen of street food’/ECONOMY: Thai Baht Strengthens/Asia must not succumb to tariffs/Thailand Exports First Electric Vehicles/Thai car sales rise/Opportunities with speciality coffee/TOURISM: Tourism stimulus ‘a damp squib’/Thailand Not at a Dead End/Chinese travel agents en route/New Tourist Scam/Grand “Diwali 2025″/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Snake coiled inside toilet/We paved our own path/The wellness tourism trend/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar farm developer sees drop in revenue/Cleanup of Kok River/Producers responsible for plastic waste/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Coca-Cola Promotion Expands to Street Food Outlets Across Thailand

The Coca-Cola system in Thailand — comprising ThaiNamthip Corp., HaadThip, and Coca-Cola (Thailand) — is scaling up its “COKE Foodmarks” campaign by expanding its reach to food outlets nationwide by the end of this year.

Building on a strong foundation of more than 4,300 current outlets, the campaign is now set to target vibrant street food hubs, bustling walking streets, and iconic districts across the country, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Phuket, as well as cities like Hua Hin, Hat Yai, and Pattaya. Continued …

Heavy rainfall expected across Thailand until May 27

Increasing rainfall, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers, is expected across Thailand from today to Tuesday (May 27), according to a weather warning issued by the Thai Meteorological Department this morning.

The public in affected areas is urged to be cautious of heavy to very heavy rainfall and water accumulation, which may lead to flash floods, overflows, and landslides — particularly near waterways, foothills, and low-lying areas. Continued …

True faces major trust test after nationwide network outage

Yesterday, users of the True Corp.’s network across Thailand experienced a sudden and widespread service outage, affecting both mobile phone and home internet services in several areas. The outage, which continued into the afternoon, caused major disruptions to work, communications, and online transactions.

True Corp. and Total Access Communication (DTAC) had previously completed Southeast Asia’s largest telecom merger, forming a combined market capitalization of approximately 294 billion baht. At the time, True’s top executives promised that the merger would create “endless opportunities” and immediate benefits for customers of both networks. Continued …

Thai Court Orders Ex-PM Yingluck to Pay 10 Billion Baht in Rice Scheme

The Supreme Administrative Court in Thailand has ordered former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra to pay 10.028 billion baht ($306 million) in damages related to her administration’s controversial rice-pledging scheme. This ruling partially reverses an earlier judgment by the Central Administrative Court, which had annulled a 2016 order from the Ministry of Finance.

The original order sought 35.717 billion baht from Yingluck, attributing her responsibility for alleged corruption and her failure to prevent financial losses as part of the rice-pledging program. This scheme was designed to support local farmers by buying rice at inflated prices, but it ultimately drew criticism for mismanagement and corruption, leading to significant financial deficits. Continued …

Ruling further destabilizes Thai politics

The staggering impact generated by the Supreme Administrative Court will not be on anyone’s pocket, but on the already-fragile political equilibrium of Thailand.

The court’s ruling on how much compensation former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra had to shoulder regarding losses in the rice-pledging scheme of her government will change everything. Continued …

Coup risk remains, warns Thai defense minister

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has refrained from ruling out the possibility of a future coup and asked all sides to learn from history to strengthen democratic institutions.

Speaking on the 11th anniversary of the 2014 coup by the now-defunct National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) yesterday, he stressed the importance of patience and adherence to democratic processes, cautioning against shortcuts that could undermine democratic development. Continued …

Gang Clash Turns Deadly on Pattaya Street

A violent confrontation between rival gangs erupted in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, leaving one man dead and two others injured. Armed with knives, guns, and homemade explosives, the young assailants turned a planned meeting into a deadly street battle.

The clash occurred just after midnight last night, on Nong Prue Road near a local butcher’s shop. Rescue personnel from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation and Nong Prue police responded promptly after receiving reports of multiple casualties. Continued …

Thai Man Rides Motorbike on Mattress in Sisaket

A Thai man has captured the internet’s imagination and a fair share of laughter after a video of his unique motorcycle ride went viral. This clip, which has garnered over 11 million views, shows him cruising down the road in Sisaket province while lying face-down on a mattress, firmly grasping the handlebars.

Video

The man, seemingly at ease and unfazed by his unconventional position, became an instant hit online. His stunt, which involves lying flat on his stomach and occasionally adjusting his posture without losing control of the bike, intrigued viewers worldwide. Continued …

A tribute to the ‘queen of street food’

Following a celebrated, multi-year run at international film festivals from Cannes to Moscow, the documentary “Jay Fai: Fire & Soul”, a visual portrait of Thailand’s improbable culinary wonder, has finally returned to where it all began.

The Thai premiere of Jay Fai: Fire & Soul coincided with the documentary’s official worldwide release on the Utopicfood! YouTube channel. The event featured an appearance by the 81-year-old grand dame of street cooking. Continued …

Thai Baht Strengthens as Foreign Capital Floods into Bonds

The Thai baht has shown unexpected strength this week, touching the 32-baht-to-U.S.-dollar mark, driven primarily by a significant influx of foreign investment into Thailand’s debt market. This comes as the U.S. dollar loses its appeal as a safe haven asset, largely influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump’s extreme trade policies.

From early 2025 until yesterday, foreign investors have collectively made net purchases exceeding 70 billion baht in Thai debt instruments, with analysts foreseeing continued inflows given the anticipated high market volatility from Trump’s ongoing policies. Continued …

Asia must not succumb to tariff retaliation: Singapore

Asian economies must remain agile and not succumb to tit-for-tat tariff retaliation, a deputy managing director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said today.

Retaliatory tariffs would lead to negative supply shifts that would worsen the growth-inflation trade-off and complicate monetary policy, Edward Robinson, who is also the MAS’s chief economist, told a monetary policy conference. Continued …

Thailand Exports First Electric Vehicles As Auto Industry Faces Headwinds

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has confirmed the export of its inaugural consignment of 660 electric vehicles (EVs) in April. This development unfolds against a backdrop of persistent challenges for the broader Thai automotive sector, which continues to experience declining production and a sluggish recovery outlook.

Surapong Paisitpatanapong, spokesperson for the FTI’s Automotive Industry Club, revealed that total car production in April amounted to 104,250 units. This figure represents a 19.75% decrease from March 2025 and a marginal 0.40% drop compared to April 2024, marking the lowest production level in 44 months. Continued …

Thai car sales rise for first time in 23 months

Domestic car sales in Thailand rose in April for the first time in 23 months, the Federation of Thai Industries said yesterday, though production and exports extended their run of declines.

Local sales were up 1% in April from a year earlier, after a fall of 0.54% fall in March, the group said. Continued …

Thailand views opportunities with speciality coffee products

As consumers become increasingly sophisticated about their cup of Joe, this trend may create opportunities for niche segments such as speciality coffee.

While Thailand is not a major coffee exporter, its coffee market is valued in the tens of billions of baht. The country has the ability to set itself apart on the international stage by focusing on the speciality coffee sector. Continued …

Tourism stimulus ‘likely a damp squib’, says stock brokerage

The recently approved tourism stimulus is unlikely to have a significant impact on the stagnant sector during the low season, given the limited budget allocation, although aviation and hospitality stocks may benefit in the short term, says Daol Securities.

The stimulus package is part of a broader emergency response plan aimed at counteracting the economic impact of the U.S. import tariff hikes. The tourism-related measures comprise three initiatives. Continued …

Thailand Not at a Dead End – optimism and opportunity on the rise

Despite global uncertainties and momentary dips, Thailand’s tourism industry continues to show resilience — and even signs of renewed momentum. As the first half of 2025 unfolds, officials and industry leaders insist that Thailand has not reached a dead end, with strong foreign arrivals, steady revenue, and a renewed belief that a little luck and a lot of effort will carry the nation forward.

Thailand welcomed more than 13.4 million international visitors from Jan. 1 to May 18, generating over 632.9 billion baht in spending. The top markets fueling this growth include China, Malaysia, South Korea, India, and Russia — with South Korea’s tourism surging by more than 10%, elevating it from the 8th to 4th most frequent source country. Continued …

Army of Chinese travel agents, media en route to Thailand

Thailand’s tourism industry is preparing to welcome 500 Chinese travel agents and media members at the end of this month, hoping to revive a market that has plunged 32% compared with a year ago.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to monitor the impact of the giant familiarization trip for one month to see if the market shows signs of avoiding the worst-case prediction of just 5 million Chinese arrivals this year — down 25% from 6.7 million in 2024. Continued …

Thailand Has New Tourist Scam – Fake Hotel Bookings

Three individuals were apprehended on Wednesday for allegedly orchestrating a scam that targeted tourists by using counterfeit Facebook pages to fraudulently book hotel accommodations. According to Thai police reports, these suspects were detained following coordinated operations in three distinct locations: Chanthaburi, Bangkok, and Ayutthaya.

The Tourist Police Bureau detailed that the accused created fake Facebook profiles impersonating well-known hotels in Pattaya, a popular tourist destination. Their scheme enticed travelers by advertising rooms at discounted rates and encouraging them to make advance payments for reservations. Continued …

Thailand to Host Grand “Diwali 2025” to Boost Indian Tourism

Thailand is planning a “Diwali 2025” festival this October, a move designed to attract over 500,000 Indian tourists and position the country as a global festival hub.

The festival will be inspired by the success of Songkran, featuring a light and sound parade, cultural performances, a global fair, and a fusion food festival. Highlights also include vibrant decorations, fashion shows, and concerts, exemplifying Thai-Indian cultural collaboration. Continued …

Man finds massive snake coiled inside toilet bowl in Bangkok

A man received the fright of his life when he discovered a large python coiled inside his toilet bowl after waking up in the early hours this morning.

Video

The incident, which occurred at around 3 am, was shared online by the man. The clip shows the huge snake resting comfortably inside the bathroom fixture. Continued …

I feared we’d be stuck on the beaten path in Thailand, but we paved our own

Thailand had been on our list for a while. World-famous Buddhist temples, ancient sites and street food beckoned. Known as the Land of Smiles, the country also made us want to understand better how Buddhist values, such as karma and merit, coexist with everyday life. Inexpensive accommodation and a subtropical climate added to the allure.

However, now that we’re lifelong travelers in our seventies (61 countries and counting), venturing off the well-trodden path is near and dear to us. Could we do that in Thailand, a country that attracted more than 35 million foreign travelers in 2024? Continued …

Thailand ready to embrace the wellness tourism trend

Whether it’s simple bliss, easily accessible happiness through reconnecting with nature; indulgent bliss, pleasure found in pampering activities like cruises, spa treatments, and delicious cuisine; or serene bliss, inner peace cultivated through meditation, yoga, or ice baths, all of these can be experienced when traveling in Thailand.

These align with the “Fresh Your Feel, Heal Your Soul” campaign, a journey that enriches life. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has invited tourism partners and the Thai public to embrace these three forms of holistic happiness: body, mind, and spirit. Continued …

Solar farm developer sees drop in revenue

Solar farm developer SPCG expects its revenue to fall this year after the adder tariff granted to its 36 solar farms came to an end in July 2024. The adder tariff allows the company to sell electricity at prices above regular rates.

This type of tariff encourages investors to build solar farms by adding an eight-baht tariff to electricity prices, increasing total tariffs, including the wholesale tariff of 3.78 baht per kilowatt-hour, to 11.78 baht per Kwh. Continued …

Cleanup of Kok River arsenic contamination affecting Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai

The Thai government is urgently addressing the contamination crisis in the Kok River, which has affected residents in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces since March.

Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, in his capacity as chair of the National Environment Board, signed an order appointing a Subcommittee for Water Quality Management in Surface Water Sources, which he will chair himself to drive tangible solutions. Continued …

Indonesia to make producers responsible for plastic waste

The Indonesia Ministry of Environment has said that it is planning to ensure producers take full responsibility for the plastic waste generated by their products, as part of the “extended producer responsibility (EPR)” scheme.

By requiring producers to be responsible for the waste from their product, Indonesia seeks to follow the path of some other countries where producers are required to either collect such waste or choose to pay for its proper management. Continued …

Aussie caught with 22kg of crystal meth at Bangkok airport – Continued …
Over-staying Australian Arrested in Pattaya for Vandalising Rescue Booth While Drunk – Continued …
Israeli Man Arrested for Using Fake Passport – Continued …
Foreign Workers Arrested for Illegal Operations, Including Sex Service – Continued …

Record floods devastate eastern Australia

Record floods cut a destructive path through eastern Australia today, caking houses in silt, washing out roads and separating 50,000 people from help. Four bodies have been pulled from vast tides of floodwater engulfing parts of northern New South Wales, a fertile region of rivers and valleys some 400 kilometers (250 miles) up the coast from Sydney. Continued …

Iran, US to hold new round of nuclear talks in Rome

Iranian and U.S. negotiators meet in Rome today for a fifth round of nuclear talks, after a public disagreement over Tehran’s uranium enrichment. The talks, which began in April, are the highest-level contact between the foes since the United States quit the 2015 nuclear accord during President Donald Trump’s first term. Continued …

Trump admin sows doubt over vaccines

A highly anticipated White House report outlining Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s agenda devotes significant space to raising alarm over vaccines, while touching on environmental and nutrition concerns that remain at odds with broader administration actions. Continued …

New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:
- Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
- Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
- Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
- Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
- Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)
The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
- State Railway – 1590

bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Dec 18

December 18, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Kui Buri Model for wild elephants/Hope for cancer patients/Overwhelming cancer patient surge/Cooking gas price capped/Russian fined for Christmas lights/Thailand Privilege Card to diversify/Child spanking on the way out/Capital Punishment to continue/Foreign Patient Surge Strains Hospitals/Salt reduction plan/New single malt thai whisky/PEA gets tough/Lisa shines in acting debut/Nurse wins 6 million baht/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: 2025 salesplosion/Raising foreign staff quota/Incentives for foreign film shoots/Compeq invests Bt10.4 billion/TOURISM: E-visas from all Thai embassies/No travel plans for year-end/8 New International Airlines/Tourist Police App to Aid Visitors/Phu Kradueng trails to reopen/2 million Indian Tourist Arrivals/Thai AirAsia X expands Bangkok-Delhi route/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Broken system fuels flood crisis/CLIMATE THAILAND: Factories to set up solar rooftops freely/72 clean energy suppliers/7 Wind-Solar Farm Projects/Thailand bans imports of plastic waste/The reality of plastic pollution/234 new species discovered/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Kui Buri Model for peaceful co-existence of humans and wild elephants

Attapong Pao-on, chief of the Kui Buri National Park, revealed that pushing wild elephants back into the forest zone was a key approach to reducing damage to properties and crops. Implementation, however, is by no means easy.

Discouraging wild elephants to not invade people’s farmlands involves many risks and challenges. It is necessary to lay down structure and delegate duties for smooth operations, which focus on the effectiveness and efficiency of wild elephant monitoring, as well as the safety of the staff involved. The safety of wild-elephant monitoring teams’ members, in particular, receives a strong emphasis because they directly face straying giant mammals. Continued …

Hope for cancer patients: Integrative care offers new path

Cancer affects millions of people worldwide, directly or indirectly, as one of the leading causes of death globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 10 million lives were lost to cancer in 2020, highlighting it as a major global health challenge.

However, advancements in medicine, lifestyle awareness, and early detection offer hope to patients and their families. A comprehensive approach to cancer care combines conventional medicine with supportive therapies to address not only the disease but the individual as a whole. Continued …

NHSO asked to deal with overwhelming cancer patient surge

Srinagarind Hospital has urged the National Health Security Office (NHSO) to take steps to deal with the influx of cancer patients, as it has witnessed an 830% surge in treatment seekers under the Cancer Treatment Anywhere (CA) program.

Hospital director Dr. Somsak Tiamkao said on Tuesday its facility was overwhelmed by a spike in cancer patients referred to the hospital under the NHSO’s CA program. This has overstretched the hospital’s resources and staffing, he noted. Continued …

Cooking gas price remains capped

The Energy Policy Administration Committee has resolved to extend the capped price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking at 423 baht per 15-kilogram cylinder until March 31 next year.

Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga said on Tuesday the capped retail price extension was effective from Jan. 1. It was based on the wholesale LPG price at refineries, at 20.9179 baht per kilogram. Continued …

Russian fined for Christmas lights on car

A Russian driver was fined 500 baht for covering his car with strings of small Christmas lights. Traffic police spotted and stopped his colorfully lit sedan on Sukhumvit road in Chon Buri.

The 25-year-old Russian driver explained that he was unaware it was against the law. He had seen other cars in Bangkok that were similarly decorated. He just wanted to celebrate the Christmas-New Year festival. Continued …

Competition encourages Thailand Privilege Card to diversify

Thailand Privilege Card Co. (TPC), the operator of a long-term residency and perks program, expects slower growth attributed to intense competition.

TPC President Manatase Annawat said fiscal 2025 would be more challenging, as many Asian countries are promoting similar long-term visa schemes to attract affluent individuals, including Malaysia, Singapore and Cambodia. Continued …

Child spanking on the way out, says government

In a historic move for children’s rights, Thailand’s Senate unanimously approved an amendment to Section 1567 of the Civil and Commercial Code, transforming the regulations surrounding parental discipline. This newly passed amendment, swiftly moving through all three readings in a single day, updates the existing clause that allowed parents to “punish the child in a reasonable manner for disciplinary purposes.”

Key to the amendment is the prohibition of punishment involving abuse, violence, or any form of harm to a child’s body or mind. It also mandates that disciplinary actions respect a child’s human dignity, safeguarding their physical and mental well-being. A Senate spokesperson highlighted that parents maintain their rights to guide their children, but they must do so without resorting to harmful methods. Continued …

Thai Cabinet Rejects Proposal to Abolish Capital Punishment

In a firm stance against recent appeals for the abolition of the death penalty, Thailand’s cabinet has unanimously decided to retain capital punishment in its legal system. This decision emerged after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) advocated for a gradual end to this severe form of punishment, citing its abolition in many other nations as an impetus for change.

The cabinet, however, remained unconvinced by these arguments, with government spokesman Kharom Polpornklang affirming the need for the death penalty. Continued …

Foreign Patient Surge Strains Thai Border Hospitals

Thailand’s border hospitals are experiencing increased strain, as more foreign nationals cross into the country seeking medical attention. This has raised serious concerns over the impact on healthcare resources and the accessibility of services for Thai citizens.

The issue came to prominence after a medical professional made a public post on social media, highlighting the treatment of a pregnant woman from Myanmar. She and other foreign patients were reportedly taking advantage of Thailand’s healthcare provisions, knowing they could obtain free or subsidized care for their children born in Thailand. This situation is indicative of a broader challenge faced by hospitals near the borders. Continued …

Salt reduction plan seen as key to curbing NCDs

The Public Health Ministry has announced measures to reduce salt and sodium consumption, aiming to reduce the problem of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin chaired the National Policy Committee on Salt and Sodium Consumption Reduction to reduce NCDs on Monday, saying Thai people consumed salt and sodium much higher than a standard recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Continued …

ThaiBev launches marketing campaign for new single malt whisky

Recognizing the changing preferences of Thai consumers toward more premium spirits, Thai Beverage Pcl (ThaiBev) has introduced a new single malt whisky, PRAKAAN, to the market.

PRAKAAN is crafted using single malt barley and yeast imported directly from Scotland. The whisky also utilizes pure, naturally alkaline water sourced from the western forests of Kamphaeng Phet province, along with imported oak casks. The production is overseen by nine master distillers who have honed their skills in Scotland. Continued …

PEA gets tough over pole use

The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) says it will prosecute private firms and state enterprises that have illegally installed communication cables on its power poles.

The announcement came on Monday after Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directed the PEA to intensify efforts to charge these legal entities. Continued …

Lisa shines in acting debut as ‘Mook’ in The White Lotus

Thai-born superstar Lalisa Manobal, known to her many fans as just ‘Lisa’, is to make her official debut as an actress in the HBO series The White Lotus (Season 3), in which she plays a character called “Mook”, a member of staff at a resort.

Lisa appears in the season teaser saying “Welcome everyone to The White Lotus Thailand,” offering a glimpse of her character’s role in the season to be streamed next February (on Instagram at @lalalalisa_m). Continued …

Chaiyaphum nurse wins 6 million baht in Thai lottery

A nurse from Thepsathit Hospital in Chaiyaphum province has struck gold by winning the top prize in the Thai government lottery, making her a millionaire overnight. The winning ticket number 097863, drawn Monday, has brought the Thai nurse a prize of 6 million baht.

The winning numbers for the front three digits were 290 and 742, while the back three digits were 881 and 339. The two-digit number at the end was 21. – thethaiger.com

Pattaya Police Arrest Foreign Beggar Gang and Illegal Tour Guide – Continued …
Five Chinese Held for Illegal Property Brokering in Pattaya – Continued …
Cyber Police Bust Malaysian-Thai Couple in Gambling Money Laundering – Continued …

2025 kicks off with a salesplosion from the Commerce Ministry

Hold onto your hats shoppers: the Commerce Ministry is kicking off 2025 with a bang, unveiling its New Year Mega Sale 2025. With discounts of up to 80% on over 40,000 products and services, this is a shopping spree you won’t want to miss.

Over 300 vendors are rolling out the red carpet, from major manufacturers and department stores to your favourite convenience stores and online marketplaces. Running from Dec. 17 to Jan. 31, the colossal sale is set to slash living costs by a whopping 4.8 billion baht and rake in 14.4 billion baht in revenue. Continued …

Cabinet okays raising foreign staff quota

The cabinet has approved in principle increasing the number of foreign workers at businesses to deal with the shortage. According to government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab, under Thai laws the number of foreign workers at a single business is limited to a ceiling of 100 individuals, and for stateless foreign workers, the limit is 50 per business.

The law limiting the number of foreign workers has been in place since 1979. However, the economic landscape has significantly changed in 45 years, making it appropriate to increase the proportion of foreign workers per business. Continued …

Better incentives for foreign film shoots

The cabinet on Tuesday approved a revised cash rebate scheme for foreign film shoots, as proposed by the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

The new incentive of a cash rebate of up to 30% for foreign film shoots in Thailand with no maximum refund limit should increase revenue for the country by 20%, or at least 7.5 billion baht in 2025, attracting more large productions. Continued …

Compeq invests Bt10.4 billion in Thai PCB export base

Compeq, the world’s fifth largest printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer, has spent 10.4 billion baht on making Thailand its new key export base to serve growing demand for PCBs in a range of industries from electric vehicles to data centers, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

Compeq (Thailand) Co., which applied for investment incentives from the board in December last year, opened a factory yesterday. The plant, spanning 112 rai of land in Asia Industrial Estate in Samut Prakan, already employs 600 Thai workers. This is set to reach 1,500 next year. Continued …

E-visas from all Thai embassies, consulates from Jan 1

People intending to visit Thailand will be able to apply online for an e-visa at Thai embassies and consulates worldwide from Jan. 1. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said that from Jan. 1, the Thai e-visa system would be operative at all 94 Thai embassies and consulates.

Worawoot Pongprapapant, director-general of consular affairs, said travelers will no longer have to queue up and file many documents at embassies. Continued …

Majority of Thais have no travel plans for year-end

Over 67% of Thais have not made any travel plans for the year-end holidays, mostly due to concern about their financial status and high traveling expenses, a survey has found.

The Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) conducted a survey in November among 5,669 citizens nationwide regarding their travel plans for November and December. In the survey, 67.72% of respondents said they have no travel plans, with 38.55% saying they are concerned about their current financial status or problems. Continued …

Thailand’s ‘MICE’ Cities Welcomed 8 New International Airlines in 2024

Thailand is making significant strides in international connectivity, as eight airlines have introduced new direct flights to its four primary MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) cities. The key cities are Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai.

With three more airlines set to launch routes in 2025, the country is solidifying its position as a premier global destination for business and leisure travelers. Bangkok is experiencing a remarkable lift in European connectivity. British Airways has resumed London-Bangkok routes this year. This will increase frequency from three to five weekly flights in January and February 2025, with a planned four flights in March. Continued …

Thailand Launches Tourist Police App to Aid Visitors

The Tourism Police Division of Thailand, in collaboration with the tourism sector, has launched the “Thailand Tourist Police Application” to enhance visitor safety during the high season.

The newly launched app allows tourists to contact the tourist police, report emergencies, and share their location online for immediate assistance, thereby ensuring greater security and peace of mind. – aseannow.com

Phu Kradueng trails to reopen with new safety measures

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation will reopen popular Phu Kradueng mountain in Loei province to visitors next Monday, Dec 23. It was closed last Friday after an elephant killed a visitor walking a trail on Dec. 11.

Director-general Attapon Charoenchansa said new safety measures were planned to protect visitors to the northeastern tourist attraction. Continued …

Thailand Celebrates 2 million Indian Tourist Arrivals of 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated a significant milestone with the arrival of this year’s 2,000,000th Indian tourist at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Monday. This achievement underscores India’s vital role as a key source market for Thailand’s thriving tourism industry.

Passengers arriving on THAI flight TG324 from Delhi were warmly greeted with traditional Thai garlands, symbolizing the nation’s renowned hospitality. Among them was the 2,000,000th Indian visitor, Chetan Gupta, who expressed delight at the recognition. Continued …

Thai AirAsia X expands Bangkok-Delhi route with 4 weekly flights

Thai AirAsia X is ramping up its services, connecting Bangkok and Delhi, India, with four weekly flights starting Jan. 15. The move comes as the airline capitalizes on surging demand from Indian flyers, driven by visa-free travel perks and enhanced connectivity.

The carrier, which operates A330 planes, marked its return to the Indian capital on Sunday. From January, flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, up from the current two weekly services. Continued …

Our broken system fuels flood crisis

In just a few months, floods devastated both northern and southern Thailand, revealing a troubling truth: the country’s disaster response system is failing, and climate change is making it worse.

Thailand’s weak disaster management – from poor warnings to inadequate rescues – turns emergencies into preventable tragedies. As climate change worsens storms and floods, the damage will grow unless action is taken now to fix the broken system. Continued …

Cabinet approves allowing factories to set up solar rooftops freely

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a draft directive of the Industry Ministry to free factories from seeking permission for the installation of solar rooftops to generate their own electricity.

Industry Minister Akanat Promphan told reporters after the weekly Cabinet meeting that it had approved a draft regulation under the Factory Act to allow factories to set up solar rooftops of any capacity without having to seek approval first. Continued …

ERC clears 72 clean energy suppliers

The Energy Regulatory Commission’s secretary-general released a list of 72 solar and wind farms to generate 2,145.3 megawatts of electricity despite an earlier order by the energy minister to delay the purchase of clean energy.

Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, ERC secretary-general, issued a statement on Monday, announcing that 64 solar farms and eight wind farms have been selected to produce clean energy. Continued …

Gunkul Engineering Wins 7 Wind-Solar Farm Projects

Sopacha Dhumrongpiyawut, managing director of Gunkul Engineering Public Co., revealed that the company was selected by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to provide the feed-in tarff (FiT) renewable energy for the period of 2022-2030.

There would be 7 on-ground wind and solar energy power plant projects with a total production capacity of 319 megawatts, including a wind farm of 284 megawatts, and a solar farm of 35 megawatts. Continued …

Thailand bans imports of plastic waste from January 1

Importers in Thailand will not be allowed to bring plastic waste into the kingdom from Jan. 1, as the country moves to prevent hazards to the environment and public health, the Department of Foreign Trade announced on Tuesday.

The move, proposed by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, was approved by the Cabinet on Dec. 3 and published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, Arada Fuangtong, the department’s director-general said. Continued …

Greenpeace explores the reality of plastic pollution

By the end of 2024, an estimated 220 million tons of plastic waste will be produced, and by 2050, this amount is expected to triple. All of this plastic pollutes every corner of the planet and threatens the well-being of people.

For countries that are most vulnerable to the climate crisis, such as Thailand, there is a strong need to address the plastic crisis to secure a better future for the younger generations. While the movement for climate action has strengthened, so have the many false solutions that corporations are feeding us. Continued …

234 new species discovered in the Greater Mekong region

A lizard with a name that sounds like it could star in Game of Thrones, a soft-furred hedgehog, a high-altitude crocodile newt, a freshwater fish already well-known among aquarium enthusiasts, and a new genus of palm tree are just some of the 234 species described by scientists in the Greater Mekong region of Southeast Asia in 2023, according to a report released by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

With many of the species already under threat of extinction from human activities, WWF is calling on governments in the region to increase conservation of these rare, amazing creatures and their habitats. Continued …

Bus Tickets

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586

climate change, covid, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Dec 11

December 11, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Charity dinner in Hua Hin/New GM at Pineapple Valley/Long road ahead for Constitution/Southern provinces face heavy rain/Five risk groups for massage therapy/Gunman Killed by Bystanders/Covid-19: from ticking time bomb to mild inconvenience/ECONOMY: ADB upgrades Thailand growth forecast/Nominee Companies Cause $350M Economic Damage/Korat Restaurant Chief Laments/Restaurants worry over New Year/Thailand Favorite Pick for Data Centers/To curb inferior imports/Commitment to railway cooperation/Ford Thailand to expand investment/Chevron tests drones in Thailand’s Gulf/Investing in small nuclear reactors/TOURISM: Niche Tourism Boom Targeted/3.4 trillion baht tourism revenue/‘The White Lotus’ Poised for Rewards/Thai airlines expand India routes/Redefining regional tourism/Record-setting 2025 forecast/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Charity dinner in Hua Hin to raise funds for impoverished children

Hands Across the Water, an Australian charity established to support victims of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, is hosting a charity dinner to raise funds for a commemorative charity run.

The charity dinner will be held this Friday from 6pm to 9pm at Coast Sala, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Attendees are asked to contribute 1,600 baht per person. with the proceeds going to the charity to help children gain access to vital healthcare, education, and housing. Continued …

Brian Gibson appointed GM at Pineapple Valley Golf Club Hua Hin

Pineapple Valley Golf Club Hua Hin, one of Thailand’s premier championship golf courses, has announced the appointment of Brian Gibson as its new general manager.

A British PGA golf professional from Scotland, Gibson brings a wealth of operational and management expertise to his new role. With experience at renowned golf facilities across China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand, he joins Pineapple Valley from Aquella Golf & Country Club near Phuket, where he served as general manager since 2022. Continued …

Long road ahead for Thailand’s new ‘democratic’ Constitution

Before taking office last year, the Pheu Thai Party promised that drafting a new Constitution to replace the junta-drafted charter would be one of its top priorities. However, progress has been slow, and it remains uncertain whether the new Constitution will be completed within this parliamentary term.

In October last year, the Pheu Thai-led government established a committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, to study the structure and requirements of a referendum for drafting a new Constitution. Continued …

Northern Thailand warms as southern provinces face heavy rain

A weather forecast from the Thai Meteorological Department today highlights drastic changes across the country. The northern regions face rising temperatures, while the south prepares for heavy downpours affecting nine provinces, with sea waves exceeding 2 meters.

The current weather patterns indicate that a moderate high-pressure system or cool air mass covering upper Thailand and the South China Sea is weakening. Consequently, the northern regions of Thailand continue to experience cool weather with morning fog, and temperatures are expected to rise by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. Continued …

Korat doctor warns people in five risk groups against massage therapy

A doctor in Nakhon Ratchasima on Monday warned people in five risk groups against receiving Thai traditional massage after the death of a singer related to massage.

Dr. Jade Boonyawongwiroj, assistant director of Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, said people in the five groups could be risking their lives if they undergo Thai massage. Continued …

Gunman Killed by Bystanders after Fatal Rampage in Prachin Buri

A man went on a violent shooting spree in Prachin Buri that left two dead and three injured, only to meet his end at the hands of bystanders. The chaos unfolded yesterday afternoon when the gunman began his attack at a local market, sparking terror throughout the area.

At approximately 4 p.m., police received reports of a shooting in Tha Ngam, a subdistrict in Prachin Buri city. Responding swiftly, officers discovered a horrific scene at a petrol station near the market. Continued …

Covid-19: from ticking time bomb to mild inconvenience

The past few weeks have seen increasing online discussion as to whether Covid-19 is now a mild disease and whether the initial response, in particular the prevention measures and vaccine distribution, was excessive. Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan, head of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology at the Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, addressed this issue in an online post, stating that times and circumstances have changed, making direct comparisons impossible.

“We cannot compare the situation during the first two years of the outbreak to that in the fourth or fifth year. The disease has significantly diminished in severity due to the evolution of the virus itself and the immunity humans have developed from vaccines and infections. As a result, the disease is now much less severe compared to the early stages of the outbreak,” Dr. Yong wrote. Continued …

ADB upgrades Thailand growth forecast, trims developing Asia’s outlook

The Asian Development Bank has upgraded Thailand’s GDP forecast for this year and kept the forecast for next year unchanged. The bank also said developing Asia is likely to grow more slowly than previously thought this year and next, and the outlook could worsen if President-elect Donald Trump makes swift changes to U.S. trade policy.

Developing Asia, which includes 46 Asia-Pacific countries stretching from Georgia to Samoa – and excludes Japan, Australia and New Zealand – is projected to grow 4.9% this year and 4.8% next year, slightly lower than the ADB’s forecasts of 5.0% and 4.9% in September. Continued …

Nominee Companies Cause Thailand $350M Economic Damage in 3 Months

The Ministry of Commerce announced that nominated companies have caused an economic loss of nearly $350 million within three months. Legal action has been taken against 747 cases covering tourism, real estate and other sectors.

At a meeting of the Committee on Foreign Goods and Business Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Commerce Monday, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced shocking figures that nominee companies have caused economic damage of more than 10 billion baht. Continued …

Korat Restaurant Chief Laments: Economy Slumps, Customers Dwindle

The head of Nakhon Ratchasima Restaurant Assn. is calling for government action to revive the economy, as local eateries suffer from dwindling customer numbers amid ongoing financial slumps.

Jirasak Karawiwatana, the association’s president, reported that despite being the end of the year, the economic climate in Nakhon Ratchasima remains grim. Many restaurants in the area are experiencing a significant drop in customers, with some even shutting down operations. Continued …

Restaurants worry over New Year disappointment

The Thai Restaurant Assn. anticipates a surge in the restaurant sector during the New Year festive season, driven by holiday travel and tourism. However, there are concerns that total spending on food and beverages may decline because of weak purchasing power and a tendency for most activities to be concentrated in popular tourist hotspots.

“Since the beginning of December, we have noticed many Thais are cautious with their spending, likely saving for the year-end holidays. As a result, the restaurant industry has remained flat,” said Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association. Continued …

Thailand Emerges as a Favorite Pick for Data Center Investors

Thailand is rapidly positioning itself as a prime destination for data center investments, driven by its strategic location, robust digital infrastructure, and supportive government policies. As Southeast Asia experiences a surge in digital transformation, Thailand’s efforts to enhance its connectivity and technological capabilities have attracted global investors seeking to capitalize on the region’s growing demand for data storage and processing.

The country’s central location within ASEAN makes it an ideal hub for regional data traffic, offering low-latency connections to neighboring nations. Additionally, Thailand’s commitment to renewable energy aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable data center operations, further enhancing its appeal to environmentally conscious investors. Continued …

Tie-up with e-commerce firms to curb inferior imports

The Commerce Ministry and relevant agencies plan to sign a memorandum of understanding with e-commerce platforms by early next year to prevent substandard imported products.

Following a committee meeting focused on substandard imports and unlawful foreign businesses on Monday, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan mandated ministry officials and 16 state agencies work together to resolve these issues, seeking clear results within three months. Continued …

Thailand, Germany reaffirm commitment to railway cooperation

Thailand and Germany have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening railway cooperation with the renewal of a joint statement of intent. The agreement, signed by Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and German Ambassador Ernst Wolfgang Reichel, aims to enhance Thailand’s rail infrastructure and promote sustainable transportation.

The renewed partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between the two nations. Germany’s expertise in railway technology has been instrumental in the development of Thailand’s rail network, including the Blue Line, the Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link, and that airport’s automated passenger transport (APM) system. Continued …

Ford Thailand to expand investment despite weak car market

Ford Thailand, the production and distribution arm of U.S.-based Ford Motor, plans to continue expanding its investment in Thailand despite the slowdown in the domestic car market.

The sluggish car sales are attributed to many economic factors, but banks and car financing companies’ stricter criteria for auto loans based on elevated household debt is causing much hang-wringing among manufacturers. Continued …

Chevron tests drones to boost safety and exploration in Thailand’s Gulf

Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production has successfully completed a proof of concept using unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, to enhance safety and security in petroleum production.

The trial was conducted at the North Pailin field in the Gulf of Thailand using technology from Skyller Solutions Co., or Skyller, an expert in asset inspection solutions utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, with Chevron’s design and planning. The test in September confirmed the feasibility of deploying drones for petroleum exploration and production in the Gulf. Continued …

PTT subsidiary eyes investing in small nuclear reactors

Global Power Synergy (GPSC), a subsidiary of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT, has laid out a plan to increase the use of renewable energy in its electricity generation business in a bid to achieve the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060.

GPSC is interested in investing in small modular reactors (SMRs), which will help cut carbon emissions as well as electricity costs, Sukittee Chaiyarak, senior vice president of corporate finance and investor relations, said on Monday. Continued …

Tourism Authority of Thailand targets Niche Tourism Boom in 2025

In a strategic move to capitalize on the high-end travel market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is banking on four niche sectors — wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons — for a prosperous 2025.

Propelled by a global shift toward personalized and luxurious travel experiences, the Thai tourism agency is crafting exclusive events and experiences to cater to an affluent clientele with substantial spending power. Continued …

Thailand aims for 3.4 trillion baht tourism revenue in 2025

Thailand is setting its sights on a tourism boom with a newly launched strategy aimed at bolstering both international and domestic travel. With the tourism sector generating a substantial 1.892 trillion baht (US$56 billion) in 2023, the government is now targeting 3.4 trillion baht (US$100 billion) in revenues in 2025, aspiring to welcome over 40 million international visitors.

The Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year 2025 campaign, introduced recently, forms the backbone of this ambitious initiative, promoting Thai culture and lesser-known destinations through collaborations with major players such as Grab, Agoda, Expedia, and Thai Airways. Continued …

Thailand’s Prominent Role in ‘The White Lotus’ Poised for Rewards

Tourists are enjoying the serene Chawang Beach in Koh Samui, as anticipation builds for the new season of HBO’s “The White Lotus,” primarily filmed on the island. This season is expected to significantly enhance Thailand’s tourism, attracting fans eager to explore the picturesque locations featured in the show.

Mike White, the series creator, was captivated by Koh Samui’s charm during his site visit, especially the stunning Four Seasons Resort. Hotel manager Jasjit Singh Assi noted how effortlessly he fell for the destination, which now stands poised for a surge in visitors. Continued …

Thai airlines expand routes to capitalize on booming Indian tourism

As India emerges as a key tourism market for Thailand, three major Thai airlines have announced new direct flight routes to connect Bangkok with various Indian cities. The move is aimed at capitalizing on the surge in Indian tourist arrivals, which are expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the first 11 months of 2024 have seen a significant increase in Indian tourist arrivals, with more than 1.9 million visitors to Thailand. This figure positions India as the third-largest source of foreign tourists, trailing only China and Malaysia. Continued …

Taiwan and Thailand are redefining regional tourism

Taiwan and Thailand are charting a path toward sustainable tourism through the launch of the Taiwan-Thailand Tourism Personnel Exchange Program. Organized by the Taiwan Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the program combined educational courses with intensive field visits.

This activity aims to promote resource integration, promote digital transformation, and drive sustainable tourism development, in line with the broader goal of revitalizing and expanding the tourism industries in both countries. Continued …

Record-setting 2025 forecast for global airlines

The global airline industry is expected to earn revenue of more than $1 trillion from record passenger numbers, despite “unacceptable” difficulties in securing new planes, says the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Airlines around the world have seen their growth hampered by problems at Boeing and Airbus, which have delayed jet deliveries. Without newer, more efficient planes, airlines say they cannot cut fuel costs while flying more people. Continued …

Bus Tickets

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586





















12 Aug	Wednesday	The Queen Mother’s Birthday
23 Sep	Wednesday	September Equinox
24 Sep	Thursday	Mahidol Day
13 Oct	Tuesday	Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol
23 Oct	Friday	Chulalongkorn Day
31 Oct	Saturday	Halloween
5 Dec	Saturday	King Bhumibol’s Birthday
7 Dec	Monday	King Bhumibol’s Birthday observed
10 Dec	Thursday	Constitution Day
22 Dec	Tuesday	December Solstice
24 Dec	Thursday	Christmas Eve
25 Dec	Friday	Christmas Day
31 Dec	Thursday	New Year’s Eve

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin Food Fest returns August 28-30

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

New Hua Hin municipal office building design reviewed

Cultural event set for old Hua Hin Railway Station

Thailand Riviera promotion discussed by four provinces

‘This Is Israeli Territory’: Phuket Widens Business Probe

Thailand launches street-food app and certification scheme

Fighting the phone addiction scourge

Thailand Drives Kratom Toward Global Herbal Innovation Economy

Police sergeant fends off four attackers in latest southern insurgency attack in Pattani

US pauses Iran strikes but conflict spreads to Red Sea and Caspian

Thai sellers cut prices on new and second-hand homes amid tight lending

Thai exports to the US skyrocket despite tariffs

Exporters shrug off new Trump tariffs

China envoy sets three-point plan for Thai trade

Thailand tightens data center rules as AI demand grows

The robot army is coming

Thailand Food Supplement Market to Reach US$ 2.52B by 2033

Thailand risks falling behind as global longevity race gathers pace

BDMS Launches WellEra Bangkok, a US$865 Million Wellness Complex

Indian arrivals may surge with visa waiver

Phuket cracks down on jet skis

Nakhon Si Thammarat Temple Wins UNESCO Status

Making Kai yok krok on the street

Mitsubishi Motors to Invest B16 billion in Thailand’s EV Push

Global plastic pollution efforts focus on recycling and cooperation

Italian students apologize as BTS dispute ends following fines

Chinese Gray Network Busted at Nonthaburi Hotel –Continued …

Drunk Myanmar Driver Kills Two in Phuket Crash – Continued …

Russian Crime Boss Arrested in Phuket Extradition Case – Continued …

Indian Man Held with 6kg of Etomidate at Bangkok Airport – Continued …

Chinese Fugitives Held in Pattaya Villa Raid – Continued …

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Time is short when you’re on the road, so while Expat News travels, our daily news report will use headlines only to save some time. Regular coverage resumes Friday.

Hua Hin water supply sufficient, officials say

Mini-Balloon Festival returns to Pak Nam Pran

Finding the Forgotten Side of Hua Hin

Saphan Pla Night Market (fishing pier)

Thailand Approves First Deportation Rules For Foreigners

Thailand Searches Five Targets in Nominee Probe

When a restaurant becomes a pub: How licensing loopholes put customers at risk

Trump threatens to hit Iran power plants next week if no deal

BOT Monitors Middle East Tension as Baht Drops 6% Year to Date

Three-airport rail deadlock clouds Thailand’s B140-billion PPP pipeline

Krabi island up for sale to raise state revenue

Thailand revamps visa rules for 65 countries and territories

New Thai-Malaysian checkpoint a boon for tourism

Thailand buckles to India, restores visa-free scheme

Kuwaiti Tourists Allege Cash Fine Racket in Pattaya

Phuket beaches to be ‘restored’

What Americans Get Wrong About Life in Thailand

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Food festival returns Aug 28-30

Turkish man arrsted in Hua Hin over 274-day overstay

Dead green turtle found on Cha Am beach

Prison tip-off leads to Cha Am drug seizure

Road works to begin on Soi 102

Briton Details Thai Prison Ordeal in Bangkok

Vaping and E-Cigarettes said sharply increase chances of erectile dysfunction

Lisa Performs at World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles

Underage prostitution ring run from a Kanchanaburi hotel busted

US and Iran Reach Agreement to End War, Signing Set for Friday

Thai Chamber lists 10 proposals to pull Thai economy out of ICU

Thai Baht Weakens as April Trade Deficit Hits Record USD 10 Billion

Thai trade unions address reduction of safety and health risks in the workplace

Israel, Europe, and Australia Driving Koh Phangan Property Investment Past B7.9B

Thailand’s AI Optimism Signals Robust Investment Potential

AI layoff trap raises wider risks for workers, firms, and demand

How China is replacing Japan as Thailand’s dominant industrial partner

Thailand urged to close trade loopholes as US tariff talks intensify

Four influencer groups stay in demand as brands chase sales over likes

CAAT Allocates Winter Slots to New Airlines to Thailand

Krabi set for 126 winter flights as Nordic demand rises ahead of high season

Andaman tourism groups seek India visa-free review

Sunday at Khlong Tan: Railside stalls serve rare Thai delicacies

Waste-to-Energy Drives Thailand’s Clean Power Shift

Green Revolution in the Paddy Fields

Warning over risk to Thai EVs when subsidies end

Indian Tourists Asked to Leave Songkhla Resort