• Fisheries Congress held in Hua Hin/Oil tanker sinks off PKK/Car models cleared for E20/Banknotes in Remembrance of Queen Sirikit/Koh Samui flood warning/Bangkok Must Learn to ‘Live With Water’
• ECONOMY: Global Capital Floods Thailand/Chinese premier visit/New regulations for data centers/Care gaps hold back Thai women/AirAsia parent posts loss/PTT reports 40.55-billion-baht profit/Thailand and Canada FTA talks
• TOURISM: Bangkok-Chiang Mai airfares soar/Airfare inflation upsets travelers/Anti-corruption measures for Khao San Road
• CLIMATE THAILAND: Toxic Sai River upends lives/Thailand, Myanmar to meet about river pollution/EV charging opens doors/More e-waste curbs/Stronger recycling measures/Deportation for foreigners importing toxic waste
• FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress held in Hua Hin

The New England Aquarium’s Marine Conservation Action Fund supported project leader Laraswati Clarita Ola to attend the World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress in Hua Hin, Thailand. Here, she shares her experience.

“I never imagined that one day I would stand before people from around the world to share the stories of women fishmongers from Alor.” Before me were researchers, academics, practitioners, civil society organizations, government representatives, and small-scall fishing communities from across the globe. Continued … 

Six still missing after oil tanker sinks off PKK

Thai maritime authorities are continuing the search for six crew members for a second day after the fishing-fuel tanker Venus 14 sank in the Gulf of Thailand off Prachuap Khiri Khan. The vessel went down at about 9 am on Wednesday. Authorities are also monitoring an estimated 280,000 liters of diesel aboard the vessel, although no leak has yet been reported.

Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency has modelled a possible spill scenario. It said leaked oil could initially move south from the wreck before turning west or southwest, depending on currents and other environmental factors. Should oil enter Prachuap Bay, GISTDA estimates that coral reef areas totaling 61 rai could be at risk. Continued … 

Over 200 car models cleared for E20

Thailand’s Department of Energy Business lists more than 200 vehicle models across 20 brands in its August guide to E20 compatibility, providing model and year information as the government considers making the fuel the country’s standard petrol blend.

The proposed transition toward E20 is intended to strengthen energy security, reduce dependence on imported crude oil and support farmers and the domestic biofuel industry. Continued … 

Bank of Thailand to Launch Banknotes in Remembrance of Queen Sirikit

Koh Samui flood warning as rain and high tides hit

Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued an urgent flood warning for Koh Samui, where continuing heavy rain and high sea levels are increasing the threat of flash floods, landslides and flooding.

The warning was issued yesterday afternoon for Koh Samui district in Surat Thani province. Residents in vulnerable locations have been told to move valuables and essential belongings to higher ground. Continued … 

Bangkok Must Learn to ‘Live With Water’ to Combat Subsidence and Floods

Bangkok must move beyond reactive flood defenses and learn the art of “living with water” to safeguard its future against climate change and accelerating land subsidence, a senior United Nations official warned yesterday.

Delivering the opening remarks at a panel discussion during Sustainability Expo 2026 (SX2026) in Bangkok, Srinivasa Popuri, chief of the UN-Habitat Multi-Country Program Office for the Regional Office of Asia and the Pacific, urged city planners and governments across the region to transition from crisis response to proactive, climate-ready urbanization. Continued … 

Global Capital Floods Thailand as HSBC Champions Long-Term Outlook

Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into Thailand have surged by 62% year-on-year, propelled by a diversified range of source markets and growing international confidence in the kingdom’s structural fundamentals.

Speaking during a media roundtable yesterday, Giorgio Gamba, chief executive officer and head of wholesale banking at HSBC Thailand, outlined how global capital is increasingly targeting Thailand due to its pro-business regulatory environment, established logistics network, and resilient infrastructure. Continued … 

Thailand to host first official Chinese premier visit in 7 years

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is preparing to welcome Chinese Premier Li Qiang at Government House in Bangkok today, for talks and cooperation agreement signings. The official visit will be the first by a Chinese premier in seven years.

The Thai and Chinese delegations are expected to discuss high-level exchanges, cybersecurity and online crime, trade, investment, finance and the digital economy, alongside measures to tackle illegal business activities. Continued … 

New regulations approved by Thai cabinet for the data center development boom

Thailand has moved to secure its digital investment future, unveiling sweeping new data center regulations after electricity requests topped 30,000 megawatts. Yet, officials say barely a quarter of applicants have genuine investment plans.

Tuesday’s Cabinet decision introduces seven regulatory categories, tighter scrutiny of speculative power reservations and a streamlined approval system. Crucially, existing investors receive protection, while new projects face clearer environmental and infrastructure rules. The move follows Bangkok’s controversial permit restrictions and mounting concerns over electricity supplies. Continued … 

Care gaps hold back Thai women’s employment

Thailand’s strong gains in girls’ education and maternal health have yet to translate into equal economic opportunities, political leadership or personal safety for women, according to the Thailand Country Gender Equality Profile 2026 launched by the United Nations at the Sustainability Expo 2026 (SX2026) in Bangkok.

The report highlights a stark disconnect between educational attainment and workforce participation. While women outpace men in tertiary education enrollment at 51.6% compared to 38.6%, female labor force participation remains stagnant at 58.9%, lagging well behind men’s 74.7%. Continued … 

AirAsia parent posts 3.85-billion-baht nine-month loss as Thai Airways profit falls

Thai Airways and Thai AirAsia faced mounting financial pressure in the third quarter of 2026, as higher aviation fuel costs, foreign-exchange losses and weaker passenger demand affected their earnings.

Thai Airways International reported a consolidated net loss of 418 million baht for the quarter, reversing a profit of 4.42 billion baht a year earlier. The loss attributable to shareholders of the parent company was approximately 432 million baht. Continued … 

PTT reports 40.55-billion-baht quarterly profit

PTT reported a net profit of 40.55 billion baht in the third quarter of 2026, more than double the amount recorded a year earlier, supported by a recovery in refining margins, gains from oil inventories and stronger performance in its petroleum businesses.

The Thai energy group’s net profit rose approximately 105% from 19.78 billion baht in the same quarter of 2025, while sales revenue increased 21.2% to 784.02 billion baht. Continued … 

Thailand and Canada aim to conclude FTA talks by end of 2027

Thailand and Canada aim to conclude negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of 2027, according to Thailand’s Department of Trade Negotiations. The first round took place in Toronto, Canada, on Oct. 26–30.

Kwanapa Phivnil, deputy director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations and head of the Thai negotiating team, said the proposed pact was intended to give Thai exporters wider access to the Canadian market and expand investment opportunities. Continued … 

Bangkok-Chiang Mai airfares soar above $900 during Yi Peng festival

Airfares between Bangkok and Chiang Mai have surged to more than 33,000 baht ($977) during the Yi Peng lantern festival, prompting Thailand’s deputy transport minister to blame online travel agencies for inflated prices and advise passengers to book directly with airlines.

Siripong Angkasakulkiat, deputy transport minister, He explained that flights to Chiang Mai had been reduced by approximately 60 per day during the festival to avoid sky lanterns, creating a shortage of seats amid strong demand. He said some online travel agencies (OTAs) and travel agents were taking advantage of the situation by raising ticket prices. Continued … 

Loy Krathong airfare inflation upsets travelers

Passengers traveling to Chiang Mai for the Loy Krathong festival are advised to check fares and seat availability directly with airlines, as some booking platforms may show much higher prices when seats are running low.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said yesterday it was responding to complaints circulating online about unusually expensive tickets between Bangkok and the northern tourist city. Continued … 

What anti-corruption measures are proposed for Khao San Road?

The government is proposing a pilot sandbox scheme for Bangkok’s Khao San and Rambuttri roads to curb bribery and improve law enforcement at entertainment venues. This initiative aims to close regulatory loopholes that allow officials to solicit bribes and to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws.

The proposed measures include reviewing existing laws and licensing procedures for entertainment venues to prevent officials from demanding illegal payments. Authorities are also considering adjusting operating hours to better reflect current tourism needs and improve the experience for visitors and businesses. Additionally, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission is tasked with consulting relevant agencies to address concerns regarding legal clarity and the potential for misconduct. – Bangkok Post AI

Toxic Sai River upends lives in Mae Sai

The contamination of the Sai River with toxic substances, allegedly discharged from unregulated mining activities in Shan state of Myanmar, has not only damaged the economy and environment of Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai province, but has also turned the livelihoods of many riverside residents upside down.

Reporters revisited a resident of the Tham Pha Chom community, in Wiang Pang Kham of Mae Sai district, called Kanya Kanwana, whose statements reflect the general bitterness and hardship felt since the major flooding in the district two years ago. Continued … 

Thailand, Myanmar to meet later this month to discuss river pollution

Thailand and Myanmar have agreed to hold a meeting on Nov. 25 and 26 to discuss cross-border river pollution affecting the Sai and Kok rivers.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said upon his return from Myanmar yesterday that the Myanmar government had expressed its readiness to cooperate in addressing river pollution, following growing concerns over contamination in the two rivers. Continued … 

EV charging opens doors for landowners

Thailand’s shortage of approximately 26,000 electric vehicle charging outlets is creating significant business opportunities, particularly for landowners who can transform their properties into EV destinations. This growing demand is being driven by a rapid increase in EV registrations, which saw a nearly 90% year-on-year jump in September alone.

The shortage is especially critical at popular tourist destinations and along major transport corridors, such as the routes connecting Chon Buri, Rayong, and Kanchanaburi. Business owners at restaurants, hotels, and roadside stops are finding that installing charging stations can attract more visitors and generate additional revenue. Furthermore, the rapid expansion of the EV market is creating a long-term need for infrastructure to support the increasing number of motorists seeking fast-charging capabilities. – Bangkok Post AI

Thai government mulls more e-waste curbs

The Thai government is expected to present new measures to the cabinet in December aimed at curbing illegal electronic waste imports, factory violations, and hazardous waste dumping.

These proposed measures involve a three-pronged approach that includes intensifying inspections, strengthening import controls, and increasing penalties to address the growing issue of e-waste and hazardous waste. The government is specifically looking at tightening oversight on high-risk product categories entering the country and enhancing enforcement to prevent illegal dumping that threatens the environment and public health. – Bangkok Post AI

What factors are driving Thailand’s push for stronger recycling measures?

Thailand is intensifying its recycling and waste-management efforts primarily to address a growing influx of waste from end-of-life vehicles, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and aging solar panels. The push is also being fueled by increasing attention from both the government and the private sector toward promoting renewable energy and electric mobility.

The Ministry of Industry is specifically working to establish dedicated recycling industrial estates to manage the rising volumes of hazardous and solar-related waste. Furthermore, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) and the Office of Industrial Economics are collaborating to implement stronger measures to facilitate the circular economy and support green investment projects. These efforts aim to mitigate public health and environmental risks, particularly as solar panels typically have an operational lifespan of 20 to 25 years. – Bangkok Post AI

Thailand weighs deportation for foreigners importing toxic waste

Thailand is considering tougher penalties, including deportation, for foreigners caught illegally importing toxic waste, as the government moves to strengthen its crackdown on electronic waste and illegal recycling operations.

The government’s electronic waste committee is also preparing stricter controls on metal scrap imports and exports, with plans to submit the proposals to the Cabinet by December. Continued … 

• British man held after cocaine bag thrown into pool – Continued … 

• Irish man held over gun in Nong Prue – Continued … 

• Taiwanese fugitive held in Pattaya over 15 warrants – Continued … 

• Vietnamese workers held in Nakhon Pathom cannabis raidv- Continued … 

• Chinese crypto fraud suspects held in Bangkok – Continued … 

• Russian held in Pattaya over alleged scam withdrawals – Continued … 

• Chinese gambling boss held at Sukhumvit condo – Continued … 

• Swiss man arrested in Pattaya child abuse inquiry – Continued … 

Trump says deal with Iran not needed, pulls VP off negotiations

US President Donald Trump signaled he plans to wind down negotiations with Iran, saying a deal with Tehran is not needed, as he pulled Vice President JD Vance off diplomatic efforts to broker a peace deal to end the war in Iran.

Trump said he asked Vance, who has been leading negotiations with Iran, to instead focus his “complete and total attention” on tackling alleged crime and corruption in Democratic-led cities. Continued … 

Iran threatens bases in Europe if used in renewed US attacks

Iran has threatened to strike military bases from West Asia to Europe if they are involved in a renewed US war against the country, according to a report yesterday.

Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued the threat in a social media post as diplomatic efforts continued to prevent renewed fighting. Continued … 

Brent rises 3.3% amid Saudi attack claims

Brent crude gained US$3.06 a barrel yesterday, as Houthi claims of attacks on Saudi energy facilities and disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz intensified concerns about global oil supplies.

Brent futures settled 3.3% higher at US$95.82 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude increased US$2.21, or 2.6%, to US$88.74. Both benchmarks nevertheless remained about 2.5% lower for the week after a volatile session in which prices reversed early losses. Continued … 

Finland, Norway block visas for Russian athletes

Finland’s government yesterday announced it was restricting visas for Russian athletes, insisting that they had “no business” in the country as long as the Ukraine war goes on. Hours later, Norway announced that it would prevent professional Russian and Belarusian sportspeople from competing on its territory. Continued … 

Europe’s security ‘fundamentally reshaped’ by war in Ukraine

Europe’s security has been “fundamentally reshaped” by Russia’s war in Ukraine, Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Micheál Martin has told 50 leaders who are in Dublin for a summit. “What is happening in Ukraine goes against all of our values and all of what we stand for,” he said. Continued … 

Russian warship hit by Ukrainian drone in Gulf of Finland

Finnish officials have confirmed that a Russian warship was attacked in the Gulf of Finland on Wednesday, although little is known about the strike. Ukraine’s SBU security service said it targeted the ship Naro-Fominsk as part of a broader drone operation against Russia’s Ust-Luga oil export depot on the Baltic coast. Continued … 

Global AI stocks sink as Nvidia CEO’s exit deepens sector concerns

Global AI-linked stocks tumbled yesterday as ‌Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang resigned following a deepening scandal around his affairs, upending the chipmaker’s leadership and posing fresh risks to a sector already reeling with funding and regulatory concerns. Continued … 

Five facts about APEC with Trump, Putin and Xi set to attend

Attention will focus next week on a summit of US, Chinese and Russian leaders set for the 21-member gathering of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in China’s southern technology hub of Shenzhen. Continued … 

Mercedes to halt German investments, mulling plant closures

Struggling German carmaker Mercedes-Benz announced yesterday it will halt all investment in Germany and is mulling plant closures, underlining the woes facing the country’s automotive sector. Like its German peers, Mercedes has been battered by Chinese competition and high costs, and last month became the third big German carmaker to cut its outlook for the year. 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