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Tuesday’s news-Nov 18

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Red flags in Hua Hin/Waghor Super Mini Marathon/Thailand Flood Crisis/Thaksin Ordered to Pay Tax Bill/Easing ride-hailing registration/Illegal Villa Still Operating on Samui

  • ECONOMY: Economy ‘Stuck in a Rut’/Economy risks falling behind ASEAN/Thailand upbeat on exports/Chinese metropolis fuels trade boom/Tariff impact on GDP/Food shops benefit from co-payment scheme/Data center services to earn Bt14.2 billion
  • TOURISM: The uncrowded, affordable alternative to Koh Samui/Businesses Welcome Eased Alcohol Rules/AirAsia X plans long-haul European routes/Warning After Henna Disaster/Pattaya gives foreign tourists what they want/Thai airlines target China tourist surge/Thailand links with Chinese payment giants/Court overturns rule allowing foreign pilots
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Is Life Getting Better for Thais?/Follow these 6 unspoken rules
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

 

‘No swimming’ red flags out in Hua Hin

Hua Hin authorities have banned swimming along the main beach after red flags were raised today following warnings of strong winds and rough seas in the Gulf of Thailand.

According to the Meteorological Department’s forecast for Nov. 17-23, the Gulf is experiencing waves of 2–3 meters as the northeast monsoon strengthens and an easterly wind surge moves across the south. The system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to parts of the southern provinces and hazardous sea conditions throughout the week. Continued … 

Waghor Super Mini Marathon set for Sunday

The Waghor Super Mini Marathon 2025 will take place on Sunday at King Mongkut’s Science Park at Waghor in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The event aims to promote local tourism while raising scholarship funds for three schools in the area: Ban Waghor School (Friendship 72), Ban Khlong Wan School, and Ban Nong Hin School.

The event offers four categories: Super Mini Marathon (14 km) – Bt550; Fun Run (5 km – Bt450 THB; Family Beach Run (3.5 km) – Bt350; and Fancy Run (5 km) – Free entry. Continued … 

Thailand Flood Crisis: Northern Runoff Slows, But 13 Provinces Remain Submerged

Although northern runoff in the Chao Phraya River Basin is slowing, allowing authorities to actively drain floodwater, 13 provinces remain submerged.

The number of affected households has slightly increased due to large amounts of stagnant “field water” trapped in low-lying areas, even as main river levels recede. Continued …

Supreme Court Orders Thaksin to Pay 17.6-Billion-Baht Tax Bill

The Supreme Court has ordered Thaksin Shinawatra to pay 17.6 billion Thai baht in taxes, fines, and fees relating to the sale of Shin Corp. shares in 2006. This overturns the earlier decisions by Thailand’s Central Tax Court and the Special Appeals Court, which had sided with Thaksin, previously canceling the Revenue Department’s tax assessment due to illegality.

The origins of this case trace back to a 2017 tax assessment by the Revenue Department, demanding payment from Thaksin following the sale of Shin Corp. shares. In 2023, Thaksin managed to initially win his case in both the Tax Court and Appeals Court. However, the Revenue Department challenged these rulings, leading to the Supreme Court’s recent reversal. Continued …

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Ministries agree to ease ride-hailing registration

The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry and Transport Ministry have reached an agreement to ease some of the burden drivers face when registering to provide a service via ride-hailing platforms.

The move follows a request from a group of drivers for support regarding this matter from both ministries. DES Minister Chaichanok Chidchob said the two ministries reached a conclusion to respond to the eight requests regarding the easing of the registration process. Continued …

Illegal Villa Still Operating Despite Demolition Orders on Samui

“Citizens for Samui,” a local civic group, reported yesterday that a luxury villa project in Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, continues to operate despite repeated demolition orders.

The project had previously been ordered for demolition under the Building Control Act, B.E. 2522, with deadlines first set for October 2019. Authorities had placed official notices and barriers to prevent occupancy, but the site remains open to guests. Continued …

Thailand’s Economy ‘Stuck in a Rut or Falling Off a Cliff,’ Warn Senior Officials

Senior Thai policymakers have issued stark warnings about the country’s economic trajectory, with the deputy prime minister describing Thailand as either “stuck in a rut” or potentially “falling off a cliff.”

Veerathai Santiprabhob, chairman of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) and former Bank of Thailand governor, quoted Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, who stated last month that “Thailand’s economy is facing a stuck situation or may be falling off a cliff.” Continued …

TDRI warns Thai economy risks falling behind ASEAN

The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has warned that Thailand is at risk of being overtaken by its ASEAN neighbors if the country fails to reform its economic model, stressing the need to develop “Good Jobs” and overhaul the nation’s production system to boost competitiveness.

TDRI Presiden Somkiat Tangkitvanich said during the annual seminar, “Reimagining Thailand’s Development Model”, that the Thai economy has entered a prolonged period of “chronic slow growth” lasting more than three decades. Thailand, once capable of expanding 7% per year, is now growing at only about 2%, placing it near the bottom of Asia — ahead of only Japan. Continued …

Thailand upbeat on exports to US

Businesses and economists are optimistic that the US will not be tough on trade negotiations with Thailand following Bangkok’s suspension of its peace accord with Cambodia, saying US President Donald Trump is feeling domestic pressure to lower taxes to ease rising inflation.

Burin Adulwattana, managing director of Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), said Trump is expected to lower taxes on additional imported items to avoid the impacts of high tariffs on US consumers. Continued …

Southern Chinese metropolis fuels China-Thailand trade boom

A shipment of fresh Thai coconuts glided into Shenzhen’s Shekou container terminal and was swiftly cleared by customs before reaching supermarket shelves across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, while robotic arms at BYD’s assembly line completed the final touches on new energy vehicles (NEVs) bound for the bustling streets of Bangkok.

This seamless exchange epitomizes the deepening trade ties between Shenzhen and Thailand, with trade volume hitting 92.82 billion yuan (about 13.1 billion U.S. dollars) in the first 10 months of 2025, a 4.4% year-on-year increase, cementing Shenzhen’s position as China’s top city in trade volume with Thailand. Continued …

Council warns of tariff impact on GDP growth

The Thai economy must brace for the impact of the US’s reciprocal tariff policy, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), which projects next year’s GDP growth will slow to 1.7%, down from an estimated 2% this year.

For 2026, the NESDC expects Thailand’s economic growth to be lower than this year, largely due to the effects of America’s tariff measures, which are expected to weigh on global trade volume. Global trade is projected to expand only 2.3% in 2026, while global GDP is projected to grow 2.8%. Continued …

Food shops get benefit boost from co-payment scheme

Food shops participating in the Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment scheme and completing the government’s online delivery upskilling program will be eligible to receive benefits of up to 2,000 baht if they secure at least five delivery orders during the campaign period, deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Prertwiwatana said.

She said that the co-payment scheme is designed not only to ease living costs and stimulate economic activity, but also to help small food vendors expand into the rapidly growing online delivery market. Continued …

Data center services to earn Bt14.2 billion in 2026

Thailand’s data center service business is projected to post 14.2 billion baht in revenue in 2026, marking a 9% increase from the estimated 13.1 billion baht in 2025.

The Thai data center service business has experienced an annual total revenue growth rate of 11.1% over the past five years, primarily fueled by demand from the private sector, which accounts for roughly 95% of the need for data storage services in Thailand, said Theeraphoom Vuthipramote, a researcher at K-Research. Continued …

The uncrowded, affordable alternative to Koh Samui for winter sun

Gazing out of the train window at fields filled with palm trees, I daydreamed about wandering along Hua Hin’s four-mile-long, pale beach, feeling sand crunch beneath my feet as the sun set.

Video 

I’m not sure how I ended up going straight from the train to an ice bath, but then wellness is a growing attraction in Hua Hin. I let out a sigh of relief as Katie, my spa therapist at The Standard hotel, said my five Baltic-cold minutes were complete, and that I could thaw out in the sauna. Continued …

Thai Businesses Welcome Eased Alcohol Rules, See Boost for Tourism

Thailand’s private sector expects tourism to benefit from a government decision to relax alcohol restrictions, even as health officials warn of potential risks.

The National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee on Nov.13 approved lifting the ban on drinking between 2 pm and 5 pm and extending on-premise alcohol service by one hour past midnight. The new rules are expected to take effect within 15 days. The move follows lobbying from business groups and pressure from opposition parties. Continued …

Low-cost carrier AirAsia X plans new long-haul European routes

Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia X, which recently launched flights to Istanbul, is planning to establish more long-haul routes to Europe sometime next year, its CEO Benyamin Ismail said yesterday.

AirAsia X began flying direct to Istanbul from Kuala Lumpur on Nov. 14. The route marked a return to Europe for the airline, which underwent a corporate restructuring after its operations were hit hard during the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

American Tourist Issues Warning After Henna Disaster in Bangkok

An American tourist, Nick Nayersina, has issued a stark warning after his holiday in Bangkok took a painful turn due to a black henna face tattoo. The impromptu decision during a night out with friends led to a severe allergic reaction, causing blistering and oozing on his face, which may result in permanent scarring.

Nayersina was unaware that black henna, unlike traditional henna, contains chemicals harmful to the skin. Black henna is popular for its dark pigment, resembling a real tattoo. However, it contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical legal in hair dye only under strict conditions. When applied directly to the skin, PPD can cause severe burns and infections. Continued …

Pattaya gives foreign tourists what they want, not what they can keep

Few places blur the line between fantasy and reality quite like Pattaya. Beneath the glow of neon bars and the gentle sway of palm-lined beaches, foreign tourists often feel they’ve stepped into a world where affection is abundant and romance seems just a conversation away.

But as visitors lean into the warmth of Thai hospitality, a deeper question lingers: are these connections signs of genuine long-term love, or simply carefully crafted moments designed to give tourists the happiness they want while they’re here? Continued … 

Thai airlines target China tourist surge amid Japan tensions

Although the airline sector has been suffering from sluggish tourism and a declining number of Chinese arrivals since the beginning of the year, Thailand should still have a robust high season during the fourth quarter, as well as opportunities for more Chinese demand, following China’s warning to its citizens to not visit Japan.

Tensions between China and Japan have escalated, fueling a sharp drop in Japan’s retail and tourism stock pricing, as China issued a travel warning over visits by its citizens to Japan, after the Japanese prime minister commented about the possible use of military force in any Taiwan conflict. Continued …

Thailand links with Chinese payment giants for cross-border QR PromptPay

Thailand’s NITMX has teamed with UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay to enable seamless cross-border QR PromptPay payments for Chinese tourists and boost digital-payment connectivity with Asia.

National ITMX Co. (NITMX), Thailand’s national payment infrastructure operator and the country’s designated interbank transaction management and exchange, has entered into a strategic partnership with three of China’s largest payment providers, UnionPay International, Ant International (via Alipay under the Alipay+ system), and Tenpay Payment Technology (operator of WeChat Pay). Continued …

Court overturns Labor Ministry rule allowing foreign pilots to fly in Thailand

Thailand’s Administrative Court has ruled to annul a Labor Ministry announcement that authorized foreign pilots to operate flights within the Kingdom, finding the decision to be an unlawful exercise of ministerial discretion.

The decision, issued yesterday, arose from a lawsuit brought by the Thai Pilots Assn. and its president against the Labor Ministry and other government bodies. The court’s order annuls the ministry’s announcement allowing foreign nationals to serve as flight crew on wet-leased aircraft operating within Thailand. Continued …

Is Life Getting Better for Thais?

Thailand has seen a dramatic transformation from its agricultural roots to a bustling industrialized nation over the past five decades, with marked improvements in healthcare, education, and living standards. Despite these advancements, many Thais nostalgically recall a simpler, safer past.

While this nostalgic sentiment is strongest among Baby Boomers and Gen X, the younger generations, like Gen Z, are more open to today’s opportunities for innovation and progress, though they too hesitate to declare the present superior. This nuanced perspective, balancing heritage with the demands of modernity, significantly impacts Thai society and consumption patterns. Continued …

If you follow these 6 unspoken rules in Thailand, locals will go out of their way for you

I spent three weeks in Thailand a few years back, and within the first two days, I realized something important: the guidebooks tell you what to see, but they rarely tell you how to actually connect with people.

There’s this moment I remember vividly. I was at a small street food stall in Chiang Mai, attempting to order pad Thai with my terrible Thai pronunciation. The vendor smiled, corrected me gently, and then spent the next 10 minutes teaching me how to say it properly. By the end of the week, she was saving me the best spot at her cart and throwing in extra spring rolls.That wasn’t luck. That was the result of understanding something deeper than tourist etiquette. Continued …

UK toughens asylum system with radical overhaul

The UK government yesterday unveiled dramatic changes to its asylum system, including drastically cutting protections for refugees and their children, seeking to stem a wave of irregular migrants that has fueled rising anger on the far-right. Continued …

China warns people to avoid travel to Japan amid spat

Chinese airlines have recorded about 491,000 cancellations of tickets to Japan since Saturday – roughly 32% of their total bookings to the typically popular destination – after Beijing advised citizens to avoid traveling there amid a diplomatic spat. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links

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Thursday’s news-Nov 13

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Thailand launches visa-run crackdown/Australians swap Sydney for Hua Hin/Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin expansion/Jazz Festival postponed/Vintage Car Parade returns/Review new Alcohol Control Act/Thai, Cambodian Troops Exchange Fire/Dams near full capacity/Three Wild Elephants Electrocuted

  • ECONOMY: Boon for food delivery giants/Government unveils 20 economic measures/Trade strategy gains ground/Businesses oppose new industry rules/Forefront of social commerce trend/Halal exports reach US$8 billion
  • TOURISM: Tourism faces intense competition/Wellness tourism next economic growth engine/Pattaya’s High Season Hit/Fined for Allegedly Overcharging
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Nan: Woven from many hands
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok hit by severe PM2.5 pollution/EGAT Accelerates Hydro-Floating Solar/DayOne to use power from floating solar/Oil forecaster’s dramatic shift
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Thailand launches visa-run crackdown

 

Thailand has launched a visa-run crackdown targeting foreigners who repeatedly enter the country on visa-free stays, tightening checks on travelers suspected of using the system to work illegally or engage in cybercrime and other offenses.

Immigration Bureau commanders nationwide have been instructed to increase scrutiny of foreign nationals whose repeated in-and-out travel under the visa-exemption scheme is considered inconsistent with ordinary tourism. Continued …

Australians swap Sydney prices for luxury Thai villa in Hua Hin

Australians who can’t afford to buy a house in their home country are looking closely at overseas alternatives. As Australia’s home price medians creep up up to $949,000 in capital cities and beyond $1.2m in Sydney, according to PropTrack data, it’s easy to understand why many are abandoning Australia to find their dream home elsewhere.

One couple have done just that, moving their life from Australia to Thailand, and are now showing Aussies how property prices compare. The couple has settled in Thailand after struggling to afford to buy a property in Australia. The couple moved to Hua Hin, which they said said they had never heard of until they moved there around two years ago. They said it was more affordable compared to Phucket or Ko Samui and you could get amazing properties between $450,000-$800,000. Continued …

Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin expansion set for completion in early 2026

Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin is entering a new phase of growth with a major expansion project designed to enhance medical services and meet rising healthcare demand in the region. The development, led by newly appointed Hospital Director Dr. Asawin “Pete” Puwatanasan, marks a significant milestone for Hua Hin’s most established private hospital.

The centerpiece of this transformation is the construction of Building B, a new facility scheduled for completion in early 2026. Once finished, the expansion will add 50 inpatient rooms and a range of upgraded specialist departments, including the Heart Center, Gastrointestinal Center, Health Check-up Unit, Internal Medicine, and Skin Services. Continued …

Hua Hin Jazz Festival postponed to Dec 19-20

The Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2025 has been postponed to Dec. 19-20. The festival was originally scheduled for Nov. 28-29.

Organizers said that ollowing the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, several parties expressed concern about whether it would be appropriate to proceed with the festival as planned this month. Continued …

Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade returns Dec 19-21

The Vintage Car Club of Thailand, in collaboration with Dusit Thani Hua Hin, has announced the 23rd Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade, under the concept “The Charm of Yesteryear… A Seaside Town with Local Color.” The event will take place from Dec. 19-21 at Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province.

According to Khwanchai Paphatphong, president of the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, “The Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade has now reached its 23rd year, and for the first time, the name of Phetchaburi has been added to the event. The format will be adjusted to better suit current circumstances.” Continued …

Tourism and business groups urge government to review new Alcohol Control Act

Representatives from Thailand’s tourism and service industries gathered at Government House to submit a petition to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urging the government to review the Alcohol Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568, which came into effect on Nov. 8.

The petition calls for the government to abolish the prohibition on “drinking outside permitted hours”, introduced under the amended law, which allows extended sales hours but forbids sitting and drinking after the permitted period, with fines up to 10,000 baht for violations. Continued …

Thai, Cambodian Troops Exchange Fire in Border Clash

Thai and Cambodian soldiers briefly exchanged gunfire along the border in Sa Kaeo province yesterday afternoon, in an incident that lasted around 10 minutes and left one Cambodian civilian reportedly dead. Thai troops fired warning shots in response to small arms fire from the Cambodian side at Ban Nong Ya Kaew, Khok Sung district, with the situation later calming down. No Thai casualties were reported.

Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, said that Thai soldiers acted strictly in line with military engagement rules, taking cover and returning warning fire only to neutralize the threat. Continued …

Four major Chao Phraya Basin dams near full capacity

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) reported that water levels at four major dams in the Chao Phraya River Basin – Bhumibol, Sirikit, Kwae Noi Bamrung Dan, and Pa Sak Jolasid – have reached nearly 100% capacity, prompting authorities to continue controled water discharges to prevent flooding. Water levels in the Chao Phraya River at Nakhon Sawan and Chai Nat remain high but are still below the riverbanks.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department warned of unstable weather in the coming days, with rain and cool morning temperatures in upper Thailand and a strong new cold front expected to arrive soon. Continued …

Three Wild Elephants Electrocuted in Chanthaburi Fruit Orchard

Three wild elephants died after being electrocuted in a fruit orchard in Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi, prompting urgent investigations and legal action. The incident has raised concerns among local authorities and communities about elephant safety and illegal electricity hazards.

The first case occurred on Tuesday night when a rapid-response elephant monitoring team received a report from a village headman The elephant, a male named “Phlai Muan”, aged about 30 years and weighing approximately 5–6 tons, was found dead, believed to have suffered a severe electric shock. Continued …

Co-pay boon for food delivery giants

Grab reports receiving more than 1 million orders under the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, while Line Man Wongnai has recorded 2 million orders.

Users started using this scheme for online food delivery on Nov. 7. As of Nov. 11, 19.8 million out of 20 million participants in the scheme successfully spent a total of 31.8 billion baht, according to the Finance Ministry. Continued … 

Government unveils 20 economic measures before House dissolution

According to sources from the Government House, the government has outlined a detailed timeline for rolling out key economic measures through 20 major projects between October and January, in preparation for the anticipated dissolution of the House of Representatives and upcoming elections.

At a recent Economic Cabinet meeting, the government reviewed the progress of these initiatives, with nine projects already approved, while 11 others are in the pipeline for future consideration. Continued …

‘US Plus One’ trade strategy gains ground

Amid US-China trade tensions, third countries such as Japan or ASEAN members are embracing a so-called “US Plus One” business strategy, diversifying partners and taking advantage of tariff gaps to expand exports and strengthen economic resilience despite Trump-era uncertainties.

Prof. Fukunari Kimura, president of the Institute of Developing Economies at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and professor emeritus of Keio University, said, “For companies in third countries, it is often difficult to predict what trade policies the US will actually implement. Although things have calmed somewhat recently, this is far from over.” Continued …

Thai businesses oppose new industry rules

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has urged lawmakers to reconsider three draft bills it says could harm Thailand’s fragile economy.

The proposed legislation, covering labor protection, clean air, and factory operations, is intended to safeguard workers and the environment, but business leaders warn it may impose heavy costs and undermine investor confidence. Continued …

Thailand at the forefront of social commerce trend

Thailand continues to be a global leader in social commerce, with platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram heavily utilized for live-selling, product discovery, and driving e-commerce transactions.

These trends are included in the “Digital 2026: Thailand” report jointly developed by Meltwater and We Are Social, and a recent analysis by DataReportal/Kepios. As of late 2025, there were 56.6 million active social media user identities in Thailand, or roughly 79.1% of the population. Continued …

Thailand’s halal exports reach US$8 billion

Thailand’s halal exports are valued at US$8.85 billion, accounting for only 1.6% of the global halal market. With immense growth potential, there’s room for significant expansion. A seminar where the economic direction of Thailand was discussed, a major focus was the halal industry, identified as a key driver of Thailand’s economic future.

According to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE), an OIE study shows halal is no longer limited to food but encompasses a wide range of products and services such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, clothing, medical tools, herbal products, supplements, animal feed, packaging, as well as tourism and transportation. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism faces intense competition in Asia’s Tourism War

The Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) says Thailand’s tourism industry is under heavy pressure from the “Tourism War” in Asia, with declining tourist numbers and low spending, contrary to the growth of its competitors in the region who are seeing over 10% growth. Many countries have adjusted their strategies to make tourism a central engine for economic growth, urging Thailand to revamp its tourism approach to attract global visitors.

The SCB EIC notes that the global economic slowdown and high uncertainty have led many Asian countries to place greater focus on tourism. As a result, a policy competition has intensified, with countries like Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and China competing for tourists. Continued …

Wellness tourism called Thailand’s next economic growth engine

Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), has identified wellness tourism as one of Thailand’s most promising new economic engines, boosting tourist spending and lengthening average stays for international visitors.

Bhummikitti explained that wellness tourism is divided into two categories: Primary wellness tourism — where travelers visit specifically for health and wellness purposes such as spa retreats, detox programs, and rehabilitation; and secondary wellness tourism — where travelers incorporate health-related activities such as yoga, healthy dining, and light sports into general trips. Continued …

Pattaya’s High Season Hit by Outdated Bars, Booze Rules

As Pattaya enters its peak tourist season, visitors are greeted with the familiar frustration of stagnant business offerings. Despite a rise in tourist numbers and increased hotel occupancy, many massage shops, beer bars, and nightlife venues struggle to keep up due to outdated practices and confusing regulations.

Tourism demand is strong, with long-term visitors and Western tourists significantly contributing to the local economy. However, venues often remain stuck in the aesthetics and layouts of the 1990s, offering decor that fails to impress international visitors. Additionally, prices have risen to reflect 2025 standards, leading to customer dissatisfaction when service and ambiance do not match these costs. Continued …

Floating Market Vendor Fined for Allegedly Overcharging

A Thai vendor at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi province has been fined 2,000 baht after allegedly overcharging two South Korean YouTubers. The fine was imposed by the Ratchaburi Provincial Commercial Affairs Office after footage of the transaction went viral, sparking debate about tourist price gouging in popular destinations.

In the video, the YouTube influencers were seen traveling by long-tail boat along the Damnoen Saduak Canal before stopping at a riverside shop. They purchased a white dragon-embroidered shirt and a pair of elephant-patterned trousers, initially quoted at 600 and 400 baht, respectively. After negotiating, they paid a total of 900 baht, a price many Thai viewers criticized as excessive compared to typical online prices of 100–200 baht for the trousers and 200–400 baht for similar shirts. Continued …

Nan: Woven from many hands

Recognized by UNESCO as Thailand’s latest Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, Nan Province is part of a global network that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage as engines for a thriving and beautiful way of life. Yet, long before UNESCO’s recognition, creativity had already been demonstrated through Nan’s temples, looms, and rivers.

Isolated in the misty mountain valleys along the Lao border, Nan Province feels a long way from Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and elsewhere. But this isolation doesn’t mean disconnection. Continued …

Bangkok hit by severe PM2.5 pollution, with levels exceeding safety limits

PM2.5 levels in Bangkok have soared to dangerous levels, with 12 districts experiencing hazardous air quality.

PM2.5 levels in Bangkok yesterday reached an average of 32.4 µg/m³, with areas like Bueng Kum and Lat Krabang reporting the highest levels of 46.9 µg/m³ and 46.5 µg/m³, respectively. These levels are well above the standard limit of 37.5 µg/m³, indicating significant health risks for the general population. Continued …

EGAT Accelerates Hydro-Floating Solar Hybrid Projects

Thailand’s Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is advancing its renewable energy ambitions by integrating solar and hydropower technologies through hydro-floating solar hybrid projects, with the goal of achieving 2,725 megawatts (MW) of clean energy generation by 2030.

Implemented under the Ministry of Energy’s “Quick Big Win” policy, the initiative combines the strengths of sunlight and water to deliver continuous, sustainable electricity, while optimizing the use of the nation’s reservoirs. Continued …

DayOne to expand Thailand data center, use power from floating solar

APAC data center company DayOne plans to expand its data center in Thailand. The company plans to eventually scale the Chonburi Tech Park (CTP) campus to 1GW, having broken ground on the first facility this March with 180MW of grid capacity.

DayOne also entered into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Amata B.Grimm Renewable Energy Co. (Ambre). Ambre will supply renewable electricity generated by a 22kV floating-solar facility, with an initial capacity of 42.5MWp within the Amata City Chonburi estate, starting in 2027. Continued …

Oil forecaster makes dramatic shift

Global oil and gas demand could grow until 2050, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said yesterday, in a dramatic departure from its previous forecast of a speedy transition to cleaner fuels that would result in oil demand peaking before 2030.

The revised forecast in the World Energy Outlook 2025 reflects the Paris-based group’s belief that the world will likely fail to achieve climate goals. And while electric vehicles could account for 90% of the Chinese market by 2035, the figure in the United States will be only 15%. Continued …

Chinese cybercrime boss She Zhijiang extradited to China

Alleged Chinese online scam boss She Zhijiang, who is accused of operating more than 200 online gambling websites and networks in Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar’s Shwe Kokko scam city, was extradited to China yesterday. Continued …

  • Chinese Interpol Fugitive Arrested at Khon Kaen Condominium – Continued …
  • Foreign hacker wanted by FBI arrested in Phuket hotel – Continued …
  • Foreigner steals motorbike in Phuket after petting dog – Continued …

Japan looks to triple departure tax to 3,000 yen to combat overtourism

The Japanese government and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party are looking to triple the departure tax to 3,000 yen (630 baht) per person to fund measures against issues from a surge in inbound tourism, sources familiar with the matter said yesterday. Continued …

US presses final penny after more than 230 years

The United States pressed its final circulating penny yesterday, in a move made to save money as the one-cent coin denomination became less relevant over time. The last coin was struck in Philadelphia by US Treasurer Brandon Beach, officially ending the circulating penny’s 232-year production run. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Nov 1

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Important announcement/Gambling network busted in Hua Hin/Hua Hin tap water improvements/Thailand braces for downpours/Cambodia and Thailand to disarm their border/ECONOMY: Steps for economic recovery/Economy Poised for Q4 Boost/The Last Global Tightening Storm/Did Thailand Misstep in Rare Earth Deal/Digital war threatens economy/Chinese e-commerce giants dominate ASEAN/PM Vows No Casino Push/TOURISM: Call for additional stimulus/Pattaya Nightlife Faces Strain/Tourism Drive for Cambodian Border/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Where to celebrate Loy Krathong/How Thailand Became Caviar Producer/Eating and Drinking Through Bangkok/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Important announcement

Hua Hin Municipality requests the cooperation of the public to refrain from using or lighting fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns, sky lanterns, lanterns, smoke lanterns, or similar objects during the Loy Krathong festival. This is to prevent fires, accidents, and minimize damage to life and property.

Violators are subject to a criminal offense and are subject to imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of up to 25,000 baht, or both, under Section 74. Permission must be obtained from the local district chief. Violators also are subject to imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both, under Section 5 of National Council for Peace and Order Order No. 27/2559.

Bt400-million online gambling network busted in Hua Hin

Authorities have shut down a major online gambling operation, which had around 367 million baht in transactions, and arrested three suspects in the Thai beach town of Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

Led by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), the operation targeted a network linked to the online gambling website Lavabet555. Investigators said the Lavabet555 platform had been operational since Jan. 25, 2022, with total funds in circulation reaching 367.4 million baht. Continued …

Hua Hin tap water quality improvements planned

Hua Hin City Municipality is taking steps to improve the quality and reliability of tap water for residents by upgrading the water production system at the Rai Nuan Water Treatment Plant.

Yesterday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, along with Deputy Mayor Sanphop Uengrasamee, and other municipal officials, attended a presentation by representatives from a private company at the Hua Hin City municipality office. Continued …

Thailand braces for downpours as stormy weather returns

Thailand is facing another round of unstable weather, with widespread thundershowers and heavy rain expected across the country, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). An active monsoon trough over the upper south and Gulf of Thailand is drawing humid air into the north and central regions, while a low-pressure cell moves into the upper Andaman Sea. This weather pattern is expected to bring scattered storms and cooler mornings, particularly in the north.

Along the Gulf, from Chumphon upward, seas will be moderately rough with waves 1 to 2 meters high and more than 2 meters during thundershowers. From Surat Thani downward, seas will be calmer, rising in stormy weather. Continued …

Cambodia and Thailand to disarm their border

Cambodia and Thailand took a major step toward de-escalating territorial tensions just days after a peace deal, saying they will start to remove weapons from their shared border.

The two Southeast Asian nations, whose clashes in July killed more than three dozen people, will start a two-month process of removing rocket launchers, artillery systems, and battle tanks, according to a joint statement yesterday by the Regional Border Committee. Continued …

Finance minister outlines steps for economic recovery

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has compared Thailand’s current economic situation to “a car speeding downhill into a ravine,” warning that unless action is taken immediately, the economy will face a difficult recovery. He said the problem lies not only in the pace of short-term stimulus but also in the lack of investment in new infrastructure to support the “New Economy.”

Ekniti noted that Thailand’s past growth stemmed from “old blessings,” such as major infrastructure projects in the 1970s and 1980s, including the eastern seaboard. However, the country’s investment-to-GDP ratio has since plummeted from around 40 % to just over 20 %. Continued …

Thai Economy Poised for Q4 Boost Despite Slowdown, Says Central Bank

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has confirmed that the national economy experienced a slowdown in the third quarter of 2025 but expects a meaningful recovery in the final three months of the year, potentially pushing GDP growth up to 2.2%.

Speaking at a press briefing yesterday, Chayawadee Chai-anant, BOT assistant governor and spokesperson, and Pranee Sutthasri, senior director of the Macroeconomic Department, indicated that a late-quarter boost came from a rebounding industrial sector and the return of short-haul tourists. Continued …

ASEAN+3 Navigated the Last Global Tightening Storm — Are They Ready for the Next?

ASEAN+3 demonstrated remarkable stability amid recent global financial tightening. Robust fundamentals, pragmatic policy measures, and effective coordination averted crises, highlighting the region’s resilience. Sustained vigilance and strengthened collaboration remain crucial to addressing future challenges.

As financial conditions tightened globally in 2022, the region was reminded of past crises like the 2008 financial meltdown and the 2013 “taper tantrum.” These events sparked corporate defaults and exchange rate pressures, raising concerns about ASEAN economies. Triggered by major central banks, including the US Federal Reserve, the recent cycle saw a rapid increase in interest rates, a stronger US dollar, and fears of renewed financial stress. By 2023, the key question was whether ASEAN+3, comprising the 10 ASEAN nations plus China, Japan, and South Korea, could withstand such upheaval. Continued …

Did Thailand Misstep in Controversial Rare Earth Deal With the U.S.?

A new memorandum of understanding on critical and rare earth minerals signed between Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and U.S. President Donald Trump at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia has sparked debate in Thailand, with critics warning of geopolitical risks, environmental harm, and unequal terms favoring Washington.

The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok released a statement titled “Decoding the Critical Minerals MOU: Why U.S.-Thailand Cooperation on Critical Minerals Matters,” defending the agreement. It said the MOU is designed to strengthen supply chains and investment, not to impose legal obligations or infringe on national sovereignty. Continued …

Digital war threatens nation’s economy and security

The phenomenon of online crime has expanded significantly and is systematically embedded within transnational criminal structures. It is no longer limited to individual cases of fraudulent calls or financial scams; rather, it has escalated into a fully fledged “crime industry” that employs high-level technology to control operations 24 hours a day.

Over the past two to three years, Thailand has become a major target for cybercrime groups operating from bases in Cambodia and Myanmar. They lure workers from various countries, including Thai citizens, to work in illicit call centers, where they are forced to defraud the public through various scams. Continued …

Chinese e-commerce giants dominate ASEAN markets, capturing nearly half of regional share

Chinese e-commerce platforms are making rapid inroads into Southeast Asia, leveraging their strengths in low prices and fast delivery to capture nearly half of the region’s online retail market — including Indonesia, Thailand, and Philippines.

According to consulting firm Bain & Company, in 2024 major Chinese players such as Alibaba, ByteDance’s TikTok Shop, Shein, and Temu jointly hold around 50% of the e-commerce market across key ASEAN economies. The report also noted that these firms are expanding well beyond Asia, entering major markets from the United States to Brazil. Continued …

PM Anutin Vows No Casino Push to China’s Xi Jinping

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed to Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday that his government has no policy to use casinos as a key economic driver, aiming to provide assurance that the current Thai administration will not pursue casino-related policies.

Speaking after a bilateral meeting during the APEC Economic Leaders’ gathering in South Korea yesterday, government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat quoted Anutin as stating that Thailand is confident it can boost its economy through its people’s talents, products, and existing technology. The prime minister added that the majority of the Thai public opposes the legalization of gambling. Continued …

Tourism groups call for additional stimulus

With only 32 million foreign tourist arrivals projected for this year, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is urging the government to offer more flight promotions, while the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) plans to request “Quick Win” stimulus measures such as tax incentives for organizers of meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) events.

ATTA President Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said the association forecasts only 32 million foreign arrivals this year, down from 35.5 million in 2024. Continued …

Pattaya Nightlife Faces Strain Amid Changing Demographics

Pattaya, once the bustling nightlife epicenter of Southeast Asia, is experiencing significant changes in its after-dark scene. While bars and live music still thrive, many long-term foreign visitors note a dramatic shift in the atmosphere and the clientele. On social media, both tourists and residents voice concerns about these changes.

Some tourists now describe Pattaya’s nightlife as unappealing, with loud music and a different crowd profile becoming deterrents for repeat visitors. One European social media user reported skipping the city for eight consecutive years due to these changes. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel the influx of Indian tourists has transformed the city into “Little Mumbai,” altering the familiar vibe they once enjoyed. Continued …

Phanom Rung Historical Park in Chalerm Phrakiat district, Buri Ram province

‘Wow’ Tourism Drive Launched on Cambodian Border

The Thai government has rolled out a new tourism initiative, “Check-in, Fun, Wow, East X Northeast,” designed to inject more than 90 million baht into the local economies along the Thai-Cambodian border.

The project, which is scheduled to begin on Nov. 15, will offer financial support for travel and lodging to visitors as part of a targeted effort to boost regional income. Continued …

Thailand’s Festival Of Lights: Where to celebrate Loy Krathong this year

A part of Thai culture for centuries, Loy Krathong will be celebrated on Nov. 5 and is based on the lunar calendar ritual of releasing illuminated lotus-shaped floats or krathongs on rivers and waterways.

It also pays homage to the water goddess, apart from being a time to reflect, gratitude and make a wish for good fortune. Here are a few a few places to join in the celebrations. Continued …

How Thailand Became a Caviar Producer in the Tropics

The delicate, high-value roe of the sturgeon —c aviar — was once a costly import to the Kingdom of Thailand. Yet, a decades-long royal initiative has turned this dependency on its head, establishing Thailand as an unlikely producer of the luxury foodstuff, all thanks to the far-sighted vision of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.

Her Majesty’s royal initiative to successfully breed sturgeon and produce caviar has created a sustainable new career and a valuable source of income for impoverished highlanders in Chiang Mai province. Continued …

Eating and Drinking Your Way Through Bangkok

Undeniably one of the best cities in the world for street eats, Bangkok is a food-lovers paradise. From bustling back-alley street stalls to modern Thai fine dining, from iconic hole-in-the-wall gems to legendary mom and pop eateries, Thailand’s culinary landscape is begging to be explored.

Beyond the conventional pad thai, papaya salad and mango sticky rice, there’s a rich gastronomic legacy of punchy, flavor-bursting fare – covering sour, salty, sweet, spicy and bitter – that spotlights the regional differences in tastes, produce and cultural heritage, best washed down with a frothy cup of silky-sweet Thai milk tea. Continued …

  • Police Raid Pool Villa, Arrest 24 Foreign Scammers – Continued …
  • Vietnamese Man Arrested Over Phuket Villa Burglary – Continued …

World’s most expensive coffee goes on sale in Dubai at $1,000 a cup

Selling for nearly $1,000 a cup, a cafe in Dubai is offering the world’s most expensive coffee, brewed from Panamanian beans sold at a premium price. The wealthy emirate is known for its extravagant ventures, including an enormous mall with an indoor ski area, the world’s tallest building, and an artificial island dotted with five-star hotels. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Oct 1

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Hua Hin’s Centara wins sustainability award/Water jousting returns/Heavy rain and rough seas forecast/Floods Hit Northern Thailand/Uttaradit hit by worst floods in 80 years/Bangkok fees for unsorted household waste/ECONOMY: Property Market Faces Toughest Challenge/Asian Development Bank cuts Thai GDP outlook/Thai-US trade pact/Factory output drops/Low-Cost Chinese Imports/Five Thai banks revised to negative/TOURISM: Golden Week arrivals to sink/Israel-Palestine Row on Koh Samui/Pattaya Expects Tourism Surge/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Rap Bua festival in Samut Prakan/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s Clean Air Bill/More renewables and storage needed/Sustainable Urban Development/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Hua Hin’s Centara wins Thai tourism sustainability award

The Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok and Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin received the inaugural Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award in the accommodation category at the 15th Thailand Tourism Awards, organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

This accolade highlights the properties’ ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmentally responsible practices, and their significant contributions to advancing Thailand’s sustainable tourism sector. Continued … 

Water jousting returns to Racer Marina Saturday

Water jousting returns to Hua Hin Racer Marina on Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. Admission is free.

Water jousting sees two challengers, each standing on a boat and armed with a lance, attempt to unbalance one another and knock their opponent into the water. The contest combines balance, timing, and a fair amount of splash, making it a crowd-friendly spectacle. Continued …

Heavy rain and rough seas forecast

The Thai Meteorological Department reported today that easterly and southeasterly winds prevail over the northeast, while the weakened southwest monsoon continues over the Andaman Sea, the south, Thailand’s central region, and the Gulf.

Isolated heavy rainfall is likely across the country. Residents in affected areas are advised to remain cautious, as accumulated rainfall may cause flash floods and river overflows, particularly along foothills, waterways, and low-lying areas. Continued …

Floods Hit Northern Thailand

Flash floods driven by heavy rain from the remnants of Tropical Depression Bualoi have caused severe damage across northern and northeastern Thailand. Although Bualoi has been downgraded to a strong low-pressure area, it continues to deliver torrential rain, leading to rapidly rising water and strong currents.

In Mae Hong Son’s Mae Sariang district, a local warning station remained on red alert after all-night rain triggered flash floods. Water levels reached 4.6 meters, flooding homes and washing away a village bridge, in what locals called the worst flood in two decades. Continued …

Uttaradit hit by worst floods in 80 years, single-story homes submerged

The worst floods in eight decades have struck Uttaradit, inundating more than 2,000 households. Single-story homes are under water as officials race to evacuate residents, including bedridden patients.

Torrential rain brought by storm Bualoi lashed Uttaradit continued yesterday, triggering flash floods from mountain streams that surged into creeks, canals, roads, and farmland. Continued …

Bangkok cracks down with new fees for unsorted household waste

Bangkok has introduced higher waste collection fees, penalizing households that fail to sort rubbish, while rewarding those who properly separate their trash.

From today, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will increase the waste-collection fee from 20 baht to 60 baht per month. However, households that join the “This House Doesn’t Mix” waste-separation scheme will still pay the original 20 baht rate. Continued …

Thai Property Market Faces Toughest Challenge in Decades as 2026 Looms

Thailand’s property market is confronting its most severe challenges in years, with experts warning that the prolonged downturn affecting the sector since the brief post-COVID-19 recovery shows no signs of abating through 2026.

Speaking at the “Thailand’s Real Estate Outlook 2026: Challenges & Opportunities” forum yesterday in Bangkok, industry leaders painted a sobering picture of the market’s current state while identifying potential pathways forward. Continued …

Asian Development Bank cuts Thai GDP outlook

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered its Thai GDP growth estimates for this year and next, citing export deceleration, a slow recovery of foreign tourist arrivals, as well as weakened private consumption and investments.

In its latest Asian Development Outlook (ADO) report, the Manila-based bank projects Thai GDP to expand 2% this year, down from 2.9% forecast in April, with the economy slowing in the second half as front-loaded shipments to the US end. Continued …

Thai-US trade pact ‘to be finalized by year-end’

Thailand plans to finalize an agreement on reciprocal trade with the United States by the end of this year, according to Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun.

The two countries concluded a joint agreement on reciprocal tariffs on July 31, and now the government aims to finalize remaining issues, including market access for goods, services, and investment, she said. Continued …

Thailand’s factory output drops 4.19% in August as exports slow

Thailand’s factory output contracted in August, figures published yesterday showed and was weaker than forecast, as slowing exports, falling tourist numbers, and a strong baht weighed on the economy.

Thailand’s manufacturing production index fell 4.19% in August from a year earlier, the Industry Ministry said. Negative factors included a weaker car industry and a decline in industrial sentiment, it said. Continued …

Are Low-Cost Chinese Imports Undermining Thailand’s Economy?

Cheap Chinese imports have been a growing concern for Thailand’s economy, particularly in recent years. While these imports provide affordable goods to consumers, they are accused of undercutting local manufacturers through practices like dumping — selling products below cost to gain market share.

This has led to factory closures, reduced industrial output, and calls for protective measures. However, China argues that its trade with Thailand is mutually beneficial, emphasizing investments and supply chain integration. Continued …

Five Thai banks revised to negative

Fitch Ratings has revised the ratings outlook for five Thai banks to negative from stable, following the downgrade last week of its outlook for Thailand’s sovereign credit rating.

The revision affects the following banks, while their long-term issuer default ratings (IDRs) have been affirmed: Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM), Krungthai Bank Plc (KTB), TMBThanachart Bank Plc (ttb), Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) Plc (SCBT), and United Overseas Bank (Thai) Plc (UOBT). Continued …

Golden Week arrivals set to sink to 200,000

Thailand is expected to welcome 200,000 Chinese tourists during the Chinese eight-day Golden Week holiday, a 24% year-on-year decrease, with revenue projected to drop 17% to 9.1 billion baht despite growth in outbound travel from mainland China.

Outbound bookings for the holiday this year surged 28% year-on-year, while international seat capacity rose by 10% to both short- and long-haul destinations, according to ForwardKeys, an air traffic data company. Continued …

Israel-Palestine Row Hits Thai Restaurant on Koh Samui

A restaurant on Koh Samui is at the center of controversy after allegedly removing a group of Israeli diners. The action was reportedly linked to a social media post by the restaurant, which criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza and sparked a heated online debate.

Immediate reactions have been polarized, with both support and condemnation flooding in from the public. The post, attributed to the restaurant, described Israel’s military actions as “war crimes” and labeled the Israeli diners as “IDF soldiers” rather than tourists. Continued …

Pattaya Expects Tourism Surge in October, prices to rise

Pattaya is preparing for a significant influx of foreign tourists in October, driven by school reopenings and year-end travel plans. This surge is expected to lead to crowded beaches, busy streets, and increased prices for hotels and services. Visitors are advised to anticipate higher costs as demand grows during this peak period.

Local businesses report rising interest from tourists, particularly from China, Europe, and the Middle East. With higher hotel occupancy, both accommodation and restaurant prices are projected to climb. Transportation services may also adjust fares to mirror the bustling season. Continued …

Rap Bua festival in Samut Prakan – a timeless charm of water and devotion

The Rap Bua Festival, also known as the Lotus Throwing Festival, is one of the most unique and signature events of Samut Prakan province. It reflects the deep faith of Buddhist devotees toward the province’s most sacred Buddha statue.

The tradition dates back more than 200 years, when a statue named Luang Pho To was found floating along the Samrong Canal. Local residents respectfully enshrined it at Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai in Bang Phli district. Continued …

Smog of controversy descends on Thailand’s Clean Air Bill

Experts warn Thailand’s draft Clean Air Bill will become a paper tiger if stripped of the “polluter pays” principle that would hold companies accountable for health-harming emissions.

“We need to use both the carrot and the stick,” said Chulalongkorn University law lecturer Assoc. Prof. Kanongnij Sribuaiam, who is vice president of the House committee drafting the bill. Continued …

Thailand will need more renewables and storage to meet demand from EVs and data centers

Thailand committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 30% below a business-as-usual level, which is about 388 million tons of carbon dioxide (MtCO2), by 2030. With adequate international support, Thailand will aim for a 40% reduction, or 333 MtCO2. To meet carbon neutrality by 2050, Thailand will need to reduce its GHG emissions by 73%-83% compared to 2015 levels.

Given that the energy sector accounted for about 69% of total emissions in 2019, decarbonizing it will be indispensable to cut emissions. Within the energy sector, the power and transport sectors took up to 68% of total emissions in 2022. Therefore, accelerating renewable energy integration in the power system and electrification of the transport and industry sectors are crucial. Continued …

Thai Property Leaders Call for Government Action on Sustainable Urban Development

At a panel discussion on sustainable urban development held in Bangkok yesterday, leading Thai property sector figures highlighted critical barriers preventing the country from achieving truly sustainable cities — and issued urgent calls for government intervention.

The “Green Living, Smart City” forum, part of the Thailand’s Real Estate Outlook 2026 conference, brought together four industry leaders: Kessara Thanyalakpark, managing director of Sena Development; Narongwet Wajanapanich, managing director of Quality Construction Products; Samatcha Promsiri, chief of staff at Sansiri; and Phatsareephak Srikanchananon, head of property management at CBRE Thailand. Continued …

US Government Shuts Down After Congress Misses Funding Deadline

The US federal government shut down in the early hours of today due to a tense standoff between Republicans and Democrats over measures aimed at protecting health insurance for millions of Americans. The lapse in appropriations came just hours after the Senate rejected a pair of competing spending bills that would have kept the government open until November. Continued …

Death toll rises to 60 after powerful quake hits central Philippines

The death toll from a powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake in the central Philippines has risen to 60, with more than 140 people injured, and officials today warned the numbers could climb further as rescuers access collapsed buildings. Continued …

Rescuers Run Oxygen to Survivors in Indonesia School Building Collapse

Rescuers ran oxygen and water to students trapped in the unstable concrete rubble of a collapsed school building in Indonesia, as they desperately worked to free survivors yesterday, a day after the structure fell. At least three students were killed, more than 100 were injured, and dozens were presumed buried in the rubble. Continued …

Famed Dutch village Zaanse Schans to charge tourist tax in 2026

The famous village of Zaanse Schans near Amsterdam is set to implement a tourist tax for those who want to visit its historic windmills and charming wooden houses. Feeling overwhelmed by the more than 2.6 million annual visitors, the beloved heritage site will now require a €17.50 ticket for each visitor starting in 2026. Continued …

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Friday’s news-Sept 26

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Chiva-Som Hua Hin wins wellness award/Energy minister watching power bills/Urgent Fixes for Bangkok Road Collapse/To restore traffic within 14 days/Water seepage raises concerns/Wild weather and high waves/Thailand to build 10km border fence/Southern double-track rail project/Fueling cancer among millennials/Keeping universal healthcare strong/Wild Elephant Kills Villager/Man found cut in half/ECONOMY: 47% of Thais hit by fraudsters/Thai household debt surges/TOURISM: Travel may be the medicine of the future/Pattaya Tourism Surge/Foreigner drowns off Karon Beach/CLIMATE THAILAND: U-Tapao Solar Farm/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Chiva-Som Hua Hin wins Condé Nast Traveller wellness award

Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been named the winner in the “Traditional Healing” category at the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Wellness & Spa Awards – the first such awards by Condé Nast Traveller Germany. The award reinforces Chiva-Som’s identity as a global leader in holistic wellness, while honoring its dedication to preserving traditional healing practices and commitment to the comprehensive health and wellbeing of guests.

Chiva-Som Hua Hin General Manager Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen received the award on behalf of the team at a ceremony held earlier this month at Schloss Elmau, Germany. The evening was attended by over 110 international guests, including globally renowned hospitality and wellness leaders. Continued …

New energy minister watching power bills

Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon has vowed t h the authorities to keep electricity prices at appropriate levels. He said fuel prices tend to increase toward the end of the year, which would increase electricity generation costs.

The former chief executive and president of the national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, he has extensive knowledge of how the prices of gas — a key fuel for the country’s power generation — are determined, but he said he needs to study other factors that determine electricity prices. Continued …

Engineer Proposes Four Urgent Fixes for Bangkok Road Collapse

A leading structural engineer has outlined four urgent measures to address the severe road subsidence in front of Vajira Hospital in Bangkok, describing it as the largest sinkhole ever recorded in Thailand. The collapse, which occurred on Samsen Road, has forced full traffic closures while emergency repairs are underway.

Professor Amorn Pimanmas, president of the Engineering Institute of Thailand and lecturer at Kasetsart University, explained the sinkhole was triggered by three key risk factors: weak soil layers, natural or pipeline water infiltration, and underground construction of tunnels and metro stations. He noted that large volumes of soil had shifted into underground structures through weak points, cracks or joints, causing the surface collapse. Continued …

MRTA vows to restore traffic to collapsed road area within 14 days

Gardphajon Udomdhammabhakdi, governor of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), yesterday addressed the road subsidence in front of Vajira Hospital on Samsen Road, Dusit District, Bangkok, which occurred on Wednesday. The subsidence is linked to the ongoing construction of the Purple Line metro in the Tao Poon-Rat Burana section (Kanchanaphisek Ring Road).

The initial investigation suggested that the issue was caused by the soil conditions combined with water trapped in the soil. The instability led to a 3-meter-deep water pipe breaking and mixing with contaminated water, further destabilizing the area. The resulting pressure caused the soil and water to flow into the construction site, damaging the underground station and tunnel areas. Continued …

Water seepage raises concerns of repeat road collapse in Bangkok

Officials are inspecting water seepage on Samsen Road in Bangkok, two kilometers from the site of a recent collapse, raising fears among locals of a repeat incident.

The first incident has yet to be resolved, but a new concern has emerged two kilometers away. Residents expressed concern yesterday after noticing water seeping onto the road surface. The asphalt reportedly bulged and became uneven, raising fears of another possible collapse. Continued …

Wild weather and high waves batter Thailand

Thailand is bracing for more intense weather as the monsoon trough sweeps across the upper north and northeast, while typhoon Ragasa, now downgraded to a depression over China, fuels unstable conditions across the country.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of isolated heavy to very heavy rain across northern and northeastern regions, with flash floods and water runoff likely in foothill and lowland areas. People living near waterways are urged to remain on alert. Continued …

Thailand to build 10km border fence in Sa Kaeo

Thailand plans a 10-kilometer border fence in Sa Kaeo along the Thai-Cambodian frontier, with initial funding from Princess Chulabhorn and a total budget of 87 million baht.

Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit revealed yesterday that Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana donated 1 million baht to establish the Hathai Thip Fund, which will serve as initial capital for constructing walls and barriers along the Thai-Cambodian border. Continued …

Southern double-track rail project back on track

Transport Minister Phiphat has unveiled 38-billion-baht in transportation projects, including the southern double-track rail lines.

Phase 2 of the southern double-track rail, are being compiled for Cabinet consideration. These include: Chumphon-Surat Thani, 168 ki;ometers, 30.423 billion baht; and Surat Thani-Hat Yai-Songkhla, 321 kilometers, 66.271 billion baht. Continued …

What researchers suspect may be fueling cancer among millennials

Gary Patti leaned in to study the rows of plastic tanks, where dozens of translucent zebrafish flickered through chemically treated water. Each tank contained a different substance — some notorious, others less well understood — all known or suspected carcinogens.

Patti’s team is watching them closely, tracking which fish develop tumors, to try to find clues to one of the most unsettling medical puzzles of our time: Why are so many young people getting cancer? Continued …

Keeping universal healthcare strong

For 23 years, Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme, better known as the “gold card”, has protected millions from financial ruin, a remarkable achievement that has earned worldwide praise. Yet, the system is not perfect.

Since 2002, the gold card has been more than public health. It symbolizes the effort to build a fair and accessible healthcare system for everyone. For a country marked with stark inequality, it is a crucial lifeline that ensures illness does not drive families into debt, bankruptcy, or preventable death. Continued …

Wild Elephant Kills Villager in Prachinburi

A 79-year-old villager was killed by a wild elephant in Prachinburi during the early hours yesterday. The victim was attacked outside his home in Wang Ai Pong village, Na Di District, after encountering an elephant known locally as “Chao App.”

Witnesses said the attack began when the elephant suddenly charged at the victim, flinging him into the air before trampling him until he died. Neighbors described the distressing scene, noting the victim’s body was partly submerged in water, with broken legs and head injuries. Continued …

Bangkok man found cut in half under bridge, organs missing

A man’s severed body was discovered under a bridge in Bangkok yesterday, prompting police to investigate the cause of death and possible links to foul play.

The gruesome discovery was made in Bangkok’s Thung Khru district when the severed and decomposing body of a 72-year-old man was found under a bridge, with some organs missing and both halves of the body lying 3 meters apart. Continued …

47% of Thais hit by financial fraudsters

Speaking at the “Bank of Thailand Symposium 2025: Towards Safer and More Inclusive Digital Finance” last week, Nualnoi Treerat, assistant professor at Chulalongkorn University, said 73% of Thais face a high risk of being targeted by scammers, while 47% have already experienced financial fraud.

Scammers primarily approach victims through call center scams, which account for 30% of cases. However, investment scams have caused the highest share of financial losses, representing 79% of victims, according to the survey. Continued …

Thai household debt surges to four-year high

Average household debt in Thailand has surged by 22% from a year ago to reach a four-year high of 740,596 baht, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). The survey was conducted from Sept 15-22 and had 1,716 respondents.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the university, attributed the increase to emergency expenses, family financial burdens, insufficient income to cover expenses due to a sudden economic emergency, and the rising cost of living. Continued …

Longevity, leisure, and health: Why travel may be the medicine of the future

Could the future of healthcare involve a boarding pass as well as a prescription pad? Across the world, a quiet revolution is brewing as doctors, insurers, and tourism authorities begin to see outdoor tourism not only as leisure, but as medicine. The notion is simple yet profound: travel, particularly wellness-oriented travel, can support mental health, lower blood pressure, and improve longevity.

The medical fraternity is increasingly aware of the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activity. Studies show that time spent in nature reduces stress, elevates mood, and encourages physical activity. Continued …

Pattaya Tourism Surge Attributed to Safety and Events

Pattaya has experienced a significant boost in tourism, with officials reporting that over 18 million tourists visited the city between January and August this year. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet revealed that 11.38 million of these visitors were domestic travellrs, marking a substantial year-on-year increase of 11.8%.

This rise in numbers is credited to enhanced safety measures and a series of major events, reinforcing Pattaya’s reputation as a desirable destination. Continued …

Unidentified foreigner drowns off Karon Beach

A foreign man drowned while swimming off a Phuket beach at sunset, prompting police to investigate his identity and the circumstances surrounding his death. The man, believed to be around 60 years old, was pulled from the water off Karon Beach. His identity and nationality remain unknown.

The incident occurred around sunset yesterday near the sports stadium at the southern end of the beach, when the man was seen struggling in the surf. An onlooker spotted him and immediately alerted the Narenthorn emergency center. Continued …

BGRIM Announces Commercialization of U-Tapao Solar Farm

B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) has announced the successful commencement of commercial operations of its 18 MWp U-Tapao ground-mounted solar PV farm project (Phase 1). The project is situated on 100 rai of state-owned land within the U-Tapao International Airport area under a 25-year lease.

This strategically significant location supports the government’s Eastern Aviation City and U-Tapao Airport initiatives under the Eastern Economic Corridor (“EEC”). Notably, it is the first private-sector project to secure all required permits and licenses for commercial operation under the EEC program. Continued …

  • Russian Man Arrested Over Pickup Sexual Act in Phuket – Continued …
  • Tourist Strips Naked & Dances on Phuket’s Bangla Road – Continued …
  • Foreign driver flees after crashing into 2 vehicles and 3 restaurants in Rayong – Continued …

Trump announces steep new tariffs, reviving trade war

US President Donald Trump announced yesterday punishing tariffs on pharmaceuticals, big-rig trucks, home renovation fixtures, and furniture, reviving his global trade war. The announcement is the harshest trade policy by the president since last April’s shock unveiling of reciprocal tariffs on virtually every US trading partner across the globe. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Sept 20

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Thailand Ranks 34th on Global Retirement List/Hua Hin’s The Diamond Rehab Thailand named best drug rehab/Thai banks and scam vigilance/PM appoints nine non-politicians to cabinet/Thailand braces for floods/Autumnal Equinox Arrives Sept 23/Border with Cambodia to stay closed/ECONOMY: Crypto-related money-laundering/Thai garment industry urges delay of minimum wage hike/Border row blow for businesses/TOURISM: Baht surge makes Thailand pricier/Tourism council lists urgent issues/Thailand is no longer a bargain/Hidden strain on Pattaya tourism/Family from China devours 5.5kg of durian/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thai words you can’t translate/Documentaries for Thai food lovers/CLIMATE THAILAND: International treaty protecting world’s oceans/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY: British Gang Busted in Phuket/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Thailand Ranks 34th out of 44 on Global Retirement List

The Global Retirement Report 2025 has named Portugal as the top destination for retirees, while Thailand ranks 34th among 44 countries. This report evaluates countries based on factors like retirement visa programs and quality of life. Many countries in Europe and the Americas, known for their high quality of life, dominate the top rankings.

More people are exploring retirement abroad for better living conditions and lower costs. Various countries offer options to attract foreign retirees. The report utilizes 20 indicators across categories, including economy, taxation, and safety to rank destinations. Continued … 

Hua Hin’s The Diamond Rehab Thailand named best drug rehab in 2025 feature

Hua Hins’ The Diamond Rehab Thailand has been recognized as the top drug rehabilitation center in a recent feature article published on the Newcastle Herald, highlighting leading treatment providers for 2025. The piece ranked five standout facilities worldwide, assessing factors such as therapeutic quality, client experience, privacy and value for money.

The Diamond Rehab Thailand earned the number one position for delivering Western-standard clinical care in a luxury setting, while offering significantly lower costs compared to similar services in Australia. The Hua Hin–based facility secured the top spot for combining Western-standard therapeutic care with a luxury environment at a price point lower than comparable Australian options. Continued …

Thai banks told to step up scam vigilance

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has urged Thai banks to tighten their account opening procedures and enforce stricter “Know Your Customer” standards, stressing that early intervention is crucial in blocking scammers who exploit mule accounts for money laundering and fraud.

The caution comes after a public outcry about a bungled crackdown on mule accounts by authorities that led to the accounts of thousands of innocent people — many of them online sellers — being frozen. Continued …

New PM appoints nine non-politicians, with experience, to his cabinet

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has appointed nine non-politicians to his new cabinet, ensuring their expertise will benefit the development of the country during his short-term administration. Continued …

Thailand at center of intriguing image war

Over the past few days, the BBC talked about Thailand, and so did two The White Lotus stars at the 77th Emmy Awards. The contrast couldn’t be any sharper.

It’s not just two institutions having starkly different opinions on the Land of Smiles. The social media jumped in and, suddenly, it has turned into one of the most remarkable standoffs between the conventional and modern types of public communication. Continued … 

Thailand braces for floods and heavy rains amid monsoon trough

Heavy rain and rough seas are expected across Thailand as a monsoon system moves in, prompting warnings for residents and travelers to stay alert. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warned that residents in affected areas should be cautious of heavy to very heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and overflows, particularly along foothills, near waterways, and in low-lying areas.

The wet weather is expected to be most intense in provinces like Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, with Bangkok not escaping the deluge. Continued …

Get Ready for Equal Day and Night: Autumnal Equinox Arrives Sept 23

On Sept. 23, the world will experience the Autumnal Equinox, a celestial event when the sun aligns directly over the Earth’s equator, resulting in a day with roughly equal hours of daylight and darkness. This astronomical phenomenon marks the official start of autumn for countries in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of spring for nations in the Southern Hemisphere.

During the equinox, the sun rises precisely in the east and sets exactly in the west. However, while the day is astronomically defined as having 12 hours of light and 12 hours of dark, the actual sunrise and sunset times may vary slightly. Continued …

Border with Cambodia to stay closed until security threat to Thailand ends

The commanders of the three Thai armed forces have agreed unanimously that all border checkpoints with Cambodia will remain closed until the border situation has eased or Cambodia stops posing a threat to Thailand.

The commanders also agreed that Cambodia still poses a security threat to Thailand and it is, therefore, necessary for Thailand to build border barricades in undisputed border areas. Continued …

Crypto-related money-laundering at heart of baht instability

Signs of the abnormalities in the Thai financial market have become increasingly evident, with the baht strengthening by 7 % since the start of 2025. The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has attributed the surge to a current account surplus and online gold trading.

However, digital asset experts have revealed a more troubling factor: large-scale money laundering operations abroad, converting cryptocurrency into Thai baht. They estimate that as much as 500 billion baht has been laundered through this channel, far exceeding the value of online gold trades that the BOT is seeking to regulate. Continued … 

Thai garment industry urges government to delay minimum wage hike amid 19% US tariff

Thailand’s garment industry, once a leading export sector employing over 1 million workers 30 years ago, now faces challenges from higher-value industries such as automotive, electronics, and appliances. Although the sector is recovering from the COVID-19 impact, it is now confronting a new setback as the United States imposes an additional 19% import tariff on Thai garments.

Yosthon Kitkuson, president of the Thai Garment Manufacturers Assn. (TGMA) and chair of the Textile and Garment Trade Assn. under the Thai Chamber of Commerce, urged the new government to accelerate negotiations for a Thailand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This would help mitigate the competitive disadvantage against Vietnam, which already has an FTA with the EU. Continued …

Border row a double blow for businesses

The Thai-Cambodian territorial conflict has curtailed border trade and raised worries over the future of Thai businesses in the neighboring country, as well as Cambodian workers in Thailand.

In July when severe clashes between the two countries erupted, border trade shrank, with exports plummeting by 97.5% year-on-year to 370 million baht, while imports plunged by 99.8% to 6 million baht, according to the Department of Foreign Trade. Continued …

Baht surge makes Thailand pricier than Vietnam for Chinese tourists

Vietnam has now overtaken Thailand in attracting Chinese visitors, but Thai travel agents say the kingdom still holds strong appeal — if safety concerns are addressed.

“Of course, restoring confidence in Thailand’s safety will take time. But this issue has been deeply ingrained in Thai society for far too long,” said Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Continued …

Tourism council lists urgent issues

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has urged the new cabinet to place cannabis smokers in specific zones, while working to prevent foreigners from stealing local jobs in tourism, and encouraging hotels to register.

“This year is the right time to restructure the tourism ecosystem to fix Thailand’s unsafe image and fairly distribute tourism income to local operators,” said Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice president of TCT. Continued …

Why Thailand is no longer a bargain – and where to head for cheap winter sun instead

The baht, the currency of winter sun favorite Thailand, is continuing to strengthen, making a holiday in the Southeast Asian country significantly more expensive for tourists than it was five years ago.

The baht has dipped slightly in recent weeks, after a surge in July but it’s still by far the strongest currency in the region, rising nearly 7% since 2020. Continued …

The hidden strain on Pattaya tourism as Western visitors flee

Pattaya’s glittering facade is starting to crack. While the city markets itself as a vibrant playground for tourists, long-term visitors and casual travelers are beginning to see a very different reality.

Rising costs are one of the most visible problems. With the baht strong and local prices climbing, Pattaya has become expensive, even by Western standards. Many tourists are reconsidering the value of a short-term stay, with alternatives like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Philippines offering similar experiences for less. Pattaya’s once-loyal Western crowd is thinning, and the streets that used to hum with familiar faces are increasingly empty. Continued …

Family from China devours 5.5kg of durian outside Thailand airport as fruit banned from plane

A family from China did not want to let fresh durian go to waste. So, they ate 5.5 kilograms of it — while standing outside the Chiang Mai International Airport in Thailand, as they could not take the fruit with them on their flight home.

A video showed a man gorging on durian outside the airport. He appeared to gag at one point. The video explained that the man’s father had bought several boxes of fresh durian that morning for the family’s consumption before the flight back to China. Continued …

Thai words you can’t translate into English

Language is more than a tool for communication; it is a window into culture. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Thai, which is filled with words that carry meanings so deeply rooted in social customs and emotions that they resist direct translation into English.

Video 

These untranslatable gems capture subtle shades of feeling and etiquette, offering outsiders a glimpse into the heart of “Thainess.” One of the most common yet puzzling words for foreigners is งอน (ngaawn). It describes the sulky, slightly resentful mood one might feel toward a loved one. It’s not quite anger, nor is it mere disappointment. Continued …

6 top documentaries for Thai food lovers

Every dish carries a world within it: community, people, whole nations served up in flavor and tradition. Food documentaries do something vital here, showing us not just the dishes but the people who shape them, the ones keeping traditions alive, taking risks to preserve flavors that might otherwise disappear.

You see it everywhere: late-night vendors working over blazing woks, home cooks carrying on what their grandmothers taught them. Every scene is thick with work, memory, devotion. Watching these stories unfold, you start to understand something important: street food only looks casual on the surface. Underneath, it’s about survival, identity and how a single, seasoned bite can tell a country’s entire story. These are the docs that speak Thailand. Continued …

International treaty protecting world’s oceans to take effect

A multinational treaty to protect vast expanses of the world’s oceans is finally set to become law in January 2026, with environmentalists hailing its enactment yesterday as crucial to safeguarding the marine ecosystems.

The move by Morocco and Sierra Leone to join the UN treaty on the high seas clinched the threshold of at least 60 ratifications needed to enact it as international law. Continued …

British Gang Busted in Phuket for Robbing American Lawyer

Police in Phuket have arrested four British nationals accused of ramming an American motorcyclist, before robbing him of a luxury watch worth 2.3 million baht. The suspects, believed to be part of an organized gang, were detained yesterday and taken in for questioning. The victim, a 40-year-old American lawyer, confirmed he had no prior connection to the men. Continued … 

Venezuela accuses US of waging ‘undeclared war’

Venezuela yesterday accused the United States of waging an “undeclared war” in the Caribbean, where Washington has deployed warships and blown up alleged drug boats in recent weeks. Continued …

Vietnam is guiding the dong lower as US tariffs threaten exports

Vietnam is using the age-old tactic of currency depreciation to gain a competitive advantage over its Southeast Asian peers, as nations look for ways to ease the burden from US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs. Continued …

Wars and Geopolitical Tensions Drive Global Oil Prices Higher

Global crude oil prices have edged higher in recent months as prolonged wars and geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt energy supplies. Between July 1 and Sept.15, ICE Brent crude rose by US1.51 per barrel from the previous quarter, averaging US$68.16 per barrel. The increase was driven mainly by the escalating war between Russia and Ukraine. Continued … 

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Monday’s news-Sept 15

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Feedback Re: BBC Thailand sex documentary/Bank of Thailand promises fix/More bank accounts may be frozen/DES urges calm amid locked bank accounts/Merchants seen insisting on cash payment/Foreign nominee land, business ownership/Plans for Hua Hin’s Queen Park/Heavy rains forecast/Most Thais expect Anutin to last no more than four months/349 landmines near Cambodian border/Thai-China rail delays pile up/ECONOMY: Thailand’s Next Coastal Investment Engine/Economist warns of stronger baht/Anutin’s quick-win plan/China’s appliance giants intensify battle/Logistics sector draws 2.5-billion baht/TOURISM: Compensation for flight delays and cancellations/Emergency plan to revive tourism/Phuket Eyes $17.3Billion Tourism Revenue/Pattaya’s past holds back growth/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Nan: A Haven of Heritage and Serenity/Thai coffee faces boom and doom/Khao Yai Explores Eco-Tourism/CLIMATE THAILAND: A last shot at clean air?/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Re: BBC Thailand sex documentary

“I wonder who these ‘Netizens’ are and if they know anything about Thailand. If anything, the BBC documentary was understated.” – AB

Bank of Thailand promises fix after accounts frozen without warning

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has pledged to tighten its procedures for freezing and unfreezing suspected bank accounts after technical issues and police instructions led to several customers’ balances being displayed as negative. The central bank said the problems caused confusion and distress for affected individuals, but measures are being introduced to prevent a recurrence.

According to Daranee Saeju, assistant governor overseeing the Payment Systems Policy and Financial Consumer Protection Group, the central bank identified two separate causes behind the incidents. The first occurred on Sept. 1 when some banks failed to update end-of-day transactions, leaving accounts showing outdated balances. This technical error was corrected the following day and banks were instructed to compensate affected customers and strengthen safeguards. Continued …

More bank accounts may be frozen: Bank of Thailand

More people could face frozen bank accounts as authorities widen investigations into transfers linked to mule accounts, in an effort to recover money for scam victims, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) has warned.

Daranee Saeju, BoT assistant governor in charge of consumer protection, said on Saturday that numerous accounts had already been frozen as the Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC), together with commercial banks, intensified operations to trace and return stolen funds. Continued …

DES urges calm amid locked bank accounts

The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has opened a special “war room” to urgently address complaints over frozen bank accounts, after a surge of reports from online vendors and individuals who found their funds locked due to suspected links with so-called “mule accounts.”

The move came after the Bank of Thailand (BoT), commercial banks, and law enforcement agencies held urgent talks yesterday to address growing public concern over the temporary suspension of the accounts. “Mule accounts” are often opened by unknowing parties to receive transfers from victims of financial fraud. Continued …

Merchants seen insisting on cash payment as account freezing spreads

With the freezing of bank accounts spreading amid a crackdown on mule accounts, several fearful merchants have stopped accepting digital financial payments and insist on cash only.

People are beginning to withdraw cash from their accounts as they fear a sudden freezing. Several people have had their accounts frozen, even though they have not done anything wrong, because they received transfers from suspected mule accounts. Continued …

Foreign nominee land, business ownership under the microscope

Thailand’s Ombudsman has urged parliament to amend laws and close loopholes that allow foreign nationals to use Thai nominees to acquire land and control businesses, a practice that authorities say is widespread in economically strategic provinces.

Ombudsman Songsak Saicheua said that while Thailand’s existing laws prohibit foreign nationals from owning land and restrict foreign control of certain businesses, some have found ways to circumvent the rules. Common methods include marrying Thai citizens, setting up companies with nominal Thai shareholders while foreigners manage operations, or using other intermediaries to mask actual ownership. Continued …

Plans for mixed-use activity area at Hua Hin’s Queen’s Park

Hua Hin City Municipality is moving forward with plans to turn 19 rai of land at Suan Luang Queen’s Park into a mixed-use activity area, though officials say more legal clarity is still required before development can proceed.

On Friday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul chaired a meeting at Hua Hin City Municipality to follow up on the request to use the land, which falls under the Forest Resource Management office. The proposal is to designate the site as public land for community use, including as a multi-purpose space for government agencies, a sports and exercise ground, a recreational area, and a venue for anti-drug sports activities. Continued …

Heavy rains forecast in Bangkok and 41 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather forecast warning for today, where heavy rains are expected in 41 provinces, including Bangkok and its metropolitan areas, with a 70% chance of downpours.

The southern region (eastern coast) will experience thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rains in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, with highs of 31 to 34°C. Southwesterly winds will prevail at 15 to 30 km/h. Continued …

Most Thais expect Anutin’s minority govt to survive no more than four months

Most Thai voters believe the minority government of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will last no more than four months, according to an opinion survey.

The poll was conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) among 1,310 respondents nationwide on Sept. 8–9. All participants were at least 18 years old, the legal voting age. Continued …

One-month clearance finds 349 landmines near Cambodian border

Col. Siwa Whang-akat, spokesman for the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), yesterday released results of clearance operations supporting the 2nd Army Area in Phu Makua, Chong An Ma and Chong Bok, following the ceasefire declaration with Cambodia.

He said patrols have been conducted continuously, with nine demining teams deployed in Phase 1 from Aug. 10–23. During this period, teams successfully cleared 122 anti-personnel mines, four anti-vehicle mines, 50 unexploded ordnance items, and 1,575 abandoned explosive devices. Continued …

Thai-China rail delays pile up as minister faces tough test

Thailand’s high-speed rail project is facing fresh delays as the new transport minister takes charge of stalled contracts and unresolved heritage concerns.

The project, first launched with a groundbreaking ceremony at Chiang Rak Noi, Ayutthaya, in December 2015, was billed as a game-changer for regional connectivity. A decade on, progress remains painfully slow. Continued …

Cheow-Lan-Lake, Surat-Thani

Sichon–Khanom: Thailand’s Next Coastal Investment Engine

The Sichon-Khanom corridor is rapidly emerging as southern Thailand’s tourism and investment destination, driven by major infrastructure developments, international brand recognition, and unparalleled natural assets.

The Sichon-Khanom corridor benefits from comprehensive multi-modal connectivity through three established international airports: Surat Thani Airport, Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, and Samui International Airport, providing convenience for both domestic and international travelers. This tri-airport accessibility, combined with the recent completion of the connecting road between Sichon and Khanom districts, has significantly enhanced regional connectivity and reduced travel times. Continued … 

Top economist warns of a stronger baht; tourism and exports face a severe hit

Thailand’s top economist, Anusorn Thamjai of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), is sounding the alarm. H he interim government that a stronger baht could hit an already fragile economy hard this year.

Ironically, the baht’s surge is fueled by the kingdom’s own strong external reserves and solid financial position. Yet, despite this strength, the currency may breach the Bt30-per-dollar mark before year’s end, putting exports, foreign tourism, and the broader economy under serious pressure. Continued …

Anutin’s quick-win plan: co-payment, cheaper train fares, farm debt relief

The government of Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, faces a limited term under a political agreement with the People’s Party requiring the House to be dissolved within four months after its policy statement to parliament.

As a result, its policy design focuses on measures that can be implemented immediately, aimed at reviving the economy and boosting short-term purchasing power to ease economic pressures in the final months of 2025. Politically, the administration also hopes to leverage these measures to win the next general election and form a full four-year government. Continued …

China’s appliance giants intensify battle for Thai market

Thailand’s home appliance market is fast becoming a fierce battleground, as Chinese powerhouses. Haier, TCL, Hisense, Midea, and Changhong roll out aggressive expansion strategies. From building new factories to forging local partnerships and unveiling smart innovations, these brands are aiming to capture Thai consumers who increasingly demand quality, stylish design and cutting-edge technology.

This year marks a clear shift, with Chinese “big brands” moving in force. Haier is expanding factories in Chonburi and Prachin Buri; Midea has invested over 2.2 billion baht in a new air-conditioner plant in Rayong; Hisense is ramping up its push into premium smart TVs and appliances; TCL is eyeing stronger growth in the smart TV segment; and Changhong is entering the high-end market through a partnership with Global House. Continued …

Thailand’s logistics sector draws 2.5-billion baht in foreign investment

According to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) , Thailand’s logistics sector currently comprises 46,570 registered companies. In July, 327 new firms were established, down 2.1% year-on-year, while 69 firms closed, a 14.8% decrease from the same period last year.

The most notable area of growth was transportation and cargo/passenger handling services, which accounted for 194 of the newly established firms, representing the largest share of new logistics businesses. This segment recorded a year-on-year growth rate of 38.6%. Continued …

Thailand raises compensation for flight delays and cancellations

Passengers flying in Thailand will soon receive higher flight compensation for long delays and cancellations, under new regulations issued by the Civil Aviation Committee. Regulation No. 101, which outlines measures to protect passenger rights on both domestic and international scheduled flights, will take effect on Nov. 20.

For domestic flights, passengers affected by delays of more than five hours will now be entitled to 1,200 baht, up from the previous 600 baht. In the case of flight cancellations, compensation will rise from 1,200 baht to 1,500 baht. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism to apply emergency plan to revive the industry

Thailand, traditionally a strong tourism market in Southeast Asia, is currently experiencing a noticeable dip in tourist numbers during 2025. Projections suggest a revenue decrease of about 5%, with approximately 3 million fewer tourists visiting compared to previous years.

This decline, the most significant in recent memory, has understandably caused concern among government officials and those working in the industry. After all, Thailand’s tourism contributed $42.7 billion to the economy last year and remains a vital part of the nation’s financial health. With rising labor costs, increased energy prices, and a relatively short average tourist stay (under seven days), Thailand has announced an ambitious urgent plan to try to reverse this downward trend. Continued …

Phuket Eyes $17.3Billion Tourism Revenue as High Season Bookings Soar

Thailand’s premier island destination is targeting 550 billion baht ($17.3 billion) in tourism revenue this year, as accommodation bookings for the upcoming high season approach pre-pandemic levels, industry leaders announced Saturday.

Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said the outlook for the island’s crucial high season appears strong, driven by increased direct flight connections and robust advance bookings from international visitors. Continued …

Pattaya’s past holds back growth as Western crowds decline and Asia steps in

Once the playground of Western tourists seeking sun, nightlife, and beaches, Pattaya is undergoing a demographic shift. The city, long associated with European and American visitors, is seeing a steady decline in long-time Western attendees. Meanwhile, a new wave of tourists from China, India, Russia, South Korea, and Japan is reshaping the face of the city.

Despite Thailand welcoming over 22 million tourists so far this year, Pattaya is struggling to capture the financial benefits. While other destinations see increased spending, Pattaya’s economy reflects a city still adapting to its changing audience. Many businesses are built around Western expectations, leaving a disconnect with the preferences of the new visitors, who often seek different experiences, from cultural activities and family-oriented attractions to shopping and culinary tourism. Continued …

Wat Phra That Khao Noi in Nan

Nan: A Haven of Heritage and Serenity

Nestled in northern Thailand, Nan is a province rich in cultural heritage, with ancient temples and serene landscapes, offering a blend of history and natural beauty. Video …

Thai coffee faces boom and doom paradox

As mist rolls in along a mountain ridge high above Chiang Mai, Chatree Saeyang climbs up steep wooden stairs to his rustic village cafe, a hideaway in the clouds for coffee drinkers. Chatree, 39, is a third-generation farmer and a tinkerer.

Video 

Littered behind the cafe counter is an assemblage of coffee paraphernalia for his caffeinated creations. As his espresso machine whirs, the headbanded master also starts to prepare a pour-over coffee from beans he grew, fermented, and roasted himself. Continued …

Khao Yai National Park Explores Eco-Tourism at Haew E-Am Waterfall

Khao Yai National Park is considering constructing a new eco-tourism destination at Haew E-Am Waterfall in Pho Ngam, Prachin Buri. The initiative is one of the measures the park is taking to boost tourism while maintaining its natural setting.

A survey group hiked along the natural path along the waterfall to evaluate its ability to be transformed into a new ecotourism site, prioritizing scenic beauty and natural rock outcroppings along the site. The results indicate that the area has excellent potential to become an important destination for tourists interested in hiking, nature activities, and serene getaways in nature. Continued …

Thailand’s new pollution register: A last shot at clean air?

After years of hazardous seasonal smog and other environmental crises, Thais have been given new hope as a draft clean air law moves through Parliament. This month, the House of Representatives approved the Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) bill and formed a committee to review its details.

Penchom Sae-Tang, director of the Ecological Alert and Recovery-Thailand (EARTH), says the new law is vital for tackling the curse of Thailand’s industrial pollution, adding that “if it isn’t passed, the air pollution problems will never go away”. Continued …

Scientists Discover Massive Drinking Water Reserve Hidden Beneath Atlantic Ocean

In a remarkable discovery, scientists have located a massive low-salinity water reservoir off the coast of the United States. This colossal aquifer is buried beneath the salty Atlantic Ocean and possesses the potential to quench the thirst of a metropolis like Paris for millennia. In a world where freshwater scarcity is becoming an alarming reality, the implications of this finding are profound. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Sept 8

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Hua Hin bank accounts locked without warning/Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet/Saran Withee Festival/Soi 106 railway crossing underpass/Truck overturns, spilling 5 million meth pills/Anutin formally appointed PM/Heavy rainfall alert/Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses/Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online/Thieves Steal Ambulance, Call Police for Help/Education system demands reform/UK man latest high rise balcony fatality/Rainmaking said safe/AI traffic signals/ECONOMY: Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister/Restaurants call for stimulus/Co-payment stimulus likely/Banking industry at critical point/Baht rise abnormal/Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry/TOURISM: AOT Reports Record Growth/Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery?/King Power Adjusts to New Realities/British Couple Faces Huge Medical Bill/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s 8 best wildlife experiences/UNESCO World Heritage Sites a must visit/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok Faces Existential Flood Threat/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS

Expats in Hua Hin left stranded as bank accounts locked without warning

Foreign residents in Hua Hin and across Thailand are reporting significant inconvenience after Bangkok Bank froze their accounts without prior notice, leaving many unable to access funds for daily expenses, bills, and emergencies.

The stricter identity verification measures, which began intensifying in May 2025, follow regulatory measures from the Bank of Thailand to curb financial fraud, money laundering, and so-called “mule” accounts used in scams. While the steps are said to be in line with international “Know Your Customer” standards, the sudden freezes have caused widespread disruption for expats and tourists. Continued …

Hua Hin Holds Blessing of the Fleet

Tourists and residents gathered at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine yesterday to take part in Hua Hin’s annual “Sea Misfortune Sending” boat release ceremony, a tradition dedicated to making merit for ancestors and seeking protection for the local fishing community.

The event, held beside the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, brought together local officials, community groups, and visitors from across Thailand and abroad. The day began with merit-making and offerings to monks, led by Phra Kru Phisutthipawanaphithan, abbot of Wat Hua Hin and adviser to the Hua Hin district monastic chief. Continued …

Saran Withee Festival in PKK Sept 12-13

The Saran Withee Festival: The Colors of the Wind 2025 will take place Sept. 12–13, from 5-9pm in Prachuap Khiri Khan about an hour’s drive south of Hua Hin. The event wil be held at the Saran Withee Bridge Pier.

The event features a hot air balloon show, an lluminated bridge, concerts by artists and local students, local food, and fresh seafood.

Hua Hin Soi 106 railway crossing underpass ruled out

Local residents in the Nong Kae community of Hua Hin are calling for safer and more convenient ways to cross the railway at Soi 106 after officials confirmed an underpass cannot be built at the site.

On Friday, the mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality assigned Natthawan Mitdee, the mayor’s secretary, along with City Council President Cheep Suksri, council member Sorayut Premkamolnet, the director of the engineering office, and relevant officials to meet with representatives from the State Railway of Thailand, the head of the Nong Kae community, and local residents. The discussion focused on whether an underpass at the Soi 106 crossing could be constructed to ease movement across the railway line. Continued …

Truck overturns on Phetkasem Road spilling 5 million meth pills

A lorry carrying millions of methamphetamine tablets crashed after a tire burst, scattering its illicit cargo across a stretch of Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) in Kui Buri district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The driver fled the scene.

The crash occurred at around 7.30 am yesterday near Ban Samrong, Sam Krathai subdistrict. Police and rescue teams found a white Isuzu truck with Bangkok registration plates, its rear tires blown and the vehicle resting against a guardrail. No driver or passengers were found at the scene. Continued …

Anutin formally appointed Thailand’s 32nd prime minister

The Bhumjaithai Party held the royal command ceremony in which Anutin Charnvirakul, party leader and MP on the party-list system, was formally appointed as the 32nd prime minister of Thailand yesterday.

Arphat Sukanan, secretary-general of the House of Representatives, brought the royal command appointing the prime minister to the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters on Phaholyothin Road. He then read out the royal command, in which His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua (King Rama X) formally appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister of Thailand. Continued …

Heavy rainfall alert issued for 50 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning today, highlighting heavy rainfall across 50 provinces, including Bangkok and its vicinity, with an expected 80% coverage of intense downpour.

In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 40% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures range from 23 to 26°C to 31 to 34°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued … 

Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses Pose Safety Crisis

Motorcycles are a daily necessity for millions of Thai households, serving as transport to school, work, and everyday activities. But a growing concern is that young people, the group most likely to rely on motorbikes, are also the most at risk, with the majority riding illegally without proper licenses.

Figures released by the Thailand Accident Research Center reveal the scale of the issue. Riders without licenses, in age groups: 81% of 15–18-year-olds, 65% of 18–24-year-olds, and even 33% of those aged over 24 were found to be riding without. Continued … 

Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online in 2026

In a digital shake-up for Thai drivers, a new ministerial regulation is bringing the convenience of online renewals to drivers under 55. As announced in the Royal Gazette, from March 4, 2026, motor enthusiasts can bypass lengthy queues and embrace a digital route to renewing their licenses.

Caretaker Transport Deputy Minister Surapong Piyachote highlighted that this move streamlines processes and eliminates unnecessary trips to transport offices. However, drivers over 55 or those whose licenses have expired for more than a year won’t have the same digital luxury. Continued …

Thieves Steal Ambulance, Run Out of Fuel & Call Police for Help

Two teenage thieves had an unusually unlucky day after stealing an ambulance from Krabi, running out of fuel mid-journey, and then daring to call the police for assistance, only to be arrested immediately.

The 19- and 17-year-old suspects had reportedly stolen a Toyota marked with “Khlong Thom Rescue and Emergency Association, Krabi” while it was parked with the keys left inside. The vehicle was intended for patient transport and rescue operations. Continued …

Thai education system demands reform after poor global rankings

Thailand’s education system faces renewed scrutiny following international assessments that rank Thai students in the lower half of global performance tables. Education experts caution that without comprehensive reforms, Thailand risks lagging further behind its regional peers in literacy and skills development.

This urgent need for change was underscored at the Beyond Assessment: Driving Educational Change Forum held in Bangkok last week. According to the World Population Review 2025, Thailand’s literacy rate, at 94.1%, lags behind Brunei at 97.6%, Singapore at 97.5%, Philippines at 96.3%, Indonesia at 96%, Vietnam at 95.8%, and Malaysia at 95%. Continued …

UK man the latest foreign tourist to die in high rise balcony fall in Pattaya

A foreign tourist has died after plummeting from a Pattaya hotel balcony. The victim, 74-year-old Briton Keith Jones, was found face down on the ground in only swimming trunks. He suffered catastrophic head trauma and multiple broken bones.

Emergency responders confirmed he died at the scene in the Nong Prue area of the resort city. The fall from the high-rise building shocked locals and tourists alike. Continued …

Rainmaking said safe as Thailand prepares for drought relief

The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department is stepping up efforts to combat drought and mitigate its regular adverse effects on Thailand’s agricultural sector. Officials have confirmed that water produced through artificial rain, or “royal rainmaking”. is of comparable quality to natural rainfall and is safe for both consumption and agricultural use.

Rachen Silparaya, director-general of the department, stated that Thailand ranks first globally in weather modification techniques aimed at generating rain. While several countries are keen to learn from Thailand’s expertise, practical application remains limited due to the technical expertise required and the need to consider weather conditions, humidity, and cloud formations. Continued …

Green light for AI traffic signals

For years, Bangkok’s drivers have endured hours stuck in traffic. But a quiet revolution has been underway since February, when the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) partnered with Google on Project Green Light.

The initiative uses artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize traffic light timings, analyzing data from 561 signalized intersections to adjust green, yellow, and red lights according to real-time traffic conditions. Continued …

Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister to push urgent economic policies

Every time a new government is formed or a cabinet reshuffle takes place in Thailand, one of the most scrutinized positions is that of the finance minister. The post is regarded as pivotal for any administration, tasked with steering fiscal policy and driving economic growth in line with government targets.

In the latest government formation led by Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and incoming prime minister, preparations for the “Anutin 1 Cabinet” were set in motion even before the parliamentary vote on Sept. 5. Continued …

Restaurants call for stimulus

Restaurant operators are calling on the new government to introduce supportive measures for the industry, citing numerous challenges, including the sluggish economy, rising raw material costs, and difficulties in accessing loans.

Thailand’s restaurant industry is struggling amid the economic slowdown, said Jakkrit Saisomboon, chief executive of MAI-listed Maguro Group, operator of the Maguro restaurant chain. Continued … 

Co-payment stimulus ‘likely to be revived’

The Bhumjaithai Party has confirmed that it is considering reviving the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” (Let’s Go Halves) co-payment scheme as part of efforts to stimulate Thailand’s slowing economy.

Deputy leader Siripong Angkasakulkiat said on Saturday that discussions about the plan are already under way within the party’s executive committee and policy teams as they prepare to take the reins of government. Continued …

Thailand’s banking industry is at critical turning point

Amid global economic shifts and mounting domestic challenges, Thailand’s banking industry is at a critical turning point. Unlike many other sectors, banks are entering a period of declining interest rates, a cycle that inevitably squeezes their core revenue streams.

When interest rates fall, deposit rates tend to adjust more slowly than lending rates, while surplus liquidity parked with the Bank of Thailand earns lower returns. This dynamic puts pressure on banks’ net interest margin (NIM), reducing their ability to generate profit. Continued …

Baht rise abnormal, says bank CEO, calls for tighter controls

Amid Thailand’s sluggish economy, the baht has continued to appreciate, raising concerns for exports and competitiveness. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has previously voiced alarm over the baht’s persistent rise, noting that it is inconsistent with the country’s weak fundamentals.

The group pointed to links with underground transactions, including surging gold prices, volatile cryptocurrency movements, and remittances from migrant workers bypassing the banking system. Continued … 

Anutin’s Return Sparks Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, renowned for pioneering the decriminalization of cannabis and fostering its early growth, is positioning Thailand’s cannabis industry for a resurgence.

Since Anutin decriminalized marijuana in 2022, making Thailand the first Asian nation to do so, the sector has faced a rollercoaster of policy changes. Without a concrete cannabis law, regulation has been challenging, raising fears of it being classified as a narcotic again. Continued …

Thailand’s AOT Reports Record Growth as Airport Expansion Plans Accelerate

Thailand’s state-owned airport operator has reported significant passenger growth across its six major facilities, while unveiling ambitious expansion plans designed to cement the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub.

Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT) announced that its airports collectively served 88.53 million passengers during the first eight months of fiscal year 2025, representing a 9.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery or just wait for miracles?

As the rainy season drapes the city in gray skies and intermittent downpours, Pattaya’s tourism industry faces a familiar conundrum: can the city generate meaningful visitor activity in September, or must stakeholders simply wait for miraculous weather and economic conditions to improve?

On paper, optimism exists. Pattaya is still home to a slew of high-profile events, from Miss International Queen to music festivals and regional cultural showcases. Hotels remain operational, restaurants ready, and beachside attractions await eager tourists. Local authorities continue to invest in safety, infrastructure, and marketing campaigns aimed at luring visitors during the traditionally slow season. Continued …

King Power Adjusts to New Realities in Thailand Retail Market

King Power Corp. once wielded significant influence as Thailand’s most powerful duty free operator. It now battles stagnant tourism, decreased visitations from the Chinese, and increase operational costs.

Such factors collectively jeopardize King Power’s competitive edge. While King Power has exclusive commercial rights at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket airports, the business’s scope appears to be narrowing. This has forced the company to rethink its strategy. Continued …

Brit Faces Huge Medical Bill After Falling Down Waterfall In Thailand

A British couple’s dream vacation in Thailand turned into a nightmare when a 23-year-old soldier fell 30 feet from a waterfall he discovered on TikTok, suffering a fractured skull and leg. His partner, Lucy, clung to him for two hours on a narrow ledge, preventing a further 100-meter fall, until rescuers arrived.

The couple now faces over 4.342 million baht ($135,000) in medical expenses and the need for a costly medical evacuation to the UK. Their travel insurance status remains uncertain. Continued …

Thailand’s 8 best and unmissable wildlife experiences for nature lovers

Thailand’s tropical climate and protected areas support over 10% of the world’s animal species, including Asian elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and marine life like whale sharks.

On your next trip to Thailand, try to focus on ethical tourism by choosing sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare — no riding, shows, or chaining — and support conservation efforts. Not only are these sanctuaries doing something great for the animals, they are also here to give you unforgettable wildlife experiences. Continued … 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Thailand that are a must visit for culture seekers

Thailand is one beautiful Asian country home to a range of incredible cultural beauties and natural wonders. Some of these have earned UNESCO World Heritage status because of their unique values.

These sites take you back in time to make you experience the country’s golden heritage. On this note, let’s have a look at five UNESCO sites you should not miss on your trip to Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok Faces Existential Flood Threat, Expert Warns

Bangkok is facing a compounding flood crisis that could see most of the city submerged by 2030, according to a stark warning from a leading environmental academic.

Writing on social media, Sonthi Kotchawat of the Thai Environmental Scholars Assn. outlined the key factors behind the worsening situation, arguing that the city’s flood-management strategy requires a complete overhaul. Continued …

Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga land top honors at MTV’s Video Music Awards

Pop singer Ariana Grande claimed the top prize at the MTV (Music Television) Video Music Awards (VMA), and Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter scored major honors, at a star-studded celebration of fan favorites in New York yesterday. Grande won video of the year for “Brighter Days Ahead,” earning her the biggest award of the night at the fan-voted awards. Continued …

Chinese travelers mull Russia for visa-free National Day holidays

Russia is attracting more interest from Chinese holidaymakers in the countdown to the weeklong National Day break, with the prospect of visa-free stays on the horizon. Searches for Russian hotels and flights rose more than sixfold on Friday from a day earlier within an hour of Chinese media reporting that Russian President Vladimir Putin had suggested that Chinese travelers might soon be able to visit without visas. Continued … 

Jakarta’s crisis is ASEAN’s problem

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has relied on the domestic stability of its member states to achieve regional unity, and Indonesia, as the largest and most populous nation in the bloc, has served as the primary stabilizing force. However, the recent episodes of internal instability have raised questions about its ability to maintain this pivotal role. Continued …

French parliament set to eject PM in blow to Macron

France’s parliament is expected to oust Prime Minister Francois Bayrou today after just nine months in office, plunging the key European Union (EU) member into new political uncertainty and creating a painful dilemma for President Emmanuel Macron. Continued … 

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Resigns

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced yesterday he will step down following growing calls from his party to take responsibility for a historic defeat in July’s parliamentary election. Ishiba, who took office in October, had resisted demands from mostly right-wing opponents within his own party for more than a month. Continued …

NEW PAGE – Hua Hin 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

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Monday’s news-July 21

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Heavy rain in Hua Hin/Hua Hin tourism and sports division/Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’/Cha Am camping park/Life at a Thai wildlife hospital/Thailand Braces for Downpours/Edible flowers contaminated/Public blames monks’ misconduct/ECONOMY: 99-Year Land Leases/Thailand Navigates Competitive Pressure/Thailand businesses on the brink/Thailand ‘can’t match’ Vietnam/Thailand’s Film Industry Booms/TOURISM: Tourism revival goes into reverse/Fast-Track Entry for Foreign Families/Who the real big spenders are/Suvarnabhumi Indoor Smoking Rooms/US to Hike Visa Fees/Driving Trat’s Tourism Boom/Tourists Survive Boat Tragedy/Chinese Tourist Drowns/Tourist Killed by Falling Tree/Brit tourist falls to death/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Hidden paradise for vegetarian travelers/CLIMATE THAILAND: Phuket hotels go green/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

Heavy rain forecast in Hua Hin throughout the week

Residents and visitors in Hua Hin are being advised to prepare for a prolonged spell of wet weather, with heavy rainfall expected across the city for much of the coming week.

According to the Thai Meteorological Department’s 7-day forecast, Hua Hin is likely to see heavy rain every day through Saturday , with rainfall affecting between 40% and 60% of the area each day. Wind speeds are forecast to range from 15 to 22 km/h, blowing predominantly from the west-southwest, while wave heights along the coast are expected to reach up to two meters. Continued …

Hua Hin moves to establish dedicated tourism and sports division

Authorities in Hua Hin have taken steps toward creating a new Division of Tourism and Sports, aimed at strengthening the city’s position as a year-round destination for both domestic and international visitors.

A meeting on Friday focused on discussing the necessary administrative steps to expand the municipal staffing framework and formally establish a division specifically tasked with overseeing tourism and sports. Continued …

Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’ set for Aug 9-12

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 camping park receives national honor

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park in Cha Am has been awarded national recognition for its high standards in camping activities, receiving official certification under the Thailand Tourism Standard for the 2025 fiscal year.

Patthanaphan Jueajan, head of park, accepted the award during a presentation ceremony held in Bangkok. The certification, granted by the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, recognizes the park’s excellence in safety, service quality, and site management for camping-related tourism. Continued …

Sunbears to elephants: life at a Thai wildlife hospital

The patient lay prone on the operating table. An IV line snaking from his left leg, near the wound from the tranquilizer dart that sedated him. Yong, a pig-tailed macaque rescued from a life harvesting coconuts, was being treated at Thailand’s only NGO-run wildlife hospital.

He is one of dozens of animals treated each month at the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) facility. Patients range from delicate sugar gliders intended as pets, to some of the hefty rescued elephants that roam WFFT’s expansive facility in Phetchaburi, southwest of Bangkok. Continued … 

Thailand Braces for Downpours as ‘War Room’ Springs into Action

Thailand has activated a round-the-clock “war room” for real-time monitoring and disaster management as a powerful storm approaches. This measure comes after warnings from the Thai Meteorological Department about heavy rain expected in several northern provinces due to Typhoon Wipha’s proximity to northern Vietnam today and tomorrow.

Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that the north and northeast should prepare for intense rainfall Tomorrow and Wednesday, potentially causing a rise in the Mekong River’s levels. A combination of a low-pressure trough and moist air from the Andaman Sea is forecast to result in widespread precipitation. Continued …

More than half of edible flowers contaminated with pesticides

Two studies have found that more than half of sampled edible flowers in Thailand were contaminated with hazardous pesticides. The findings were presented recently at the 33rd Medical Academic Meeting held at the Impact Forum in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi.

The first study was conducted by the Food Quality and Safety Office, under the Department of Medical Sciences, in collaboration with officials from the department’s offices in Chiang Rai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songkhla, and Chonburi. It focused on contamination of edible flowers by hazardous chemicals used as pesticides. Continued … 

Survey finds public blames monks’ misconduct for Buddhism’s decline

The National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) has released the findings of a new public opinion survey titled “Crisis in Buddhism!”, revealing widespread concerns among Thai Buddhists over the state of the clergy.

Conducted by NIDA Poll between July 14–16, the survey gathered responses from 1,310 Buddhists aged 18 and above across all regions, education levels, occupations, and income brackets nationwide. Data were collected via telephone interviews, with a margin of error not exceeding ±5% at a 97% confidence level. Continued …

Government Pushes for 99-Year Land Leases to Attract Investment

The Thai government is fast-tracking amendments to the Rights Over Leasehold Asset Act, seeking to extend real estate lease terms from 30 years to 99 years. This move is designed to inject fresh life into the economy by stimulating investment and enticing high-net-worth individuals and skilled professionals from overseas to settle in Thailand.

The proposed legislation is currently undergoing public consultation before being presented to the Cabinet. Continued … 

Thailand Navigates Competitive Pressure Amid US Trade Agreements

Thailand faces mounting competition in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI)  following new trade agreements between the United States and Southeast Asian counterparts Vietnam and Indonesia. These deals offer zero-tariff access to American exports — positioning both nations as more attractive investment destinations and prompting Thailand to accelerate its own trade diplomacy efforts.

Indonesia’s trade pact includes a 19% import tariff on its exports to the U.S., while American goods enter duty-free. In return, Indonesia pledged to purchase $15 billion in energy products, $4.5 billion in agricultural goods, and 50 Boeing aircraft. Continued …

US tariffs put Thailand businesses on the brink

Thailand is on the brink of facing trade woes, no matter whether the U.S. imposes steep or gentler reciprocal tariffs on Thai imports.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s threatening reciprocal tariff policy has not only sparked concerns over sales of more expensive Thai goods in the American market but has also prompted businesses and the government to take a serious look into problems in the export sector and possible changes that may ensue amid uncertainties surrounding Washington’s trade policy. Continued …

Thailand ‘can’t match’ Vietnam’s US tariff proposals

Thailand o the United States as Vietnam did, warns Somjai Phagaphasvivat, an expert in international economics, who added that Vietnam was able to remove tariffs on all U.S. imports because it has free trade agreements (FTAs) with 27 countries, which have already reduced most of Vietnam’s import tariffs to zero. In contrast, Thailand is unlikely to do the same, because it has FTAs with fewer countries than Vietnam does, he said.

“Nevertheless, one thing we must consider is that, at some point, we may have to do what Vietnam did in the future. We will need to enhance our competitiveness, and when the time comes and we have more FTAs with other countries, we’ll be able to open up fully,” said Somjai. Continued …

Thailand’s Film Industry Booms with Record Foreign Investment

Thailand is cementing its reputation as a leading international filming destination, with foreign film productions injecting 2.866 billion baht into the national economy during the first six months of 2025. This surge, driven by attractive government incentives, puts the country on track to significantly outperform its annual revenue targets.

Sasikarn Wattanachan, deputy government spokesperson, confirmed that the Department of Tourism’s Thailand Film Office recorded 279 foreign film shoots from around the globe between Jan.1 and June 30 this year. Continued …

Tourism revival goes into reverse

Over the past three years, Thai tourism has been struggling to regain the peak it once reached prior to the pandemic, while neighboring countries Malaysia and Vietnam have already surpassed their performance in 2019, recording 37 million and 17 million tourist arrivals, respectively.

The closest opportunity occurred in 2024 when Thailand welcomed 35.5 million foreign tourists, an increase of 26% year-on-year. However, repeating the success of 2019 when 39.9 million foreign tourists arrived and spending hit 1.9 trillion baht is unlikely to occur in 2025, given that Thailand only attracted 16.6 million foreign arrivals in the first half, dipping 4.6% year-on-year. Continued …

Immigration Unveils Fast-Track Entry for Foreign Families and Students

Thailand’s airports have introduced new measures to accommodate the increasing number of foreign students and their families visiting the country during school holidays. Initially launched for Chinese visitors, this initiative is now being expanded to cater to students from the U.S., UK, Canada, and beyond, aligning with their summer breaks.

Immigration Division 2 has reported significant growth in the number of international students traveling to Thailand, particularly during the low season months of July through September. While Chinese student groups continue to dominate numerically, the combined arrivals from Western countries are steadily increasing. Continued …

The debate continues over who the real big spenders in Pattaya are

Pattaya’s vibrant tourism scene has long been fueled by a diverse mix of visitors, but the question of who truly drives the local economy with their spending remains a hot topic among business owners, locals, and tourists alike.

Chinese tourists have historically been a significant presence in Pattaya. Although their numbers have dropped by half since Songkran, Chinese travelers remain a vital force in retail, dining, excursions, and beach activities, known for traveling in groups and spending heavily on shopping and meals. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Introduce Indoor Smoking Rooms by End of July

The Department of Disease Control has revealed detailed plans for new prototype indoor smoking rooms at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. The move comes in response to repeated incidents of passengers illegally smoking in airport restrooms and other unauthorized areas, raising concerns about second-hand smoke exposure and public safety.

Two locations within the airport have been approved for the new facilities. The smoking rooms will be installed in the SAT-1 satellite terminal (one room) and on the fourth floor of the main international departure terminal (three rooms). Outdoor smoking zones will remain in designated areas on the second floor, outside the main terminal. Continued …

US to Hike Visa Fees by $250, Sparking Tourism Industry Outcry

The U.S. government is poised to introduce a substantial new fee on temporary visa applications, adding an extra $250 to the existing charges. This move, reported Friday, will significantly increase the cost for many international visitors, including Thai nationals, who could see their total visa expenses rise to $435.

The new fee is expected to come into force on Oct. 1, marking the start of the new U.S. financial year. The new levy, dubbed the “Visa Integrity Fee,” will apply to a wide range of non-immigrant visas, including those for tourism, business (B1/B2), students, and workers. Continued …

Koh Chang, Koh Kood, Koh Mak Drive Trat’s Tourism Boom

Trat province is experiencing a tourism renaissance in 2025, with three Gulf of Thailand islands leading the charge toward an ambitious 20 billion baht ($617 million) revenue target. Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak have become magnets for both domestic and international visitors seeking alternatives to Thailand’s busier Andaman destinations.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Trat office reports robust tourism from January through May, with peak periods generating 200-400 million baht in revenue. The province’s 410 registered hotels and resorts, offering 11,299 rooms total, are operating at full capacity during high season. Continued …

Tourists Survive Boat Tragedy, Guide Dies

A long-tail boat capsized in the Ratchaprapa Dam reservoir in Surat Thani, yesterday, claiming the life of a tour guide, while 16 foreign tourists and the captain survived.

Five Belgians, 11 Dutch tourists, and the captain were rescued. The female tour guide drowned after hitting her head on the boat. Local residents claim this area, known as Chong Nam Khao, has a history of similar incidents, especially during rainy, windy conditions due to the small size of these boats. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Drowns in Rough Seas off Koh Lanta

A Chinese tourist drowned off the coast of Koh Lanta yesterday afternoon after being swept out to sea by strong waves, despite warnings about dangerous sea conditions.

The incident occurred at Ao Mai Phai (Bamboo Bay), located in Koh Lanta subdistrict, Krabi province. The victim, believed to be between 35 and 40 years old, had been on holiday with two friends and had entered the sea to swim despite rough conditions. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Killed by Falling Tree in Front of Husband in Phuket

A Chinese tourist was killed when a large tree, uprooted by strong winds, collapsed onto her at Koh Hey Beach in Phuket yesterday afternoon. The incident occurred in full view of her husband, who sustained minor injuries.

Police at Chalong Police Station received a report from Chalong Hospital of a fatality involving a foreign tourist. The incident had occurred earlier near the beach area on Koh Hey (Coral Island) in Chalong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phuket. Continued …

Brit tourist falls to death after lovers’ row at Chiang Mai condo

A dream holiday turned into a nightmare in Chiang Mai after a British man plunged to his death from the 10th floor of a luxury condominium — just weeks before his wedding.

The incident unfolded Friday in the Chang Klan area. The victim, in his 30s, had traveled to Thailand with his fiancée, also British, for what was meant to be a romantic getaway before tying the knot back in the UK next month. Continued …

7 reasons this ancient city is a hidden paradise for vegetarian travelers

Chiang Mai – the 13th-century former Lanna kingdom capital – has emerged as a top destination for digital nomads seeking a healthy, plant-based lifestyle. This globally popular ancient city marries centuries-old food traditions with a contemporary wellness scene.

Here, we detail seven evidence-backed reasons why Chiang Mai is ideal for vegetarian travelers, from its historical plant-forward cuisine to today’s thriving vegan community. Each reason connects modern wellness travel trends with deep-rooted cultural practices, showing why this northern Thai city is a vegetarian paradise. Continued …

Phuket hotels go green in hunt for gold

Thai tourism is embracing sustainability as a core selling point for travelers, as the industry seeks to ensure its survival in a marketplace where such practices have become the “new normal”.

As more visitors opt for hotels and tourism operators equipped with sustainable standards, the key to success is seen as deriving from fact-based practices, governing policies, and, more importantly, partnerships between operators and financial institutions that support business transformation. Continued …

  • Brazilian Couple Arrested at Samui Airport with 20 Million Baht Worth of Cocaine – Continued …

Global Economy Faces Headwinds as US and Eurozone Slow, China’s Property Sector Struggles

By mid-2025, the global economy was showing increasing signs of a slowdown, fueled by escalating tariff pressures, rising geopolitical tensions, and persistent structural challenges. Both the United States and the Eurozone are grappling with subdued growth prospects, while China’s property sector continues to exert downward pressure on the world’s second-largest economy despite government efforts to stimulate consumption. 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

     

exports, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-July 10

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Expat News will be traveling from July 11-17. We will try to post the news whenever possible while we are gone, but it may arrive at different times of the day or not at all on some days. We will return to daily coverage on July 18.

Section of Soi 94 closed/Thailand Tightens Grip on Ride-Hailing/Heavy rain and flash floods/Thai Sex Ban for Under-22s/Cannabis shops must hire doctors/ECONOMY: BoT pegs growth at sub-2%/Manufacturers poised to take massive hit/Exports will grow below 1%/New tariffs on 8 countries/The Red Bull Dynasty/TOURISM: Impact of tariff hikes on tourism/World’s Safest Holiday Destination/Phuket sees 5.85 million visitors/Pattaya Counting on New Domestic Flights/Thai Airways Snubs Direct US Flights/Top digital nomad destinations/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

Section of Soi 94 closed to Saturday for repair work

Road resurfacing work has resumed on Soi 94 after months of delays, with a section of the road temporarily closed to traffic until July 12, Hua Hin City has announced.

The closure affects the stretch between the junction in front of the 7-Eleven and the junction at Soi Charoen Pattana 2, near Craft, Scruffy’s, and Pizza Garden. The road will be closed daily from 9am to 4pm through to Friday to allow for the installation of drainage pipes, which form part of the ongoing reinforced concrete resurfacing project. Continued …

Thailand Tightens Grip on Ride-Hailing with Tough New Rules

Thailand’s Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has introduced stringent regulations for ride-hailing services. All drivers must now register their vehicles as public transport and have a public transport driving license. These new measures are set to take effect 90 days after the announcement yesterday.

The Royal Gazette has detailed that digital platforms for public hire cars and motorcycles must meet requirements under Article 18 (3) of the 2022 Royal Decree on digital platform business operations. This move prioritizes security and reliability concerning state interests in security, health, environment, energy, and communications. Continued …

Heavy rain and flash floods expected in Thailand

The low-pressure cell currently covering upper Vietnam and the moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand are bringing isolated heavy rain across the country, the Thai Meteorological Department said today.

South (east coast): Scattered thundershowers mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat; minimum 24-26°C, maximum 30-34°C;. Continued … 

555! Thai Activist Proposes Sex Ban for Under-22s to Tackle HIV Surge

A heated debate emerged in Thailand after political activist Mongkolkit Suksintharanon proposed a controversial initiative to combat rising HIV rates. He suggested a legal ban on sexual activity for those under 22 years old, sparking a nationwide discussion.

During a recent parliamentary session, Deputy Minister of Public Health Chaichana Daecho highlighted the troubling increase in HIV infections among the youth. Determined to address the issue, the ministry plans to reduce new HIV cases to fewer than 1,000 per year and related deaths to under 4,000 annually. The strategy involves educational efforts targeting university students and distributing free condoms to promote safe sex practices. Continued …

Thailand to force cannabis shops to hire doctors

Thailand’s cannabis boom is about to get a massive reality check. Starting later this year, thousands of cannabis retailers will be legally transformed into healthcare facilities — and required to have a doctor on-site to dispense weed.

At a packed press conference Tuesday, July 8, Thanakrit Jit-areerat, secretary to the Minister of Public Health, announced that the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) had officially launched its new cannabis prescription system. The system was tested for the first time todayyesterday with 50 patients. Continued …

BoT pegs growth at sub-2% for 18 months

The Bank of Thailand has assessed the Thai economy is likely to grow at a rate of less than 2% over the next 18 months, primarily due to pressures from U.S. tariff policies.

Speaking at a monetary policy forum yesterday, Piti Disyatat, deputy governor for monetary stability at the central bank, said the heightened uncertainties arising from U.S. tariffs on Thai exports are expected to negatively impact the country’s exports, private investment, and domestic consumption in the second half of 2025 and throughout 2026. Continued …

Thai manufacturers poised to take massive hit from US levy

The proposed 36% tariff on U.S. imports of Thai products could pile pressure on the manufacturing sector, with workers likely to bear the brunt, says the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai).

Exporters will be the first sector to be affected, with total export values expected to plunge by more than 50% as soon as this month, even before enforcement of the proposed tariff, according to EconThai. Continued …

Shippers fear exports will grow below 1%

Shippers warn that exports may grow by only 0-1% this year, calling on the government to urgently negotiate with the U.S. to lower its proposed tariff rate to less than 36% for Thai products.

Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said the 36% tariff is significantly higher than anticipated, escalating export costs and making Thai products less competitive in the U.S. market. Continued …

Trump imposes new tariffs on 8 countries, including ASEAN members

U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday announced new import tariffs on eight countries, including ASEAN members Brunei and Philippines, following a series of trade measures set to take effect from Aug. 1. The new tariffs, ranging from 20% to 50%, reflect ongoing tensions between the U.S. and these nations, as well as concerns over economic sovereignty.

This move prompted ASEAN leaders to convene in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, where Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as ASEAN’s chair, called for enhanced regional trade, noting that ASEAN is the fifth largest economy in the world, heavily reliant on exports. He expressed concern over the detrimental impact of the U.S. tariffs on ASEAN nations, which have led to intensified trade talks with the U.S. Continued …

The Red Bull Dynasty: How Thailand’s Richest Family Built a Global Empire

In the bustling streets of Bangkok, where tuk-tuks weave through traffic and street vendors hawk their wares, stands a testament to entrepreneurial genius that has captured the world’s attention.

The Yoovidhya family, now worth an astounding $44.5 billion, represents not merely Thailand’s wealthiest dynasty but a masterclass in transforming a local product into a global phenomenon. Continued … 

Impact of tariff hikes on tourism likely to unfold next year

Tourism operators view the U.S.’s tariff policy as indirectly hampering Thai tourism in the form of reduced spending, but this impact is not expected to unfold until next year, as many tourists have already booked trips for the upcoming high season.

They have also suggested the Thai government use this opportunity to upgrade the country’s tourism infrastructure, develop new attractions to remain competitive with Vietnam, and accelerate the 350-million-baht chartered flight incentive to prevent a freefall in arrivals. Continued …

Thailand Named World’s Safest Holiday Destination by UK agency

Thailand has claimed the title of the safest holiday destination in the world, according to a recent analysis by Travelbag, a UK-based long-haul travel specialist. This accolade is based on detailed data from Numbeo, an extensive user-contributed database providing insights on cities and countries globally.

Thailand emerged as a leader in safety, surpassing popular destinations like Seychelles, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Its blend of high safety scores and renowned warm hospitality contributed significantly to its top ranking. Continued …

Phuket sees 5.85 million visitors in first 5 months

Russians, Chinese, and Indians were Phuket’s largest groups of tourists in the first five months of this year, generating around 223 billion baht in revenue, says the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Kamolphan Chalermsakulrat, deputy director of TAT Phuket, said yesterday the island province welcomed 5.85 million visitors between January and May, a 3.1% increase year-on-year. Continued … 

Pattaya Hopes Tourism Skyrockets with New Domestic Flight Routes

Pattaya is poised for a tourism boom as a wave of new domestic flights connects the city more comprehensively than ever. This ambitious expansion is part of Thailand’s “New Route – New Airline” initiative, designed to transform the kingdom into a regional aviation powerhouse.

Leading this initiative are Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and newcomer EZY Airlines, all of which have introduced a series of new routes between June and July 2025. Director-General of the Department of Airports Danai Rueangsorn praised the development as a crucial step in the Ministry of Transport’s vision to enhance regional access and reduce economic inequality. Continued …

Thai Airways Snubs Direct US Flights Despite Safety Rating Boost

Thai Airways International is steering clear of resuming direct flights to the United States, despite a U.S. safety rating upgrade for Thailand this year. CEO Chai Eamsiri revealed that the airline’s current fleet isn’t equipped for such long-haul routes. He underscored the U.S. market as risky due to ongoing tariff negotiations.

The airline halted U.S. flights in 2015 following a safety rating downgrade, and no relaunch is planned. However, Chai mentioned the possibility of buying more Boeing planes, which might influence tariff talks with the U.S. Continued …

Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima named top digital nomad destinations

Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima were recently ranked 1st and 5th among the top 100 digital nomad destinations for 2025, according to a report by the HotelWithTub website.

The ranking was based on data from over 1,300 cities worldwide, highlighting destinations attracting digital nomads. The survey evaluated factors such as cost of living, quality of life, safety, and social media popularity. Continued …

  • German Arrested in Koh Phangan for Australian Investment Scam – Continued …
  • Malaysian Suspect in Massive Online Gambling Syndicate Arrested – Continued …
  • Crackdown on Koh Phangan: Foreigners Detained for Overstaying Visas – Continued …
  • Illegal Chinese Cosmetics Factory Raided – 15 Chinese Nationals Detained – Continued …
  • Russian Man and Two Thais Arrested in Phuket Drug Bust – 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