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Learn about Thailand’s new tax on expat income/Steel Beams collapse on Rama II Road/Flash Floods Hit Khok Pho/Hat Yai announced as danger zone/How one geologist is saving lives/Thailand’s first three Michelin star/Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi Motorway/King to open Rama X Bridge/NHSO clarifies ‘Cancer Anywhere’ program/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand’s economy rebounds/Chamber projects 3% GDP/Thailand struggles as FDI destination/Manufacturing index poised for growth/Auto sector affecting recovery/TOURISM: Facial recognition for international flights/Pattaya Cracks Down on Foreign Criminals/Travel destinations overrun with tourists/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Lopburi’s sunflower fields/Buddhism always oddly political/Mae Klong Railway Market/CLIMATE THAILAND: $820-million loan for 12 renewable energy projects/0% interest solar panel installation packages/Valeura starts up three more oil wells/Eco-mission to save Maya Bay/Treaty could end plastic crisis/Reminder of What We’re All Exposed To/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

Learn about Thailand’s new tax on expat income

Hua Hin Expat News yesterday listened in on an online webinar regarding the new tax on expat income to be implmented in Thailand next year. There is a great deal of confusion on this subject and the group presenting the webinar has researched how it affects expats from a number of countries.

The group has a website offering insight into this new expat tax HERE.

Before sending a question, however, they suggest looking at its Frequently Asked Questions page, where they have answered hundreds of questions already.

You may also find valuable information in their Insights and Videos sections, which cover a range of common tax topics and practical advice.

Four Dead, 10 Injured as Steel Beams collapse on Rama II Road

A launching gantry crane and precast concrete segments collapsed on Rama II Road early this morning, resulting in four deaths and 10 injuries.

The collapse happened on the outbound side of Rama II Road at a construction site of the Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) section in tambon Khok Krabue at 4.13am. Continued …

Flash Floods Hit Khok Pho: Soldiers Evacuate 500 Students Stranded in School

Continuous heavy rainfall in Pattani Province caused flash floods in several areas, with Khok Pho District among the hardest hit. Roads were submerged, and water from nearby mountains inundated homes, forcing residents to evacuate and secure their belongings in safer locations.

The floods severely impacted Piriyanawin School, located in Ban Khlong Hin Witthaya, Pak Lo subdistrict, Khok Pho District. Torrential water swept into the school late afternoon, leaving over 500 students stranded as floodwaters rose to a height of 1 meter, making it impossible for them to leave . Continued …

Hat Yai announced as danger zone as flooding looms

Hat Yai municipality has been declared a red zone, an area at high risk of flooding, with authorities urging locals to prepare for emergency evacuation.

The announcement by Hat Yai Mayor Sakhon Thongmunee was issued this morning, citing a massive amount of water flowing into U-Tapao and Wa canals that run through Hat Yai, the most populated district in the southern province of Songkhla. Continued …

Mapping disasters: How one geologist is saving lives in Thailand

Major floods that hit northern Thailand this year, causing billions of baht in damage, raised questions about the country’s ability to forecast and mitigate natural disasters. However, as floodwaters surged through downtown Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and vast rural areas in September, an unlikely hero emerged to protect those in harm’s way.

Santi Pailoplee, a Chulalongkorn University geology professor, launched the MitrEarth website in 2019 to provide information and updates on geology and general science. His online hobby quickly became a lifeline for residents of flood-prone areas. Continued …

Sorn earns Thailand’s first three Michelin stars, a historic milestone

Thailand’s culinary scene reached new heights with its first three Michelin Stars, revealed at the 2025 Michelin Guide Thailand ceremony. The event also marked the official release of the guide’s latest edition and the unveiling of its full restaurant selection.

The 2025 Michelin Guide Thailand showcases a total of 462 dining venues: one first-ever three Michelin stars, 7 two Michelin stars, 28 one Michelin star, 156 Bib Gourmand, and 270 Michelin Selected. Continued …

New Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi Motorway gets free trial over New Year

The Bang Yai – Kanchanaburi Motorway, also known as the M81, will be open for a free public trial run from Dec. 26 to Jan. 2 as a New Year gift for motorists, the Department of Highways announced on Thursday.

Construction of the 93 km-long route highway is now 99% complete and the system installation is 66% finished. The route will cut travel time from Bang Yai in Nonthaburi province to Kanchanaburi province to only one hour. Continued …

King to open Rama X Bridge next month

The construction of the Rama X Bridge across the Chao Phraya River is complete, with Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) Gov. Surachet Laophulsuk announcing that His Majesty the King will preside over the opening ceremony on Dec. 14 this year.

Surachet said the bridge, which has been royally bestowed the official name “Saphan Thotsamarachan”, is expected to open for traffic by the end of December or early January at the latest. Continued …

NHSO clarifies ‘Cancer Anywhere’ program under the Universal Health Coverage funding rules

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has clarified that the “Cancer Anywhere” program under the universal health coverage will continue, though changes to funding disbursement rules will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The adjustments will apply to cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiotherapy, to improve the efficiency of healthcare spending while maintaining patient access to essential care.

The NHSO identified inefficiencies in the current system, where over half of the program’s funds were spent on non-cancer-related services, such as diagnostic tests for unrelated conditions. Under the revised rules, funding will focus exclusively on treatments directly linked to cancer care. Continued …

Police bust international ring selling fake accounts to online criminals – Continued …
British Man Arrested for Overstay and Insulting Phuket Officials – Continued …
Pattaya Police Raid Homes, Arrest 17 Chinese Nationals Linked to Cross-Border Loan Sharks – Continued …
International gambling ring crumbles in Chiang Mai – Continued …
Myanmar National Sought After Slashing Thai Woman’s Throat in Pattaya – Continued …

Thailand’s economy rebounds but experts warn of growth risks

Thailand’s economy is showing signs of recovery, yet economists warn of ongoing risks that could hinder its growth potential. Key challenges include elevated household debt, slow income recovery for vulnerable groups, and Thailand’s economic interdependence with China.

Despite these issues, the Thai economy reported a growth of 1.9% in 2023, although this was below expectations. The economy is gaining strength, supported by strong private demand, a rebound in tourism, and increased government budget allocation. Continued …

Chamber projects 3% GDP growth next year

Thailand’s economy should grow by 3% in 2025, driven by government spending, private consumption and a rebound in exports and tourism, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

A stable inflation rate, along with a pickup in global trade that is expected to expand by 3.2%, should support the improvement from an expected 2.6% GDP growth rate this year, said UTCC President Thanavath Phonvichai. Continued …

Thailand struggles to retain status as a leading FDI destination

Thailand, once a top destination for Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) in Southeast Asia, faces increasing challenges as competitors like Vietnam gain prominence.

Factors such as Vietnam’s lower labor costs, improving infrastructure, and favorable trade agreements have drawn significant attention from Japanese investors. As the region evolves, Thailand’s ability to adapt and innovate will play a crucial role in securing its position as a key hub for Japanese FDI. Continued …

Thailand’s manufacturing index poised for growth after 2024 dip

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) is set to see a turnaround next year, with expectations of a 1.5% to 2.5% growth. This forecast comes as a recovery from the anticipated 1.6% contraction in 2024, largely attributed to weak consumer purchasing power and high household debt, as reported by the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

OIE Director-general Passakorn Chairat expressed optimism regarding the MPI’s future, citing factors such as the steady growth of tourism, increased investment, and expanded free trade agreements as key drivers for the country’s export boost. Continued …

Auto sector affecting recovery indicators

The Thai economy continues to benefit from growth in exports, tourism and improved private consumption and investment, yet challenges persist in the automotive sector, according to the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO).

Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the FPO, said on Thursday economic indicators in October showed signs of recovery in private consumption year-on-year. However, durable goods consumption in the automotive category remains sluggish. Continued …

AOT confirms facial recognition for international flights

Airports of Thailand (AOT) yesterday announced that the state-owned enterprise will implement facial recognition services at six major airports for international flights starting Dec. 1.

The biometrics-based system will be deployed at Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Don Mueang, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Suvarnabhumi airports. AOT anticipates the new technology will significantly streamline the passenger experience, reducing checkpoint processing time for registered travelers from three minutes to just one minute. Continued …

Pattaya Cracks Down on Foreign Criminals to Boost Tourist Confidence

Authorities in Pattaya have launched an intensive operation to crack down on crimes involving foreign nationals in the area. This move aims to boost tourist confidence ahead of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival.

The operation, named “Operation Clean-Sweep” addresses the growing concerns about international crimes and illegal activities by foreigners that have recently plagued local media narratives. These include illegal labor and cross-border crimes, which have become more prevalent and violent. Continued …

15 travel destinations so overrun with tourists that you may not want to visit

People around the world are traveling more than ever, with international tourist arrivals in the first half of 2024 just about reaching pre-pandemic levels — and destinations around the world are feeling the pinch.

From tiny historic European cities that welcome thousands more people than they were built to hold to picturesque beach locales littered with plastic, concerns about overtourism and poor tourism management are increasingly widespread. Continued …

Tourists are flocking to Lopburi’s spectacular sunflower fields

The sunflower fields in Lopburi province are in full bloom, offering a stunning spectacle of golden flowers against a backdrop of towering mountains and a vivid blue sky. Tourists are flocking to this breathtaking sight, capturing memories and snapping photos.

One standout location is a vast sunflower field spanning over 75 rai (12 hectares) in Manao Wan subdistrict, Phatthana Nikhom district. Owned by Ramyong Ruensonthi, this field aligns with the tourist season and represents the province’s “Smart Farmer” initiative. It is also one of Lopburi’s five key soft power attractions. Continued …

Buddhism is always oddly political

On the upcoming Wednesday, a grand ceremony will be held at Sanam Luang to welcome a sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. China is sending a precious piece of Buddha relics to Thailand for a 72-day procession in celebration of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua’s 72nd birthday and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.

This piece of Buddha’s remains, referred to as the “Buddha Tooth Relic from the Lingguang Temple”, is arguably one of the most important Buddhist treasures ever discovered in China. This relic has a mythological origin and a turbulent history. Continued …

Risky shopping at the Mae Klong Railway Market

Thailand’s Mae Klong Railway Market offers an extraordinary blend of local culture, tradition, and excitement. Known as the umbrella-closing market, or Talad Hoop Rom, this bustling marketplace operates right on active train tracks, where vendors skillfully adjust their stalls to make way for oncoming trains. Located in Samut Songkhram, about 90 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, the market attracts visitors worldwide with its vibrant atmosphere and unique setup.

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This unique market has been operating for years, even though it sits right on active train tracks. Locals often call it “Siang Tai Market,” or “life-risking market,” a name that reflects the daring spirit of the vendors who work there. Continued …

ADB, Gulf ink $820-million loan for 12 renewable energy projects in Thailand

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Gulf Renewable Energy Co., a subsidiary of Gulf Energy Development Public Co., have signed an $820-million loan that will fund the construction of 12 renewable energy projects across Thailand.

ADB said the projects include eight ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) plants with contracted capacity of 393 megawatts (MW) and four ground-mounted solar PV plants with battery energy storage, with contracted capacity of 256 MW and 396 MW-hours of energy storage. Continued …

Siam Commercial Bank offers 0% interest solar panel installation packages

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) has partnered with GodungFaiFaa.com’s GUNKUL brand to offer solar rooftop packages for household solar panel installations. The packages will offer solar panels, Huawei solar inverter equipment, and installation services from GUNKUL.

The packages will feature 0% interest for 10 months and will be offered through SCB and CardX credit cards. Continued …

Valeura starts up three more oil wells at Jasmine field offshore Thailand

Valeura Energy has completed a five-well infill drilling program on its Jasmine field in license B5/27 in the Gulf of Thailand. Three new wells have come onstream from the Jasmine D platform, all drilled as producers.

The JSD-42 well, drilled at the crest of the primary objective in the 250 sand reservoir, was completed as a producer within this zone and is flowing oil at rates in line with expectations. Continued …

Royal Navy leads eco-mission to save Maya Bay

Maya Bay, the jewel of Thailand’s Andaman Sea, is getting a new lease on life thanks to a conservation push led by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN). On Monday, Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul of the RTN Third Area Command spearheaded the installation of mooring and fish egg buoys, alongside a deep-sea garbage collection effort.

The operation is a collaborative endeavor between the RTN, the Khao Yai National Park Protection Foundation, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), and other eco-champions. Continued …

Treaty could end our plastic crisis

On Nov. 13, a coalition of 160 civil society organisations in Thailand made a historic plea, submitting a joint statement urging the Thai government to champion a strong Global Plastics Treaty at the upcoming fifth and final negotiations in Busan, South Korea. This treaty, initiated in 2022, aims to establish a legally binding global framework to address plastic pollution across its entire life cycle.

However, the most contentious issue in the negotiations remains: should the treaty tackle the production of plastics and the extraction of fossil fuels, which serve as their primary raw material? Continued …

As Plastic Talks Continue, a Reminder of What We’re All Exposed To

The wristbands look like those you might find at a souvenir shop: bendy loops of silicone, in the color of your choice. But scientists are increasingly using the bands to measure exposure to toxic chemicals present in the air around us and in everyday items we use, including personal care products.

Silicone mimics the way the human body absorbs harmful chemicals and has little pores similar in size to pores in human cells. Having people wear the wristbands, and then studying the chemicals the bands absorb, can give scientists a good understanding of the chemicals the wearers were exposed to. Continued …

Social media companies slam Australia’s under-16 ban

Social media giants today hit out at a landmark Australian law banning them from signing up under-16s, describing it as a rush job littered with “many unanswered questions”. Continued …

China’s largest desert fully encircled with green belt

The Taklimakan Desert, known as the “Sea of Death,” has been completely encircled with a sand-blocking green belt stretching 3,046 kilometers, said local authority in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Continued …