- Thailand temps to reach over 42°C/Poverty and aging society are threats/Support for sex workers ahead of election/Bangkok PM 2.5 levels surge/1,800 Chinese held in Cambodian raid/Man Admits Burning Dog
- ECONOMY: Adapting to a new world order/Thailand’s economy experienced growth/Personal Spending Largest Since 2022/Instant commerce reshaping Thai retail/Wellness industry poised for growth/Thai Baht to Strengthen Until Mid-Year/FTI eyes new export markets/Durian market hit by labor shortages/Thai gold prices plunge
- TOURISM: Is tourism industry at a turning point?/AOT to raise passenger service charge
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A canal journey in Bangkok
- CLIMATE THAILAND: 6 Sustainability Trends/Nationwide charging network for Grab
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Thailand’s 2026 summer forecast to reach temperatures over 42°C
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted that the summer of 2026 will be hotter than the previous year. The summer season is expected to begin later than usual, around the end of February (approximately two weeks later than typical), and will last until mid-May 2026.
The weather will alternate between scorching heat and thunderstorms, with some areas experiencing extremely high temperatures. This is expected mainly during April to May. Continued …
Report flags poverty and aging society as threats
Thailand is facing a “perfect storm”, as a low birth rate, persistent poverty, and a rapidly aging society place mounting pressure on the tax base, welfare system, and social structure, says the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).
The report says Thailand is at its most critical turning point in the past 40 years. The birth rate has fallen sharply, from about one million births a year four decades ago to just 410,000 today. Continued …
Thai parties pledge support for sex workers ahead of election
Ahead of the Feb. 8 election, various political parties in Thailand have expressed their support for sex workers, pledging to enhance protection and dignity under the law in a nation where prostitution remains illegal.
The Service Workers in Group (Swing) Foundation recently organized a forum titled “Sex (Worker) and the City” to explore policies related to sex work. Representatives from the Pheu Thai, People’s, Movement, Thai Sang Thai, and Democrat parties convened at Cowboy 2 bar in Soi Cowboy, a well-known night entertainment area, to engage in this discussion. Continued …
Your Turnkey Energy Provider
As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency.
And now, we’ve been recognized by Asia Business Outlook as one of the Top 10 renewable energy companies in Southeast Asia.
Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.
Bangkok faces health risks as PM 2.5 levels surge across all districts
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported yesterday that PM 2.5 levels in Bangkok have exceeded the safety limits in all districts.
The highest levels were recorded in the northern areas, with dust particles reaching 45–54.1 µg/m³, affecting respiratory health. The average PM 2.5 level in Bangkok is 44.8 µg/m³ (the standard limit is 37.5 µg/m³). Continued …
Nearly 1,800 Chinese among thousands held in huge Cambodian raid on scam compound
Cambodia has carried out a massive raid on scammer gangs, detaining more than 2,000 people amid pressure from China to crack down on its online fraud industry. Nearly 1,800 Chinese nationals were among those held, according to the Cambodian Interior Ministry.
A Cambodian Interior Ministry statement said that Cambodian police had conducted a large-scale enforcement operation on Saturday morning at an online fraud compound in Bavet, the largest city in the southeastern province of Svay Rieng, which borders Vietnam. Continued …
Man Admits Burning Dog After It Ate His Fried Eggs
A man in Mukdahan province has admitted to killing a dog on Friday by throwing it into a fire, allegedly after becoming angry when the animal ate his fried eggs. The case came to light yesterday after the owner filed a police complaint supported by video evidence.
The owner said he returned home at about 7.30 pm Friday and did not find his dog, which usually waited for him at a nearby junction. After searching the area, he went to the house of a neighbour with whom he had previously argued and discovered his dog being burned on a fire. Continued …
Adapting to a new world order
As the global order shifts rapidly to geopolitical tensions, evolving trade rules, and technological competition that is reshaping economics, business leaders and analysts are urging Thailand to adapt to these changes.
Industry groups said Thai entrepreneurs must collaborate with government agencies to navigate new tariffs, regulations, and supply chain disruptions, while maximizing the country’s free trade agreements (FTAs) to stay competitive. Continued …
Thailand’s economy experienced growth in Q4
Thailand’s economy in December expanded from the previous month, supported by higher merchandise exports, particularly technology-related and agricultural products. Private consumption, especially in services, improved following government support measures.
Private investment also expanded, led by increased investment in machinery and equipment and vehicles, reflecting accelerated registrations of electric vehicles ahead of the expiration of the EV 3.0 scheme. These developments contributed to stronger activity in related service sectors. Continued …
Thailand Personal Spending Largest Since 2022
Private consumption indicators in Thailand climbed 2.5% month-on-month in December, rebounding from a 0.3% fall in November and marking the sharpest rise since April 2022. Gains were broad-based across all spending categories, with growth in services spending led by hotels and restaurants, partly supported by government stimulus measures.
Durable goods consumption also strengthened, driven by higher vehicle sales, including accelerated electric-vehicle purchases ahead of the EV 3.0 scheme expiration and new model launches at the Motor Expo. Continued …
Instant commerce reshaping Thai retail
The rapid emergence of instant commerce in Thailand, a retail evolution defined by delivery within a few hours, will become the new battlefield for on-demand players and e-commerce platforms, say brands.
This reflects a shift in consumer expectations toward hyper-convenience, forcing brands to transition from physical shelf space to digital screen visibility. The move comes as traditional e-commerce matures, with instant commerce offering massive growth potential through data-driven insights and the ability to capture impulsive “micro-moments”. Continued …
Thailand’s wellness industry poised for growth, targeting top 5 global hubs
According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy has been continuously growing. In 2024, it was valued at US$6.8 trillion, increasing to US$7.3 trillion in 2025, and expected to reach US$7.9 trillion in 2026.
Dr.Tanupol Virunhagarun, CEO of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, stated that 2026 will be the most prosperous year for wellness in Thailand. This is due to various sectors laying the foundation and preparing for this growth over the past 3-4 years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Continued …
K Research: Thai Baht to Strengthen Until Mid-Year, Then Weaken
Gold prices hit a record high above $5,500 due to US-Iran tensions, with expectations of the Federal Reserve moving to rate cuts, pushing the baht to strengthen below 31 baht per dollar, the strongest in almost five years.
The Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) forecasts that the Thai baht could continue to strengthen, testing 31.00 and 30.70 baht per dollar during the first 3-6 months of 2026. This is primarily driven by the rise in gold prices and external factors. Continued …
FTI eyes new export markets for growth
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling for Thailand to expand into new high-potential markets to support the country’s export and manufacturing sectors, as key trading partners face economic weakness amid a global slowdown.
FTI Vice-chairman Apichit Prasoprat said Thailand must diversify its export destinations to sustain growth, as traditional partners such as China and Japan are struggling with sluggish economies. Continued …
Durian market hit by labor shortages
Thai durian exports are expected to face several hurdles due to labor shortages and a lack of collection centers during the harvest season. Durian supply is forecast to reach 1.78 million tons this year, with the eastern region contributing 1.06 million tons, or 59.5% of total output.
The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) highlighted challenges for the durian sector, including shortages of farm workers and fruit packers, as the number of skilled Cambodian workers declines. Continued …
Thai gold prices plunge another 1,200 baht
Thai gold prices on Saturday were down by 1,200 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams), as a global and local correction continued after a surge to record highs earlier in the week.
The Gold Traders Assn. on Saturday morning announced buying prices of 72,616.40 baht per baht-weight for gold ornaments and 74,100 baht for gold bars. Selling prices were set at 75,000 and 74,200 baht, respectively. Continued …
Is Thailand’s tourism industry at a turning point?
Thailand’s tourism industry ended 2025 with mixed results. Official data released in early 2026 revealed a 7.2% decline in international arrivals, bringing the total to 32.97 million visitors.
While the sector remains a cornerstone of the national GDP, this post-pandemic era has exposed structural vulnerabilities and a profound shift in source markets, forcing the Kingdom to rethink its economic model. Continued …
AOT to raise passenger service charge for international flights from May
Airports of Thailand (AOT) confirmed plans to increase the passenger service charge (PSC) for international departures in May this year. While the increase will largely affect foreign travelers, AOT insisted that it will not reduce the number of international visitors to Thailand.
The chief executive officer of AOT, Paweena Jariyathitipong, told local media that the PSC for passengers departing on international flights will rise from 730 baht per person to 1,120 baht per person. The charge for inbound international flights will remain unchanged. Continued …
A canal journey into Bangkok’s quiet soul
For much of its history, Bangkok was less a city of roads than a city of water. Canals once carried not only goods and people but habits of life — how neighbors greeted one another, how monks moved between temples, how food and ideas circulated. Long before expressways and sky trains defined the urban rhythm, water was the city’s infrastructure.
That earlier tempo is what the Tourism Authority of Thailand, working with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and cultural partners, is trying to recover with a new route called Lad Lor Long Krung — “Explore Bangkok Through the City’s Historic Waterways.” Continued …
6 Sustainability Trends for 2026
This year is being seen as a “structural turning point” in business, as the combined pressures from the climate crisis, technological advancements, and demographic changes make the concept of “sustainability” no longer just a policy for improving image. It has become the new foundation for growth, competitiveness, and long-term survival for businesses.
Amid this context, EGCO Group has identified six important sustainability trends that businesses should watch in 2026, to serve as a compass for strengthening organizations and preparing for the global economic transition in a systematic manner. Continued …
Sharge to establish nationwide charging network for Grab
Thai EV charging service provider Sharge has partnered with Grab to build a dedicated charging network for the company. It plans to invest over 400 million baht in the project.
Sharge will initially set up three charging stations under a pilot program, one each at Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok, and one in Pattaya (Chonburi Province). More than 60% of Grab drivers in these areas have already adopted EVs. Continued …
Russian Man Dismembered in Pattaya Debt-Linked Killing, 2 Russians arrested
Police yesterday arrested two Russian men suspected of murdering a compatriot, dismembering the body and burying the parts in Bang Lamung district. According to police sources, the suspects aged 35 and 38 were arrested at a room in a hotel on Sukhumvit 71 in Watthana district, Bangkok.
Before the arrest, police found from CCTV footage that they had been in the company of Russian man who was reported missing and they had later ridden off on a motorcycle carrying a large bundle. The CCTV camera was in a housing estate about one kilometer from where the body was found. Continued …
Americans warned they will be poorer as world pivots away from US economy
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman has warned that the rest of the world is starting to pull away from the United States, driven by frustration with President Donald Trump’s threats, and that the shift will ultimately leave Americans poorer. Continued …
Japan expands overtourism measures to 100 areas
Japan will expand overtourism countermeasures from 47 to 100 areas nationwide as it positions inbound tourism as a core strategic industry after foreign visitor spending hit a record 9.5 trillion yen in 2025. Continued …
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
Economic woes ‘top priority’
