- Hua Hin bus route changes/Hua Hin prepares for drought/Prachuap Khiri Khan faces severe drought/Hua Hin to inspect beach activities/100 snakes seized in Cha Am/Insurance premiums likely to rise/Thailand Gasps for Breath/AIS Launches 5G-Advanced Network/Elderly Driver’s Mistake/Elephant Kills Myanmar Worker
- THE IRAN WAR: Airlines worldwide hit by Iran war/France sends carrier group to Red Sea/Iran reviews US peace plan/Fertilizer Costs Soaring
- ECONOMY: April Brings 2.89% Inflation Increase/Thai Back-to-School Costs/TikTok to Invest $26 billion/Thailand among most resilient emerging markets
- TOURISM: Hoteliers call for subsidies/Economic risk from departure tax/Thailand’s hidden informal economy/Technology helps police/Chinese tourist beaten to death/Phuket MP warns of assassination
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: French students describe their Thai internship
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok faces ASEAN’s hottest future
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin bus route changes under consideration
Hua Hin City Municipality is moving ahead with discussions on public bus routes in Hua Hin, as officials consider ways to improve transport links for residents and visitors.
During the meeting, a proposed model for public bus routes in Hua Hin was presented, with Hua Hin Railway Station designated as the starting point. The proposed network would cover four main directions: north, south, east, and west. The routes are intended to connect key parts of the city, including educational institutions, tourist attractions, and communities. Continued …
Hua Hin prepares for drought as reservoir level falls to 22%
Hua Hin City Municipality is preparing for possible drought-related problems after a dry spell caused water levels in Pran Buri Reservoir to fall to a low level. A meeting was called yesterday after the Pran Buri Water Transmission and Maintenance Project reported that low rainfall since the start of 2026 had affected water levels in Pran Buri Reservoir.
Officials said the reservoir had fallen to a low level (23% of capacity), prompting the project to adjust its water allocation plan for May and July 2026. The move is intended to help ensure there is enough water for household consumption and daily use. Continued …
Prachuap Khiri Khan faces severe drought
Prachuap Khiri Khan province is facing severe drought conditions, with more than 512 million liters of water already distributed to households lacking water for daily use. Deputy Governor Prateep Boriboonrat chaired a meeting yesterday to monitor the drought situation.
Officials reported that drought disaster areas have been declared in three districts, covering seven subdistricts and 66 villages. A total of 44,407 people from 18,968 households have been affected. Continued …
Hua Hin to inspect beach activities and rental firms
Hua Hin City Municipality is preparing to inspect tourist services, including beach activities and vehicle rental businesses, as officials look to strengthen safety and consumer protection measures. The issue was discussed at a meeting of the consumer protection subcommittee of Hua Hin City Municipality on Tuesday.
The meeting reviewed the work of the Hua Hin City Municipality Consumer Protection Center for the 2025 fiscal year, as well as complaint statistics for the 2026 fiscal year. Officials also discussed plans to inspect car and motorcycle rental businesses. Continued …
100 snakes among trafficked wildlife seized in Cha Am
Thai and US authorities have seized more than 100 animals, most of them snakes, while they were being transported from southern Thailand for delivery to customers.
Authorities stopped a pickup truck at a highway police checkpoint on the Bangkok-bound section of Phetkasem Highway in Cha Am following a tip-off about a shipment of a large number of wild animals, said Nithas Nounsong, director of the Protected Areas Regional Office 3. Continued …
Insurance premiums likely to rise on multiple fronts
Insurance premiums are expected to increase later this year, particularly for motor, property, and natural catastrophe insurance, reflecting growing domestic risks and a heightened risk profile for international trade due to the Middle East conflict, insurers say.
Guillaume Mirabaud, chief executive of AXA Insurance Thailand, said he expects higher insurance premiums for motor and property lines. “Following two significant natural catastrophes last year, the industry needs to restore profitability, particularly as reinsurance costs have risen considerably,” he said. Continued …
Airpocalypse Forever: Thailand Gasps for Breath
It is a toxic veil that shows no sign of lifting. As of April, Thailand is navigating one of its most severe pollution crises to date. The scenario repeats with metronomic regularity, yet the current intensity is sounding alarms: PM2.5 microparticles are saturating the skies of more than 45 provinces.
While Bangkok attempts to transform itself into a laboratory for clean air, the rest of the country remains trapped in a toxic cloud fueled by forest fires, illegal dumping, and massive agricultural burning. In the northern provinces, the situation has been described by local observers as the “worst ever seen.” Regions such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son have not experienced clear blue skies for nearly a month. Continued …
AIS Launches Southeast Asia’s First 5G-Advanced Network
Advanced Info Service (AIS), Thailand’s dominant mobile and digital infrastructure operator, has launched what it describes as Southeast Asia’s first commercial 5G-Advanced network, elevating the country’s connectivity standards to a new tier aligned with the 3GPP Release 18 global specification.
By combining multiple frequency bands simultaneously, the technology is said to deliver download speeds up to 1.5 times faster and upload speeds up to twice as fast compared with standard 5G. Continued …
Elderly Driver’s Mistake Sets Bangkok Petrol Station on Fire
An elderly driver collided with fuel pumps at a Bangchak petrol station in Bangkok’s Bang Khun Thian district this morning, sparking a fire that destroyed his car and damaged the station’s equipment. Remarkably, there were no injuries.
Firefighters from Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station used foam to manage the flames, while staff and patrons evacuated the premises quickly. The sedan involved was completely destroyed, and two fuel dispensers suffered damage. Continued …
Elephant Kills Myanmar Worker in Chanthaburi
A wild elephant attacked and killed a 40-year-old Myanmar woman working in a durian orchard in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi, on Tuesday. Police from Pong Nam Ron station responded to reports of the fatal incident in a plantation in Moo 2, Thap Sai subdistrict, where the victim was found with severe injuries.
Initial investigations indicate the orchard lies on a forest boundary where wild elephants often forage, particularly during fruiting season. It is believed the elephant entered the plantation searching for food, encountered the victim, and attacked before retreating back into the sanctuary. Continued …
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring. They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.
Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.
Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.
Airlines worldwide hit by Iran war with fare rises, cuts, and closures
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz for 10 weeks, amid a fragile ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, has made global air travel one of the industries hit hard by soaring oil prices. Jet fuel prices, which are largely derived from crude oil, have risen by more than 80% since the US and Israel went to war with Iran in late February, forcing airlines to raise ticket prices, cut flights or do both.
The clearest example of an airline affected by the fallout is US-based Spirit Airlines, which announced last Saturday that it would permanently cease operations. The move was widely seen as a result of surging fuel costs. Continued …
France sends carrier group to Red Sea as Hormuz mission takes shape
France said yesterday its carrier strike group had been sent to the Red Sea to support planning for a possible mission to protect passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as Paris urged both Washington and Tehran to consider a proposal aimed at limiting the global economic damage caused by their competing blockades.
The deployment followed renewed exchanges of fire on Monday that exposed the fragility of a four-week truce. The US and Iran are still seeking control over the narrow waterway, a critical route for global energy shipments and trade, while maintaining rival maritime blockades. Continued …
Iran reviews US peace plan as Trump signals both hope and threat
Iran said yesterday it was reviewing a US peace proposal aimed at formally ending the war, though the key American demands that Tehran curb its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved. Tehran said it would deliver a formal response, while US President Donald Trump said he believed a deal was still possible.
Trump said the two sides had held “very good talks” over the previous 24 hours and that an agreement was “very possible”. Yet, only hours earlier he had struck a far tougher tone, warning online that the United States could restart its bombing campaign if Iran rejected the latest proposal. Continued …
Middle East Conflict Sends Fertilizer Costs Soaring for Asia’s Rice Farmers
Rice farmers across South and Southeast Asia are facing a sharp deterioration in their finances as escalating conflict in the Middle East drives fertilizer prices to multi-year highs, forcing many to cut back on inputs at precisely the moment they need them most.
With the critical May-to-August planting season now under way, two separate analyses from leading regional institutions warn that the stakes for food supplies could scarcely be higher. Continued …
April Brings 2.89% Inflation Increase for Thailand
Thailand’s inflation rate increased by 2.89% in April compared to last year, driven by rising oil and food prices, reported Nantapong Chiralerspong of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office. The increase is linked to Middle Eastern conflicts causing a blockage in the Strait of Hormuz, which has sharply escalated global oil prices. This surge has impacted public transport and, subsequently, the cost of food and services in the country.
Despite this rise, Chiralerspong noted Thailand’s inflation remains relatively low compared to neighboring ASEAN countries. March saw a slight decline of 0.08% in inflation, placing Thailand as the nation with the second lowest rate in the region and ninth among 140 global economies. Non-food inflation in April saw a significant rise of 4.14% due to higher public transport fares, housing rentals, and cleaning service fees. Continued …
Thai Back-to-School Costs Hit 13-Year High Amid Household Squeeze
Thailand’s back-to-school season is expected to generate total consumer spending of 66 billion baht in 2026, a 6% increase on the previous year and the fastest rate of growth in 13 years, according to research released yesterday by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). The findings arrive as the broader Thai economy struggles for momentum, with GDP growth forecast at just 1.6% for the year.
Thanavath Phonvichai, president of UTCC and chairman of the university’s Economic and Business Forecasting Center, said the surge in education-related expenditure is occurring against a backdrop of 3% headline inflation and sustained fuel price volatility — a combination that is placing acute pressure on lower- and middle-income households. Continued …
TikTok to Invest $26 billion in Thailand Data Expansion
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved six major investment projects worth a combined 29.9 billion dollars, led by a large-scale data infrastructure expansion by TikTok. The largest share comes from TikTok Systems (Thailand) Co., which plans to invest 26.3 billion dollars, across Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao.
The project will expand server installations to meet rising regional demand for data services and strengthen Thailand’s strategic role in digital infrastructure. TikTok will also introduce digital literacy and e-commerce training programs aimed at supporting Thai entrepreneurs and improving workforce skills. Continued …
Moody’s names Thailand among most resilient emerging markets
Moody’s Ratings has released its latest analytical article, saying several large emerging markets, including Thailand, have become better able to withstand global economic shocks over the past five years without suffering a sharp jump in risk premiums or losing market access, as seen in previous crises.
Thailand was cited as one of five large emerging-market economies — alongside Malaysia, India, Indonesia and Mexico — that have shown greater resilience to global shocks over the past five years, despite facing the Covid-19 crisis, the global interest-rate tightening cycle, banking-sector stress, and trade tensions. Continued …
Hoteliers call for subsidies as Pattaya demand weakens sharply
Pattaya and Chon Buri tourism operators are suffering from the government’s work-from-home policies during the low season, expecting only 30%-40% occupancy rates this month, while they compete for markets with high potential such as Chinese and Indian tourists by offering discounts.
The mayor of Pattaya City, the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation (ACTF), and the Thai Hotels Association’s (THA) eastern chapter held a meeting with Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul last week. Continued …
Travel agents flag economic risk from departure tax
The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is concerned about economic and social risks if the government introduces a 1,000-baht departure tax for local travelers, as the policy could trigger even higher airfares and hamper middle-class travelers, students, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) segments.
Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of ATTA, said there were 32.9 million foreign arrivals last year, almost three times the outbound market of 11-12 million people. He said disrupting outbound flows with a 1,000-baht fee is expected to reduce reciprocal tourism. Continued …
Low season tourism masks a hidden informal economy in Thailand’s major destinations
While Thailand’s major tourist hubs enter the low season, including Pattaya, Bangkok, and Phuket, visible visitor numbers have slowed, but underlying activity linked to long-stay foreign visitors continues to circulate quietly within the tourism ecosystem.
Despite fewer short-term arrivals, certain districts — particularly nightlife and entertainment zones — continue to see demand from long-stay tourists, retirees, and digital nomads who remain in Thailand for weeks or months at a time. Their spending patterns contribute to a parallel, less visible segment of the tourism economy that is not formally captured in official statistics. Continued …
Technology helps police bust nominee firms on Thai islands
Surat Thani police are using a new analytical tool to speed up investigations into nominee businesses on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, with 30 cases under review and expanded use targeting drug trafficking and money laundering involving 61 suspects.
A dedicated team has been set up to handle such cases across the three tourist islands. Courts have already delivered rulings in four cases involving nominee ownership of restaurants, car rental firms, and visa services, with combined damages of about 10 million baht. Continued …
Chinese tourist beaten to death inside unlicensed Pattaya pub
A Chinese tourist died after being attacked inside an unlicensed entertainment venue in South Pattaya, following a fight that began during a snooker game late yesterday.
Staff told police the tourist appeared drunk before the incident. While playing snooker, he reportedly became upset after being unable to find hand powder used during the game. Continued …
Phuket MP warns of assassination threat amid Freedom Beach mafia probe
A Phuket MP has called on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and senior environmental officials to urgently tackle alleged mafia activity at Freedom Beach, warning that delays to act could lead to an assassination attempt against him.
Chalermpong Saengdee, a People’s Party MP for Phuket’s constituency 2, said yesterday tensions have escalated sharply following a crackdown on illegal encroachment in the Khao Nak Koet National Reserve Forest. Continued …
French students describe their Mirror Foundation internship as valuable experience
Two French university students shared their experiences working with the Mirror Foundation internship program in Thailand, describing the placement as an opportunity to support underprivileged communities while learning about Thai culture and teamwork.
According to the French students, their university required them to participate in community work projects focused on empathy and social responsibility. They decided to complete the assignment in Thailand because they had never visited the country before and wanted to experience Thai culture. Continued …
Heat warning — Bangkok faces ASEAN’s hottest future
Bangkok is set to become the hottest major city in Southeast Asia by 2050, with temperatures projected to rise above 38C as climate change and the urban heat island effect intensify across the region.
The warning comes from the report “Roadmap for Extreme Heat Protection through Passive Cooling in ASEAN Region” by the ASEAN Center for Energy (ACE), which says Thailand’s capital faces a far more severe heat crisis in the decades ahead. Continued …
PM vows to rein in misbehaving tourists
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul vowed yesterday to tighten oversight of tourists’ behavior after a series of incidents, including foreigners having sex in public, warning they damage the country’s image. Anutin ordered strict enforcement of laws against tourists engaging in inappropriate behavior that violates Thai law. Continued …
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Russian Electricians Arrested on Koh Samui – Continued …
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South Koreans Arrested in Pattaya Call Scam – Continued …
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Russian Arrested for Illegal Tours in Phuket – Continued …
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Tourist’s Rampage Ruins Bikes in Phuket – Continued …
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Thai driver, Chinese nationals caught in Sa Kaeo after 70km chase – Continued …
Global debt hits record US$353 trillion as investors begin diversifying away from US bonds
Global debt climbed to a record near US$353 trillion by the end of March, with the IIF saying investors are showing growing interest in Japanese and European bonds over US Treasuries. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Police have arrested a man for stealing water meters across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with investigators alleging he sold burnt components for scrap to fund drug use. Officers from Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station detained a 38-year-old suspect Tuesday.
A new overpass is set to be built at Nong Phai intersection on Highway 37 after the Department of Highways signed a contract for the project in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Air quality in Thailand has worsened dramatically, with PM2.5 levels surpassing safety thresholds in 42 provinces, including regions from the north, northeast, and central areas. The Air Pollution Resolution Communication Center reported early on Tuesday that these unsafe levels could intensify over the next week.
Thailand recorded 30 deaths and 202 injuries from 192 road accidents on Tuesday, as authorities intensified safety measures during the Songkran holiday travel period. Officials warned of increased risks, as large numbers of people began returning to Bangkok and other major cities.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has indicated a willingness to resume negotiations with Thailand over ongoing border disputes, marking a significant shift in previously tense relations.
US President Donald Trump has signaled that the war against Iran, waged alongside Israel, could be nearing an end, as diplomatic efforts intensify and Pakistan moves again to narrow the gap between the two sides. Yet, despite the more hopeful tone, the crisis remains unresolved, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz still badly disrupted and global energy markets under strain.
Thailand faces slower growth this year due to the Iran war and there are almost “no limits” to worst-case economic scenarios if the conflict continues, a senior Bank of Thailand official said.
Foreign investors are selling Thai assets as an energy shock from the US-Israeli war on Iran threatens to snuff out hopes for an economic revival under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and exposes the policy paralysis that is gripping Bangkok.
Rice prices have surged the most in more than two years on concerns about the supply outlook after the cost of fuel and fertilizer jumped due to the Iran war, prompting some Thai farmers to leave their crop in the ground.
Michelin-listed restaurant operators expect a gloomy outlook for the dining business this year, hampered by sluggish spending and surging energy costs.
Why April 15 marks Thailand’s true New Year in the ancient tradition
Elephants lead Songkran water pouring in Chiang Mai
The government has added bottled drinking water and seasoning sauces to its price-control list, along with plastic pellets, in order to prevent undue price increases in light of cost pressures arising from the Middle East war.
The Fuel Fund Board has approved an increase in diesel prices, with the retail price of B7 diesel rising to 50.54 baht per liter and B20 diesel to 45.54 baht per liter, effective yesterday. The decision follows a reduction in subsidy rates aimed at easing the financial burden on the state Oil Fuel Fund. The adjustment will have an immediate impact on transport costs and the wider economy.
The Energy Policy and Planning Office has announced updated petrol prices effective from yesterday. This report details current prices at five major service stations: PTT, Bangchak, PT, Caltex, and Shell, providing an overview of costs per liter for various fuel types.
The 15th edition of the Princess Pa’s Cup InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo Hua Hin took place on Saturday, bringing a blend of sport, society, and seaside elegance to the beachfront of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Phayao have been declared emergency disaster zones, as persistent hazardous air quality continues to grip northern Thailand, unlocking emergency funds for provincial governors to deploy relief efforts.
Thailand is set to experience widespread hot to extremely hot conditions through April 11, with temperatures in some areas expected to exceed 42°C, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.
Inspectors from the Department of Internal Trade (DIT), under the Commerce Ministry, have been conducting random inspections of outlets selling LPG cooking gas and gas-filling facilities to ensure they are not cheating customers by selling less gas than the tanks’ stated capacity.
The palm-fringed beaches of Phuket and the neon-lit streets of Bangkok feel worlds away from the geopolitical tremors of the Middle East. However, in our interconnected world, a shadow cast in Tehran is quickly felt in Thailand.
The war in the Middle East, now dragging on for more than a month, is casting a shadow over travel during the Songkran festival, a global event for Thailand. Hotel, retail, and event operators largely see Songkran tourism in 2026 as either weaker or flat compared with last year, even as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates domestic spending at 30.35 billion baht, up 6%.
Oil prices opened higher today as the US-Israeli war with Iran continued to disrupt global supply, reinforcing concerns over one of the most severe energy shocks in years, according to Reuters.
The conflict in the Middle East that erupted on Feb. 28, has sent the biggest shock through global energy markets in history. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries more than 20 million barrels a day of crude oil and oil products, or around 20% of global oil consumption, has almost ground to a halt.
The war in the Middle East, now in its second month, is hitting global trade, as shipping costs climb in line with higher oil prices, while freight rates have also risen sharply.
Thailand’s rising cost of living is becoming increasingly hard for households to bear, with a new survey showing that most people are already feeling the strain as Songkran approaches.
Restaurants are bracing for less vibrant sales during the Songkran holiday this year, which runs from April 11-15, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn. With the Middle East war driving up the cost of living and reducing consumer purchasing power, Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said food is often the first thing people cut from their budgets.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told shoppers while inspecting prices of goods on sale at a shopping mall in Bangkapi area of Bangkok Saturday that a round of 50:50 co-payment scheme will be implemented after April 30.
Thai manufacturers have been further hit with a double whammy as a severe shortage of microchips has thrown this market into turmoil, while prices of all types of steel products are initially rising by 10%-15% this month.
As Thailand moves to adjust fuel policies and households continue to feel cost-of-living pressures, discussions in online forums have once again highlighted a broader issue: how inflation and inconsistent pricing are impacting both locals and foreign tourists. For visitors arriving in Thailand, the effect of rising costs is increasingly visible across multiple parts of the travel experience.
Thailand is pushing for regulations that would require international tourists to obtain accident insurance before entering the country, as rising unpaid medical bills and accident risks place a mounting strain on public healthcare.
Tourist numbers along Jomtien Beach have dropped noticeably in recent days, leaving normally busy beachfront areas unusually quiet and raising concerns among local operators. A survey of the area found a clear decline in visitors, with long stretches of beach appearing sparse compared to the typically lively atmosphere Pattaya is known for.
Thailand’s aviation sector is starting to show clearer signs of strain from the worsening oil crisis, with Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X suspending selected routes during the 2026 summer schedule as surging fuel costs weigh more heavily on operations. The move comes as energy tensions linked to the Middle East conflict continue to push up aviation costs globally.
On the right track along Bangkok’s rail lines
The MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) sector includes business activities at event venues, as well as the entire supply chain, including catering companies, organizers, and transport providers.
Organic farming becomes a new pillar in the global food trade
Grab Thailand is accelerating its Grab EV program in response to the ongoing energy crisis by announcing strategic partnerships with nine new partners, including EV manufacturers and distributors, as well as taxi cooperatives.
For the first time in more than half a century, astronauts will fly around the Moon today, marking the high point of the Artemis 2’s lunar mission. The flyby will last around seven hours, starting today around 2:45 p.m. eastern US time (1845 GMT) and ending around 9:20 p.m. (0120 GMT). 
Authorities are tackling forest fires near Hua Hin after satellite data detected multiple hotspots over two consecutive days in forest areas toward Cha Am, prompting concern among local residents about air quality.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has announced a province-wide burning ban, prohibiting all forms of open burning from Feb. 1 (Sunday) to May 31, as authorities move to curb PM2.5 pollution and protect public health.
Thailand will see two nationwide alcohol sales bans linked to the upcoming parliamentary elections, covering all provinces.
Lt. Gen. Kanok Netrawatthanasena, former deputy commander of the 2nd Army Area and former commander of the Suranaree Task Force, said he believes a third round of fighting is inevitable, pointing to what he described as clear signs of defensive preparations along the border.
The Department of Medical Services has confirmed that Rajavithi Hospital and other major medical facilities are fully prepared to handle suspected or confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection, even though no cases have yet been reported in Thailand.
The Nipah virus (NiV) is a severe infectious zoonotic disease, primarily affecting South and Southeast Asia, that presents a high mortality rate, estimated between 40% and 75%. First identified in 1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore, NiV is a priority pathogen due to its fatality rate and the current lack of approved vaccines or specific treatments.
Government measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to help increase monetary circulation in the economy by at least 260 billion baht this year, says the chief of Thai Credit Guarantee Corp. (TCG).
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced a vehicle manufacturing target of 1.5 million units for 2026, a modest increase from 1.45 million units last year, driven by expectations of stronger domestic demand and growing production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
China aims to attract at least 1.5 million Thai visitors this year, up from more than 1 million in 2025, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to generate 35.4 billion baht from 1.25 million foreign tourists during the 10-day Chinese New Year holiday next month.
AirAsia issued an apology following a coordination issue that left 23 passengers on a shuttle bus during boarding for a domestic flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai. The incident occurred on Jan. 17 on a flight scheduled to depart Don Mueang International Airport.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
I like to think I’m a pretty cautious and attentive person. So, when I first came to Thailand, I did some homework to avoid any social faux pas. Despite my efforts, there were still some things I didn’t catch until after I arrived.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing today, seeking closer trade ties while balancing sensitive issues of national security and human rights. This is the first visit to China by a UK prime minister since 2018 and follows a slew of Western leaders seeking support from Beijing recently, pivoting from an increasingly unpredictable United States. 
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected. 
As more retirees look beyond Europe for affordable living options, Thailand and Vietnam are emerging as top destinations for those seeking a comfortable and affordable retirement. The rising costs in Europe, coupled with the desire for a relaxed lifestyle, have led many pensioners to explore Southeast Asia.
Train services on the northeastern line affected by the fatal crane collapse in Sikhiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima resumed on Saturday, following safety inspections and certification by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Thailand’s Commerce Ministry reports that foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand reached over 324 billion baht in 2025, a 42% year-on-year increase, with investors from Singapore topping the list in terms of the investment value.
Both Thai and Chinese tourism operators are optimistic about a recovery in visitors from the mainland during the Chinese New Year next month.
Amid global economic turbulence, many countries are grappling with geopolitical conflict, heated politics, and armed clashes. Some also face unfavorable weather at certain times of year, especially harsh winters, and increasingly severe disasters.
An opinion survey by the Thailand Environment Institute (TEI) found that more than 88% of Thais say environmental problems have affected them at moderate to severe levels, with PM2.5 air pollution ranking as the top public concern.
Thailand’s wetlands are under increasing pressure from climate change and accelerating human activity, mirroring a global crisis that has already wiped out 22% of wetlands worldwide since 1970.
Integrating innovation and clean energy into food production is not only about technology or cost reduction — it strengthens Thailand’s long-term food security. The Chanthaburi Egg Complex of Charoen Pokphand Foods (CP Foods) exemplifies this approach, combining the waste-to-value concept, renewable energy, and smart energy management to produce food efficiently while protecting the environment.
Immigration officer shoots and kills second American citizen
A violent sell-off in Japanese government bonds has rattled investors worldwide, with traders warning that Japan’s once-stable debt market is entering a far more volatile phase that could push borrowing costs higher across major economies. 
At least 15 people have died and 316 were rescued after a ferry accident in the southern Philippines, with search teams still looking for 28 missing passengers. The vessel had 332 passengers on board along with 27 crew members. 
The talks on the ‘mother of all deals,’ a long-pending free trade agreement between India and the European Union, are expected to conclude tomorrow, marking a landmark in India’s trade position with the European Union. 
More than 850,000 customers in the United States as far west as New Mexico were without electricity and over 10,000 flights were canceled yesterday during a monster winter storm that paralyzed eastern and southern states with heavy snow and ice. As snow, freezing rain and dangerously frigid temperatures swept into the eastern two-thirds of the nation, the number of power outages continued to rise. 
On long weekends, the road from Bangkok to Hua Hin resembles a faulty production line. City dwellers racing to beat the rush, often end up cooled by car air conditioning instead of ocean winds.
3 Beachside Cities Where You Can Retire On US Social Security Alone
The ultimate event for wine lovers and industry professionals is set to return as the Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 announces its official schedule and line-up. Hosted at the Amari Hua Hin, the two-day event Jan. 15-16, will offer an immersive experience, combining high-level wine education with an extensive showcase of global vintages.
The Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Election Commission has reported strong voter turnout in the latest elections for subdistrict administrative organizations (SAO), with more than 72% of eligible voters casting their ballots.
Thailand’s exporters are closely watching a US Supreme Court ruling due tomorrow on President Donald Trump’s “reciprocal tariff” policy, with officials warning the decision could become a turning point for global trade conditions and Thailand’s 2026 outlook.
Thai exports are expected to grow by 2%-4% this year due to foreign investment, particularly in the electronics sector, according to the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC).
The Thai Tourist Police have launched an effort to improve services to visitors around the Grand Palace, aiming to tackle issues of overcharging and passenger refusals. This comprehensive strategy involves coordination with multiple government sectors and seeks to boost the image of this key national attraction.
Bangkok or Singapore: which megacity should be next on your travel list?
Guided by the Ministry of Energy of Thailand, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the ASEAN Smart Energy & Energy Storage Expo 2026 will return from March 25–27 at the IMPACT Exhibition Center, Bangkok.
US President Donald Trump has drawn a wave of criticism for his actions in Venezuela, violations of international law, disdain for longstanding norms, and threats against other countries – not least allies like Denmark and Canada. Around the world, there is a palpable sense of uncertainty and foreboding. But it should already be obvious that things will not end well, neither for the United States nor the rest of the world. 
The European Union’s defense and space commissioner, Andrius Kubilius, has warned that any attempt by the United States to seize Greenland by military force would effectively mark the end of NATO and trigger serious consequences for transatlantic relations. 
President Donald Trump said yesterday any country that does business with Iran will face a tariff rate of 25% on trade with the United States, as Washington weighs a response to the situation in Iran, which is seeing its biggest anti-government protests in years. 
Moon x Moonlight Party at Hua Don Beach tomorrow
Over 10 million Thais affected by PM 2.5 dust, with severe health impacts
Surin Hit by Severe Livestock Disease Outbreak, 900 Animals Dead
Prices dip again in November
ESG: The New ‘Path to Survival’ for Thai Businesses
Koh Samui Travel Guide
Bangkok Chokes: Dangerous Smog Levels Grip City Again
Deadly Asian floods are no fluke. They’re a climate warning, scientists say
Thailand’s Automotive Sector at a Crossroads
Passenger service charge to increase from 730 to 1,120 baht starting 2026
Thai Power Giant EGAT Unveils ‘Triple S’ Strategy to Hit Net Zero by 2050
Phuket villa scam leaves Thais and foreigners with over 100-million-baht loss
UTCC estimates southern flood damages at 40 billion baht
Floods Wipe Out 42% of Thailand’s Key Malaysian Tourism Market
Italian Drug Suspect Caught in Bangkok on DTV
Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa Named Thailand’s Leading Family Resort
From Feb 14, 2026, Mobile Banking will support iOS 14 & Android 10+ only
Thailand braces for Typhoon Koto and cold weather
Minister admits government misjudged Hat Yai flood situation
Report declares Thai digital economy still robust
Fresh drive to promote Thailand and its food