- Hospitality Classic tees off/Thailand Second in Retirement Index/World Cup sports-streaming power play/5,999 baht FIFA World Cup package/FIFA World Cup scams
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump touts imminent deal/Wait for September/Global Growth to Lowest Rate/
- ECONOMY: Job groups risk AI disruption/Consumer confidence at 4-year low/Bank insists baht is stable/Global economic structural shift/Water security key to investments/Bangkok condo glut/Thai farm debt crisis/Health Expo 2026
- TOURISM: Safety spotlight on amusement and water parks/New airport slots/Elephant tourism in Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: How Thai rivers are being poisoned/Rare earth mining in Myanmar/Changan Hits 20,000 Vehicle Milestone
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hospitality Classic tees off at Royal Lakeside today to support Hua Hin Heroes
Fore Management Group is conducting the inaugural Misthos Group Hospitality Classic today, a one-day charity golf tournament to be held at Royal Lakeside Golf Club, with proceeds supporting Hua Hin Heroes Foundation.
The event will be played in a four-man team Texas Scramble format and is expected to attract more than 120 expat golfers living in Thailand, including individual players and corporate teams. Fore Management Group said 100% of funds raised on the day will be donated to Hua Hin Heroes. Continued …
Thailand Ranks Second in 2026 Retirement Abroad Index
Thailand has been named the second-best country in the world for retirement in 2026, according to the Retirement Abroad Index 2026 published by Expatriate Group. The ranking places Thailand behind the Philippines and ahead of destinations including Colombia, Portugal, Spain, and France.
The index assessed 20 countries across five key areas: healthcare quality, visa accessibility, health insurance requirements, cost of living, and expat community and integration. The findings were compiled by Expatriate Group, a specialist provider of international health insurance serving expatriates and retirees in more than 180 countries. Continued …
JAS-Monomax turns World Cup rights into Thailand sports-streaming power play
JAS and Monomax’s acquisition of FIFA World Cup rights is more than a broadcast deal. It is a strategic move to turn football’s biggest tournament into a long-term sports and entertainment ecosystem, offering all 104 World Cup 2026 matches on Monomax while putting more than 40 matches on free TV.
Jasmine International, or JAS, has secured the Thai broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and 2030, as well as other FIFA-affiliated events, in a deal worth US$70 million, or about 2.3 billion baht. Mono Next, which operates Monomax and traditional TV platforms, will serve as the broadcaster under the group’s broader sports-content strategy. Continued …
Thailand unveils 5,999 baht FIFA World Cup 2026 package
Jasmine International, or JAS, has officially confirmed it secured the broadcast rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2030 for Thailand, announcing a 5,999 baht premium viewing package.
The premium package on Monomax will cost 5,999 baht and allow family viewing, averaging about 250 baht per month. Customers can pay in 0% installments for up to 10 months and watch on two screens at the same time. Continued …
Cybercriminals exploit FIFA World Cup fans with scams
Cybercriminals are using the FIFA World Cup to launch scams and steal credentials, warns FortiGuard Labs, the research arm of cybersecurity firm Fortinet.
New research from FortiGuard Labs reveals cybercriminal infrastructure linked to this year’s World Cup is already operational. The tournament runs from Thursday to July 19. Continued …
Trump cancels Iran strikes, touts imminent deal (40th time)
US President Donald Trump withdrew his threat of further strikes against Iran yesterday and said a deal with Tehran to end the war could be signed in coming days. As the World Cup opening ceremony got underway in Mexico, Trump posted news of a potential breakthrough, triggering a stock market rally and a drop in oil prices.
Claiming that talks with Iran had been “brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved,” Trump said he had “cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening.” Continued …
Middle Eastern wars: Wait for September
Last Tuesday, US President Donald Trump told journalists that the United States and Iran are “in the final throes of what will be a very, very good deal”.
On Wednesday, after an American helicopter gunship crashed in the Strait of Hormuz, presumably downed by Iranians, he declared angrily that “They’ve taken too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them, now they will have to pay the price!!!” Continued …
Middle East Conflict to Push Global Growth to Lowest Rate Since COVID-19
Global growth is forecast to slow to 2.5% in 2026, down from 2.9% in 2025. Forecasts for two-thirds of economies have been downgraded relative to January of this year. Global growth is expected to improve to 2.8% in 2027 but will remain 0.4 percentage point below the average during the 2010s.
Weak growth in developing economies has stalled progress toward advanced-economy income levels. By 2028, developing economies other than China and India will have collectively experienced nearly a decade of no progress on narrowing their per capita income gap with advanced economies, the report finds. Continued …
Thai labor market faces skills mismatch, four job groups risk AI disruption
Thailand’s labor market is facing growing pressure from demographic change, education mismatch, and the rise of artificial intelligence, with four major occupational groups at risk of disruption.
Thailand’s changing population structure — longer lifespans, fewer births, and an aging society — is reshaping the country’s health, social, and economic landscape. The challenges are not confined to any single age group, but are linked across the entire life course. Continued …
Thai consumer confidence at 4-year low
The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) fell to 49.5 in May, the lowest level since December 2022, the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) said yesterday.
The drop was mainly attributed to concerns over the Middle East war and persistently high oil prices, which are expected to weigh on Thailand’s economic growth and raise the cost of living, the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting said. Continued …
Central bank insists the baht is stable
The Bank of Thailand says it is confident about the baht’s stability despite recent depreciation against the US dollar amid heightened external uncertainties.
Given the baht’s resilience and Thailand’s strong external fundamentals, the central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) sees no need to convene a special meeting, unlike its counterpart in Indonesia, said Chayawadee Chai-anant, assistant governor for corporate relations and spokesperson for the regulator. Continued …
BOT points to global economic structural shift and rising uncertainty
Vitai Ratanakorn, governor of the Bank of Thailand (BOT), said in his opening remarks at the IMF Economic Review Conference, held under the theme “Power, Markets, and Strategy in a Changing Global Order”, that over recent decades, trade liberalization, global financial integration, and regional co-operation had been key drivers of economic growth and opportunities for countries in Asia and around the world.
However, this global economic order is changing, with the world economy facing a major structural shift alongside rising uncertainty, while international political tensions are intensifying and the dividing line between geopolitics and economics is beginning to blur. Continued …
World Bank says water security key to Thailand’s investment appeal
Water is no longer simply a basic factor for consumption or agriculture in the modern era. It has become a decisive factor in foreign investors’ decisions and part of the national security strategy.
Melinda Good, the World Bank director for Thailand and Myanmar and a World Bank representative, emphasized at the “Navigating Thailand’s Water Future” forum that global geopolitics is being reshaped, moving from a focus on competition between major powers to competition to attract investment in future industries. Continued …
Bangkok condo glut hits 350,000 units, may take six years to clear
Greater Bangkok’s condominium market is facing a heavy stock overhang of around 350,000 unsold units, which could take five to six years to clear, according to Knight Frank Thailand.
The company said that in the first quarter of 2026, 6,174 new condominium units were launched in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. Notably, no new projects were launched in the central business district (CBD). Continued …
Thai farm debt crisis a test for Anutin government
Ahead of the Feb. 8 general election, politicians often came to court voters like 69-year-old rice farmer Chaon Taiupok in Ayutthaya, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok.
“Once they won and formed the government, they disappeared,” said Chaon, who is struggling to make ends meet, as rising costs of fuel and fertilizer triggered by the Iran war combine with falling rice prices to hammer farmers. Continued …
Health Expo 2026 to boost hub dreams
Phuket is preparing to host the Phuket Health Expo 2026 from July 1–5 in a bid to better connect with global health and wellness networks.
The event, themed “Longevity – Wellness for a Long Life”, is expected to generate over 50 million baht in economic activity and reinforce Phuket’s role as a regional centre for medical, health and wellness tourism. Continued …
Safety spotlight on amusement and water parks across Thailand
A minister attached to the prime minister’s office, Supamas Isarabhakdi, has ordered increased inspections of amusement parks and water parks nationwide following concerns about consumer safety. The directive was announced during a safety inspection at Siam Amazing Park in Bangkok conducted with officials from the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) and other relevant agencies.
Supamas said operators must comply with legal safety requirements, including annual inspections of rides, buildings, electrical systems, fire protection equipment, and emergency exits. Water parks are also required to meet public health standards covering water quality and treatment systems. Authorities said any ride or equipment found to pose a safety risk could be suspended immediately. Continued …
New airport slots agreed with 87 airlines to boost tourism
Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Atlantic will launch a new three-times-weekly London Heathrow to Phuket service as Thailand’s tourism fightback gathers pace, with 87 international airlines competing for new routes and flight slots into the kingdom.
The surge in global aviation interest marks a powerful turnaround after a bruising start to 2026, when weaker demand, soaring airfares, and instability linked to the US-Iran conflict hit the sector, with Thailand now betting on expanded air links to revive visitor numbers and tourism earnings. Continued …
Intrepid matches Aussie donations to transform elephant tourism in Thailand
Twelve years after becoming the first global tour operator to remove elephant rides from its trips, Intrepid Travel is putting money behind the next phase of elephant tourism welfare reform in Thailand, matching donations to World Animal Protection Thailand dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000 throughout June via its not-for-profit arm, The Intrepid Foundation.
The Room to Roam end-of-financial-year appeal will help fund the transition of elephant tourism venues from rides and performances to higher-welfare sanctuary models. Continued …
How Thai rivers are being poisoned
Communities across northern Thailand are raising the alarm after tests detected dangerous levels of arsenic and other heavy metals in major waterways.
As concerns grow over public health, livelihoods, and the future of the Mekong river basin, attention is increasingly turning upstream. Video …
How rare earth mining in Myanmar threatens Thailand’s rice and fish
Thongkham Inprom has been farming for more than six decades, growing jasmine rice and sticky rice in Chiang Rai. The 71-year-old harvests about 60 tons each year and keeps 1% for his family. The rest is sent to a rice mill and eventually sold in central Thailand.
But now he is worried that he might not be able to sell his rice. Government agencies have found arsenic in the soil and water at his farm. It is already affecting his crops. Continued …
Changan’s Rayong EV Plant in Thailand Hits 20,000 Vehicle Milestone
Changan Automobile’s plant in Rayong rolled out its 20,000th vehicle, with the Qiyuan Q05 as the main model. The facility officially commenced production in May 2025 and is located in the core area of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor.
It marks Changan’s first overseas new energy vehicle manufacturing base, featuring five intelligent workshops for welding, painting, final assembly, engine assembly, and battery assembly, with a 90% automation rate at key quality control stations. Continued …
-
Foreign Couple Held After Baby Found Dead in Udon Thani – Continued …
-
Chinese Tourists Brawl Outside Pattaya Restaurant – Continued …
-
American man caught for assault, property damage in Chon Buri – Continued …
UK defense minister quits with stinging rebuke of PM Starmer
British Defense Secretary John Healey quit yesterday, accusing beleaguered Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the finance ministry of failing to commit enough money to protect the country. His resignation weakens Starmer’s authority at a precarious moment for the Labor leader, a week before a by-election that could prompt a bid to replace him. 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
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
The Hua Hin 100K Ultra Marathon 2026 has been officially launched, with organizers aiming to strengthen the town’s reputation as a sports tourism destination while inviting runners to sign up for the endurance event.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the Foreign Ministry would today submit to the Cabinet a proposal to cancel the 60-day visa-free measure, known as P.60, and revise the 30-day visa-free measure, known as P.30.
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) have raised retail fuel prices in Bangkok, effective today.
Thailand has yet to decide whether to buy the broadcast rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the asking price of at least 1.3 billion baht is far above the 600-million-baht framework previously used by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, while unfavorable match times in Thailand may reduce viewership, advertising revenue, and wider economic benefits.
The Thai Meteorological Department forecast heavy rain in parts of upper Thailand over the next 24 hours, covering the north, northeast, central region, Bangkok, and surrounding provinces, today.
Energy Minister Akanat Promphan has floated a plan to attract Middle Eastern oil producers to invest in a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) in Thailand, positioning the country as a regional oil distribution hub while strengthening long-term energy security.
A high-level Thai delegation has robustly defended the kingdom’s trade practices during technical consultations with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), clarifying that Thai supply chains are completely free of forced labor.
The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has launched an influencer-led campaign alongside Thai celebrity couple “Cee” Siwat Chotchaicharin and “Amy” Amika Klinpratoom to showcase the economic and culinary value of the nation’s Geographical Indication (GI) products.
The Department of Business Development (DBD) has joined forces with the Royal Thai Police and border control agencies to launch an aggressive, widespread crackdown on illegal corporate nominees operating within Thailand’s primary tourist destinations.
The April 2026 Hotel Business Operator Sentiment Index, jointly prepared by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT), was based on a survey conducted from April 16 to 30, among respondents from 134 accommodation businesses.
Thai tourism operators are looking beyond the sluggish low season and expect healthy bookings, particularly from European tourists, when the high season returns in the third quarter.
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau posted a video on Sunday warning travelers not to trust claims that a paid fast track immigration service is available at Suvarnabhumi Airport through Trip.com.
Chiang Mai On A Budget: Thailand’s Cosy Mountain Escape
Thailand is emerging as Southeast Asia’s most NEV-ready market, with 58% of consumers considering hybrid or electric vehicles — significantly above the regional average of 42.8%. Key purchase motivators include lower fuel costs, charging availability, and longer driving range.
Neck and lower back pain rank among the most widespread health concerns worldwide. Years of desk work, sports such as golf and tennis, frequent travel, or previous injuries can gradually take their toll on the spine. Left unaddressed, the discomfort can disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and diminish overall quality of life.
The Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair and Red Cross Festival will return to Prachuap Khiri Khan from April 24 to May 4, with organizers preparing a wide-ranging program of exhibitions, performances, and charity activities.
Thai motorists are paying less for diesel from today after PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) announced a B1.20-per-liter reduction in retail diesel prices, following a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee on Sunday. The new prices took effect on today from 5 am. Petrol and gasohol prices remain unchanged.
Air pollution has reached critical levels in 10 northern provinces, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) warned yesterday, with Nan recording the worst smog, as PM2.5 dust levels nationwide exceeded safety standards in 31 provinces.
Middle East Turmoil Drives Prolonged Natural Gas Surge, High Electricity Costs for 2+ Years
Global aviation faces geopolitical turbulence
The outlook for the retail and wholesale sector looks grim, as consumer spending power is expected to decline in the coming months, alongside anticipated rising goods prices, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.
Thailand’s Senate committee has proposed a tax reform plan to tackle the country’s fiscal deficit, suggesting an increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. If approved, the proposals will be submitted to the Cabinet for potential implementation.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BOI), said Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, led Team Thailand on a visit to Washington, D.C., in the United States from April 13–17, to attend the IMF-World Bank spring meetings, while also expanding cooperation with partner countries and leading economic organizations. Their goal was to attract investment from target companies in advanced technology industries, particularly semiconductors, which are growing rapidly as demand surges in response to AI technology.
In today’s Trade 5.0 landscape, global competition is no longer defined solely by “price”. Instead, it is driven by “trust” and “value” that buyers can genuinely experience and verify — from the origin of raw materials and production standards to the storytelling that gives each brand its identity and distinction.
Four years ago, Thailand became the Weed Wonderland of the East. You couldn’t turn a corner in Bangkok or Pattaya without seeing a big green neon cannabis leaf. In Southeast Asia, which is notorious for having some of the world’s harshest drug laws, it was a first.
The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.
Regional tourism operators expect domestic tourism during this low season to perform worse than last year, due to higher living costs and debt levels, unless new stimulus measures are introduced to encourage travel and provide short-term debt relief.
Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026 ended on Sunday with huge crowds packing Pattaya Beach from North Pattaya to South Pattaya for the final day of celebrations.
Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images
Natural gas continues to play a pivotal role in global energy systems, even as the world accelerates its transition toward cleaner alternatives. While solar, wind, and biomass are increasingly in the spotlight as part of international efforts to curb rising temperatures, natural gas is still considered a relatively cleaner fossil fuel and a key driver of economic growth.
The Thai government is introducing low-interest loan packages through four state financial institutions to support households and businesses in adopting clean energy and reducing the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs. These measures seek to address the energy crisis by improving energy efficiency and enhancing long-term energy security and sustainability.
Humanity has spent more than a century pushing life expectancy steadily upward, lifting the global average from just 32 years in 1900 to around 73 years today, thanks largely to vaccines, medical advances, and stronger public health systems. But that long-running achievement is now being shaken by the intensifying effects of global heating.
Songkran events calendar for Hua Hin
AirAsia has confirmed its summer flight schedule for the Hua Hin–Chiang Mai route, with direct flights operating until Oct. 30.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has introduced the “Khirikhan Guarantee” as part of efforts to strengthen its position in wellness tourism, with officials aiming to raise standards and build confidence among visitors.
Located around 1 hour 30 minutes from Hua Hin, the viewpoint offers panoramic views across Prachuap Bay and the surrounding coastline, along with a cave at the top. The hike is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness, with park rangers on hand to assist and rope sections installed along parts of the trail. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said in its weather report today that temperatures could reach 42°C. The north, northeast and central regions should brace for strong winds and thunderstorms, while 30% of the south’s west coast is forecast to see heavy rain.
The world may be heading toward a powerful El Niño later this year, with major climate agencies warning that the odds of El Niño are rising from mid-2026. NOAA says ENSO-neutral conditions are still favored through May-July, but El Niño is likely to emerge in June-August and persist through at least the end of the year.
The global energy market remains highly volatile after tensions in the Middle East flared up again, despite earlier reports of a two-week temporary ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, which had pushed world oil prices lower on hopes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would return to normal.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas yesterday warned that energy prices may not return to pre-conflict low level for another one to two years. The impact is not limited to energy, he said, but could also spread to the prices of other goods, as the Middle East is a major exporter of oil, natural gas, chemical fertilizers, and many other important raw materials.
Thailand’s economic outlook is facing mounting uncertainty as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to weigh on global energy markets, prompting authorities to reassess growth projections and warn of rising stagflation risks.
Bangchak Corp. has confirmed it did not pay the Iranian government to allow an oil tanker to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, following reports suggesting a financial exchange.
Thailand continues to attract foreign buyers seeking both lifestyle and investment exposure, but strict ownership rules and highly localized market conditions mean that choosing the right city is critical.
Thai Sugar Millers Corp. (TSMC) has outlined its approach to managing domestic sugar prices as production costs continue to rise due to global economic pressures and energy market volatility. The corporation confirmed that retail sugar prices would remain frozen throughout April in a bid to help ease the cost-of-living burden on the public.
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) has revised down its forecast for this year’s Songkran spending to as low as 120 billion baht, from a previous 129.6 billion baht, citing rising diesel prices.
Soaring fuel costs are rippling across Thailand just days before the Songkran festival, pushing up food prices, squeezing small vendors, raising costs for farmers and transport operators, and dampening travel sentiment in key tourism centers.
12 Bold, Bright Thai Recipes to Celebrate Songkran
Three of Thailand’s leading energy and industrial players — REPCO NEX, B.Grimm Power, and SCG Cleanergy — have officially launched a joint utility-scale solar project with a total capacity of 247MWp. Spanning across Kamphaeng Phet, Nakhon Sawan, and Saraburi provinces, the initiative is designed to replace fossil fuel dependency with clean energy, providing enough electricity to power approximately 100,000 households.
Government data released yesterday pointed to a weaker finish to last year for the US economy than earlier estimated, after lower business investment, including inventory accumulation, led to a fresh downgrade in fourth-quarter growth, even as corporate profits jumped sharply. 
The emperor penguin, one of the most recognizable symbols of Antarctica, has officially been reclassified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, in a stark new sign of the accelerating damage caused by global warming. 
Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.
Global oil prices surged sharply in early-week trading after tensions from the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated, stoking market fears of tighter oil supplies and risks to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
Chai Arunanondchai, president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said that after one week of fighting in the Middle East, Thailand’s tourism sector had been directly affected and was facing severe volatility, both in terms of travel costs and tourist numbers.
The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.
The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.
The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.
Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.
The Commerce Ministry has launched a “Resilience” strategy aimed at protecting the country’s export sector from global risks, including geopolitical conflicts and trade polarization. The policy seeks to strengthen Thailand’s ability to maintain export growth while navigating an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.
Passengers intending to travel between Asia and Europe will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure reasonable ticket prices, as the Middle East conflict has driven significant demand for a limited number of direct flights, says the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.
The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.
Indonesia bans elephant riding
This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. 
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.
Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. 
The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. 
Indonesia will restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, its communications and digital ministry said on Friday, making it the latest country to install online guardrails to reduce the risks of addiction and cyberbullying. 
The opening months of 2026 have brought a level of global uncertainty rarely seen in recent years. Escalating geopolitical tensions, volatile currency movements, and tightening immigration enforcement are reshaping the international landscape.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has begun preparations for a potential drought and domestic water shortages after authorities reported low water reserves and a forecast of below-average rainfall in the coming months.
Well-known virologist Yong Poovorawan has warned that a mutating influenza strain A H3N2 is spreading in Thailand. It is more resistant to vaccines but does not increase in severity.
Sarah Sajedi was walking along a beach on Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands when she noticed plastic fragments mixed into the sand beneath her feet. “I was standing there looking out at this gorgeous view of the Andaman Sea, and then I looked down and beneath my feet were all these pieces of plastic, most of them water bottles,” she recalls.
Despite a recent surge in trade with the United States, Thailand’s economic outlook for 2026 is overshadowed by two looming “high-stakes” risks. Supanutt Sasiwuttiwat, a leading researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), warns that new American trade enforcement could see Thai goods slapped with tariffs as high as 40%.
Khao Yai: Wineries, Wildlife and Organic Farms
The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has set a target to reduce burning in agricultural areas by 15% this year to address the PM2.5 dust problem, as well as emphasizing a prohibition on importing crops produced using the burning method, especially corn, from neighboring countries to prevent cross-border PM2.5 pollution.
Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, and GAC, a global pioneer in smart electric mobility, have forged a strategic partnership to deploy an initial 20,000 high-performance electric vehicles (EVs) across the region.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has strongly criticized US foreign policy under President Donald Trump and urged natio not to let the world order disintegrate into a “den of robbers” where the unscrupulous take what they want. 
President Donald Trump is withdrawing the United States from a foundational climate treaty as part of a sweeping exit from collective global action, the White House announced on Wednesday. A total of 66 global organizations and treaties — roughly half affiliated with the United Nations — were listed in a White House memorandum as “contrary to the interests of the United States”. 
Jan. 1 marked a decade since China repealed its one-child policy. Just 10 days earlier, Peng Peiyun, who long oversaw the often-brutal enforcement of China’s family-planning rules, died at the age of 96, having never been held accountable for her actions. Some obituaries praised Peng for being “reform-minded”, even though, in practice, she only perpetuated an utterly inhumane policy, whose consequences have barely begun to materialize. 
Thailand on flood alert as monsoon brings heavy downpours
Bangkok zookeeper killed by lions highlights risks of wildlife tourism
Tourism slump hammers restaurants
Danish Embassy brings outreach event to Hua Hin June 10
Abbot of renowned temple arrested over alleged 300M-baht embezzlement
Singapore Airlines to pay staff over 7 months’ bonus
Makro PRO Crowned Thailand’s Top Grocery E-Commerce Platform
