Tag Archives: thailand co=pay

Monday’s news-June 1

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

  • Hua Hin Airport upgrade/PKK year-round tourism campaign/Fire Wave Fest draws large crowds/Hua Hin Pride events/5 Laos miners rescued from cave/Smoking linked to 15 types of cancer/Nicotine-free generation law
  • ECONOMY: Chains and small restaurants on the brink/Oil shock raises debt risks/Co-pay scheme kicks off/Thailand’s regional economy under pressure/10 Trends Reshaping F&B Market/Investment in 7 transport megaprojects/Malaysia suspends Thai shrimp imports/Food exporters turn to Thailand
  • TOURISM: Thai Airways told to add flights/Thailand’s night economy emerges/Phuket Airport denies extorting money/Tourists drag luggage through heat/Thai Lion Air cutting flights
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s saddest ride/Is Bangkok a good place to live?/Most Iconic Thai Comfort Food/Chiang Mai top digital nomad destination
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Commercial EV journey
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Thailand pushes Hua Hin Airport upgrade for foreign flights

Deputy government spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said on Saturday that the government was moving ahead with policies to stimulate the economy and distribute income to the regions by upgrading transport and tourism infrastructure.

The aim is to increase the potential of secondary cities and create new economic opportunities for local people, particularly by pushing Hua Hin Airport as a key tourism gateway for the upper south and the Gulf of Thailand coast, supporting foreign tourists and connecting regional economies. Continued … 

PKK launches year-round tourism campaign

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, has launched a new tourism campaign aimed at promoting the province as a year-round destination. The campaign, titled “Prachuap 365: Happiness All Year Round”, was officially launched at Cicada Market in Hua Hin this past weekend.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening Prachuap Khiri Khan’s image as a quality tourism destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year, while encouraging domestic travel, distributing income to local communities, and supporting balanced and sustainable tourism development. Continued … 

Fire Wave Fest draws large crowds to Hua Don beach

Hua Hin Fire Wave Fest 2026 opened at Hua Don-Khao Takiab beach on Friday with large crowds turning out despite rain earlier in the evening. Umbrellas were widely used during the early part of the opening night, but the rain stopped in time for the fireworks display and a performance by Palmy, one of the headline artists at the two-day festival.

The event was organized by Hua Hin City Municipality as part of efforts to support tourism during the green season and generate income for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and food vendors. Continued … 

Hua Hin Pride events planned June 4

Hua Hin will mark Pride Month 2026 with the LGBTQ+ Festival Thailand and Hua Hin Pride Parade on Thursday, June 4. The celebration will begin at Market Village Hua Hin, with activities from 3 pm before the parade sets off at 5:30 pm and makes its way to Amari Hua Hin.

The event will continue at Amari Hua Hin from 6-10 pm with DJs, live shows, food stalls, drinks, and appearances from Miss Diamond Thailand 2026 contestants and special guest Sinon Loresca. Continued … 

5 Laos miners rescued from cave, 2 still missing

 

Rescuers searching a flooded cave in Laos believe two missing gold miners may be trapped in a previously unidentified sixth chamber, based on information provided by five survivors who have now been rescued. The search is taking place in Xaysomboun province, where seven villagers became trapped underground after entering the cave on May 20 in search of gold.

Five of the seven miners have been found alive and rescued, while two remain missing. Survivors, who are recovering in hospital, provided what rescuers described as “substantial” information suggesting there may be a sixth chamber beyond a narrow crack in the fifth chamber. According to Finnish diver Mikko Paasi, this is the only part of the cave system that has not yet been searched. Continued … 

Palapon Kitchen is the culinary part of Camp Palapon. For over 17 years, our camp has helped people hit their health and fitness goals. Now, we are offering our specialized, calorie-controlled meal prep directly to the Hua Hin community! What We Offer: Clean & Convenient: Calorie-controlled meals (1,400 / 1,600 / 2,000 kcal) fresh prepared. Never frozen. Great Variety: Our meals are prepared fresh weekly (never frozen) and combine Mediterranean-style meals with healthy Thai dishes, designed for weight loss, fitness, and healthier everyday eating.

Smoking linked to 15 types of cancer

Smoking is linked to at least 15 types of cancer, while e-cigarettes are no safe alternative, a Chiang Mai cancer specialist warned on World No Tobacco Day yesterday. Dr. Thanika Ketpueak of Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine said many people still mistakenly associate smoking primarily with lung cancer.

In addition to lung cancer, smoking increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder, and cervix, as well as acute leukemia, she said. Continued … 

Thailand considers Nicotine-free generation law to block new smokers

Thailand is considering a Nicotine-free generation law that would prevent children and young people born after a specified year, or within a specified age group when the law takes effect, from ever legally buying cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or nicotine products, as the government seeks to cut off new smokers at the source.

Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the proposed policy was being studied as part of Thailand’s efforts to reduce the long-term health burden caused by smoking and nicotine addiction. Continued … 

Rising costs, price wars push chains and small restaurants to the brink

Thailand’s restaurant industry is facing a difficult year, as rising costs, weaker consumer purchasing power, and fierce price competition put pressure on both major chains and smaller operators. Several large restaurant groups reported weaker first-quarter earnings, with net profits falling sharply despite their strong brand positions.

MK Restaurant Group posted net profit of 163 million baht, down 70 million baht or 30.1% from the same period last year. S&P Syndicate recorded net profit of 44 million baht, down 4 million baht or 8%. Continued … 

Oil shock raises debt risks for households and SMEs

Thailand’s economic planning agency has warned that higher global oil prices could further weaken the ability of households and businesses to repay debt, adding pressure to an already fragile credit environment.

The National Economic and Social Development Council, or NESDC, said the sharp rise in oil prices following the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz had become a key risk for the Thai economy. Continued … 

Co-pay scheme kicks off

More than 39.2 million people will receive 1,000 baht in government support from today as the Thais Help Thais Plus co-payment scheme officially begins, says the Finance Ministry.

Permanent secretary for finance Lavaron Sangsnit said the beneficiaries comprise 13.18 million state welfare cardholders and 26.04 million people registered under the 60/40 co-payment program. Continued … 

Thailand’s regional economy under pressure from rising costs

Thailand’s regional economy in April 2026 showed signs of slowing, amid pressure from faster inflation driven by higher oil prices and rising living costs. Farm income contracted in every region, with the north hit hardest, while the consumer confidence index remained persistently low.

The Trade Policy and Strategy Office reported on the trade and economic situation in the regions in April, saying the headline consumer price index rose by 2.89% overall as domestic fuel prices increased in line with the conflict in the Middle East. Continued … 

Asia’s Food Revolution: 10 Trends Reshaping the Region’s F&B Market

Taste alone no longer sells food in Asia. That is the central takeaway from the Top F&B Trends in Asia 2026 report by Netherlands-based research firm Innova Market Insights, unveiled at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026, the continent’s premier food and beverage trade forum.

Speaking on the Future Food Experience stage, Innova’s Fellicia Kristianti presented 10 definitive trends reshaping the region. She urged industry players to use these consumer insights as a strategic compass for product innovation, painting a detailed portrait of a consumer base that has grown increasingly discerning, health-conscious, and emotionally attuned to what it consumes. Continued … 

PowerChina eyes investment in 7 Thai transport megaprojects

PowerChina has expressed confidence in Thailand’s potential and is preparing to establish PowerChina (Thailand) Co. to support full-scale investment in the country’s transport infrastructure.

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn disclosed the plan after talks with Yang Jiang, vice president for the Asia-Pacific region at PowerChina International Group and chairman of Sinohydro Thailand, along with other senior executives. Continued … 

Malaysia suspends imports of five Thai shrimp species

Thailand’s seafood export market has been shaken after Malaysia announced strict new measures from today, affecting Thai sea bass and five shrimp species and raising the risk of domestic oversupply.

The Office of Commercial Affairs in Kuala Lumpur reported that Malaysia is preparing to enforce strict controls on seafood imports from Thailand from today. The measures are described as a trade response and an upgrade of national food safety safeguards. Continued … 

Global food exporters turn to Thailand as gateway to Southeast Asia

Australia, Belgium, and Norway are using THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2026, one of Asia’s largest food trade shows, as a key platform to promote their premium and quality food and beverage exports in Bangkok, strategically positioning Thailand as one of Southeast Asia’s competitive markets.

Australia is a leading provider of premium agricultural goods, including beef, lamb, dairy, wheat, and wine. Australian Ambassador to Thailand, Angela Macdonald, said the ThaiFEX-Anuga Asia is an excellent opportunity for Thais and Australians to explore new commercial avenues together. Continued … 

Thai Airways told to add flights to secondary airports

The Transport Ministry wants Thai Airways International to increase domestic flights and open new international routes to secondary domestic destinations popular with foreign tourists.

THAI currently flies to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Krabi, and Phuket. The government wants the airline to increase services to Krabi and Ubon Thani, and add Nakhon Si Thammarat to the list. Continued … 

Thailand’s night economy emerges as key driver of tourism and urban growth

Chiang Mai night market

Thailand’s night economy is emerging as a powerful engine of growth, transforming major cities such as Bangkok and Pattaya into vibrant 24-hour destinations that blend culture, creativity, entertainment, and commerce.

From Bangkok’s world-famous street food districts and bustling night markets to Pattaya’s lively beachfront atmosphere, entertainment zones, and late-night tourism scene, nighttime activities continue attracting both international visitors and local communities. The expanding night economy is helping extend spending beyond daytime hours while supporting restaurants, food vendors, artists, retailers, and small businesses. Continued … 

Phuket Airport denies extorting money to speed up Immigration clearance

Phuket Airport denied rumors of money being extorted from passengers to quickly get them through Immigration when the arrival terminal is packed with tourists waiting to enter the popular resort island.

A thorough investigation has been launched into instances of outsiders impersonating officials who went around demanding bribes from passengers to help them jump long queues and quickly get through Immigration. Continued … 

Tourists drag luggage through heat outside Samui Airport amid Thailand ride-hailing restrictions

Fresh criticism is growing over transport restrictions on Koh Samui after reports that tourists are being forced to drag heavy luggage under the hot sun outside airport grounds just to access ride-hailing services such as Grab. Residents and long-term visitors say app-based drivers are allegedly prevented from picking up passengers directly at key transport hubs including Samui International Airport, ferry piers, and some hotels due to pressure and opposition from local transport groups.

According to one Samui resident who recently relocated to the island, Grab drivers attempting to collect passengers are frequently chased away, verbally confronted, or blocked from entering pickup zones controlled by local operators. Continued … 

Thai Lion Air cutting flights on 15 routes as jet fuel costs surge

Thai Lion Air is suspending and reducing flights on more than 15 routes between June and September as the airline industry faces rising jet fuel costs and weaker low-season travel demand.

Among the flights affected are the ones between Phuket and Singapore. They will be suspended from June 3 to Aug. 1, before resuming at two flights per week from Aug. 2-31, down from four flights per week. Continued … 

Thai tap water is not drinking water quality. Many components in tap water, such as limescale or microbiological impurities, cannot be seen with the naked eye. Nevertheless, they affect the entire water supply and ultimately also the wholesomeness and taste of the water. Water purifier systems are indispensable to improve the quality of life. Thanks to the innovative technology of our water filter systems, it is possible to turn conventional tap water into high-quality drinking water.

Suvarnabhumi’s ‘Depresscalator’: Thailand’s saddest ride

Every country has its landmarks. Thailand, according to some travelers on social media, has one that is a little less glamorous than most: the “Depresscalator.” The nickname refers to the long moving staircase that carries departing passengers from the international check-in area toward security screening at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.

For many travelers, stepping onto the escalator marks the emotional end of a holiday in Thailand. The beaches, street food, island sunsets, and late-night adventures are suddenly behind them. Ahead lies a long flight home, work emails, and the return to everyday life. Continued … 

Is Bangkok a good place to live?

“Bangkok is amazing, absolutely wonderful.” “It’s easy to build a future.” “The number one problem is traffic jams.” “Bangkok is great if you have money.” These were some of the responses we heard when we asked the question: Is Bangkok a good place to live?

Thailand’s capital, a city of opportunities, convenience, and possibilities, is home to 5.4 million people, according to official 2026 data from the Department of Provincial Administration. Unofficially, the figure is twice that. Continued … 

50-Year-Old Bangkok Stall Perfectly Preps the Most Iconic Thai Comfort Food

I’m in the Talat Phulu neighborhood of Bangkok, and I’ve just stepped into a shop that is a true local institution. We are here for chicken rice, one of the most classic Thai foods you can find at any time of day in this city. This place, called Gaew Chicken Rice, has been serving up comfort for over 50 years.

While chicken rice might seem like a simple dish, the preparation at Gaew is incredibly time-intensive. The process starts with a massive, bubbling cauldron. The cooks simmer the chicken bones and skin for hours and hours to extract every bit of flavor and oil. Continued … 

Chiang Mai named top digital nomad destination

Chiang Mai has earned a place among the world’s top eight destinations for digital nomads and creators, after Forbes magazine included the northern Thai city in its 2026 ranking. The city joins Medellín, Cape Town, Lisbon, Bali, Mexico City, Tokyo, and Berlin on the list.

Forbes noted that digital nomads are increasingly shifting toward being “digital entrepreneurs,” seeking destinations with strong business ecosystems, networking opportunities, and income potential, rather than simply low costs and good weather. Continued … 

Commercial EV journey at a crossroads

Thailand is accelerating its transition toward cleaner transport, with commercial electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as a centerpiece of the country’s sustainability drive.

From provincial bus routes to airport taxis and motorcycle taxis in Bangkok, pilot projects are multiplying, signaling a shift in how public and private transport may operate in the coming decade. 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

Saturday’s news-Nov 15


Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Feedback Re: Closing of Premium Clinic/Thailand ends afternoon alcohol sales ban/Minister explains move/Thai nightlife to remain stunted by new law/Immigration steps up visa run scrutiny/Vehicle registrations exceed 45 million/Thailand rejects Starlink offer

  • ECONOMY: Thai shops caught hiking prices/Consumer confidence rises/10% duty on low-cost imports
  • TOURISM: Updated Visa Extension Regulations
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Destinations Beyond Bangkok and Phuket/Swimming fish among diners
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Climate collapse: Southeast Asia’s new normal?/Powering up data centers
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Re: Closing of Premium Clinic at Hua Hin Hospital

“With respect to ‘Peter’s’ comment and question on the topic, Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin expansion, I would also like to know why the Premium Clinic at Hua Hin (Government) Hospital closed. Shortly after the announcement of the closure was made, I asked a couple of staff at the clinic why was it closing; the reply was essentially that the decision had come from ‘above’, no reason offered. I believe a new director had been appointed at the time; maybe he did not like the Premium Clinic.

“I agree with Peter that the clinic ‘… was an absolute godsend’, especially for us elderly expats who do not have a Thai spouse/partner/gf, have very limited Thai ability (and now having problems with our mother tongues), and who do not have the financial resources to visit the very, very expensive private hospitals in Hua Hin (I am told that the private hospital in Phetchaburi is substantially cheaper than the ones in Hua Hin). I hope Peter’s post receives useful informative replies.” – Articulate

Editor: Expat News would also like to know why the clinic was closed. There was no public announcement, no mentions in the media. If we had to guess the reason, we’d say it was because Thais objected to the preferential treatment given to foreigners, but that’s just a guess, not fact. So we ask our readers if they have an answer – please use this EMAIL aim@hhexpatnews.com to let us know, or to add your comments about the closing. In the meantime, we have asked the hospital for an explanation.

Thailand extends drinking hours, trials end of afternoon alcohol sales ban

The Ministry of Public Health yesterday extended permitted drinking hours from midnight to 1 am and launched a six-month pilot program to lift the afternoon alcohol sales ban between 2 pm and 5 pm.

The National Alcohol Policy Committee met to discuss the controversial drinking-hours regulations and the proposed cancellation of the afternoon sales ban. Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum said the committee had reviewed the alcohol sales policies with the aim of supporting tourism and stimulating the economy during festival periods. He noted that the existing ban, which prevents the sale of alcohol between 2 pm and 5 pm, is outdated. Continued …

Minister explains move to lift afternoon alcohol ban

Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat has elaborated on the government’s decision to temporarily lift the ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm, stressing that it will start with a six-month trial period.

That should allow sufficient time for authorities to monitor and evaluate the impact of the extended sales hours across health, social, and economic dimensions, he said yesterday. Continued …

Some relief for foreign tourists and hospitality sector, but Thai nightlife to remain stunted by new law

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board has fully lifted the 2 pm to 5 pm alcohol sales ban, but late-night drinking and early-hours openings remain prohibited. Nightlife and entertainment hubs in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, and throughout the kingdom are impacted.

Customers may stay on premises until 1 am, but alcohol consumption is not allowed during that hour. Officials cited new data on road accidents and public health, prioritizing safety over economic considerations. Continued …

Thai immigration steps up visa run scrutiny

The Immigration Bureau has intensified visa screening to deal with foreign criminals as part of a nationwide campaign against cybercrime, said the bureau’s spokesman. Immigration authorities will now impose tighter scrutiny on foreigners who repeatedly enter and exit the country under the guise of tourism.

In places with large expat populations, such as Pattaya, Phuket and Hua Hin, a thriving industry specialises in package trips to the nearest border point to take care of visa formalities. Some expats have lived in the country for years, making dozens of tourist visa renewals. Continued …

Thailand’s vehicle registrations exceed 45 million; EVs continue rapid growth

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has released updated nationwide vehicle registration figures as of Sept. 30, revealing a total of 45,376,703 vehicles on record. These consist of 44,002,045 vehicles registered under the Motor Vehicle Act, and 1,374,658 vehicles under the Land Transport Act.

In September alone, 3,911,716 vehicles underwent registration and annual tax procedures — an 8.4% increase from the previous month. The highest number of vehicles undertaking registration and tax procedures were located in: Bangkok – 893,875 vehicles, Chonburi – 187,589 vehicles, and Chiang Mai – 132,362 vehicles. Continued … 

Thailand rejects Starlink offer due to ownership hurdle

The Digital Economy and Society Ministry has rejected a proposal from SpaceX to provide Starlink low-orbit satellite internet services in Thailand through a 100% foreign-owned company, citing national security concerns and legal restrictions.

“If the company wants to set up a wholly owned firm, there will be no opportunity … to cooperate, as telecom ownership is directly linked to our digital security system,” minister Chaichanok Chidchob said on Friday. Continued …

Thai shops caught hiking prices under co-pay scheme

The government is taking action against shops that raised prices after joining the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, following a slew of complaints that point to widespread abuse of the program’s benefits.

A minister attached to the prime minister’s office said price increases were the most common issue reported through the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), which received 66 complaints nationwide between Oct. 29 and Nov. 11. Continued …

Consumer confidence rises for second month in October, boosted by ‘Let’s Go Halves Plus’

Thailand’s consumer confidence index (CCI) improved for the second consecutive month in October, rising to 51.9, according to Thanawat Polvichai, director of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting.

Thanawat said confidence has strengthened thanks to political stability under the new government and renewed optimism that the administration’s economic stimulus measures will lift short-term growth. However, concerns remain over the potential impact of US tariff policy and ongoing Thai-Cambodian border tensions, which could weigh on recovery. Continued …

Thailand to impose 10% duty on low-cost imports to aid SMEs

Thailand will start collecting 10% custom duties on low-cost imports previously exempt from tax as part of a government plan to protect local small- and medium-sized businesses, Finance Minister Ekniti Nithanprapas said yesterday.

Currently, imported goods with a value of 1,500 baht or less are exempt from import duties, while those of higher value are subject to different rates of tax based on the type of product. Continued …

Updated Visa Extension Regulations

(repeated from yesterday’s news)

Effective Nov. 13, 2025, the Immigration Bureau has introduced new regulations regarding visa extensions. The key changes are as follows:

  1. Visa extensions are now limited to two (2) times per calendar year.

  2. The first extension grants an additional 30 days of stay.

  3. The second extension grants an additional 7 days of stay.

  4. Foreign nationals entering Thailand via land border checkpoints are not eligible for visa extensions.

  5. Visa extensions will not be granted to individuals who depart and re-enter Thailand on the same day.

12 Thai Destinations Beyond Bangkok and Phuket

Thailand is one of the most visited countries on Earth, and for good reason. Its golden temples, tropical beaches, and vibrant street life are legendary. Yet, most travelers stop at the same places: Bangkok’s chaos and Phuket’s beaches. Beyond those big names, however, lies another Thailand, one filled with quieter towns, hidden islands, mountain sanctuaries, and authentic cultural gems that reveal the soul of the country.

These lesser-known destinations are where Thailand truly shines. They’re places where you can sip coffee by misty rivers, wander through ancient ruins, and swim in lagoons that still feel secret. Whether you crave adventure, peace, or local flavor, these 12 Thai destinations beyond Bangkok and Phuket will make you fall in love with the Land of Smiles all over again. Continued …

Flooded restaurant in Thailand brings delight with swimming fish among diners

A restaurant in central Thailand was bursting with a stream of customers coming for a unique dining experience: Enjoying a meal while sitting in flood waters, surrounded by live fish they bring into the establishment.

Since an adjacent river breached its banks 11 days ago, the flooded riverside restaurant has become an internet sensation, drawing customers keen to pose in the lapping brown water or toss fish food to photograph the feeding frenzy. Continued and video …

Climate collapse: Southeast Asia’s new normal?

For four long months and counting, the residents of Bang Ban, a low-lying district in Thailand’s ancient city of Ayutthaya, have lived their lives under water. Elderly residents must be ferried to safety by raft, schools stand closed, and under the muddy surface, ruined rice fields rot.

Annual floods are not unusual here. Each monsoon season, the Chao Phraya River – Thailand’s largest – routinely bursts its banks and Bang Ban often bears the burden of diverted water when upstream dams cannot cope. But this year is different. The scale is catastrophic, says local politician and former rescuer Songphol Suksomboon. Continued …

Powering up thriving data centers with renewables

Among the energy projects aligned with the state’s “Quick Big Win” policy is a direct power purchase agreement (PPA) scheme scheduled to take effect as soon as January 2026.

Investors in data centers are a targeted group because they are expected to help Thailand develop server farms, which are growing rapidly in the country. The ERC offers privileges to data center operators as the industry aligns with the government policy to develop digital infrastructure to support cloud services. Continued … 

  • Thai–US Operation Nabs Russian Cyber Spy in Phuket – Continued …
  • Outrage in Phuket: Tourist’s Unprovoked Spitting Incident – Continued …
  • Police Raid Condo, Arrest Chinese in Online Gambling Bust – 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