- Expat health insurance after 65/Switching phones remains a pain/Chiva-Som yoga session/Petrol and gasohol prices fall/El Niño to continue all year/‘Lemon Law’ gains traction/6.9 years living with illness or disability/1.84 million baht hidden
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump: ‘Hell will rain down’/Energy firms brace for ‘new era’/Thailand hopes deal brings lasting stability
- ECONOMY: Thailand’s 2026 Economic Pain Persists/Thailand advances 15% global minimum tax/Becoming the World’s ‘Landlord’/Data center outlay to skyrocket/Electricity Tariff Reform/Plan to boost kratom industry
- TOURISM: TAT shifts airline strategy/TAT slashes long-haul arrival forecast/Bangkok airports target 120 million/Homeless people on Pattaya Beach
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Vana Nava Hua Hin/Rainbow Crepe – Thai Street Food Magic!/What dishes do Thais eat
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Toxic ‘time bomb’ threatens Mekong basin/Plastic bottles blanket Phi Phi Leh/Early movers eye green advantage
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Why expat health insurance in Thailand may not cover you after 65
If you’re an expat living in Thailand and you’ve had the same health insurance policy for years, it’s easy to assume you’re set. You pay your renewal, you stay covered, and that’s that.
But most Thai domestic health insurance policies have a ceiling built into the small print, an age at which the insurer stops accepting new applicants, and another at which they stop renewing existing ones altogether. Continued …
Switching phones remains a pain
When did the first smartphone appear? The first mobile phone prototype came from Motorola in 1973. The first one approved, affectionately called The Brick, came out in 1983. In 1992 an IBM engineer created the Sweetspot but it didn’t hit the market until 1994, as the IBM Simon Personal Communicator.
The first text message was sent in December 1992. The first time we see the term “smartphone” used, was by Ericsson with their GS88 that came out in 1997. Mobile gaming didn’t begin until 1997. Continued …
Join us for a complimentary, revitalizing Hatha Yoga session in celebration of International Yoga Day. Class: Hatha Yoga Sunday, June 21, 5–5:50, at Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Yoga Pavillion. Following the class, healthy refreshments will be served at Orchid Lounge. Limited spaces are available; advanced reservation is required and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For yoga class reservations, please click.
Bangkok petrol and gasohol prices fall by 0.75 baht/liter today
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) have cut petrol and gasohol prices by 0.75 baht per liter, effective from 5 am today, while diesel prices remain unchanged. Continued …
El Niño set to continue all year
Thailand faces a 96%–98% probability of entering an El Niño phase between June and July, with conditions potentially persisting into early 2027, warned Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin.
The phenomenon is expected to intensify between this November and January next year and could significantly affect Thailand’s economy, society, and productive sectors if adequate preparations are not made. Continued …
‘Lemon Law’ gains traction as Cabinet backs defective goods bill
Thailand’s defective goods bill, dubbed the Lemon Law, has cleared the Cabinet after a decade-long bureaucratic entanglement and delays, shifting the burden of proof to sellers when goods are found to be defective.
The proposed Lemon Law, formally known as the Liability for Defective Goods Act, was submitted by the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) and received Cabinet approval yesterday. Continued …
Thais spend 6.9 years living with illness or disability
Thais are expected to spend an average of 6.9 years living with illness or disability in later life, highlighting growing pressure on healthcare services and long-term care systems, according to the Thai Health Report 2026.
The report, released by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and the Institute for Population and Social Research at Mahidol University, identifies demographic change as one of the most significant challenges facing the country’s health sector. Continued …
Family discovers 1.84 million baht hidden after father’s death
The family of a Thai farmer were stunned to discover 1.84 million baht in cash hidden inside a modified metal storage box used for tools after his death, revealing years of careful saving that even his wife did not know about.
The discovery came after the death of In Saendong, 78, from Nong Tum village in Udon Thani province. Relatives found the cash while searching through a metal storage container he had used to keep tools and personal belongings. Continued …
Trump: ‘Hell will rain down’ if Tehran develops nuclear weapons
U.S. President Donald Trump maintained yesterday that an interim accord with Iran makes clear that Tehran would never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. Video …
Energy firms brace for ‘new era’ despite Hormuz deal
The world’s oil and gas majors have high hopes for a quick reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, but they have few illusions about a return to normal for the Gulf energy industry after more than three months of blockage.
Even if the deal between Iran and the United States to end the Mideast war holds, analysts say the old market certainties are gone for good — and the new risks will probably require costly adaptions. Continued …
Thailand hopes US-Iran deal brings lasting regional stability
Thailand has welcomed an agreement reached between the United States and Iran to end their conflict, expressing hope that the deal will bring lasting peace and stability to the Middle East and safeguard global economic interests.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Thailand “warmly welcomes” the agreement and commends the constructive roles played by Pakistan and Oman in mediating the negotiations. Continued …
Iran Ceasefire Brings Market Calm, but Thailand’s 2026 Economic Pain Persists
Thailand’s economy is bracing for a turbulent second half of 2026. Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) is holding its full-year growth forecast at 2.0%, warning that while the immediate threat of a wider Middle East war has receded, the recovery remains fragile.
At a press briefing yesterday, the research house noted that the United States-Iran ceasefire has calmed markets but failed to undo months of structural damage to global energy prices, trade flows, and business sentiment. Continued …
Thailand advances 15% global minimum tax on multinationals
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the collection of a 15% global minimum corporate tax on large multinational companies under an agreement led by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), aiming to prevent profit shifting to tax havens and generate about 10 billion baht in additional state revenue each year.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting yesterday, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, announced that the Cabinet had approved Thailand’s official exchange of global minimum tax information with other countries. Continued …
Thailand Risks Becoming the World’s ‘Landlord’, Not a Tech Player
Thailand needs to decide what role it wants to play in a world being reordered by artificial intelligence — or have that decision made for it. That was the stark warning from Burin Adulwattana, chief economist at KASIKORNbank, during a special segment of the KASIKORN Research Center’s half-year briefing.
Burin cautioned that Thailand’s current passive approach to the AI boom risks leaving the country on the sidelines of a global contest reshaping power, capital, and resource distribution. Continued …
Thai data center outlay set to skyrocket
Thailand’s investments in data centers are projected to reach US$4.31 billion by 2030, representing average annual growth of 18% from 2024 and achieving total capacity of 2.93 gigawatts, helped by strong government support and solid demand, says CGS International Securities.
Thailand is undergoing a fundamental transformation in its digital infrastructure, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), cloud adoption, data sovereignty regulations, and spillover demand from capacity-constrained neighboring countries, especially Singapore, said Kasem Prunratanamala, head of research at CGS. Continued …
Thailand Plans Electricity Tariff Reform, Higher Data Center Rates
Thailand is preparing to reform its electricity tariff structure in an effort to make power prices fairer and reduce electricity costs for households and local industries. Energy Minister Akanat Promphan announced that the government is reviewing the current pricing system to ensure that electricity charges better reflect actual costs.
The Ministry of Energy is currently awaiting feedback from the Energy Regulatory Commission before moving forward with the proposed changes, as the reforms will impact both consumers and state electricity agencies. Continued …
DTAM pushes 5-point plan to boost kratom industry
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) is advancing a five-pronged strategy to develop kratom into a globally recognized economic herb, supported by research, innovation, and international standards.
DTAM Deputy Director-general Tewan Thanirat said kratom has long been part of Thai traditional medicine and local wisdom. Its removal from the narcotics list in 2021 created new opportunities for research, product development, and commercial use, while its designation as one of Thailand’s “Herbal Champions” in 2023 further accelerated efforts to develop the crop. Continued …
TAT shifts airline strategy as Middle East crisis disrupts flights and long-haul tourism
Thailand is stepping up efforts to rebuild international air capacity and reduce its reliance on Middle East aviation hubs after the regional conflict disrupted long-haul travel flows and forced the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to lower its foreign tourist target from distant markets this year.
TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency aims to restore Thailand’s passenger seat capacity to more than 100% of the 2019 level by 2027, using air connectivity as a core measure of tourism recovery. The goal is being driven through TAT’s “Airlines Focus” strategy, which encourages airlines to open new routes, increase frequencies, and strengthen direct access to Thailand. Continued …
TAT slashes long-haul arrival forecast to 10 million
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has slashed its long-haul arrival forecast to 10 million this year, on par with last year, mainly attributed to the Middle East conflict.
Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said the agency initially projected 11 million long-haul arrivals, but cut the forecast after flight disruptions the past three months. Continued …
Bangkok airports target 120 million by 2029
The Transport Ministry expects Bangkok’s two main airports to handle around 120 million passengers annually by 2029 as it accelerates efforts to make the country a regional aviation hub.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn outlined the target yesterday after inspecting operations at the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) and Airports of Thailand (AOT). Continued …
Homeless people seek shelter on Pattaya Beach, raising tourism image concerns
Business operators in Pattaya are urging relevant agencies to take urgent action after homeless people were found using Pattaya Beach and nearby public spaces as shelters, raising concerns over the city’s tourism image.
On Monday, reporters surveyed Pattaya Beach, Pattaya Second Road, and major tourist spots in Pattaya City, Nong Prue sub-district and Bang Lamung district in Chon Buri province, to monitor the situation involving homeless people and those using public areas as places to stay overnight. Continued …
Vana Nava Hua Hin is the ultimate all-ages fun escape
Most people driving through Hua Hin are thinking about the beach, the night market, maybe a round of golf. What they’re not expecting is Asia’s first water jungle, a one-billion-baht water park built into 3.2 hectares of lush tropical greenery, packed with 20 world-class attractions, and sitting just a few hours down the road from Bangkok.
That’s Vana Nava Water Jungle, and it’s been quietly surprising visitors since it opened its gates. The name itself tells you something. Vana Nava comes from ancient Sanskrit; “Vana” means jungle or forest, and “Nava” means sea boat, a nod to Hua Hin’s history as a fishing village by the sea. Continued …
Rainbow Crepe Loaded with Bananas & Chocolate – Thai Street Food Magic!
Watch this street food master create a giant colorful crepe loaded with fresh bananas, crunchy cereal, and rich chocolate drizzle. The bright rainbow colors and satisfying preparation make this one of the most eye-catching Thai street foods you’ll ever see! Video …
Most popular food in Thailand — What dishes do Thais eat daily
Some of the most popular foods in Thailand are still surprisingly unknown to tourists.. Most simply find one English-menu spot that has better Pad Thai than the “authentic” Thai restaurant in their home cities.
But they fail to uncover the other dishes that the “Thai Tanium” or “Thai Tanic” at home could never replicate. For those willing to step out of their comfort zones and eat like a local, this is what Thailand actually eats. Continued …
Toxic ‘time bomb’ threatens Mekong river basin
Thai fisherman Somdet Singthong steered his metal skiff across the brown waters of the Mekong river, resigned to the pollution that has put his health and lifelong source of livelihood at risk.
Doctors have found elevated levels of toxic arsenic in his fingernails and urine, with the heavy metal also detected in the river that millions of people in Southeast Asia depend on. Testing suggests the contamination, which experts and campaigners trace back to illegal mining in Myanmar, is now spreading downstream. Continued …
Plastic bottles blanket Phi Phi Leh bay as Thailand’s marine waste threat grows
National park officials collected six large bags of plastic waste from Loh Samah Bay on Phi Phi Leh Island after large numbers of plastic water bottles were found floating across the sea near the boat access point to Maya Bay, one of Krabi’s best-known marine attractions.
Images posted by Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park showed plastic bottles and other waste scattered across the surface of the water, prompting concern among conservationists over the impact on marine life and the image of one of Thailand’s most famous island destinations. Continued …
Early movers eye green advantage
As Thailand approaches the halfway mark of its national climate commitments, businesses are increasingly viewing sustainability not merely as protection against environmental and regulatory risks, but as a pathway to growth amid climate disruption, resource insecurity, and energy volatility.
The expansion of Thailand Taxonomy Phase 2 to cover agriculture, construction and real estate, manufacturing, and waste management marks another step in the country’s transition toward a low-carbon economy. Continued …
Anutin Orders Faster Deportation of Foreign Criminals
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered legal amendments to accelerate the deportation of foreign criminals in Thailand, aiming to prevent offenders from returning to criminal activities while awaiting removal from the country. Continued …
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Chinese Nationals Arrested in Kanchanaburi for Illegal Entry – 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
Private sector officials in Khon Kaen have proposed new Khon Kaen-Hua Hin flights as part of plans to improve air links between the northeast and key tourism and economic centers.
Jasmine International (JAS) has officially secured the broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Thailand, just hours before the first match kicks off, ensuring that all 104 matches will be available to football fans.
Makro, a leading wholesale business under CP AXTRA, is making everyday shopping easier, faster, and more secure for millions of Thai customers with the nationwide launch of QR Credit Card Payment at Makro.
Representatives from the Swedish Church are visiting Hua Hin from June 12-16 for baptisms, home visits, hospital visits, and meetings with local businesses, the church announced.
The situation along the Thai-Cambodian border remains fragile, but is still under control, says National Security Council (NSC) Secretary-general Chatchai Bangchuad. His comments came amid reports that China had delivered T-59D tanks to Cambodia.
Thai gold prices fell sharply at the market open today, with bullion dropping by 1,150 baht per baht-weight as global gold prices came under renewed pressure.
The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has affirmed that the baht situation and Thailand’s external position remain strong, even as pressure from the conflict between the United States and Iran has caused the baht to weaken slightly.
The SCB Economic Intelligence Center (SCB EIC) of Siam Commercial Bank has set out its view on Thai household vulnerability based on findings from the latest nationwide household survey. It found that incomes had shrunk, spending had been cut, and reliance on assistance and debt remained high despite some easing, putting pressure on consumption ahead.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has raised its forecast for Thailand’s 2026 economic growth to 1.6%-2.0%, supported by the 170-billion-baht “Thais Help Thais Plus” stimulus scheme.
Thailand’s quarterly GDP growth rate was 1.2% in the third quarter of 2025, rising to 2.5% in the fourth quarter, and further to 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).
Amid rising global uncertainty, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has urged the government to step up efforts to attract foreign investors and encourage multinational companies to relocate their operations to Thailand.
The government is seeking new markets for Thai shrimp after Malaysia announced an import suspension earlier this month, says Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Malaysia has suspended imports of five shrimp species from Thailand, starting June 1.
The drafting of Bangkok’s new comprehensive city plan, the fourth revision, is expected to take effect around late 2027 and bring major changes to land-use rules in several areas.
Return to Khao Yai Reveals Why Thailand’s Nature Escape Keeps Getting Better
Thailand’s best beaches, and when to visit each one
How Thailand’s Highland Communities Are Taking Local Wisdom Global
Thailand is accelerating its transition to a low-carbon economy, rolling out a series of policies, regulatory reforms, and investment incentives designed to align economic growth with environmental sustainability.
US President Donald Trump yesterday brushed off concerns about consumer inflation surging to a fresh three-year high in May, on the back of soaring energy prices caused by his war in Iran. “The numbers were great… I love the inflation,” Trump told reporters. 
After Russian police started using facial-recognition cameras to identify men wanted by military authorities, a young bank worker spent weeks avoiding the Moscow metro. But on a snowy Friday evening in late 2024, heavy traffic pushed him underground to visit his mother. At the next station, two officers entered the carriage and detained him for draft evasion. 
SpaceX enters the final stretch today before its expected trading on Wall Street as part of the biggest initial public offering in history, which could propel co-founder Elon Musk to trillionaire status. 
Tony Mancuso, one of the golf and turf industry’s most respected experts, has joined the Bunker Solution team as director of sales for the Asia-Pacific region.
Thailand’s rapid growth in international schools is sharpening debate over whether the trend is deepening educational inequality or creating new opportunities to strengthen the wider school system.
Gold prices in Thailand fell sharply this morning, with the selling price of gold ornaments dropping to 66,150 baht per baht-weight, according to the latest update from the Gold Traders Assn.
Three police special operations officers were injured yesterday morning when suspected insurgents detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) in Raman district in Yala province while the officers were conducting a routine school security operation.
Over 100 days into the US-Israel war against Iran, Asia has emerged as the region most exposed to the global energy shock unleashed by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, with countries facing soaring fuel bills, rising food prices, inflationary pressures, and growing fiscal burdens.
At the Thailand Rule of Law Leadership Forum 2026: Competitiveness and OECD Readiness, a major forum on Thailand’s future direction, two key representatives from the public and private sectors shared the stage to outline a common direction.
The Thais Help Thais Plus co-payment scheme will be available on four food delivery platforms from June 15, allowing participants to use government subsidies when ordering meals online, deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana said yesterday.
The ongoing baht depreciation and rising US bond yields are pressuring the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and encouraging capital outflows after the benchmark index retreated from the key psychological level of 1,600 points, say analysts.
The dream of owning a home is slipping further away for many Thais, as weak income growth, high household debt, and tougher mortgage screening continue to weigh on the property market. A 2026 housing-demand survey by SCB EIC found that 56% of respondents had no plan to buy a home within the next five years, up from 47% a year earlier and the highest level in four years.
Industrial estate developer WHA Corp. is conducting a feasibility study for a new industrial estate dedicated to data centers, cloud services, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling on the government to set stricter investment conditions for the rapidly growing data center sector, ensuring local communities and businesses benefit from the influx of foreign capital.
Thailand’s own ‘Eye’ emerges in Pathum Thani
5 Scenic Hiking Trails In Thailand
For environmental monitoring professionals, regulatory change often looks abstract at first. But on the ground, those changes quickly become practical questions: where will the instruments be installed, what pollutants must be measured, how will data be verified, who will maintain the systems, and what happens when the numbers are no longer just internal records but live regulatory evidence?
The United States is urging European governments to introduce Ebola-related travel restrictions ahead of the FIFA World Cup, as Washington seeks to prevent the outbreak from spreading during one of the world’s biggest sporting events. 
Hua Hin celebrates famed boxer Pone Kingpetch
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has launched its “Introduction to Tennis” camp this April, designed to help kids learn the sport or enhance their skills during the school holidays. The three-day program aims to build players’ confidence, skills, and friendships in a fun and supportive environment under the guidance of an experienced tennis coach and trainer.
The north of Thailand remains under a thick blanket of hazardous smog, as the latest satellite data yesterday reveals a surge in forest fires, with over 2,000 hotspots detected across 17 provinces.
Traffic accidents and injuries over the first six “dangerous days” of the Songkran holiday were down by 20% from the same period a year ago, while fatalities declined by 6.5%, according to data released yesterday.
US President Donald Trump yesterday dismissed high fuel costs amid his war with Iran, claiming that the economic damage inflicted by the war was much less severe than expected.
An analysis by Commerzbank indicates that global energy market fluctuations are putting significant downward pressure on the Thai baht. As Thailand imports over 50% of its energy, mainly through crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), rising global energy costs have worsened its trade balance. Consequently, the USD/baht exchange rate has become a focal point for currency traders, closely monitoring the potential policy reactions from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).
Thailand has submitted its formal defense document to the United States by the April 15 deadline, rejecting allegations under Section 301 trade measures relating to excess production capacity and goods linked to forced labor. Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is also preparing to meet the US Trade Representative (USTR) in early May as discussions intensify over potential tariff actions affecting Thai exports.
Thailand is expected to enter a state of stagflation late in the second quarter and the beginning of the third quarter of this year, as businesses begin material restocking while oil prices remain high amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
Thailand is pivoting away from broad-based subsidies toward targeted support and long-term investment, Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said, as the country prepares to host the IMF–World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok this October.
Thailand’s retail sector showed a temporary improvement in March, but the industry is still flashing warning signs for the months ahead, with confidence for the second quarter falling back below the 50-point threshold, as oil prices, higher operating costs, and weak purchasing power weigh on the outlook.
Thailand’s workforce is broadly happy — but warning signs are emerging beneath the surface. A new survey by Jobsdb by SEEK shows that overall workplace happiness among Thai employees stands at 67%, placing the country third in the region, behind Indonesia and the Philippines.
Almost 5 million people joined Songkran celebrations across Bangkok this year, up 93.4% from last year, with Siam Square topping 1.5 million, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
True Corp. said its latest mobility data highlights shifting travel patterns and real-time digital usage during Songkran 2026, showing more evenly distributed travel nationwide, led by the northeast (Isaan), while international arrivals continued to rise, with Chinese tourists ranking first.
Middle East conflict hits Phang Nga tourism – hundreds of tour boats sitting idle
Thai Gen Z travelers are reshaping travel habits in 2026 by favoring short but frequent trips over traditional long holidays, with mental well-being and value for money emerging as top priorities, according to the online booking platform Agoda.
Returning to Bangkok after two years, I found the city far more organized than expected. The once-chaotic and disorderly image of a Southeast Asian metropolis — especially the dire conditions on Bangkok’s streets during the COVID-19 pandemic — had faded. Instead, I was struck by a sense of managed order and tidy streets.
Agoda Names Chiang Mai Asia’s Premier Culinary Destination
Thailand is preparing to open its electricity system to households, allowing those with rooftop solar panels to sell surplus power back into the grid, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said yesterday.
Rice farmers Siriporn and Amnat Taidee used to burn their paddy fields between plantings — a common method of clearing crop residue partly blamed for toxic smog that blankets much of Thailand every spring.
Where once there was ice, only rock remains. One of the glaciers in a chain of snow-capped mountains in the Colombian Andes has vanished due to high temperatures driven by climate change. Satellite images show how the ice sheet covering the mountain gradually shrank from 2015 until it disappeared completely in March. 
A few videos of Songkran in Hua Hin
Hua Hin’s Luxury Boom Spurs New Airline Links and Property Rush
More than 7.8 million people used public transport during the first three days of the Songkran holiday and the number of road traffic accidents fell significantly, the Ministry of Transport said yesterday.
Adolescent leopard sighted in Kaeng Krachan National Park
US blockade on Iran-linked port traffic takes effect as Hormuz tensions deepen
Thailand has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s leading data center destinations, drawing billions of baht in investment from American, Chinese, and Japanese technology giants — but an expert has warned that the country’s ability to capitalize on this momentum depends on urgently resolving deep-rooted energy infrastructure constraints.
Jet fuel hikes have forced South Korean no-frills airlines to adjust, or in some cases suspend, flights to Thai destinations as the Middle East war continues to bite into the aviation sector.
Three major road projects will be submitted to the new cabinet for consideration, with a combined investment exceeding 100 billion baht, according to the Department of Highways (DoH).
Thailand has introduced specific guidelines for alcohol vendors to assess customer intoxication before serving more drinks. This follows a regulation that prohibits the sale of alcohol to already intoxicated customers, as per Section 29 of the Alcohol Control Act.
The heat index could soar to a dangerous 60 degrees Celsius in early April, posing a major threat to vulnerable groups, the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry warned yesterday. The heat index combines air temperature with relative humidity, reflecting what the body actually feels rather than the ambient temperature. High humidity significantly amplifies heat stress.
Chiang Mai is preparing to tighten controls on toxic PM2.5 pollution. Siwakorn Buapong, deputy governor of Chiang Mai Province, said PM2.5 levels in Mueang Na subdistrict, Chiang Dao District, have risen above 125 micrograms per cubic meter for four consecutive days.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s critical energy infrastructure, including oil fields, power plants, and Kharg Island, if Tehran does not immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reach a peace agreement quickly.
Global oil prices extended their rally into a fourth straight day today, as the widening conflict in the Middle East continued to stoke fears of tighter supply and further disruption to one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Thailand’s retail fuel prices have risen sharply, with diesel climbing above 40 baht per liter following a late-night decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee (OFMC).
Thailand is considering cutting fuel excise taxes to ease rising living costs as global oil prices surge, but the move is raising concerns over long-term fiscal stability and government revenue losses.
Thai Manufacturers Absorb 20% Fuel Spike to Shield Consumers from Price Hikes
Parkorn Kosiyabong, chef at GOAT, which holds one Michelin star, said yesterday the oil price crisis and higher transport costs following the war in the Middle East had not only increased restaurant costs but had also affected bookings. During the first and second weeks of the war, the restaurant business was hit hard, with cancellations reaching as high as 70%.
The Middle East war has led to prices of fertilizers rising in Thailand, with the situation exacerbated by a shortage of urea, and this leading to farmers stockpiling as they fear further price hikes.
Confidence among Thai business leaders has fallen sharply, with only 24% of CEOs expressing strong confidence in their organizations’ revenue growth this year, down from 47% in 2023 and the lowest level in three years.
Thailand’s visa-free stay program has been a popular gateway for travelers, letting citizens from 93 countries enjoy up to 60 days in the country without a visa, with an optional 30-day extension. Originally introduced to fuel the tourism sector revival, the scheme has brought a surge of visitors. But government officials are now raising concerns that the policy may be too lenient, and some foreign nationals may be using it for purposes beyond sightseeing.
Relocating a family with two children to Thailand can significantly reduce day-to-day expenses compared with many Western countries, but actual costs vary widely by city, schooling choices, and lifestyle expectations. This briefing summarizes current evidence on typical monthly spending for a family of four, with a focus on the major expenditure categories that drive the cost of living in Thailand in 2026.
Civil society groups have warned that heavy metals – particularly arsenic – are gradually accumulating in sections of the Mekong River in northeastern Thailand.
Surging global oil prices driven by tensions in the Middle East are prompting a noticeable shift in consumer behavior in Pattaya, with electric motorbikes gaining rapid popularity as residents look to cut fuel costs. Dealers report a steady rise in demand, as more consumers turn to electric alternatives to reduce daily transportation expenses amid continued volatility in energy markets.
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
Passengers in Thailand can now utilize QR codes for enhanced taxi ride safety and convenience. This new feature allows users to verify driver details, real-time track their journey, share trip information, and rate their experience. The Department of Land Transport plans to equip around 70,000 taxis with these QR codes by June.
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
Arada Fueangthong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said Thailand’s utilization of trade preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand in January–November 2025.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
If people used to talk about tourism in the past, it may have meant a short break and a change of scenery from everyday life, a brief moment of happiness that recharged the body before returning to normal routines. Today, however, tourism is shifting from “temporary rest” to “a long-term investment in health”.
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
Most Thai working people are aware of the health risks posed by PM2.5 airborne pollution but are reluctant to buy quality N95 face masks to protect themselves, claiming that they are too expensive, according to Arkhom Praditsuwan, director general of the Health Service Support Department.
At the “Thailand Redesign 2026 The Next Level” debate, four major political parties — the People’s Party, Democrat Party, Pheu Thai, and Thai Kao Mai Party — presented their proposals to tackle the pressing issue of Thailand’s 40 million workers, with only 4 million currently paying taxes. The debate focused on the wealth protocol and the urgent need for tax reform to drive economic sustainability and fairness.
Thailand is sharpening its culinary edge on the global stage, not through its world-famous sauces or spices, but through a new wave of premium home-grown beef. The National Innovation Agency (NIA) has identified four “Beef Commanders” — Ko Dam Lam Takhong, Surin Wagyu Salakdai, Nong Sung, and Kamphaeng Saen — as the flagship models of Thai soft power destined for the international market.
Pattaya has introduced new rule assigning specific umbrella colors to beach chair operators, saying the move will improve orderliness and create a more attractive seaside view for visitors.
Think you’ve already done everything there is to do in Bangkok? Hate to break it to you, but probably not. Even if you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve visited, the city always finds new ways to surprise, including new attractions with thrilling rides and aesthetic shopping malls in BKK.
The Ministry of Culture has revealed plans for a major cultural celebration from April 22-26, marking the 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin. The events will take place in three central locations in Bangkok and aim to bring the rich history of Thailand to life through a series of activities, exhibitions, and performances.
Thailand’s electric vehicle sector is facing fresh uncertainty after government proposals to sharply raise public EV charging prices, a move that could erase the cost benefits that have driven rapid adoption.
Waghor Super Mini Marathon set for Sunday
Thai Businesses Welcome Eased Alcohol Rules, See Boost for Tourism
Low-cost carrier AirAsia X plans new long-haul European routes
