Just a reminder that there are no alcohol sales from 6 pm today until 6 pm tomorrow.
- Thailand reforms business, visa, and social laws/Theft suspect dies in Cha Am/Nipah airport screening ineffective/WHO says Nipah virus risk low/Most Thai workers aware of PM2.5 risks/‘Dead’ son walks back home
- ECONOMY: Four parties propose tax reform plans/The Rise of Thailand’s ‘Beef Commanders’
- TOURISM: See elephants without harming them/Pattaya requires color-coded beach umbrellas/Illegal group tours face crackdown
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 15 New Things To Do In Bangkok/Celebrate 244 years of Rattanakosin with stunning exhibitions, performances
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand EV Charging Price Rise/Stricter power rules for data centers/Bringing the Climate Action to Life
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Thailand reforms business, visa, and social laws to attract global expats
Thailand is undertaking its most comprehensive expatriate policy overhaul in decades, introducing reforms across business law, visa regulations, property ownership, and civil rights that collectively aim to position the country as Southeast Asia’s premier destination for foreign residents and investors.
Announced progressively throughout 2024 and early 2025, these reforms respond to regional competition for foreign talent and investment, particularly as neighboring countries like Vietnam and Malaysia enhance their own expatriate frameworks. Continued …
Theft suspect dies in Cha Am police custody
A young theft suspect was found dead inside a holding cell at the Cha Am Police Station yesterday, just hours before police were due to take him to court for a remand hearing. The incident is being treated as a death in custody, pending further investigation.
Police said an investigating officer at police station was alerted to the incident and immediately reported it to the station superintendent. Authorities then coordinated with local administrative officials, prosecutors, medical staff from Cha Am Hospital, provincial forensic officers, and rescue workers to examine the scene. Continued …
Nipah airport screening ineffective, say experts
Airport screening for Nipah virus, which has been stepped up across Asia this week after two cases were identified in India, are more about reassurance than science, several leading experts said yesterday.
Countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan put in place temperature screening at airports after India announced that two cases of the deadly Nipah virus had been found in West Bengal. Continued …
WHO says Nipah virus risk low in India with no sign of spread
A World Health Organization official said yesterday that the risk of the spread of the Nipah virus is low, saying that none of the over 190 contacts of the two people infected in India had tested positive or developed symptoms of the disease.
Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam are among the Asian locations that tightened airport screening checks this week to guard against such a spread after India confirmed infections. Continued …
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Most Thai workers aware of PM2.5 risks but shun N95 masks
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.
The department conducted an online opinion survey of 6,787 working people aged 15 to 59 on their awareness of PM2.5 pollution and its health risks. The survey shows that 93.3% are aware of the serious health threats posed by PM2.5 pollution, 86.9% know that they may have to stop working and lose income, and 85.9% admit that PM2.5 pollution may disrupt their lives. Continued …
Chiang Rai family exhumes body after ‘dead’ son walks back home
A Thai man believed to be dead returned to his home in Chiang Rai province on Jan. 24, leaving his family stunned and forcing them to exhume a body they had already buried, only to discover it was his friend, not him.
Rescuers from the Thap Yang Sataranakusol Foundation were asked to assist a family in the Mae Fah Luang district after they realized a serious identification error occurred. The body in question was buried on Jan. 9. Continued …
Four parties propose tax reform plans to tackle Thailand’s low taxpayer base
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.
Karndee Leopairote, deputy leader of the Democrat Party, argued that increasing the income and wages of Thai people is the key to expanding the tax base. They propose raising the minimum tax-exempt income threshold to align with rising living costs, as well as creating a supportive environment for SMEs through tax relief, access to markets, and state procurement. Continued …
The Rise of Thailand’s ‘Beef Commanders’: A New Soft Power Frontier
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.
For decades, premium beef in Thailand was synonymous with imports: Japanese Wagyu, Australian Angus, or American Prime. However, a significant shift in consumer behavior is driving a local revolution. Continued …
The best ways to see elephants without harming them
More and more travelers seek unforgettable wildlife experiences — but traditional tourism often puts the very animals we admire at risk. Captive elephants, in particular, face daily threats from harmful interactions, overcrowded attractions, and exploitative practices that compromise elephant welfare.
Here, we shine a light on elephant cruelty in tourism and explore alternative ethical elephant experiences that allow you to see these majestic animals while respecting their natural behaviors. Here’s how to say yes to ethical wildlife tourism. Continued …
Pattaya requires color-coded beach umbrellas to boost seaside views
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.
Under the new scheme, umbrellas are divided into three color sets based on location: white-and-blue umbrellas for northern Pattaya beaches, white-and-green umbrellas for central Pattaya beaches, and white-and-purple umbrellas for southern Pattaya beaches. Continued …
Illegal group tours face Thai government crackdown
Illegal tours targeting foreign markets are spreading rapidly in Thailand, prompting the Tourism Department to prepare for more inspections of tour companies this year.
Vathanachai Chatrirath, vice president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said that despite strong demand from Indian tourists to visit Thailand, there are concerns that revenue from this market has not been fully distributed to local operators, instead going to illegal tour companies. Continued …
15 New Things To Do In Bangkok
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.
So, no, visiting the city again doesn’t mean having to repeat the same old itinerary, because we’ve got you covered with new things to do in Bangkok, along with a few IG-worthy hotels to consider on your next getaway. Continued …
Celebrate 244 years of Rattanakosin with stunning exhibitions, performances
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.
Prasop Riangngoen, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Culture, revealed that the purpose of this event is to celebrate the 244th anniversary of the founding of Rattanakosin and to pay tribute to the benevolence and honor of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok, the first monarch of the Chakri dynasty, who established Rattanakosin as the capital of Thailand on April 21, 1782. Continued …
Thailand EV Charging Price Rise Threatens Cost Advantage
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.
Proposed electricity rate adjustments could push charging costs as high as 11 baht per unit, bringing EV running costs close to those of petrol-powered vehicles. The announcement has raised concerns about a potential slowdown in EV uptake and wider impacts on environmental and industrial policy. Continued …
Thailand plans stricter power purchase rules for data centers
Thailand plans to tighten the rules for investors in data centers and other businesses that use a large amount of electricity, requiring them to provide a bank guarantee or collateral to secure power purchases.
Energy officials said the measure is designed to prevent investors from shifting projects to rival Southeast Asian countries competing for data center investment. Continued …
How Education Is Bringing the Climate Action to Life in Thailand
Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract threat; it is part of everyday life. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising air pollution, communities across Thailand and around the world are already experiencing its impacts. As these challenges intensify, education is emerging as one of the most powerful starting points for meaningful climate action.
One innovative response is Climate Box, a set of interactive climate education tools developed by the United Nations Development Program. Climate Box uses games, quizzes, and hands-on activities to connect global climate challenges with students’ daily lives. Rather than treating climate change as a theoretical topic, it encourages learners to understand, question, and act. Continued …
- Assault on Thai Vendor Leads to Dutch Man’s Arrest in Phuket – Continued …
- Police Raid Pattaya Scam Setup, Arrest Two Chinese Men – Continued …
- More Chinese scammers caught sneaking into Thailand – Continued …
Maersk to take over Panama Canal port operations from HK firm
Danish firm Maersk will temporarily take over operation of two ports on the Panama Canal from Hong Kong company CK Hutchison, whose concession has been annulled, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) said yesterday. 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
Authorities are tackling forest fires near Hua Hin after satellite data detected multiple hotspots over two consecutive days in forest areas toward Cha Am, prompting concern among local residents about air quality.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has announced a province-wide burning ban, prohibiting all forms of open burning from Feb. 1 (Sunday) to May 31, as authorities move to curb PM2.5 pollution and protect public health.
Unsafe levels of ultrafine dust has blanketed 57 provinces and Bangkok and one province, Samut Songkhram, faced a red level of harmful smog.
Thailand will see two nationwide alcohol sales bans linked to the upcoming parliamentary elections, covering all provinces.
Lt. Gen. Kanok Netrawatthanasena, former deputy commander of the 2nd Army Area and former commander of the Suranaree Task Force, said he believes a third round of fighting is inevitable, pointing to what he described as clear signs of defensive preparations along the border.
The Department of Medical Services has confirmed that Rajavithi Hospital and other major medical facilities are fully prepared to handle suspected or confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection, even though no cases have yet been reported in Thailand.
What began as yet another debate over Thailand’s strong baht has spiraled into something far more revealing — a raw, sometimes hostile clash between tourists, long-term visitors, retirees, and those pointing to deeper economic damage beyond beer prices and bar bills.
Government measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to help increase monetary circulation in the economy by at least 260 billion baht this year, says the chief of Thai Credit Guarantee Corp. (TCG).
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced a vehicle manufacturing target of 1.5 million units for 2026, a modest increase from 1.45 million units last year, driven by expectations of stronger domestic demand and growing production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
China aims to attract at least 1.5 million Thai visitors this year, up from more than 1 million in 2025, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to generate 35.4 billion baht from 1.25 million foreign tourists during the 10-day Chinese New Year holiday next month.
AirAsia issued an apology following a coordination issue that left 23 passengers on a shuttle bus during boarding for a domestic flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai. The incident occurred on Jan. 17 on a flight scheduled to depart Don Mueang International Airport.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
I like to think I’m a pretty cautious and attentive person. So, when I first came to Thailand, I did some homework to avoid any social faux pas. Despite my efforts, there were still some things I didn’t catch until after I arrived.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing today, seeking closer trade ties while balancing sensitive issues of national security and human rights. This is the first visit to China by a UK prime minister since 2018 and follows a slew of Western leaders seeking support from Beijing recently, pivoting from an increasingly unpredictable United States. 
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected. 
The body of a Canadian tourist has been found off the coast of Sam Roi Yot, three days after he went missing while swimming in rough sea conditions near Khao Takiab Temple.
The Chatt Hua Hin–Pranburi Pool Villa has been launched by Chatt Asset Co., featuring 78 Thai-style homes on a 43-rai site with a total investment value of more than 1 billion baht.
The Hua Hin Championship Road Race 2026 will take place on Sunday, March 1, bringing competitive and recreational cyclists to the roads around Huay Mongkol for a full day of racing and touring in the Hua Hin area.
A coordinated wave of bombings and arson attacks struck 11 PTT petrol stations across three southern Thai provinces in the early hours yesterday, causing widespread property damage but no reported casualties.
The Customs Department in Thailand is considering a significant increase in import duty rates on low-value goods. The Customs Department deems the current variable rates, averaging around 10%, insufficient to ensure fair competition with domestically produced goods. There are plans to increase the rate to up to 30% in order to establish a more equitable market.
E-commerce entrepreneurs support the Customs Department’s suggestion to raise the import duty rate on low-value goods to promote fairer competition between domestically produced goods and imported products, according to Paul Srivorakul, group chief executive of aCommerce, a Southeast Asia e-commerce enablement company.
Thailand’s experiment with cannabis liberalization is undergoing a profound and contentious recalibration. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) is advancing a new draft ministerial regulation designed to impose stringent oversight on the sector, a decisive pivot away from the largely unregulated commercial free-for-all that emerged post-2022 and back towards a strictly medical framework.
Effective Jan. 1, the export of fishery products from 12 major Vietnamese fishing grounds to the United States has been officially suspended.
Contractors for rooftop solar installation must register with the Council of Engineers Thailand to enhance consumer confidence on safety, according to the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT).
Thailand needs a new law to help it handle around 400,000 tons of electronic waste a year — including used mobile phones — by recycling the waste for valuable materials, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) said.
A biomass fuel factory in Phrae province has been found to be operating without a required health hazard license, despite ongoing complaints that pollution from the site has caused illness among dozens of nearby residents.
Thai Honda, a leading manufacturer and distributor of motorcycles and multipurpose engines, has unveiled its first electric motorcycle in Thailand, marking a major step in the company’s strategy and positioning the country as a key export hub. The new model, UC3, was designed by a Thai engineer and is scheduled for production at Thai Honda’s local factory.
A 20-year-old Myanmar national has died following a violent assault at Hua Hin fishing pier, with police arresting three teenage suspects within hours of the incident. The victim succumbed to severe injuries at Hua Hin Hospital after being attacked late on New Year’s Eve, prompting a swift investigation by local authorities.
A total of 145 people were killed and 769 injured in road accidents during the first three days of the New Year holiday travel period, with Bangkok recording the highest number of deaths and Phuket topping the list for the number of accidents, authorities said yesterday.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said yesterday that another moderate to fairly strong high-pressure system from China is extending over upper Thailand and the upper south, bringing cool to cold weather and strong winds in many areas.
Thailand’s exports in 2026 are expected to face volatility and challenges due to a global economic slowdown that is dampening demand in key trading nations. High household debt will curb purchasing power, while a sluggish recovery in the global labor market, geopolitical uncertainties, and rising trade protectionism will continue to influence this sector, noted the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC).
Phuket’s tourism industry is calling on the government to urgently resolve what it describes as a deepening infrastructure crisis, warning that the island’s rapid tourism growth is outstripping its ability to cope.
Direct international flights between Singapore and Chiang Rai have officially begun, marking the first such service since the Covid-19 pandemic and strengthening air connectivity to northern Thailand.
At least nine people have died and more than 200 ?have been hospitalized in the central Indian city of Indore after a diarrhea outbreak that officials said was linked to contaminated drinking water, according to a lawmaker and local ?health authorities. 
China’s BYD has surpassed Tesla to become the world’s largest seller of electric vehicles (EVs) in annual sales. This marks the first time BYD has outpaced its American competitor, with BYD’s sales increasing by nearly 28% to over 2.25 million vehicles in 2025. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales dropped by almost 9% to 1.64 million vehicles globally. 
Australians swap Sydney prices for luxury Thai villa in Hua Hin
‘US Plus One’ trade strategy gains ground
Pattaya’s High Season Hit by Outdated Bars, Booze Rules
DayOne to expand Thailand data center, use power from floating solar
Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors in 5 years, says TAT
How High Could Oil Prices Soar Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict?
Pran Buri fishing community requests new pier
Why did the elephants cross the road?
Nissan calls off Honda merger talks
‘Logistics hub of Asia’ efforts prioritized
Thailand’s ‘dual prime minister’ model is a delicate tight-rope walk
