- Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony/Prachuap Bay coastal defenses/Hua Hin Food Fest/Hiking, running and water-based events held/Youth Ministry delegates in Hua Hin/Thailand road deaths/Thailand finally reaches the Olympics/3,868 local officials fired
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil rises again after US-Iran attacks
- ECONOMY: Thailand Needs ‘Radical’ Overhaul/True Price of the Cloud/Rising business suspensions/Airbus to develop Thai digital aviation hub
- TOURISM: Thailand ends 60-day visa-free stays/Pattaya hopes for US carrier boost/Pattaya to bar US Navy personnel/Satun Riviera plan
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Legacy of Thai Elephants/Thailand’s Dinosaur Renaissance/Selling live cockroaches for fishing
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Fruits and vegetables risk heavy metal contamination
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony returns to Hua Hin
The Hua Hin Ship to Sea Ceremony will return on Saturday, Sept. 26, offering residents and visitors the chance to witness one of the town’s longstanding fishing community traditions.
The annual event, officially known as the Sea Misfortune-Casting Ceremony, is also sometimes referred to as the Blessing of the Fleet. It will be held at the Chao Mae Thapthim Shrine, next to the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Continued …
Prachuap Bay coastal defenses reviewed
Officials, community leaders and residents have discussed plans to improve Prachuap Bay coastal defenses, including repairs to the aging seawall and upgrades to the surrounding public area.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Deputy Gov. Pratheep Boriboonrat chaired the third public consultation on the project at Prachuap Khiri Khan Municipality’s offices yesterday. The meeting formed part of the first phase of a project to design improvements to the coastal erosion protection system along Prachuap Bay. Continued …
Hua Hin Food Fest held at Khao Takiab
The Hua Hin Food Fest 2026 concluded at Hua Don Beach on Sunday after three days of food, entertainment and activities in Khao Takiab.
The festival opened on Friday with 500 free servings of “Hua Hin International Pad Thai” among the highlights, as large crowds attended the first evening. The signature dish combined Thai and Western cooking, using pasta to represent Western cuisine and local seafood to give it a Hua Hin identity. Continued …
Hiking, running and water-based events held
Three community events brought people together for hiking, running and water-based fun in Pranburi and Hua Hin over the weekend.
The weekend began on Saturday when hikers and runners set off from Racer Marina in Pranburi to explore the surrounding area. Continued …
Youth Ministry delegates gather in Hua Hin for regional meeting
The regional meeting of Youth Ministry delegates from the East Asia-Oceania region took place Aug. 24-27 at the retreat house of the Vitthayalai School in Hua Hin.
The four-day program brought together 21 participants, including 12 delegates, two representatives and a further nine team members, for formation, discussion and planning activities centered on youth ministry in the region. Continued …
Thailand road deaths stood at 220 last week
Thailand recorded 220 deaths and 19,316 injuries in road accidents during the latest week, according to figures from the ThaiRSC accident reporting centre released on Sunday.
Although both daily averages were lower than the previous week, the nationwide toll remains high. The figures add to a 2026 total of 8,722 deaths and 606,132 injuries as of Aug. 29. Continued …
From heartbreak to history as Thailand finally reaches the Olympics
Thailand’s women’s national volleyball team has completed a journey spanning decades of near misses by qualifying for the Olympic Games for the first time in the country’s history.
The breakthrough came on Sunday when Thailand defeated hosts China 3-2 in the final of the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship in Tianjin. The victory secured Thailand’s fourth Asian title, defended the crown they won in 2023 and earned the team an automatic place at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028. Continued …
3,868 local officials fired for cheating in recruitment exam
The Department of Local Administration terminated the employment of 3,868 officials nationwide yesterday, suspecting them of rigging their recruitment examination results late last year.
Nirat Pongsitthaworn, deputy permanent secretary for interior and acting director-general of the department, said the dismissal of the officials was the decision of committees supervising local administrative officials in 76 provinces. Continued …
Oil rises again after US-Iran attacks renew supply fears
Oil prices settled more than 2.5% higher yesterday after renewed military action between the United States and Iran revived concerns about disruption to global supplies.
Brent crude futures rose US$2.39, or 2.71%, to settle at US$90.49 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained US$2.36, or 2.83%, to US$85.76. Brent reached an intraday high of US$91.52, its highest level since Aug. 25. Continued …
Thailand Needs ‘Radical’ Overhaul to Reach High-Income Goal, Says NESDC
Thailand must undertake a “radical overhaul” of its production structure if it is to meet its ambitious target of becoming a high-income nation within 12 years, the head of the country’s top economic planning agency has warned.
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), outlined a critical road map for escaping the middle-income trap. He stressed that the kingdom must build upon its traditional strengths, embrace high-tech sectors, and leverage major international platforms to restore global investor confidence. Continued …
The True Price of the Cloud: Inside Thailand’s Battle for Water and Power
The headlines across Southeast Asia read like an economic renaissance: multibillion-dollar pledges, sprawling server farms, and a digital transformation drive reshaping the region’s economy.
Investment applications worth more than 728 billion baht ($20 billion), spanning 36 data center and cloud-service projects, piled into Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) before the agency halted new data-center investment-promotion applications altogether in April, as regulators moved to get ahead of a sector outpacing its own oversight. Continued …
BOT warns rising Section 75 business suspensions put Thai workers at risk
Thailand’s labor market is showing growing signs of vulnerability, as more businesses temporarily suspend operations under Section 75 of the Labor Protection Act, the Bank of Thailand (BOT) has warned.
Although lay-off indicators and employment within the social security system were broadly unchanged in July from the previous month, other labor indicators pointed to significant underlying weakness. Continued …
BOI, Airbus work to develop Thai digital aviation hub
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has met with aerospace giant Airbus to bolster the nation’s role as a regional hub for digital technology and aviation engineering, leveraging Thailand as the sole global testing ground for the firm’s flight operations software.
Speaking after talks with Bert Porteman, president of Airbus Thailand, BOI Secretary General Narit Therdsteerasukdi stated that “Airbus regards Thailand as a core strategic base… The manufacturer has established its regional Flight Operations Center of Excellence in the country to support digital aviation systems and service markets across Asia.” Continued …
Thailand ends 60-day visa-free stays from September 15
Thailand has formally ended its 60-day visa-exemption scheme for 93 countries and territories, with a new 30-day visa-free entry rule taking effect on Sept. 15.
The Ministry of Interior announcements were published in the Royal Gazette, Volume 143, Special Issue 207, dated Aug. 31. As the notices take legal effect 15 days after publication, travelers arriving up to and including Sept. 14 will still receive the current 60-day stamp. Foreigners already in Thailand will retain the period of stay stamped into their passport on arrival. Continued …
Pattaya hopes for US carrier boost as police tighten checks
Businesses in Pattaya are hoping the arrival of the US Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln will provide a much-needed economic lift, while local authorities step up policing amid concerns over illegal prostitution, sexual exploitation and public health.
The carrier is due to arrive at Laem Chabang Port near Pattaya tomorrow, accompanied by two other US Navy vessels. Nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines will be given shore leave to rest and recuperate following more than 200 days at sea, according to Thai officials. Continued …
Pattaya to bar US Navy personnel from Soi 6, cannabis shops
Pattaya authorities have designated Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7 as “off-limits” areas for US Navy personnel during the upcoming visit of the USS Abraham Lincoln and two accompanying vessels to Chon Buri.
As part of measures to prevent crime and ensure safety, authorities have designated several areas and activities as off-limits to US Navy personnel. US Navy personnel will still be allowed to visit entertainment areas such as Walking Street, but must follow designated time restrictions and leave the area by 2 am. Continued …
Satun Riviera plan goes to Thailand’s Cabinet
Thailand’s Cabinet is due to consider a plan to develop Satun into “The Riviera of Southeast Asia” at its traveling meeting in the southern province yesterday. The proposal includes longer opening hours at the Wang Prachan Thai-Malaysian border checkpoint, and a free flow zone for trade and tourism projects aimed at Muslim visitors.
Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasit inspected progress on projects under the scheme during a visit to Satun on Saturday. The initiative is formally titled “World Class Southern Border, Thailand. The Riviera of Southeast Asia”. Continued …
The Legacy of Thai Elephants
From ancient battlefields to sacred royal traditions, elephants have been deeply tied to Thailand’s identity for over seven centuries.
Discover how these majestic animals served as symbols of royal authority, formidable war machinery in legendary duels, sacred icons in Buddhist and Hindu traditions, and the hardworking backbone of everyday life before modern machinery. Video …
Celebrating 50 Years of Thailand’s Dinosaur Renaissance
As Thailand marks a half-century of palaeontological wonder, the nation prepares for 2026: a grand celebration of the titanic giants that once roamed the Isan plateau, bridging ancient Mesozoic strata with a vibrant, high-value future of global geo-tourism.
The year 2026 represents far more than a chronological marker; it signifies a national coming-of-age for Thai science. This golden jubilee commemorates the 1976 discovery of the nation’s first dinosaur fossil in the Phu Wiang Valley of Khon Kaen. It is a moment to reflect on how a serendipitous search for energy transformed Thailand into a prestigious sanctuary of prehistoric heritage. Continued …
Woman builds thriving concern selling live cockroaches for fishing in nearby rivers
Live cockroaches are delivering a fast-growing income for a 29-year-old woman in northern Thailand, as anglers scramble for her unusual bait. Natliya Amhasime earns up to 5,200 baht weekly from her Phitsanulok farm, yet production cannot match orders.
Fed quality chicken feed, protected from ants and refrigerated alive, the insects command 130 baht per bottle. Fishermen say their scent, underwater flash and frantic wriggling attract fish better than grasshoppers or shrimp. Continued …
Fruits and vegetables grown in Kok River basin risk heavy metal contamination
Environmental forensic science will be employed to test samples of fruit and vegetables, taken from the Kok River basin in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai provinces, to determine the origin of heavy metal contamination, whether it was caused by mining activities in Myanmar or overuse of pesticides.
A meeting held at the Tha Ton Subdistrict Administrative Organization on Sunday convened to discuss the problem of chemical contamination of plants grown in the Kok River basin in Mae Ai district of Chiang Mai. Continued …
Hundreds feared stuck in hydropower tunnels as flood deaths surpass 950 in Nepal and Tibet
Rescuers raced yesterday to free hundreds of workers believed to be trapped in tunnels at hydropower sites that were buried in mud by catastrophic flooding on the Nepal-China border, as the death toll climbed and increasingly desperate families searched for missing loved ones. Continued …
Another Ukrainian town lies in ruins as Russians creep closer
In the Ukrainian frontline town of Druzhkivka, the buzz of Russian drones and sound of artillery shelling have become daily life for the few residents who still remain there, sheltering in damaged apartment blocks and homes ripped by years of Russian attacks. Video …
Trump says US reviewing position on Falkland Islands
President Donald Trump said yesterday the United States is reviewing its position on the Falkland Islands, after reports that Washington threatened to oppose Britain’s sovereignty if it does not increase defense spending. Continued …
US Army Secretary Driscoll submits resignation
US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has submitted his resignation, the White House confirmed yesterday, following reports of tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. If accepted, Driscoll’s resignation would mark the latest departure of a senior military leader under President Donald Trump’s administration. 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
PM Anutin Presides Over Buddhist Consecration Ceremony in Hua Hin
The State Railway of Thailand is turning the rainy season into a new travel window, launching nine special rail-tourism programs across the country from July to September. The programs are designed to promote rail-based tourism while connecting travelers with nature, local culture, religious traditions, history, and lesser-known destinations in several provinces.
Western men and indeed families are moving to Thailand in growing numbers, turning holiday romances into marriages, businesses and permanent new lives as high living costs, remote work, COVID-19 controls, and anger over Western dating culture drive a quieter migration east.
Thailand’s immigration system holds detailed records of foreign arrivals and overstayers but continues to struggle to consistently act on that information, meaning some long-term overstayers are only detected during raids, at departure points, or after unrelated criminal investigations.
The Faculty of Medicine at Prince of Songkla University (PSU) has developed CAR-T cell therapy, a highly effective and affordable treatment for patients diagnosed with lymphoma, leukemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has declared victory in the Bangkok governor election after unofficial results showed the independent incumbent heading for a landslide second term.
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has launched a strict crackdown on the use of forged cannabis prescription forms after uncovering evidence of identity fraud and the online sale of fake documents used to obtain cannabis for recreational purposes.
Two PT service stations in Pattani province and another in Yala province were set on fire by what appeared to be coordinated bombings last night. One man was injured.
The Transport Ministry will extend measures to support airlines affected by unrest in the Middle East, including a 30% reduction in air navigation service charges for domestic flights during July and August, Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit said.
One of the key raw materials for the production of plastic products is ethylene, which is produced from naphtha – a byproduct of oil refining. Approximately 60% of Asia’s current naphtha imports come from the Gulf region.
Thailand is experiencing a continuous deterioration in household credit quality amid expanding household debt, which has risen to 86.7%of national gross domestic product.
Thailand is eyeing growth in the “global pink economy” as speakers at a forum highlight rising market value, changing consumer behavior and new investment opportunities. Speaking on the topic of “Pink Economy: From Visibility to Economic Value”, Tanachai Kulsomboonsin, chief executive and co-founder of Canvas Ventures International, said awareness of the pink economy has expanded in Thailand over the past two years.
Thailand has officially opened its state-owned railway network to private operators for the first time, allowing companies to apply for track access to run passenger, tourism, and freight train services.
The global beauty industry is no longer being shaped only by Western markets. Southeast Asia, once seen largely as a follower of K-Beauty, J-Beauty, and European brands, is now positioning itself as a beauty economy hub with growing influence over the direction of the global industry.
Thai cocoa and chocolate products are expected to benefit from a growing but niche global market, particularly for high-value, environmentally friendly, and health-focused products.
The government is moving ahead with its “Thailand 365 Days” policy to position the country as a year-round, high-value tourism destination, using rising interest in natural attractions and local experiences to spread income beyond major tourist cities and support sustainable growth.
Thailand’s hotel industry is seeing resilient mid-year demand from international travelers, who now account for 96.6% of forward bookings and are reserving rooms earlier than last year, giving operators more room to manage pricing, promotions, and guest experiences.
Having lived and worked in Thailand’s hospitality and tourism industry for more than 35 years, I have learned one simple truth: tourism rarely moves in a straight line.
Short breaks are becoming one of the defining travel trends of summer 2026, as travelers look for quicker, more flexible escapes without giving up the sense of a rewarding holiday, according to Trip.com Group.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has launched a solar rooftop power purchase program for the public sector. Applications to sell electricity from solar rooftops can begin on July 1.
Rescue teams raced yesterday to find more survivors of the two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week, with signs of life bringing occasional relief to a grim quest to whittle down a list of tens of thousands missing. The death toll from Wednesday’s twin earthquakes rose to at least 1,450 as of Saturday. 
Europe faced temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) yesterday as storms swept other areas, with France reporting 1,000 excess deaths in a record-breaking heatwave. Its public health agency said most heat-related fatalities involved older people and warned the toll was expected to rise as more details emerged from residential care and private homes. 
The Department of Lands is raising scrutiny of landholding on behalf of foreign nationals, by both individuals and juristic persons, particularly in high-value land transactions.
Thailand remains one of the most attractive destinations in Asia for foreign investors, retirees, entrepreneurs, and long-term residents. In 2025 alone, Thailand welcomed more than 32.9 million foreign visitors, while tourism continued to contribute enormously to the national economy.
Thailand’s Consumer Council (TCC) and the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) are pushing for a major overhaul of Bangkok’s traffic-management system after a deadly train–bus collision exposed critical weaknesses at railway crossings.
Rescuers are racing against time to free seven people who have been trapped for nearly a week in a flooded cave in Laos. The seven were part of a group of villagers from the central province of Xaysomboun who had gone into the cave last Wednesday in search of gold and wildlife, but could not get out as rain and landslides blocked the cave’s entrance.
Sentient Animals Like Elephants Deserve More Respect
The economic relationship between Thailand and Vietnam, neighboring ASEAN countries, is shifting from trade partners to direct rivals on the global economic stage amid production relocation and changes in global supply chains.
Thailand is accelerating efforts to become a top 10 global food exporter, leveraging its agricultural richness, manufacturing strength, and innovation in food technology. As part of this ambition, THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 is being held this week in Bangkok. The event is expected to generate over 130 billion baht in trade value, attracting 90,000 visitors from 130 countries.
The US and Thailand are in talks on new long-term supply of US-produced liquefied natural gas, two sources said yesterday, negotiations that have accelerated since the US-Israeli-led war on Iran led to LNG production damage in key exporter Qatar.
The global influencer economy is experiencing explosive growth, evolving from simple online content into a complex commercial ecosystem. This sector now encompasses advertising, e-commerce, brand promotion, digital services, and consumer engagement.
Thailand welcomed 13,428,857 foreign tourists from Jan. 1 to May 24, down 2.8%, generating an estimated B653.986 billion in tourism spending, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. China remained the largest source market, followed by Malaysia, and India.
Thailand has long captured the imagination of travelers seeking more than just a holiday — it calls to those yearning for transformation. From the mist-draped mountains of the north to the turquoise-fringed islands of the south, the country offers a rare alchemy of natural splendor, centuries-old healing wisdom, and world-class hospitality.
Thailand’s rainy season has a reputation it doesn’t entirely deserve. Yes, it rains, sometimes heavily, but the idea that monsoon months mean washed-out days and ruined plans is largely a myth.
Thai food manufacturer and exporter Thai Choice says resilience, product innovation, and easier-to-cook authentic meals are helping transform Thai cuisine from a niche export into an everyday global food category.
Thailand’s household debt reached 86.7% of GDP at the end of 2025, among the highest ratios in Asia. The Bank of Thailand’s own data shows that debt for consumption is rising; debt based on income-generating assets such as property or housing loans is contracting. The data reflects bread-and-butter issues and the rising cost of living.
Local residents have raised concerns that a proposed coastal highway could damage mangrove forests and threaten oyster-farming livelihoods, despite government claims the project would boost tourism and the local economy.
I followed Thailand’s Royal Coast/Children removed from Cha Am forest shelter/Thailand to enter hot season/Provinces told to prepare for drought/Online Driving License Applications Fake/Government ramps up gun controls/Thailand 9th in Cybercrime Losses/British ASOS Co-Founder Dies/Light rail tram in Khon Kaen
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
Thailand Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun announced ongoing negotiations with the US regarding tax agreements. The talks aim to reach a joint conclusion on complex issues, although both countries currently have differing needs and expectations.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Thailand needs an economy that delivers better wages, secure jobs, and real competitiveness. But today’s trade and investment rules stand in the way. Without reform, the country risks falling behind in an increasingly cut-throat global economy.
The Thai economy could continue its growth trajectory and expand by 3% a year if the incoming Bhumjaithai-led coalition administration can complete its four-year term, say economists, though they warned any disruption in government formation might cause GDP growth to slide below 1.5% this year.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
A district hospital in northeastern Thailand has reported a 100% success rate in laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer after screening more than 1,200 people over the past three years.
Thai authorities say they have found clear evidence that Cambodia secretly planted landmines inside Thai territory, describing the act as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
Elephants need space
Berlayar Estate, a boutique property developer specializing in refined, lifestyle-driven living, has announced the official launch of its newest premium villa collection under the theme “The Journey to Serenity.” This latest portfolio introduces a curated selection of private residential projects in Hua Hin and Pranburi.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said after chairing a meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee that the meeting had considered an agenda on relaxing controls on alcohol sales hours in the Eastern Aviation City Promotion Zone yesterday at the Ministry of Public Health.
High-street coffee chains across Thailand are set to undergo a radical transformation next week as the Department of Health launches a new nationwide standard for freshly brewed drinks. Beginning Feb. 11, any customer ordering a “normal sweetness” beverage will automatically receive a drink containing only 50% of the original sugar recipe.
The Ministry of Public Health has intensified preventive and surveillance measures against the Nipah virus, even as authorities stress that the risk of infection in the country remains very low.
Thailand is well-known for its wats (Buddhist temples), breathtaking beaches and islands, and vibrant night bazaars. Yet, one feature often overlooked is our convenience stores. Although not one of our cultural monuments, with more than 14,000 outlets nationwide as of 2024 – among the highest densities per capita globally – these stores have become iconic landmarks in their own right.
Park rangers are trying to keep wild elephants away from communities and tourist attractions during the dry season. The measures cover a bull elephant that has killed three people, including a camper, in this Nakhon Ratchasima province.
The era of Thailand as a high-growth “economic yiger” has come to an abrupt halt. Once the envy of its neighbors, the country is increasingly being referred to as the “sick man of Asia,” as reported by the Financial Times.
Krungthai researchers are warning that Thailand’s economy in 2026 could record its weakest growth outlook in three decades, as the country remains stuck in a low-growth trap with no new engines of expansion. They also caution that SMEs could remain mired in difficulties, with shrinking profits and mounting debt, risking a broad-based “downgrade” across the sector unless business structures are reshaped quickly.
Fresh research from MoneyTransfers.com has unveiled the planet’s most jam-packed tourist hotspots. The team’s findings reveal that Phuket in Thailand stands as the globe’s most congested tourist magnet. This Thai paradise boasts a staggering 118 tourists for every local inhabitant.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has released its “Tourism Business Confidence Index in Thailand, Q4 2025”, based on a survey of 302 foreign tourists using accidental sampling: 200 respondents in Bangkok and 102 in Chonburi.
A Thai family in Nakhon Si Thammarat province mistakenly hosted foreign tourists at a funeral, providing them with food when they believed it to be a restaurant. The tourists apologized after realizing they were at a funeral, not a dining venue.
Chinese New Year celebrations in the island province are expected to be particularly vibrant this year. The upbeat outlook is driven by a strong rebound in the Chinese tourism market and an increase in direct flights from China, according to the Phuket Tourist Business Assn. (PTBA).
Mae Hong Son officials on Monday launched a joint campaign aimed at preventing wildfires and reducing air pollution in the province, with multiple key leaders participating in a kick-off event held in front of the municipal office. The campaign was led by Mae Hong Son Gov. Wiboon Waewbandit, alongside Deputy Gov. Udomsak Khaonoona and Mae Hong Son Mayor Mallika Jeenakham.
Drainage contractor discharged black water into Jomtien sea
From field to forest, restoring rice in Ubon Ratchathani
Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market to gain momentum under the government’s new car tax policy set to take effect in 2026, aimed at promoting cleaner energy.
The last Russia-U.S. nuclear arms control treaty, known as New START, is due to expire tomorrow. We look at what the treaty does, what its expiration would mean, and what it may take to establish a new treaty. 
Spain will ban access to social media for minors under 16 and hold company CEOs criminally liable for illegal content, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said yesterday, as he announced several measures to guarantee a safe digital environment. 
France summoned billionaire Elon Musk to a “voluntary interview” as cybercrime authorities yesterday searched the French offices of his social media network X, the Paris public prosecutor’s office said. The operation, which involves the EU police agency Europol, is part of an investigation opened in January 2025 into whether X’s algorithm was used to interfere in French politics. 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.