- Contraband cigarettes seized in PKK/Khiri Khan Crab of Kui Buri Forest/Hua Hin plans city museum/Wastewater discharge in Cha-am/Hard Rock Cafe Hua Hin donates US$5,000/Hua Hin Welcomes 27 Miss International Queen/Fuel prices in Thailand rise
- THE IRAN WAR: Oil gains about 1%/Gas recovery will take time
- ECONOMY: New data center rules considered/Data Center Demand Surges/AI leaders are talking about slowing down/Nestle plans $900-million expansion
- TOURISM: New visa rules start today/Offers to boost Chinese Golden Week/Chiang Mai Airport expects nearly 10 million/Maya Bay reports record 278 blacktip reef sharks
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: What Defines a Luxury Home in Thailand/I moved my family from Utah to Thailand/Bikini Beach Race Returns
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand studies first nuclear power plant
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Prachuap Khiri Khan Customs seizes over 2 million contraband cigarettes
Customs officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan, in collaboration with security agencies, launched Operation Khiri Khan to intercept smuggling operations targeting the southern region’s transportation of contraband into Bangkok via land, rail, and logistics systems.
Between Sept. 1-10, they seized over 2.2 million untaxed foreign cigarettes, along with e-cigarettes and other contraband, resulting in accumulated tax losses exceeding 25 million baht. Video …
Khiri Khan Crab, the Seven-Colored Gem of Kui Buri Forest
The “Khirikhan Crab,” a freshwater crab in the Potamidae family. It’s found living in streams and clean water sources in forest areas, especially in mountainous and stream regions with suitable environments. This particular “Khirikhan Crab” is found in Kui Buri National Park, Hat Kham subdistrict, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.
Its striking colors have earned it the name “Seven-Colored Crab.” This freshwater animal reflects the biodiversity of the forest. Seeing this crab isn’t just about finding a beautiful aquatic creature; it’s an indicator of the abundance of nature. Video …
Hua Hin plans city museum
A Hua Hin city museum is included in plans for a new seven-story municipal office building to be constructed directly behind the existing offices on Phetkasem Road.
The proposed design provides space for the museum and an exhibition highlighting the municipality’s history and achievements, alongside offices and public service facilities. Continued …
Wastewater discharge in Cha-am under investigation
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin has ordered an investigation into the south Cha-am wastewater discharge, with detailed laboratory results still pending despite initial checks finding seawater readings within recreational standards.
Suchart instructed the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) to investigate after reports of wastewater entering the sea at South Cha-am Beach circulated on social media. Continued …
Hard Rock Cafe Hua Hin donates US$5,000 to Jungle Aid
Jungle Aid has received a US$5,000 grant from the Hard Rock Heals Foundation to support its healthcare, welfare and education work in communities in and around Hua Hin.
Hard Rock Cafe Hua Hin co-owner Frank Colvyn presented the check to Jungle Aid founder Emma Neve last week, after the venue successfully nominated the charity for funding. Continued …
Hua Hin Welcomes 27 Miss International Queen contestants
The Miss International Queen 2026 pageant, organized by Tiffany’s Show Pattaya, in collaboration with Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, brought together delegates from 27 countries for a special three-day, two-night journey to Hua Hin from Sept. 10–12.
Designed around the concept of nature, culture and wellness tourism, the program brought fashion, natural heritage, local culture, and well-being together in one immersive journey. Continued …
Fuel prices in Thailand rise 0.85 baht a liter
Thailand will raise retail prices for petrol, gasohol and diesel by 0.85 baht per liter from today, as mounting subsidy costs place increasing pressure on the Oil Fuel Fund.
The Oil Fuel Fund Executive Committee approved the increase at its meeting yesterday, citing prolonged geopolitical tensions and attacks on oil tankers along key Middle Eastern shipping routes. Continued …
Oil gains about 1% after Saudi strikes fuel supply fears
Brent and US crude futures settled about 1% higher yesterday, with fresh strikes on Saudi Arabian energy infrastructure and attacks on Middle Eastern shipping intensifying concerns over global supplies.
Brent crude futures gained US$1.07, or 1.0%, to close at US$105.68 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude added US$1.34, or 1.3%, to settle at US$101.39 a barrel. Continued …
Gastech leaders warn gas recovery will take time after Hormuz reopens
Gastech 2026 panellists in Bangkok warned yesterday that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would not immediately restore normal gas supplies, with damaged facilities and disrupted shipping requiring time to recover.
Shell’s president of integrated gas, Cederic Cremers, said nearly seven months of Middle East disruption had left 36 million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates absent from the global market compared with 2025. Continued …
Thailand targets new data center rules
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), said today that officials aimed to clarify a regulatory framework and minimum standards for data centers in about one month.
The work would address resource efficiency and effects on surrounding areas, while seeking to minimize disruption to existing operators. Continued …
Thailand Approves $29-Billion Investment Wave as Data Center Demand Surges
Thailand’s Board of Investment has approved six landmark projects totaling 958 billion baht (approximately USD29 billion), with TikTok System (Thailand) leading the initiative through a massive 842-billion-baht data infrastructure expansion. This approval demonstrates Thailand’s emerging prominence as a regional hub for data centers, cloud services, and AI-driven digital infrastructure.
The projects span multiple sectors, including three significant data center investments valued at 913 billion baht collectively. Additional approved projects include Skyline Data Center’s 46-billion-baht investment and Bridge Data Centers’ 24.6-billion-baht facility, both strategically positioned to support growing regional digital demands. Continued …
Why AI leaders are suddenly talking about slowing down
Questions are growing about whether artificial intelligence is outpacing safety measures for the technology. What’s driving the sudden push to “slow down” AI development, and is slowing the race even possible. Video …
Nestle plans $900-million Thai expansion
Yesterday, Nestlé (Thailand) took a stand on its Southeast Asian growth strategy, signaling to global investors that even a multi-billion-dollar legal breakdown with its long-standing local partner will not derail its operational roadmap.
Breaking its silence on the bitter breakdown of its 35-year joint venture with the Mahagitsiri family, the Swiss food and beverage giant confirmed it has successfully cleared legal blockades on its flagship Nescafé product line, while committing nearly $900 million (30 billion baht) in fresh domestic investments. Continued …
Thailand’s new visa rules start today
Thailand ends its 60-day visa exemption today, replacing it with 30-day and 15-day schemes, a shorter visa on arrival list and tighter limits at land borders. Thailand’s revised tourist entry rules change how long millions of foreign visitors can stay without arranging a visa before departure.
The previous 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries and territories has ended. Under the new system, 60 nationalities and territories receive a 30-day exemption, Mauritius and Seychelles receive 15 days, and only Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia remain eligible for visa on arrival. Continued …
Special offers to boost Chinese Golden Week travel
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched Nihao Month 2026 to encourage Chinese visitors to travel to Thailand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Golden Week holiday marking China’s National Day on Oct. 1.
Announced yesterday, the campaign runs under the theme “China and Thailand are one family”, strengthening ties through tourism and culture, while seeking to sustain travel demand into the low season and Chinese New Year 2027. Continued …
Chiang Mai Airport expects nearly 10 million passengers in 2026
Chiang Mai Airport handled more than 6.53 million passengers in the first eight months of 2026, with international travel rising 14% year-on-year. The airport expects passenger numbers to reach about 9.97 million for the full year as the winter flight schedule begins in late October.
Airport Director Karan Thanakuljeerapat said the airport recorded 43,544 flights between January and August. Overall passenger and flight numbers were broadly similar to the same period in 2025, although overseas travel continued to grow. Continued …
Maya Bay reports record 278 blacktip reef sharks during annual closure
Marine researchers recorded a peak of 278 adult blacktip reef sharks gathering near the shore of Maya Bay early this month, setting a record high for the 2026 fiscal year and providing strong evidence of ecological recovery during the bay’s annual closure, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
Maya Bay is closed from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30 to allow corals and beach areas to regenerate naturally without human disturbance, while also ensuring visitor safety during the southwest monsoon season. Continued …
What Defines a Luxury Home in Thailand Today
The concept of a luxury home in Thailand has moved well beyond the postcard image of a beachfront villa with an infinity pool. Industry estimates value the country’s luxury residential segment at roughly USD73.7 billion in 2025, with continued growth projected through the next decade as rising regional wealth, tourism recovery, and international demand for premium living converge.
What has changed most is not the price tag attached to luxury, rather it is the definition of the term itself. Buyers today weigh architecture, wellness infrastructure, security, and long-term livability alongside size and location, producing a market that looks markedly different from the one of a decade ago. Continued …
I moved my family from Utah to Thailand to work remotely; 8 months later, we came home
Living abroad was never really on my radar until I got married. My wife had always wanted to travel and live outside the US, and as I looked into it more, it started to feel like an experience we should try together.
We talked about it for years, but never followed through. Then, after our son was born in 2023, we felt it was the right time to finally give it a try. My wife is a stay-at-home mom, and since I run an online fitness coaching business, I could work remotely. Continued …
Thailand’s Largest Bikini Beach Race Returns for Its 10th Anniversary
Central Pattaya, a global beachfront landmark in the heart of Pattaya, has invited runners and travelers from around the world to join the Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race 2026: Run the wave. Own the night on Oct. 31. Celebrating its 10th anniversary under the theme “The Sunset to Moonlight Beach Race,” the 5K race will bring thousands of runners to the sands of Pattaya Beach for a one-of-a-kind night combining sunset running, music, entertainment and Pattaya’s vibrant beach lifestyle.
Last year, the event attracted more than 5,000 runners from around the world, establishing the Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race as one of Thailand’s most popular and distinctive seaside running events. Continued …
Thailand studies first nuclear power plant
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand has signed an agreement with a US government agency to study American small modular reactor technology as the country considers its first nuclear power plant.
The study will examine US small modular reactor (SMR) technology capable of generating about 600 megawatts of electricity, which the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) said would be enough to supply several hundred thousand households. Continued …
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American wanted in Texas arrested in Phuket – Continued …
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Phuket police arrest Chinese man on 2,823-day overstay – Continued …
US Supreme Court blocks Trump mail-in ballot restrictions
The US Supreme Court dealt a major blow yesterday to President Donald Trump’s attempts to restrict mail-in voting before the November midterm elections, denying his request to lift an order halting the divisive plan. Only two of the six conservative justices on the nine-member panel offered a dissent. Continued …
Number of centenarians in Japan tops 100,000
The number of people aged 100 or older in Japan reached a record high of 107,677 in September, climbing for the 56th consecutive year, health ministry data showed today. The total number of centenarians grew by 7,914 from the previous year, surpassing the 100,000 threshold for the first time. Women made up 87.6% of the cohort. Continued …
Nepal tunnel survivor recounts being trapped for nine days
After nine days trapped in a hydropower tunnel and a week of hospital care following his dramatic rescue, Sanjay Sah, a rare survivor of last month’s devastating glacier collapse in Nepal, finally returned to his village and family on Sunday. It was a homecoming marked by relief and joy, but also grief. Video …
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
Most fuel prices at PTT Station and Bangchak rose yesterday, while premium grades remained unchanged. PTT Station increased petrol and non-premium gasohol prices by 0.80 baht a liter and non-premium diesel by 0.70 baht.
Thailand’s proposed secondary alcohol rules could severely limit how breweries, bars and restaurants display beer products, according to the Craft Beer Business Assn. The draft measures will be discussed at a public consultation today and are not yet in force.
10 popular lunch dishes in Thailand loaded with sodium that could wreck your kidneys
The Thai baht weakened against the US dollar from 33.90 to 32.70, supported by dollar softness and Middle East risks. Thailand’s central bank kept rates unchanged at 1.00%, maintaining accommodative stance through H1 2027. Commerzbank expects near-term consolidation around 32.50-33.00 range.
Thailand’s tariff negotiations with the United States are down to the final wording, which should be completed within a week, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said yesterday.
Thailand’s consumer confidence strengthened for a third consecutive month in August, reaching its highest level in six months, as purchasing power and economic activity showed early signs of improvement, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
Thailand had 26 companies licensed to operate data centers by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) as of July 27, with their declared electricity demand exceeding 1,059MW.
Bangkok ranked second among Asia’s most revisited destinations in Agoda’s latest repeat visitor ranking, behind Tokyo and ahead of Bali, based on accommodation bookings made during the first half of 2026.
Royal Thai Navy opens free ticket bookings for Royal Barge Procession
What do people want most in life? For many residents of Ban Khok Lam and Ban Saeng Aram in Kud Mak Fai subdistrict, Nong Wua So District, Udon Thani Province, the answer is not wealth or material possessions.
Thailand’s crackdown on foreign control of property is expanding, with 36,277 foreign-linked legal entities now under scrutiny over land ownership nationwide. The probe is concentrated in 16 major provinces and has already moved from nominee company abuses into land, villas and 30-year leases using surreptitious arrangements.
Wisut Janwatanakul, senior assistant vice president of condominium project development at Sansiri Public Co, stated the real estate market in Hua Hin is expected to grow significantly in 2026, transitioning into a global wellness and medical tourism destination, which is a key driver for the luxury real estate market and long-stay accommodations.
Thai teenage singer Nene Royal flew to the United States with her family today to compete in the Live Show round of America’s Got Talent on Aug. 25, asking Thais around the world to cheer her on and vote.
A doctor working in a Thai hospital emergency room says the department has been overwhelmed for the past two to three months. Even with more than 10 doctors rostered on the morning shift, the team cannot examine patients fast enough.
Thailand’s commercial banking system is facing an increase in new non-performing loans, reflecting continued financial pressure on businesses despite a slight decline in the overall NPL ratio during the second quarter of 2026.
The Department of Business Development (DBD) reported a total investment of B219 billion by foreign businesses approved to operate in Thailand during the first seven months of 2026, up 37% from the same period in 2025. Singapore recorded the highest investment value at B61.1 billion, followed by Japan at B45 billion and China at B38.6 billion.
Video captured the moment flash floods swept away tourists near the Mae Sa Waterfall. Park officials say they alerted visitors to the rising water, but the flood came too quickly for some to escape. 
Thai farmers battle elephant raids to protect crops, livelihoods
Thailand has been named the world’s fourth best retirement destination in a new index comparing all 192 UN member states. Malaysia, Panama and Portugal took the top three places in RUMAVI’s inaugural Global Relocation Index, published in July.
A weather warning has been issued for Prachual Khiri Khan Province for today through Sunday, with heavy rain, flash flooding, landslides and rough sea conditions possible across the province.
Huay Mongkol robe ceremony to be held this weekend
PKK takes on human-elephant conflict problems
A new initiative connecting wellness with community and environmental sustainability, “Friends of Chiva-Som 2026” brings together industry advocates, including Global Wellness Day Founder Belgin Aksoy, to support healthcare outreach and conservation efforts.
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani has temporarily closed to tourists after a staff member died while on duty in what officials believe was a tiger attack.
Prepared food prices expected to increase
Thailand’s headline consumer price index rose 1.95% in July from a year earlier, slowing from 2.42% in June and coming in below market expectations, the Ministry of Commerce said yesterday.
Arada Fuangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade, reported that Thailand exported 3.28 million tons of rice in the first six months of 2026, from January to June, down 18.8% from the same period a year earlier. Shipments were worth more than US$1.911 billion.
Thailand bets big on AI despite talent shortage
The 60-day visa exemption is still on the books, but the shortcuts around it are closing. Land border crossings are now capped at two visa-exempt entries per calendar year, and immigration officers are actively enforcing proof of onward travel, confirmed accommodation, and a 20,000 baht cash reserve at the border. If your plan for staying in Thailand long-term was another border run, that plan no longer works.
Thailand has opened registration for businesses installing rooftop solar power systems and for approved equipment from Aug. 3 to Sept. 30, as it seeks to strengthen safety standards and prepare for wider household adoption nationwide under its clean-energy transition policy.
Asia and the Pacific is urbanizing faster than any other region. By 2050, its cities will be home to 3.4 billion people, up from 2.2 billion today – the equivalent of adding around two Delhi-sized cities every year. The region’s future will depend on how this urban expansion is managed – whether it delivers shared prosperity and well-being or deepens exclusions and vulnerability. 
Stopping alcohol is often presented as a simple decision, but in reality, learning how to stop drinking alcohol isn’t the same for everyone. At one end, some people can reduce their drinking with structure and support. At the other, those dependent on alcohol may face withdrawal symptoms and serious risks without medical guidance.
Amid volatility of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices globally, the Energy Ministry confirmed that as of July 30 Thailand has sufficient oil reserves for 101 days, with several measures being implemented to mitigate the impact of higher oil prices and electricity costs on the public.
Thailand’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has unveiled a comprehensive draft bill aimed at reining in the country’s cannabis sector, establishing a strict regulatory framework focused purely on health and wellness.
Lost wild elephant calf rescued in Sai Yok National Park
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled an ambitious blueprint to reshape Thailand for what he calls a chaotic “New World Disorder,” arguing that only sweeping government reform, rapid AI adoption, stronger research investment, regional economic expansion and a smarter civil service can keep the country competitive.
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of theDepartment of Business Development (DBD) under the Ministry of Commerce, disclosed yesterday that the department had issued Order No. 2/2026 of the Office of the Central Company and Partnership Registration. The order sets criteria and supporting-document requirements for applications to incorporate partnerships and limited companies or amend their registrations.
Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry is accelerating plans for three tourism stimulus programs in an attempt to launch them during the low season in September and October, rather than waiting until the end of the year.
An Indian travel influencer’s video describing four aspects of life in Thailand that surprised her has drawn mixed reactions online, after being highlighted by the Hindustan Times.
From comforting Hainanese-style noodles and bold peppery goat soup to southern Thai family recipes, intimate home-style cooking, and regional specialties from Phetchaburi, these four Bib Gourmand restaurants from The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2026 showcase some of Bangkok’s best-value dining.
Thailand possesses substantial latent capability to become a major regional hub for green manufacturing, provided the country accelerates its transition toward advanced eco-friendly industries, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
Court upholds Thailand’s ban on toxic farm chemicals
Thailand’s Department of Land Transport is seeking public views on a proposal to ban petrol-powered tuk tuks in central Bangkok, particularly around major historic and tourist sites.
Electric vehicles are often viewed as a technology reserved for wealthy nations, but new analysis suggests this perception is rapidly becoming outdated. Research supported by the World Bank shows that EV adoption in developing countries is not only feasible — it is increasingly economically advantageous, especially for public transport systems and the millions who rely on two- and three-wheelers for daily mobility.
Plastic Bank has recovered 200 000 tons of plastic since launching in 2013, marking a new collection milestone of 10 billion plastic bottles. The Vancouver-based social enterprise announced that more than 68, 500 collectors have contributed to the effort across six countries.
Thailand will observe three consecutive public holidays from Tuesday, July 28 to Thursday, July 30, with alcohol sales restricted during the final two days.
InterContinental Hua Hin Resort named Thailand’s best resort hotel
Discover where locals truly eat in Hua Hin. Visit five stops spanning 3.5 hours, sampling 18 different dishes: First, a 100-year-old, three-generation noodle shop serving Gaolao beef soup with multiple cuts, including tender gristle (nature’s collagen supplement!) Next, Yum Naem Khao Tod – fermented pork sausage wrapped in betel leaves with herbs, peanuts, and ginger, eaten like tiny flavor-packed tacos. 
Expat health insurance in Thailand gets harder to buy the closer you get to 60. If that birthday is creeping up on you, you’ve probably already wondered whether your current coverage will actually hold up when you need it most.
The Origin of the Word ‘Farang’ Did Not Begin in Thailand
Thailand presses on with Cambodia border fence
Barely two decades since its introduction, Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme is tottering on the brink of collapse under a growing financial burden. Radical reforms now seem unavoidable.
I have a monumental task: convincing readers that Thailand’s economy is performing poorly and is likely to contract this year. My strongest evidence is not the abundance of statistics or economic theories at my disposal. It is far simpler: people are spending much more on energy and, inevitably, less on everything else.
The Thai baht has fallen to its weakest level in 15 months, depreciating by more than 6% since the start of the year, as soaring global energy costs and lingering Middle East tensions push Thailand’s current account into deficit.
Thailand’s trade relationship with the United States is entering a critical new phase as Washington prepares to use Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 to examine countries accused of unfair trade practices.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered officials concerned to revise the land bridge project of the government while speeding up other transport projects linking Thailand, China, Laos, Malaysia and Singapore, according to the government spokesman.
The financial results of Thai Airways International (THAI) are expected to bottom out in the second quarter, while recently approved tourism stimulus efforts should help airlines in the second half even as renewed US-Iran tensions cause jet fuel prices to rise, say analysts.
Thai travelers are increasingly turning marathon weekends into full travel experiences, as the “run-cation” trend — traveling while joining running events — gains momentum across Asia.
Chon Buri tourism operators are urging the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to address persistent issues affecting the low season and safety, including unlicensed hotels, illegal tour operators and unregulated entertainment venues.
If you’ve ever had a conversation with a Thai person, you might have encountered their unique way of telling time.
Thai exporters risk losing orders and access to major markets unless they accelerate compliance with tightening environmental and sustainability rules, EXIM Thailand has warned, as the state-owned bank prepares ESG-reporting assistance and green loans carrying interest rates from 2.75%.
Located in the heart of Thailand, Hua Hin offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in Thailand. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife, Hua Hin has something to offer for everyone.
Hua Hin has long been one of Thailand’s favorite beach getaways, known for its royal history, relaxed atmosphere, and easy access from the capital. But beyond the beach, the city has a lot more going on than you might expect.
A private pool villa in Hua Hin costs far less than the same home would on Phuket or Samui, and for many buyers it delivers more: quiet, space, a real community, and Bangkok two and a half hours up the road.
The most useful AI gadget for expatriates in Thailand may not be a robot, a smart speaker or a laptop priced like a small motorbike. It may be the smartphone already sitting beside their morning iced coffee, quietly judging their screen time while helping them translate Thai messages, plan trips, manage work calls, read banking alerts and understand condominium notices that seem to have been written by a committee in a hurry.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of heavy rain in parts of Thailand, with very heavy downpours possible in some areas of the east and the western side of the south today.
Thais genuinely enjoy playing the lottery. Even though the chances of winning the grand prize are staggeringly low, only one in a million, they buy more and more tickets every day.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday that 10 out of 11 Thai-flagged vessels and vessels chartered by Thai operators stranded in the Strait of Hormuz area after the closure announcement on Feb. 28, had now safely left the area.
Thailand’s total dependence on imported fertilizer has left its 16 million farmers dangerously exposed to global geopolitical shocks, according to industry leaders, state officials, and academics who gathered for a roundtable yesterday.
Thailand’s Cabinet has extended ultra-low property transfer and mortgage registration fees for another year, keeping a key housing stimulus measure in place as the government seeks to ease costs for homebuyers and support a fragile real estate recovery.
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) decreased by 0.8% year-on-year to 101.18 points in May, due mainly to a slowdown in the domestic automotive sector, said the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). The index increased from 92.76 points in April, however, when global conflicts and domestic challenges weighed on industrial activity.
Bangkok was named the world’s most visited city for 2025 by Euromonitor International, drawing an estimated 30.3 million international arrivals, ahead of Hong Kong, London, Macao, and Istanbul. Thailand expects that number to climb further in 2026, with 34.9 million foreign visitors forecast and tourism revenue projected at 1.63 trillion baht, an 8% increase year on year.
These 3 Small Thai Towns Could Stretch Your Budget Further
“The future is fully electric,” the president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand), Christian Schell, declared, expressing his confidence in the automobile’s future path. This was emphasized in the first half of 2026 by the oil crisis, when people turned to buying electric vehicles (EVs) in fear of fuel shortages.
Global investment in the energy sector continued to expand, with total investment reaching US$3.3 trillion in 2025, the highest level on record. Of this, US$2.3 trillion went into clean energy, helping lift the share of renewables and nuclear power in global electricity generation to 42%. 
Andrea Canonico focused on her breathing to stay calm as she lay trapped under a building that had crumbled during the two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week. Just 23 years old, Canonico spent almost 48 hours in the same position before being pulled out – alive. 
Minor Hotels has appointed Kanruethai Roongruang as general manager of Avani+ Hua Hin Resort. Originally from Phuket, Kanruethai brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience across Thailand and international markets, with expertise in resort operations, wellness, commercial strategy, business development, and luxury hospitality management.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecast today that Thailand would continue to see thundershowers over the next 24 hours, with isolated heavy rain in the east and along the south’s west coast.
The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and the Thai Frozen Foods Assn. began direct purchases of shrimp from farmers yesterday to mitigate the effects of Malaysia’s suspension of Thai shrimp imports.
Lisa’s Instagram Posts Reach 58-million-baht Value Worldwide
The Thai baht is currently facing short-term pressure, with market strategists indicating it could test the 33.00–33.20 resistance band. This weakness is influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the Federal Reserve’s rate-hike expectations.
The Bank of Thailand has upgraded its GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 2.3% from 1.5%, attributed to strong exports, government stimulus, and easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The Bank of Thailand yesterday left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 1.00% as widely expected, saying it would continue to monitor inflation trends and expectations.
TikTok Shop flexes muscle in 3-way Thailand tussle
High-net-worth parents across Asia, the Middle East, and Russia are fundamentally rewriting the equation for elite schooling. Facing a volatile matrix of escalating geopolitical friction, erratic financial markets, and skyrocketing living costs in traditional Western markets, affluent families are increasingly asking whether a premium education requires sending children across the globe.
Constant Energy, a leading renewable energy developer in Southeast Asia, has announced the successful inauguration of a 5.26 MW solar rooftop installation at the manufacturing facilities of Meyer Industries and Meyer Aluminium (Thailand) Co. in Laem Chabang, Thailand.
Once a lush field of green, the seagrass meadows surrounding Thailand’s Koh Libong are now largely barren stretches of sand, devastating the island’s iconic dugong population.
Europe braced yesterday for another day of an unprecedented heatwave that has smashed records in many countries and sent air conditioner sales zooming in a continent unused to and ill-equipped to handle searing heat. 
The Danish Embassy in Thailand has announced that Danish Ambassador to Thailand Danny Annan will host an informal gathering for Danes in Hua Hin on Thursday. The event will take place from 2 pm to 4 pm at Ferior Interior in Hua Hin and is open to all Danes in the area. No registration is required.
Dear Doctors: I’m a 55-year-old man, and I have been active all my life. I know target heart rates are based on age and was surprised that my heart rate while running is often between 150 and 195. Should I slow down a bit?
Thai FDA warns over 20 illegal meatball and Vietnamese pork loaf brands
Reflecting on data from Thai households, it is evident that a significant portion of individuals over 50 years old have low incomes, accounting for about 42% of Thai households. This indicates a lack of readiness for retirement in Thai society.
Thailand’s hotel industry is hoping the planned US-Iran peace agreement will help restore travel confidence, ease pressure on fuel prices, and support a recovery in foreign tourist arrivals during the fourth-quarter high season.
The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of Government Housing Bank has released data on transfers of condominium ownership to foreign nationals nationwide in the first quarter of 2026, showing that the overall market continued to face pressure from economic conditions both in Thailand and overseas.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled a plan to position Thailand as ASEAN’s hub for advanced chip manufacturing, with the goal of producing “Made in Thailand” semiconductors by 2050.
Tourism killed Thailand’s most famous bay. Here’s how it was brought back to life
This video catalogs signature Thai street foods and explains their ingredients and regional contexts, offering a concise culinary overview. Dishes include Pad Thai with rice noodles, egg, tamarind, fish sauce, and toppings, and Pad Kra Pao served over rice with a fried egg.
About 153,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) are predicted to appear on the roads of Thailand this year, prompted mainly by the ongoing energy crisis triggered by the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said yesterday he would ban social media sites for under-16s and impose restrictions on gaming and livestreaming platforms, in some of the world’s most far-reaching online restrictions to date. 
A Lao worker trapped inside a gold mine cave in Laos has been rescued after a major international operation involving Thai and Finnish cave diving experts. Rescue teams successfully brought one of five survivors out of the flooded tunnel at 8:40 pm yesterday, according to the Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page.
A Koh Samui taxi mafia crackdown in Surat Thani began Thursday, as officials moved to dismantle taxi queue groups accused of occupying public areas and stopping other legal taxis from picking up passengers.
House rejects land bridge study panel
Arada Fuangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Commerce, said border and transit trade in April was worth a combined B211.146 billion, up 27.5%.
Innovative technology powers more sustainable aquaculture in Thailand
Constant Energy, a leading renewable energy developer in Southeast Asia, announced the successful inauguration of a 5.26 MW solar rooftop installation at the manufacturing facilities of Meyer Industries and Meyer Aluminium (Thailand) Co. in Laem Chabang.