Afternoon ban on alcohol still enforced/PNP Real Estate wins PropertyGuru Award/Thailand’s top expat havens/Floodwater Surge Threatens Bangkok/Thai gold demand seen soaring/Netizens blast BBC documentary/Thailand’s Southern Insurgency/ECONOMY: Thailand, ASEAN emerge in spotlight/TOURISM: Phuket Boat Taxi/British Tourist Slashed/Indian tourists flee after Pattaya crash/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Must-visit hot springs in Thailand/Early cooking traditions in Southeast Asia/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS
Afternoon ban on alcohol sales in Thailand still enforced
Thailand’s Disease Control Department yesterday clarified that the three-hour daily ban on alcohol sales remains in force, dispelling confusion among vendors over a recent legal change.
The department stressed that all shops are still prohibited from selling alcoholic drinks between 2pm and 5pm, except in designated venues such as international airports, hotels, and licensed service establishments like bars. Continued …
PNP Real Estate Co. prevails as Best Developer (Hua Hin) in PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards
The PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards celebrated its historic 20th anniversary edition yesterday at a black-tie ceremony held at the recently reopened Dusit Thani Bangkok, where the kingdom’s finest real estate achievements took center stage across more than 40 categories. A total of 26 development companies and design practices brought home the gold during the presentation of the 20th Annual PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards.
PNP Real Estate Co. prevailed as best developer (Hua Hin), supported by its winning project La Felice Exclusive Villa Hua Hin. Continued …
Thailand’s top expat havens: Cost of living in 5 Provinces
So, you’re dreaming of the Land of Smiles. Not just for a two-week holiday, but for the long haul. Maybe you’re a remote worker tired of the cubicle, a retiree ready to trade snow for sunshine, or perhaps you’re just seeking a life less ordinary. Whatever your story, Thailand calls. But where to drop your bags?
We’ll take a closer look at five of the most popular spots for long-stay visitors. Bangkok with its mix of business districts and nightlife. Chiang Mai, set against mountain scenery and is known for its temples. Koh Samui, the island of palm trees and beaches. Pattaya, a coastal city close to Bangkok, and Phuket, the country’s largest island, both have busy and quiet corners. Continued …
Bangkok Braces as Northern Floodwaters Surge Threatens City
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced that a significant water surge from the north is alarmingly raising the city’s water levels, which he compares to the major floods of 2011. This surge, coupled with increased discharges from the Bhumipol and Sirikit dams, has left the capital’s defenses on high alert.
Chadchart explained that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has maintained close communication with the Royal Irrigation Department and other key agencies. This collaboration seeks to manage and alleviate rising water levels in the event of another storm, aiming to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophic 2011 floods. Continued …
Thai gold demand seen soaring as strong currency adds to allure
Thais are poised to buy more gold for a fifth straight year, as a rally in the local currency makes the bullion cheaper, complicating efforts by the central bank to curb the precious metal’s influence on the baht.
With gold prices climbing to new highs, more Thais are turning to the yellow metal for higher returns and as a safe haven against mounting global and domestic political uncertainties, said Nuttapong Hirunyasiri, managing director of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s largest bullion dealers. Continued …
Netizens blast BBC’s Thailand dark side documentary
A British YouTuber and netizens criticized the BBC documentary “Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise” for allegedly distorting facts and presenting misleading information to viewers. The film aimed to expose the darker aspects of several tourist destinations in Thailand, focusing particularly on Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya.
The documentary is fronted by Love Island and Made in Chelsea star Zara McDermott. During a London screening, McDermott claimed she and the crew were nearly arrested for filming in local bars, despite obtaining permission in advance. Continued …
Thailand’s Southern Insurgency: A Conflict Fated to Last?
Despite two decades of military crackdowns, peace talks, and policy experiments framed around economic development, the insurgency in Thailand’s southernmost provinces rages on.
Fatigue has understandably set in among observers and attention easily drifts to more dynamic conflicts, among them the Cambodia-Thailand border clash, which opened the space for great power intervention and shook up Thailand’s political leadership. Continued …
Global economy shifts as Thailand, ASEAN emerge in spotlight
The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD), in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), hosted the ITD Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2025 under the theme “The Changing Realities of International Trade.”
The regional forum brought together global experts, economists, policymakers, and business leaders from Thailand and ASEAN to examine structural changes in the global economy and discuss sustainable strategies for the region. Continued …
Phuket Boat Taxi offers new solution to traffic, linking the airport to all piers
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and Phuket Province have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to launch the “Boat Taxi” project, connecting water-based transport routes from the airport to piers across the island.
This initiative aims to ease traffic congestion while elevating eco-tourism standards in Sirinat National Park to international levels. Continued …
British Tourist Slashed by Transgender Group in Pattaya
A 65-year-old British tourist was brutally attacked and left bloodied by a group of transgender women in his Pattaya condo room early yesterday morning after refusing to pay exorbitant fees for services he didn’t request.
Police Lt. Manasak Polyiem, deputy investigation inspector at Pattaya City Police Station, received the report of the assault at 5:36 a.m. at a condominium in South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. Continued …
Indian tourists flee after Pattaya crash leaves 2 women hurt
A late-night motorcycle collision in Pattaya has left two Thai women hospitalized, after what witnesses claim was a reckless encounter with two foreign tourists.
The incident occurred around 3am yesterday in front of a hotel at the busy intersection of Second Road and Phratamnak Road. According to eyewitnesses, the crash happened when a red-and-black Honda CBR 150 motorcycle collided with two men, believed to be Indian tourists, who were walking arm-in-arm across the road. Continued …
Healing waters: 6 must-visit hot springs in Thailand
When Thailand’s heat gets too much, a hot spring might not sound like the obvious escape. But these mineral-rich pools, tucked away in forests, national parks, and even resorts, have been prized for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
Beyond their wellness perks, they’re also scenic spots to soak, surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and jungles. From the north to the south, here’s our curated guide to the hot springs worth exploring and experiencing in Thailand. Continued …
Early cooking traditions in Southeast Asia
“Ancient Southeast Asian cooking traditions and practices reflected communal values and rituals associated with food preparation and consumption. Social gatherings centered on food and strengthened bonds and ties between members of the family and the community,” according to Eman, a food historian.
“Long before modern cooking tools and wares were invented, ancient Southeast Asians had already mastered the art of cooking with what nature provided. Our ancestors relied on natural and eco-friendly methods that reflected their resourcefulness and deep connection to nature and the environment,” he added. Continued …
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Three food festivals/Cha-am water supply disruption/Lions Kill Zoo Staffer/Safari World vows urgent safety review/Urgent flood warning issued/Monsoon mayhem looms/Weak laws as domestic violence surges/Thais among top 10 global gold buyers/PM Anutin reveals assets/ECONOMY: Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks/US capital moves from China to Thailand/Thailand’s FTA trade benefits/European firms keen on Thailand/Flaws in proposed Hotel Act/TOURISM: Sex tourism in Thailand spotlighted/Chinese Tourist Dies off Koh Larn/Thai Airways to phase out its first class/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Yai Asia’s No.2 rural destination/Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts/CLIMATE THAILAND: Face masks: An environmental time bomb/FOREIGNERS/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS
Three food festivals to take place near Hua Hin this weekend
Food lovers are in for a treat this weekend, with three food festivals set to get underway near Hua Hin. Each event will highlight local cuisine, seafood, and community culture across the region. Continued …
Cha-am water supply disruption today
Cha-am Municipality has announced a temporary suspension of the water supply in several communities today. The disruption will take place between 9am and 5pm. Continued …
Lions Kill Zoo Staffer in Bangkok Attack
A zoo employee in the Ram Intra area of Bangkok was fatally attacked by a group of lions yesterday in an incident that lasted approximately 15 minutes. Witnesses, including tourists, attempted to intervene by honking car horns and shouting for help, but were unable to stop the animals.
The incident occurred when the staff member, identified as former surgeon Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, exited a vehicle and was approached from behind by one lion. The lion grabbed him and dragged him to the ground before biting him, and within minutes, four additional lions joined the attack, inflicting severe injuries. Continued …
Safari World vows urgent safety review after zookeeper killed in lion attack
Safari World issued a statement following the death of a 58-year-old zookeeper who was attacked by a lion at the open zoo in Bangkok.
“In light of the recent accident involving a staff member in the lion zone, the employee sustained severe injuries and later passed away. The company expresses its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will provide full support and assistance to them,” the statement read. Continued …
Urgent flood warning issued as Chao Phraya River reaches crisis level
Chai Nat province has issued an urgent warning after the Chao Phraya River rose to a critical level, with water north of the Chao Phraya Dam surging more than 0.35 meters following heavy rainfall.
The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has alerted residents in three riverside districts — Manorom (Tha Chanuan, Siladan, Wat Khok, Khung Samphao subdistricts), Wat Sing (Makham Thao, Wat Sing subdistricts), and Mueang Chainat (Thammamool, Hat Tha Sao, Khao Tha Phra, Tha Chai, Ban Kluai, Chainat subdistricts) — to prepare for possible flash floods. Continued …
Monsoon mayhem looms with storms and floods in Thailand
Thailand faces heavy rain, flash flood risks, and rough seas as the monsoon continues to impact multiple regions, prompting warnings from officials. The active monsoon trough remains across the north and upper northeast, while moderate southwesterly winds persist over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected across the upper regions.
Scattered thundershowers are expected on the east coast in the southern region, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 23 to 25 °C in the early hours to 31 to 34 °C later in the day. Winds will blow at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued …
Thailand blasted for weak laws as domestic violence surges
Campaigners are calling out Thailand’s weak domestic violence laws, accusing them of protecting abusers more than victims, and demanding urgent reform. Civil society groups are ramping up pressure on the new government to prioritize a long-delayed draft law that would strengthen protections for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
Yesterday, the Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence Thailand hosted a public forum to scrutinize the legal shortcomings in tackling gender-based violence. The event brought together activists, legal experts, and lawmakers to push for faster legislative progress. Continued …
Thais among top 10 global gold buyers
Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s top 10 gold buyers, with demand jumping 21% year-on-year to 20.7 tons in the first half of 2025, supported by expected US interest rate cuts, safe-haven demand, and a global de-dollarization trend, says YLG Bullion International.
Pawan Nawawattanasub, chief executive of the Bangkok-based gold trader, said global prices, which this week hit a record high of more than $3,670 an ounce, would remain firmly on an upward trajectory over the next 6-12 months. Continued …
PM Anutin reveals billions in assets, private jets, and antiques
PM Anutin Charnvirakul has disclosed assets amounting to 3.9 billion baht, which include three private jets, two speedboats, and a luxury property in Bangkok. Among his assets, the former construction magnate also listed 1.09 billion baht in cash and deposits spread across over 24 bank accounts.
The 58-year-old Bhumjaithai leader revealed his financial status to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as part of a mandatory process for government officials, with the agency releasing the details publicly yesterday. Continued …
Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks with ‘Flexible’ Approach
Thailand and the United States have commenced their first round of technical negotiations on trade tariffs, with a senior source from the Thai Ministry of Commerce revealing that the US has adopted a “flexible” and cooperative stance.
The discussions are highly detailed, involving multiple government agencies from both sides and focusing on the wording of more than one hundred articles. Continued …
US capital moves from China as Thai industrial estates expand 34,000 rai in three years
Amid rising US-China trade tensions, Thai industrial investment has surged, with new industrial estates expanding by 34,000 rai over the past three years. The trade friction between the United States and China intensified earlier this year, although some temporary tariff relief measures were introduced in mid-May. Last month, both countries agreed to extend the trade truce for another 90 days, until mid-November.
According to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Shanghai, nearly half of US businesses — 47% — had shifted planned investments away from China to other regions over the past year, primarily to ASEAN countries. This represents the highest proportion recorded since AmCham Shanghai first conducted the survey. Continued …
Thailand’s FTA trade benefits hit Bt1.4 trillion in first half of 2025
Arada Fuangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade, revealed that during the first six months of 2025 (January-June), the value of Thailand’s trade benefits under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand.
Total utilization reached US$44.79 billion (around Bt1.4 trillion), representing 79.6% of eligible FTA trade, up 10.2% from the same period last year. Continued …
European firms keen on Thailand
Thailand remains a key destination in Southeast Asia for European companies seeking to expand business operations to withstand ongoing global economic shocks and uncertainties, according to a recent survey by the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC).
ASEAN has emerged as “the region with the best economic opportunity for European businesses”, beating India and China for the third year running in the EU-Asean Business Sentiment Survey, published by the EU-ABC yesterday. Continued …
Hospitality industry sees flaws in proposed Hotel Act changes
The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) has expressed concern about attempts to revise the Hotel Act, saying any changes must ensure that tourist safety will not be compromised and shoddy operations will face consequences.
The association does not say the 2004 Hotel Act has any loopholes, President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said yesterday. The problem is ineffective law enforcement against operators that do not follow the rules, he said. Continued …
Sex tourism from the UK to Thailand spotlighted in BBC documentary series
A new BBC documentary series is turning heads in the UK as it exposes Thailand’s booming sex industry. The show pulls no punches, diving deep into the country’s thriving sex tourism trade — one that continues to lure British men in droves.
These encounters are more than casual transactions; they’ve given rise to a growing number of Anglo-Thai relationships. The phenomenon isn’t new. It began in the 1960s in Bangkok and Pattaya, but decades later, it’s still alive and kicking. Continued …
Chinese Tourist Dies After Jet Ski Incident off Koh Larn
A Chinese tourist has died and another survived after a jet ski incident off Koh Larn near Pattaya. The couple, who rented the craft from Tawaen Beach on Tuesday, failed to return it by the agreed time. Rescue teams launched a large-scale search and discovered the man alive in the early hours of yesterday, while his wife was later found dead.
Police were first alerted when the jet ski owner reported that the craft had not been brought back. Officials from Pattaya City Police, the Marine Department, tourist police, and Sawang Boriboon rescue units joined the overnight search. Boats and specialist teams were deployed across the waters surrounding Koh Larn. Continued …
Thai Airways to phase out its first class cabins
Thai Airways intends to phase out its first class cabins within the next two to three years as part of a strategic transformation aimed at enhancing its premium travel offerings and reclaiming market share.
Instead, the airline will prioritize upgrading its business class to a more luxurious standard, in line with global aviation trends. This decision follows Thai Airways’ successful financial restructuring and exit from its reorganization plan. Continued …
Khao Yai ranked Asia’s No.2 rural destination
Khao Yai has been ranked the second most popular rural destination in Asia in 2025 by online travel agency Agoda, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal on the global tourism stage.
The ranking, based on accommodation searches between Feb. 15 and Aug. 15, considered destinations in rural areas with fewer than 50,000 residents across eight Asian countries. Continued …
Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts in the Heart of Nature
In recent years, the travel landscape has undergone a major transformation. Today, travelers are seeking more than just typical vacations. They are looking for extraordinary, immersive experiences in the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring locations.
However, this desire for isolation is balanced with an equally strong craving for luxury, meaning comfort, world-class service, and top-tier amenities. It’s no longer just about escaping to secluded places; it’s about doing so in style and enjoying the finest services available. Continued …
Face masks: An environmental time bomb
Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, face masks have become an essential tool for personal protection. However, along with their widespread use, billions of discarded masks have accumulated in both landfills and waterways.
Scientists are now warning that used face masks are an “environmental time bomb” that are breaking down into “microplastics” and continuously releasing harmful chemicals. Continued …
Taiwanese Man Arrested for Call Center Money Laundering – Continued …
2 Chinese and 11 Burmese arrested in Bangkok e-cigarettes factory raid – Continued …
Indonesian democracy on brink
The anti-government protests sweeping Indonesia over the past two weeks are not fleeting outbursts but the culmination of long-suppressed grievances against abuses of power, the erosion of constitutional norms, and the violation of basic human rights. The protesters are not seeking an apology or even sympathy from the president; they demand the chance to live a decent life in which their dignity and human rights are respected and upheld. Continued …
Oracle chief Ellison challenges Musk for ‘world’s richest’ title
Billionaire Elon Musk is at risk of losing his title as the world’s wealthiest person to Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, whose software giant appears poised for massive AI riches through a major deal with OpenAI. Ellison, 81, amassed about $95 billion in additional wealth yesterday as Oracle shares skyrocketed after the nearly 50-year-old company forecast massive revenue growth thanks to large contracts that will dwarf current revenue. Continued …
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Hua Hin Chinese New Year Festival/’Dogs illegally on PKK beach’ saga/PM2.5 levels expected to rise/Hotels insist on government action/Bt620 million to tackle forest fires, smog/Children highly exposed to PM2.5/Bangkok train ridership surges/5 hidden healthcare costs/Stray dogs face starvation/Elephants wreak havoc/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: ‘Logistics hub of Asia’/Record-Breaking Export Levels/Thai aviation industry/Suvarnabhumi leads Southeast Asia/Rice exports hit six-year high/Thai rice exports seen falling/Car output at 1.5 million/Thai gold demand/TOURISM: Chinese Tourism Rises 20%/Bangkok’s Chinatown celebrates/Top spots for Thai tourists/INTERNATIONAL/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
‘Dogs illegally on PKK beach’ saga continues with restaurant confrontation
A Thai-Irish couple lodged a complaint yesterday with Bang Saphan Police Station in Prachuap Khiri Khan following an alleged verbal assault by a Swiss national at a local restaurant.
Panicha, 55, and her Irish husband, 71, who reside in Phong Prasat subdistrict, reported the incident, which they believe is linked to an ongoing dispute over unleashed dogs on a local beach. Continued …
PM2.5 levels expected to rise in February
The health ministry predicts that air quality will remain good until tomorrow, with PM2.5 levels expected to return by early February. Residents are advised to prepare for potential pollution, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities and should monitor air quality levels regularly.
Yesterday at the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Center, Dr. Warat Chotipitayasunont, the government spokesperson on PM2.5 air pollution issues, provided a daily update on the air quality situation. He stated that PM2.5 levels were very good or in the blue range in six provinces: Surin, Sa Kaeo, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Nayok, Suphan Buri, and Bueng Kan. Continued …
Hotels insist on government action to address PM2.5
Hotel operators are urging the government to work with the entire supply chain to solve the air pollution issue before it severely hampers tourism, while hostels cry foul over the high cost burden of having clean air for guests.
Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, executive vice president of Sukosol Hotels, said hotels have not reported any cancellations or delays attributed to smog during the high season or the Chinese New Year festival this week. Continued …
Cabinet approves Bt620 million to tackle forest fires, smog
The cabinet has approved a central fund allocation of 620 million baht to tackle the forest fires and PM2.5 dust haze that regularly pollute much of the country.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said yesterday the cabinet meeting approved the 620 million baht fund to deal with forest fires and toxic smog this year, as proposed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Continued …
Estimated 13.6 million children in Thailand highly exposed to PM2.5
UNICEF is concerned about the escalating levels of PM2.5 air pollution in Thailand, which is putting the health of approximately13.6 million children across Thailand at risk. This situation demands urgent action to safeguard children’s health and well-being, the organization says.
According to UNICEF’s Over the Tipping Point report in 2023, the number of children in Thailand highly exposed to PM2.5 is greater than those affected by other climate hazards, such as floods, heatwaves, and droughts. Continued …
Bangkok train ridership surges 60% amid free transport initiative
Train ridership across greater Bangkok experienced a significant 60% rise on Sunday, marking the second day of the government’s week-long initiative of free public transport aimed at combating air pollution, as reported by the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) yesterday.
DRT Director-general Pichet Kunathammarak noted that the city’s electric train network saw a 60.9% increase in ridership on Sunday, reaching 1,549,622 trips compared to the average of the three previous Sundays in January. This figure surpassed the 45.3% growth recorded on Jan. 25, the first day of the free transport initiative. Continued …
5 hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and how to avoid them
Thailand’s healthcare system is affordable and supported by the niversal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme, offering essential services to most citizens. However, hidden healthcare costs can surprise patients and lead to unexpected expenses.
These include specialist fees, insurance gaps, emergency services, and overpriced medications. This article highlights five hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and shares simple ways to avoid them for better financial planning. Continued …
Over 700 stray dogs face starvation at Chachoengsao landfill
A concerning situation has emerged in Chachoengsao province, where over 700 stray dogs are reportedly starving at a local landfill, raising worries about potential rabies outbreaks as the hot season approaches. Residents are urging government intervention to address the issue.
Yesterday, reporters were alerted to the condition of these stray dogs at a landfill in Mueang Hua Samrong, Plang Yao district, covering an area of approximately 5 to 10 rai. Upon arrival, the reporters found the area surrounded by forest, accessible by dirt roads, and populated by dogs gathered in groups of about 20 to 30. Continued …
Elephants wreak havoc on Prachin Buri sugarcane farms
Farmers in Prachin Buri’s Kabin Buri district face significant challenges as wild elephants from the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary in Chachoengsao province have invaded their sugarcane fields.
The elephants have caused substantial damage to the crops and are residing in the sugarcane fields in Wang Tha Chang. This situation has rendered workers unable to harvest fresh sugarcane due to safety concerns. The farmers are left with limited options, as burning the sugarcane, a method they prefer not to use could result in losing government aid for three years and facing legal repercussions. Continued …
Russian couple accused of dining and dashing at many Phuket restaurants – Continued …
Illegal Daycare Center Run by Russians and Ukrainians Busted on Koh Phangan – Continued …
Vietnamese national arrested for illegal cannabis farm in Bangkok – Continued …
‘Logistics hub of Asia’ efforts prioritized
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered the high-speed rail, double-track railway, and land bridge projects be expedited to position Thailand as the “logistics hub of Asia”.
According to Jirayu Huangsab, spokesman for the prime minister’s office, during the weekly cabinet meeting yesterday the premier said Thailand has a strategic geographic advantage, as well as political stability and neutrality. Continued …
Thailand Achieves Record-Breaking Export Levels in 2024
In 2024, Thailand‘s exports reached a landmark $300.5 billion (10.5 trillion baht), growing 5.4% from the previous year. December alone saw an 8.7% increase, marking six months of continuous growth. Major markets included the U.S., China, Japan, and the EU, with notable expansion in South Asia, the Middle East, and Russia.
Experts attribute this success to strategic government policies, including trade agreements with major economies and incentives for exporters. Additionally, investments in infrastructure and digital transformation have streamlined logistics and enhanced efficiency across supply chains. Continued …
Thai aviation industry expected to return to pre-Covid-19 levels
The Thai aviation industry is expected to recover to pre-Covid-19 levels this year as the number of passengers surged by 15.1% in 2024, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
The aviation industry saw 140 million passengers in 2024, up 15.1% compared with 2023. Meanwhile, 880,000 flights were conducted last year, up 11.9% year on year. Continued …
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi leads Southeast Asia aviation industry
Southeast Asia’s aviation industry is taking off this year, with major airports and emerging destinations recording impressive growth in seat capacity. Fueled by surging travel demand, expanded airline networks, and strategic connectivity upgrades, the region is cementing its position as a global aviation powerhouse.
Leading the charge is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, adding 407,000 seats in January — a 16% increase from last year. Its dual role as a major tourist gateway and transit hub, combined with Thailand’s booming tourism recovery, solidifies its dominance in the region. Continued …
Thailand’s rice exports hit six-year high last year
Thailand exported 9.95 million tons of rice in 2024, increasing 13% from the previous year, and the highest number in six years, the Commerce Ministry reported yesterday. The value of exported rice last year also rose 27% year on year to 225.65 billion baht.
White rice is responsible for 60% of the total export or 5.99 million tons, followed by jasmine rice at 1.74 million tons, steamed rice at 1.27 million tons, fragrant rice at 0.63 million tons, sticky rice at 0.3 million tons and brown rice at 0.02 million tons. Continued …
Thai rice exports seen falling over 20% this year
Thailand’s rice exports are seen falling about 24% to 7.5 million metric tons this year, the Commerce Ministry reported on Tuesday. The lower forecast was due to the resumption of exports from India and improved volumes from other rice producers, Arada Fuangtong, head of the ministry’s Foreign Trade Department, told a media conference.
Easing drought conditions are supporting yields, and major importers such as Indonesia may have less demand, the ministry said. Continued …
Federation of Thai Industries keeps car output at 1.5 million
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is maintaining its car production target at 1.5 million units this year, though high household debt, weak purchasing power and strict lending conditions are projected to challenge the industry.
The output target comprises 1 million units for export and 500,000 units for the domestic market, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, FTI vice chairman and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club. Continued …
Thai gold demand still powerful
Thailand’s gold demand remains robust thanks to investor buying during times of economic and political uncertainty, while inflation and risks posed by Donald Trump’s America-first agenda could drive demand for bullion further in 2025, says the World Gold Council (WGC).
In contrast to a 9% global decline, Thailand’s consumer bar and coin demand increased 15% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2024, with the country the largest buyer of bars and coins in Southeast Asia, said Shaokai Fan, head of Asia-Pacific (ex-China) and global head of central banks at the WGC. Continued …
Chinese Tourism to Thailand Rises by 20% Despite Safety Concerns
Despite growing safety concerns, Thailand has seen a substantial 20.3% increase in Chinese tourist arrivals year-on-year this past week. This boost underscores the enduring allure of Thailand’s diverse attractions even amid apprehension about certain safety issues that have circulated recently.
Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, announced that during the week of Jan. 20 to 26, tourist arrivals experienced a 16% growth compared to the same period last year, with the increase driven largely by short-haul visitors. Continued …
Video: Bangkok’s Chinatown celebrates Year of Snake
The Yaowarat Road in Bangkok’s Chinatown is now lit up with decorative lights, celebrating the 2025 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake. The celebration marks the 50th anniversary of cultural cooperation between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and China. The themed decorations will last until Feb. 9. Video …
Japan and China remain top spots for Thai tourists
Japan and China are anticipated to continue being the leading destinations for Thai tourists this year, with at least 2.5 million people expected to visit due to visa exemptions, weaker currencies, and a variety of tourism options.
Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Assn. (TTAA), noted that these countries were the most popular at the Thai International Travel Fair held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre last week. Tour packages, air tickets, and tourism services related to Japan and China were in high demand. Continued …
Migration set to drive UK population to 72.5 million by 2032
The United Kingdom’s (UK) population is set to hit 72.5 million by mid-2032, according to new official projections, an upward revision of more than 100,000 people that will pile pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to crack down on immigration. Continued …
Trump foreign-aid freeze leaves millions without essential drugs
The Trump administration has moved to stop the supply of lifesaving drugs for HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, as well as medical supplies for newborn babies, in countries supported by USAID around the globe, a memo reviewed by Reuters shows. Continued …
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A year in review
As 2024 ends, we look back at the year’s top stories. From the Sukhumvit clash between Thai and Filipina transgender groups to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s luxury stay in Phuket, this year was filled with headlines that captured the attention of many.
Highlights also include the Bangkok-to-Beijing railway launch, updated foreign land ownership laws, and bold government policies like the alcohol tax cut. Continued …
Holiday road accidents claim 143 lives across Thailand
The number of road accidents in the first three days of New Year holiday travel neared 900, with more than 140. fatalities. Ayutthaya recorded the most accidents while Bangkok logged the most deaths.
From Dec. 27 to 29 there were 872 traffic accidents, 143 deaths and 841 injured people. Speeding was the most common cost of the accidents, followed by drink-driving. Motorcycles were the most common type of vehicle involved in the accidents. Continued …
Thailand braces for cold wave with thunderstorms in the south
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has forecasted a significant drop in temperature across northern and upper southern Thailand due to a cold air mass, with thunderstorms expected in several provinces in the south.
Today’s weather forecast highlights that a moderate cold air mass is covering the upper part of Thailand and the upper southern regions, resulting in cold to chilly weather in the northeastern and northern areas. Continued …
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Three Korean Tourists Sought in Fatal Bangkok Hotel Fire Investigation
Thai police are searching for three Korean tourists who were occupants of the room where a deadly fire originated at The Ember Hotel near Khao San Road, Bangkok. The Sunday night blaze resulted in three foreign tourist fatalities due to smoke inhalation.
During an inspection of the fire scene uesterday, Amorn Pimanmas, president of the Engineering Institute of Thailand, reported that the six-story hotel’s structure on Tani Road remained intact. The fire was contained to room 511, where investigators found a severely damaged bed, suggesting it as the likely point of origin. Continued …
Elephants to get birth control shots to limit population
The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry is looking to use birth control shots on wild elephants to limit their population and lessen attacks on humans.
Thailand is reported to have at least 4,000 wild elephants, with its birth rate up by 7%-8% a year. The wild elephants’ population is predicted to grow to at least 6,000 in the next four years, which is inconsistent with shrinking forest areas. Continued …
Lisa tops ‘soft power’ poll
Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal, the globally renowned Thai K-pop star, is in top spot for the 2024 Thailand’s most powerful soft power poll, followed by the baby pygmy hippo “Moo Deng” and the Butter Bear mascot, or “Nong Mee Noei”.
The poll on this year’s soft power overview was conducted among 1,500 participants between Dec. 24 and 28. Of those, 25.4% voted Lisa the most influential soft power figure of the year, followed by Moo Deng, the celebrity hippo at Khao Kieow Zoo, with 15.2% of the votes and Butter Bear, the mascot of a bakery shop of the same name, with 12.7% of the votes. Continued …
How Thailand Is Redefining ‘Soft Power’
Moo Deng might seem to most people like just an adorable viral baby hippo, but to the government of Thailand, where she’s from, she’s a cultural ambassador and shining example of the country’s push to boost what it calls its “soft power.”
The term soft power was coined at the height of the Cold War by American political scientist Joseph Nye, who used it to describe “when one country gets other countries to want what it wants” without the use of force, in contrast to the hard power “of ordering others to do what it wants.” Continued …
2024: The year of gold frenzy in Thailand
Gold prices witnessed a sharp spike in 2024, captivating both local and global markets. Spot gold this year, according to news agency Reuters, surged 28%t to $2,615.99 per ounce as of Dec. 27.
In Thailand, consumers and investors paid greater attention to the rapidly rising price and a high-profile public fraud involving two groups of gold dealers who tried to cash in on the gold fever. Continued …
Recognizing the link between Buddhism and public diplomacy
In Thailand, Buddhism and public diplomacy may have more in common than is apparent on the surface. The link, as explained by the venerable Phra Phrompacharayanmuni, also known as Ajahn Jayasaro, lies in the principles that can help promote mutual respect internationally.
Ajahn Jayasaro is one of this year’s recipients of Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award, co-organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Thailand Foundation. Continued …
How Thailand’s economy fared in 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, Thailand’s economic landscape reflects a mixture of progress and setbacks. At the beginning of the year, leading banks, institutions and credit-rating agencies predicted economic growth between 3.5% and 4%.
However, recent estimates have adjusted this figure down to around 2.8% to 3.2%, reflecting global economic headwinds and domestic challenges faced throughout the year. Continued …
KResearch unveils the “3S” trends among consumers next year
Smart spending, self-healing and sustainability are expected to become trends among consumers next year, according to Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) on Monday.
For the smart-spending trend, the center explained that consumers would plan their expenses carefully due to declining purchasing power and economic downturn. Continued …
F&B sector undergoing critical shift
Thailand’s food and beverage sector is experiencing a critical shift, driven by consumer preferences and government policies that prioritize sustainability.
In response to mounting environmental challenges, various countries are implementing policies such as the European Green Deal, the extended producer responsibility (EPR) framework, and Thailand’s Sustainable Packaging Act. Continued …
Business opportunities and challenges in Thailand in 2025
The food and beverage industry remains a timeless rising star, while healthcare, beauty, and tourism continue to lead alongside children’s products and green businesses.
If you’re planning to start a business in 2025, it’s crucial to gather information and seize the golden opportunities that align with consumer demands. Kasikorn Research Center reports that while business growth in 2025 will face multiple challenges, including economic slowdown, intense competition with imported goods, an aging population impacting spending, and unpredictable weather, there are still promising sectors. Continued …
The boardwalk at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
National parks to waive entry fees for Thai tourists on Dec 31-Jan 1
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) will waive entry fees to all national parks nationwide for Thais on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, a government spokesperson said yesterday.
Sasikarn Watthanachan, deputy government spokesperson, said the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry wants to offer a New Year present to Thai citizens while promoting tourism. Hence, it has called on the DNP to waive entry fees at all national parks on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. Continued …
Check Out These Dining Spots Near The Chao Phraya River
Let’s face it, 2024 has been a wild ride. Between juggling work, chasing goals, and surviving the occasional chaos of life, we’ve also had to deal with the cosmos throwing curveballs. Remember when Mercury retrograde was pulling up its antics or the moon making us all a little more emotional than we’d like?
Yeah, that was a crazy period, but we’ve made it through, so it’s now time to reward yourself the best way possible — with food. Here’s our guide to the best dining spots near the Chao Phraya River. Continued …
Top environmental issues of 2024: Kingdom’s ecology under attack
Environmental issues damaged Thai society and the economy in a number of ways in 2024.
Invasion of the alien fish
The year-end is just around the corner, but the authorities’ attempts to find those responsible for the massive spread of blackchin tilapia has yet to yield solid results. For several months, this invasive species of alien fish has caused huge damage to Thailand’s economy and ecosystems. Continued …
45th Dugong Carcass Found in the Andaman Sea in 2024
A male juvenile dugong, emaciated and with barnacles attached to its body, was discovered washed ashore near the Ban Bo Mamuang Pier in Khlong Thom District, Krabi. This marks the 45th dugong carcass found in the Andaman Sea this year.
Preliminary examinations revealed that the carcass belonged to a male dugong measuring 200 centimeters in length and weighing approximately 100 kilograms. The animal was not yet fully grown and appeared malnourished. No significant injuries or fishing-related wounds were found. This discovery is the third dugong carcass reported in the last four days. Continued …
57 sugar mills ordered to suspend operations until Jan 2 to address air pollution
The Ministry of Industry has ordered 57 sugar mills across Thailand to temporarily close until Jan. 2 to tackle air pollution and improve road safety during the New Year holiday.
The shutdown aims to reduce pollution caused by the illegal burning of sugarcane, which harms air quality. Stopping sugarcane transportation during this period is also expected to lower traffic risks and make travel safer for holiday travelers. Continued …
‘Green hospitals’ gain traction
Many hospitals are stepping up efforts to become “green hospitals” with an aim to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and ensure high environmental standard practices.
Their projects range from increasing green areas to better dealing with energy and medical packaging issues to support the campaign against global warming. Continued …
Hua Hin’s monkey problem/Elephant parade at Bluport/New regulation for COD/Public vehicle inspections in PKK/Bus Owner Tried to Hide Illegal Gas Cylinders/Gas leak cause of school bus fire/Bus Companies Lament Over Suspension/Chaig Rai district flooded again/Chiang Mai braces for more floods/Strengthening ties with Iran/Birth control campaign launches/Welfare card benefits updated/Thai gold primed for record/Economy: Stimulus to lift GDP/Stricter Regulations on Business Nominees/Political Economy of Cinema/Thai rice struggles/Tourism: Boosting tourism/Suvarnabhumi Airport Gears Up/Hassle-free DTV applications/Don Mueang-Lampang route/Discounted Flights To Beijing, Shanghai/Thailand Experience: Tips for families moving to Thailand/Jewel of budget street food/Climate Thailand: Making Bangkok a livable city/Renewables investment expected/Transforming Plastic Waste Management/BYD’s affordable EVs/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
Hua Hin still trying to deal with all those monkeys
New regulation empowers customers using cash-on-delivery services
A new regulation that allows consumers to inspect products before making payments for cash-on-delivery (COD) shipping services took effect from yesterday.
Under the new regulation of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board, customers can now check their items before payment, and if the goods are damaged or not as advertised, they can reject the package. Continued …
Public transport vehicle inspections started in PKK
Bus Owner Caught Trying to Hide Illegal Gas Cylinders After Deadly Fire
Authorities have uncovered attempts by the company responsible for the bus fire that killed 23 students and teachers in Pathum Thani to conceal illegal modifications to other buses in its fleet.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) revealed that additional gas cylinders were being secretly removed from five of the company’s buses just days after the fatal accident. Continued …
Investigation reveals gas leak as cause of deadly school bus fire
Authorities are now working to determine the exact cause of the gas leak and what sparked the tragedy in which 23 lives were lost.
Police Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwphan, who oversees the Police Forensic Science Office, revealed that initial findings confirmed a gas leak at the front of the bus. However, the exact cause of the spark that ignited the fire and what led to the gas leak remains undetermined. Continued …
Bus Companies Lament Over Suspension of School Field Trips
Tour bus companies across the nation are facing challenging times following a government directive halting school field trips. This decision came after a devastating bus fire in Pathum Thani on Tuesday, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 20 students and three teachers.
The Ministry of Education has ordered the temporary suspension for safety evaluations, putting a significant dent in the operations of many tour bus firms. Continued …
Chaig Rai district flooded again as Sai River breaks its banks
Residents of Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district, recovering from a massive flood early last month, were inundated again on Thursday morning when the Sai River broke its bank.
Local authorities said the river broke its banks at around 9am near the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, which links Mae Sai with Tachilek across the border. Continued …
Chiang Mai braces for more flooding
More flooding is expected in beleaguered Chiang Mai later today, with water levels along the Ping River expected to reach 4.95 meters starting in the morning. Recent heavy downpours in upstream areas have caused the Ping River to rise rapidly, Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithaworn said on Thursday.
He advised residents living along the river to move their vehicles and other valuables to higher ground. Hospitals and local clinics in low-lying areas have also been told to move bedridden patients to safer areas in case an evacuation is necessary. Continued …
PM discusses strengthening ties with Iran
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Thursday attended a bilateral meeting with Masoud Pezeshkian, president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to discuss elevating diplomatic relations, as well as cooperation in culture and sports.
The PM is in Doha, Qatar, this week to attend the 3rd Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit. After the session on Thursday, she engaged in bilateral talks with international leaders, PM adviser Jirayu Houngsab said. Continued …
Birth control campaign launches nationwide
The Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Organon (Thailand) Ltd., has launched a campaign to raise awareness and provide accurate information about birth control, aiming to address the issue of unplanned pregnancies in Thai society.
Under the theme “I’m Taking Control of My Birth Control,” the campaign focuses on empowering Thai women to access effective contraceptive implants at participating hospitals. This initiative aligns with the broader strategy to prevent and reduce unplanned teenage pregnancies, a critical issue impacting family stability, social well-being, and national development. Continued …
Thailand welfare card benefits updated for October
Thailand’s Comptroller General’s Department has updated the welfare card benefits for October. Eligible individuals will receive various allowances and benefits starting this month, including purchasing allowances, transport subsidies, and additional disability payments.
The benefits include a 300-baht monthly allowance for purchasing goods, an 80-baht discount on cooking gas purchases every three months from October to December, and a transportation allowance of 750 baht per person per month. Continued …
Thai gold primed for record high
The domestic price of gold could hit 44,000 baht per baht weight, from 41,350 baht now, as tensions rise in the Middle East, the baht depreciates and the U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to continue cutting interest rates, says the Gold Traders Assn. (GTA).
The price of gold bars surged by 400 baht per baht weight on Wednesday, as the baht retreated to 33.02-33.04 to the U.S. dollar from Tuesday’s close of 32.76. Continued …
Stimulus to lift GDP by 0.3 percentage points
The government’s first phase of the cash handout scheme, amounting to 145 billion baht, is expected to help stimulate the economy this year, raising GDP by 0.3 percentage points, with the momentum extending into the first quarter of next year, says Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul.
The government is preparing more stimulus measures to maintain the economic growth momentum, which will encourage spending toward the end of this year, he said. Continued …
Thailand Imposes Stricter Regulations on Business Nominees
In fiscal 2024, the Thai Business Development Department identified 26,019 businesses across four key sectors — tourism and related services, real estate and land trading, hotels and resorts, and logistics and transportation — that potentially involve Thai nationals acting as nominees for foreign shareholders.
Oramon Sapthaweetham, the department’s director-general, disclosed that these businesses are situated across six provinces, including major economic hubs such as Bangkok, Surat Thani, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Continued …
The Political Economy of Cinema in Thailand
Thailand’s economy is built around exports. The country is a leading regional exporter when it comes to cars, rice, and manufactured goods, as well as services like tourism. One export we probably don’t associate with Thailand immediately is movies, but the country actually has one of the better-developed ecosystems for film production in Southeast Asia.
There is a government agency, the Thailand Film Office, whose task it is to market Thailand to foreign production companies. There are a number of government incentives designed to make shooting in Thailand attractive, such as rebates for productions that meet minimum expenditures and hire locals. Continued …
Thai rice struggles as baht rises, India resumes exports
India’s resumption of rice exports on Sept. 28 has hit Thai exporters hard, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Assn. (TREA).
TREA President Chookiat Ophaswongse said India’s return to the market, combined with the Thai currency reaching a 30-month high of 32.37 per U.S. dollar on Sept. 30, has hurt the competitiveness of Thai rice exporters, cutting their revenues by 3-4 baht per dollar. Continued …
Tourism authorities look at ways to further boost tourism
The Tourism and Sports Ministry and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) discussed plans to reclaim Thailand’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination on Thursday. The meeting took place at the Dusit Thani Bangkok in the capital and was attended by representatives from the TAT’s 74 domestic and overseas offices.
“The public sector is ready to promote tourism, such as attracting investment in man-made destinations and drawing international events to the country,” Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said, noting that the number of domestic and international flights to Thailand will increase in the high season. Continued …
Suvarnabhumi Airport Gears Up for Q4 Passengers in Peak Season
AOT expects an increase in the total number of passengers in the peak season or fourth quarter of this year, which started in October, coinciding with the Chinese National Day.
This coincided with the Golden Week of Chinese National Day, to reach a level comparable to that of 2019 before the COVID-19 crisis. Suvarnabhumi Airport alone is expected to handle up to 200,000 passengers per day. Continued …
Thai visa agencies offer hassle-free DTV applications
Visa agencies in Thailand are stepping in to simplify the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) application process, helping applicants navigate the often complex bureaucracy of Thai embassies.
Since the DTV’s launch in July, it has attracted interest from digital nomads and expatriates, but inconsistent requirements at different embassies have created confusion. Continued …
Air Asia now offers Don Mueang-Lampang route
Thai Air Asia has launched its new domestic route from Don Mueang Airport to Lampang, marking a significant turning point in connecting northern Thailand with Bangkok.
The airline operates the new route daily, utilizing A320s with 180 seats in a single-class layout. The average roundtrip fare is USD110, but currently is promoting special one-way promotional fares starting at Bt1,100 . Moreover, the airline uses an ATR72 with 70 seats and the flight duration is one hour and a half. Continued …
Thai Airways Offers Discounted Flights To Beijing And Shanghai
Thai Airways has launched exclusive deals for flights to Beijing and Shanghai, the two major cities and tourist hubs, for a limited period. This offer is part of Thai Airways’ latest initiative to boost connectivity and facilitate travel between the two nations.
From Nov. 2-24, the direct round-trip flight from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Beijing’s Capital International Airport is on sale. Flight TG674 is serving its route three times a week on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Economy flights start at Bt14,440, and business class tickets start at Bt41,410. Continued …
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10 essential tips for families moving to Thailand
Moving to Thailand is an exciting adventure, especially when you’re moving with your family. The country is popular for its warm climate, rich culture, and welcoming people, making it a popular destination for expatriates.
However, settling in a new country can be challenging. To help make your transition smoother, here are 10 essential tips for families moving to Thailand. Continued …
The jewel of budget street food: 20 baht noodles in Kanchanaburi
We are sure that you are well aware of the street food scene in Thailand, where dishes from all walks of life can be found on every corner. No matter if you’re in Bangkok or any other city in the Kingdom of Thailand, street food vendors are always around to offer delicious and affordable meals.
There is no separating flavorsome street food from Thai culture. Jae Nai, located in the very heart of Kanchanaburi, is a perfect example. In the province’s lively Red City Market lies a humble noodle stall that has been stealing the hearts of many online users. Continued …
Chadchart unveils his mission to make Bangkok a livable and sustainable city
Sustainable urban growth is not solely about environmental factors but also about the sustainability of citizens’ lives, Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said on Wednesday at the Sustainability Expo 2024 being held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
Taking part in a panel discussion titled “Pathways to a Sustainable Urban Future”, he unveiled his vision for “Bangkok: A Livable City for Everyone”. He said this requires cooperation among the government, private sector, and communities to invest in enhancing quality of life and sustainable development, to make Bangkok a livable city for all. Continued …
Bt300 billion in new renewables investment expected
Investment in new renewable energy development in Thailand is expected to reach 300 billion baht in value, as authorities accelerate efforts to promote clean power usage, says an Energy Ministry official.
The latest projection was made by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), which launched a renewables scheme to increase the nation’s renewable power generation capacity, said the official who requested anonymity. Continued …
Transforming Plastic Waste Management in Rayong
Researchers from Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, the Tokyo Institute of Technology, and King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi have conducted an in-depth study on enhancing plastic waste (PW) management in Rayong, a coastal city in Thailand. The study aims to improve the current systems of plastic waste handling by exploring ways to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while increasing economic value.
The city, located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf Coast, faces challenges in managing significant amounts of plastic waste, much of which is either incinerated for energy or ends up in landfills. By analyzing existing practices and proposing new strategies, the researchers present a roadmap to transition Rayong’s waste-management system toward a more efficient and environmentally sustainable model. Continued …
BYD and its affordable EVs
It may not yet be a household name, but BYD is gaining recognition outside China for its affordable and accessible electric vehicles (EV). Despite regulatory scrutiny in the West, it’s determined to lower the boundaries to manufacturing and transporting its vehicles across the globe.
Five years ago, BYD was just another Chinese carmaker in a crowded field. Since then, the Shenzhen-based company has rapidly become the undisputed leader of China’s automotive industry, as well as the world’s biggest producer of electric vehicles (including both pure EVs and plug-in hybrids). Continued …
Hua Hin Airport progess report/Suspect in Chat Chai Market thefts arrested/Chiva-Som, sgtudents plant mangrove trees/Thailand awaits court verdict on PM/Heavy rain warning/Elephant flips parked SUV/50 years for stealing students’ lunch money/Villagers Protest Over Potholes/Thailand leads demand for gold/Thai rice faces sticky situation/Economy: Threat of US recession and geopolitical risks/Tax gain from casinos ‘not worth it’/Record for New Business Registrations/Banks set to connect to digital handout/Handout could trigger fiscal crisis/Restaurateurs await guidance on handout/No chinese takeover of Thai transport businesses/‘Could mean more illegal hotels’/Grappling with foreign illegal businesses/Threat posed by unlicensed Chinese factories/Ministry tackles chemical waste crisis/Government not convinced about Tesla plan/Thailand’s Best Managed Companies/New guidelines for ‘green industry’/Tourism: Tourism Revenue Hit 2.8 Trillion/18.2 million foreign arrivals in second half/Phuket’s Tourism Boom Outstrips Infrastructure/’Single window’ sought/Thailand Experience: Teaching English in Thailand/Living with elephants/Most Affordable Tourist Destination in Thailand/Games We Used to Play/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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
Hua Hin Airport director reports on progess of upgrades
Chiva-Som Hua Hin marks International Day for Mangrove Conservation
Chiva-Som Hua Hin marked this year’s International Day for Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem with significant steps toward environmental sustainability. The Chiva-Som team, joined by local youth, planted 500 mangrove trees at the Krailart Niwate Mangrove Project, reinforcing their commitment to preserving Hua Hin’s and the world’s ecosystems.
This annual mangrove reforestation initiative has become a tradition for Chiva-Som Hua Hin, with a focus on enhancing the Krailart Niwate Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation Project. Located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, this urban mangrove forest is the last of its kind in Hua Hin. This year, the initiative gained momentum with the involvement of 20 students from Wat Nong Kae Municipal School, who participated in planting 500 mangrove trees from 10 different species. Continued …
Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com
Thailand awaits court verdict that may topple PM Srettha
A Thai court will this week decide if the Southeast Asian nation will continue business as usual or be tipped into a renewed period of political uncertainty, when it assesses whether tycoon Srettha Thavisin should continue as prime minister.
The Constitutional Court will rule on whether Srettha violated “ethical standards” by appointing to Cabinet former lawyer Pichit Chuenban, who was jailed for contempt of court following a bribery attempt. The petition against Srettha was brought originally by a group of 40 senators, who claimed the appointment was grounds for his disqualification under the charter. Continued …
Heavy rain warning for three Thai regions
The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for heavy rain in three regions, with the northern region expected to face 70% rainfall. Bangkok will experience heavy showers from afternoon to evening.
In the southern region (eastern coast), 30% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mainly in Phetchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C to 34 to 36°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour and waves about 1 meter high, increasing in thunderstorm areas. Continued …
Playful mother elephant flips parked SUV in Khao Yai for fun
A TikTok clip that some found shocking and others amusing shows a wild elephant overturning a parked SUV at Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident took place on Monday at the Thanarat Zone, a popular tourist spot with accommodations and camping grounds.
The footage shows a herd of elephants emerging from the nearby forest and approaching the parking area. Then, one playful elephant decides to target an SUV and uses its trunk to flip the vehicle over twice and then nudging it around as if it were a toy. Continued …
Ex-school principal gets 50 years for stealing students’ lunch money
A former school principal in Nakhon Sawan has been sentenced to 50 years in jail for siphoning some 596,000 baht from his students’ lunch budget in 2021.
The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Area 6 issued a guilty verdict against Suthep Sukthong on May 15, but the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) only announced the ruling on Tuesday. Continued …
Villagers Plant Banana Trees in Road Protest Over Potholes
Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely.
As a result, these resilient residents have taken an unusual but striking step to draw attention to their plight: they’ve planted banana trees right in the middle of the road and set up donation boxes to protest the apparent neglect by government authorities. Continued …
Thailand leads Asia in demand for gold
Demand for gold in Thailand is on the rise, defying global trends of record-high prices, according to the World Gold Council’s latest report, released on Tuesday.
The report noted that Thailand’s gold market showed particular resilience in the second quarter, with bar and coin investment surging 22% year-on-year to 7 tons, as investors sought refuge in gold amid ongoing weakness in the baht. Jewelry demand also rose, increasing 12% year-on-year to two tons, defying the global trend of declining jewelry sales due to high prices. Continued …
Thai rice faces sticky situation as Vietnamese rice steals the show
Rice exporters are sounding the alarm over the possible disappearance of local Thai rice varieties, as farmers increasingly switch to a Vietnamese strain celebrated for its soft texture.
Charoen Laothamatas, president of the Thai Rice Exporters Assn., raised concerns about the dire state of the industry. Production of beloved Thai varieties like Pathum Thani fragrant rice and KB 79 has plummeted, with the Vietnamese Khao Hom Phuang, or jasmine 85, taking their place due to its impressive yield and rapid growth, said Charoen. Continued …
Threat of US recession and geopolitical risks could derail Thai economic recovery
Market expectations were jolted earlier this month when the U.S. job market created only 114,000 openings in July, while the unemployment rate rose to 4.3%, the highest since October 2021.
The disappointing figures led to market sell-offs around the world, with key U.S. stock market indices — the Nasdaq Composite, the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average — dropping sharply by 2.43%, 1.84% and 1.51%, respectively, on Aug. 2. (Editor note: Those losses were short-term and more than recovered since then.) Continued …
Tax gain from casino legalization ‘not worth it’
Several parties have criticized the government’s proposed bill to allow casinos to operate legally within entertainment complexes in the country, saying that tax revenue gained from casinos would not be worth the ensuing social problems.
A source from the Finance Ministry said this week that the draft of the Entertainment Complex Act is in the final stretch and set to undergo a public hearing this month. The draft stipulates that entertainment complex operators must register as a company in Thailand with registered capital of at least 10 billion baht. They must apply for a license, which is valid for 30 years, and will be reviewed every five years. Continued …
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Thailand May Set Record for New Business Registrations
Thailand is poised to set a new record for business registrations this year, with over 90,000 new companies expected, driven largely by government measures, including the 10,000-baht handout scheme, the Commerce Ministry announced.
In the first half of this year, the Department of Business Development recorded 46,383 new business registrations, a slight decrease of 1.91% compared to the same period last year. Continued …
Banks set to connect to Thang Rath app for digital handout
Thailand’s banks are ready to connect to the open-loop payment system of the Thang Rath application, which will be used to disburse 10,000-baht digital payments to eligible Thais under the government’s digital wallet scheme, government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said today.
While updating the progress of the scheme, which started registration on Aug. 1, Chai said the Thai Bankers Assn. has reported that all banks are ready to cooperate with the government in linking to the open-loop payment system of the Thang Rath app. Continued …
Warning given that handout could trigger fiscal crisis
The government is being advised to revise the way it hands out money to people to avoid incurring a substantial public debt, which can affect the government’s budget, potentially triggering a fiscal crisis.
Tanit Sorat, vice chairman of the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, said if the government follows through with its plan to spend a large sum of money all at once, he is worried it could spell disaster for Thailand. Continued …
Restaurateurs await guidance on digital handout
Restaurant operators will await further clarity regarding the digital wallet handout scheme after the government postponed the announcement of the eligibility criteria for vendors, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn.
Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, said restaurateurs are awaiting further details on the eligibility criteria of the scheme concerning how digital money they receive can be spent and how to convert the digital money into cash. Continued …
No Chinese takeover of Thai transport businesses, says DLT
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) dismissed media reports suggesting Chinese companies are increasingly taking over struggling Thai transport businesses, emphasizing that licenses issued to one business cannot be transferred in the event of a takeover.
“More importantly, only Thai legal entities registered and headquartered in Thailand are eligible to hold the licenses.” The DLT clarified that at least 51% of a business’s shareholders must be Thai for it to operate legally. Continued …
More foreign ownership ‘could mean more illegal hotels’
Hotel operators are concerned about changes to foreign ownership rules for real estate because they believe it could lead to another influx of illegal hotels in Thailand.
The government’s real estate stimulus proposal aims to extend the leasehold period to 99 years for foreigners, while increasing the quota for foreign ownership of condominiums from 49% to 75% of usable space in a building. Continued …
Thailand is grappling with foreign illegal businesses nominee schemes
Thailand is currently facing a significant challenge in the form of illegal businesses operating through nominee schemes. This issue has been brought to light by various local business groups and authorities who are calling for stricter law enforcement to protect legitimate businesses and the economy.
Recently, a large Chinese-language billboard in Huai Khwang district, explicitly offering services to help customers obtain passports and citizenship for several countries, has reopened the controversy surrounding nominee businesses in Thailand. Continued …
Chance discovery reveals the threat posed by unlicensed Chinese factories
A random Highway Patrol police stop on Sunday led to the discovery of two unlicensed Chinese-owned factories. The facilities in Nakhon Pathom and Samut Sakhon were engaged in aluminium smelting and recycling, activities unknown to Thai authorities. In addition, the discovery comes months after large quantities of toxic cadmium waste were found across provinces adjacent to Bangkok and the Eastern region.
The situation highlights government inertia in dealing with broad concerns raised by environmentalists that Thailand, since 2017 and a law change in China, is being used as a dumping ground for toxic industrial activities that were banned that year in the communist country. Continued …
Ministry tackles chemical waste crisis with 14.9-million-baht cleanup
The Ministry of Industry has initiated a collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and other relevant agencies to address areas recently contaminated with chemical waste.
Permanent Secretary of the Industry Ministry Nattapol Rangsitpol acknowledged the issues arising from the illegal dumping of hazardous substances in Rayong, Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phetchabun. The ministry deployed a team to monitor these complaint hotspots while working toward a lasting solution. Continued …
Government not convinced Tesla to scrap investment plan
Tesla’s proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny, as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke confirmed on Tuesday that Thailand is awaiting official word from Tesla regarding the potential scrapping of their investment plans.
“Tesla is reviewing its investment plans worldwide, not just in Thailand,” said Chai. “However, there has been no confirmation (about halting the investment plan in Thailand) from the company. It’s been reported in the news. We’re waiting to hear from them.” Continued …
Deloitte unveils Thailand’s Best Managed Companies
Deloitte Thailand has unveiled the winners of the 2024 Thailand’s Best Managed Companies awards. Now in its fourth year in Thailand, this program honors 19 outstanding local businesses for their organizational achievements and impactful contributions to their industries and the economy.
This year, four companies achieved the gold standard for the first time, having received Thailand’s Best Managed Companies designation over four consecutive years, underscoring their consistent demonstration of excellent management practices. Continued …
New guidelines for so-called ‘green industry’ introduced
As part of the Industry Ministry’s efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the industrial manufacturing sector, new guidelines for “green” industries have been introduced to help achieve carbon neutrality and net zero by 2050 and 2065, respectively.
Nattapol Rangsitpol, the ministry’s permanent secretary and chairman of the Green Industry Promotion and Development Committee, announced that the committee’s Aug. 7 meeting had approved a new draft of green industry (GI) guidelines, which will help accelerate improvements to infrastructure, regulations, workforce skills, and, most importantly, social and environmental responsibility. Continued …
Tourism Revenue Set to Hit 2.8 Trillion Baht
Thailand’s tourism industry is experiencing a robust resurgence. A significant revenue surge is projected for this year, with experts predicting that total tourism earnings will soar to 2.8 trillion baht.
This marks a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year’s figures, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The resurgence is fueled by a combination of increased flight numbers and an array of promotional campaigns aimed at both international and domestic visitors. Continued …
TAT estimates 18.2 million foreign arrivals in second half of 2024
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that 18,245,700 foreign tourists will enter Thailand from July to December this year, about 20% more than the same period in 2023.
They are estimated to generate around 964.18 billion baht of revenue, an increase of 28% year on year, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said. Continued …
The rapid increase in tourism on the previously unspoiled island of Phuket is causing issues as infrastructure developments struggle to keep up. Road congestion and environmental damage are harming the island’s image as a top-rated holiday destination.
Traffic problems on Phuket’s main highway, Thepkrasattri Road, are causing major frustration for locals and tourists alike. Other issues, such as lack of water during the dry season and severe flooding in the wet season, are contributing to the growing discontent. Continued …
‘Single window’ sought to aid tourism sector
The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) has urged the government to host the development of a “single window” to promote ease of doing business for foreigners that would unite all related data exchange of state agencies as another effort to promote the digital-driven tourism industry.
The single window could be in the form of a platform-as-a-service operated via a centralized data portal that connects with all agencies to significantly drive travel-related products and services in the country. Continued …
Teaching English in Thailand: Is the Pay Worth the Move?
Thailand has long been a favored destination for English teachers, drawn by the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern convenience, making it an appealing place to live and work.
The vibrant expat community and the opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture add to the allure of teaching English in Thailand. Yet, the question remains: does the salary and overall compensation for teaching English in Thailand justify relocating? Continued …
Studying the elephant-sized issues of living with elephants
Almost every night, Tyler Nuckols can hear fireworks and shouting — not celebrating a holiday or marking an occasion, but trying to drive elephants back into the forest. In Ruam Thai, where Nuckols is conducting socio-ecological fieldwork as he pursues a PhD in the University of Colorado Boulder, elephants emerge from the trees of Kui Buri National Park almost every night in search of pineapple.
Over many years, elephants have learned that an easy and accessible meal is in farmers’ fields — to the detriment of those fields and farmers’ livelihoods. As farmers lose their source of income and means of supporting their families, elephants risk injury or worse, as farmers — also risking injury or worse — try to deter them. Continued …
Hat Yai Is the Most Affordable Tourist Destination in Thailand
Travelers looking for some of the best deals in Asia for August and September are best off in Hat Yai. While in Thailand, Hat Yai offers the most competitive room rates during this period.
According to travel site Agoda, Hat Yai is the most affordable tourist destination in Thailand, with an average room rate of THB1,250 based on booking data between June 1, to July 7. Hat Yai takes over from Udon Thani, which came out on top of the cheapest destinations ranking released in April. Continued …
Games We Used to Play
Traditional games have been one of the cornerstones of our rich Southeast Asian culture since ancient times, providing entertainment, fun, and relaxation, while also fostering strong relationships between people.
In Thailand, Thai traditional games have been an integral part of culture and traditions. The Sukhothai period marked the earliest known games in Thailand, with records found in the stone inscriptions of King Ramkhamhaeng. Continued …
Discovery of a Subsurface Reservoir of Liquid Water on Mars
In a landmark discovery that could reshape our understanding of Mars, scientists have identified a substantial reservoir of liquid water deep within the planet’s rocky outer crust. This finding, derived from a meticulous analysis of data collected by NASA’s Mars Insight Lander, represents the first confirmed detection of liquid water on Mars — a revelation that could have profound implications for our understanding of the planet’s history, its geology, and the potential for life. Continued …
Afternoon ban on alcohol sales in Thailand still enforced
PNP Real Estate Co. prevails as Best Developer (Hua Hin) in PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards
Thailand’s top expat havens: Cost of living in 5 Provinces
Thai gold demand seen soaring as strong currency adds to allure
Netizens blast BBC’s Thailand dark side documentary
Thailand’s Southern Insurgency: A Conflict Fated to Last?
Global economy shifts as Thailand, ASEAN emerge in spotlight
European firms keen on Thailand
Indonesian democracy on brink
‘Logistics hub of Asia’ efforts prioritized
How Thailand Is Redefining ‘Soft Power’
‘Green hospitals’ gain traction
Chaig Rai district flooded again as Sai River breaks its banks
Birth control campaign launches nationwide
Air Asia now offers Don Mueang-Lampang route
Chiva-Som Hua Hin marks International Day for Mangrove Conservation
Restaurateurs await guidance on digital handout
More foreign ownership ‘could mean more illegal hotels’
Government not convinced Tesla to scrap investment plan
