- Thailand Entering Its Second Lost Decade/Rules for ride-hailing and delivery apps/Country with gun problems/Phang Nga school shooting threat/Nan braces for more rain/Heavy flooding submerges Wiang Sa/Flash floods in Mae Sot/TikTok defense against online scams/American father reunited with son
- ECONOMY: KResearch keeps growth forecast at 2% /Thai consumers taking charge/Anutin denies Japanese firms are leaving
- TOURISM: Launch of ‘Thai Tiew Thai Plus’/Hotels expect Q3 revenue fall/Chao Phraya express boat fares to rise
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A Guide to Phang Nga/Bangkok eighth in global attractive city index
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok’s EV bus transition/115 EVs for Grab’s ride-hailing fleet/Global EV Sales to Hit 27%
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Court fines Israeli man over Koh Samui zoo threatHUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
A Preliminary Case for Thailand Entering Its Second Lost Decade
Here is why Thailand might be entering a second consecutive lost decade. The first lost decade, between May 2014 and August 2023 was largely brought about by coup leader Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, who ushered in a period of relative economic stagnation and uncertainty.
Fast-forward to the present: August 2026. Consider these news items. Thailand has just registered the lowest economic growth among major ASEAN economies. The economy grew by just 1.9% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026. Tourist arrivals have declined by nearly 3% so far this year, while tourism is growing in Vietnam and Japan. Continued …
Thailand plans rules for ride-hailing and delivery apps
Thailand’s competition regulator is preparing new rules for ride-hailing and on-demand delivery platforms amid concerns over market concentration, unfair commission structures, opaque algorithms and unequal operating conditions.
The proposed requirements would regulate platform fees, commercial terms and safety standards before being developed into a formal code of practice for the industry. Continued …
The U.S. isn’t the only country with gun problems
Nine people were gunned down after a 14-year-old took his grandfather’s gun and opened fire at a school just outside Bangkok. Within days, Thailand saw two more different but deadly shootings.
The tragedies have reignited the gun control debate in a country where people are estimated to collectively own more than 10 million firearms. In response, the government is proposing tighter regulation, but critics are questioning whether the approach even gets to the heart of the problem. Video …
Panic at Phang Nga school after online shooting threat
A school in Phang Nga was terrified yesterday) after a man brandishing a gun threatened to mount an attack in an online post, with the motive apparently stemming from a family dispute.
The school is located in Takua Pa district of the southern coastal province with the suspect displaying a firearm as he specifically threatened this school in his social media post, causing significant concern among parents and the public over the safety of their children and teachers, as well as other staff. Continued …
Nan braces for more heavy rain, with saturated soil increasing flood risk
The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has warned Nan residents to prepare for another spell of heavy rain on Sunday, with saturated soil increasing the risk of further flash floods and rapid run-off even as river levels begin to stabilize and fall.
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri chaired a meeting yesterday to review flooding across the Nan River basin, coordinate assistance for affected communities and develop measures to address the province’s recurring flood problems over the longer term. Continued …
Heavy flooding submerges Wiang Sa, marooning over 1,000 Nan households
Floodwaters flowing down the Nan River inundated five subdistricts in Wiang Sa district of Nan province overnight, with water levels reaching between 1.5 and 3 meters and marooning over 1,000 households.
As the final bottleneck for mass runoffs originating from Pua, Tha Wang Pha and Muang districts before heading downstream into the Sirikit Dam reservoir, Wiang Sa remains under close watch. Continued …
Heavy rain triggers flash floods in Mae Sot as Moei River overflows
Torrential rain throughout the night triggered sudden flash floods in Mae Sot, inundating the city’s major commercial areas and forcing residents and traders to scramble to move their belongings to higher ground.
At about 4 am today, heavy rain that had continued through the night caused a huge volume of runoff to surge from waterways in the Mae Sot area, flooding communities across Mae Sot Municipality. Many residents were asleep when emergency announcements warned them to wake up and move their belongings immediately. Continued …
TikTok builds three-layer defense against online scams in Thailand
TikTok has expanded its ThaisAware campaign as it enters its third year, bringing together 13 public-sector and civil-society partners to strengthen online-scam awareness in Thailand.
First launched in 2024 with eight partners, the initiative expanded to 12 in its second year and now involves 13 organizations. The 2026 campaign comes as online fraud continues to cause substantial losses. Continued …
American father reunited with son after nearly 2 years of searching
An American mother wanted in an alleged parental kidnapping case in the US was arrested in Bangkok after allegedly taking her eight-year-old son from his father and remaining in hiding for nearly two years.
The 45-year-old American woman, identified as Linda, was arrested at an accommodation in Prawet district of Bangkok on Wednesday 19 following a parental kidnapping warrant issued by an Oregon court in the United States. Immigration officials also found her son at the location and arranged for his protection and welfare. Continued …
KResearch keeps Thailand’s 2026 growth forecast at 2% as US trade risks rise
Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) has maintained its forecast for Thailand’s economy to grow by 2% in 2026, despite second-quarter GDP expanding by a stronger-than-expected 1.9%.
The research house warned that the economy’s underlying momentum was weakening because much of the better-than-expected growth came from inventory accumulation, while several other economic drivers slowed. Continued …
Thai consumers taking charge of their wallets and spending despite low growth
Thai consumers are raiding savings, borrowing and turning to deferred payments as six years of economic weakness squeeze household finances. A new Milieu Thailand survey found 77% recently needed savings or borrowing to cover expenses, while 71% expect to become even more cautious. Yet, consumers are refusing to shut their wallets.
More than half are spending more, while 69% still make room for personal rewards. Price now dominates purchasing decisions as families protect groceries and utilities while cutting travel and fashion. Despite the squeeze, half expect their finances to improve by 2027. Continued …
Anutin denies Japanese firms are leaving Thailand amid EV shift
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed reports that Japanese investors are moving their production bases out of Thailand, saying the government will not abandon long-standing investors and will fully support the country’s traditional automotive industry.
Anutin said the government places importance on investors from all countries, particularly Japan, which has used Thailand as a major production base for decades and has become deeply integrated into the country’s industrial sector. The government is prepared to adjust business conditions and remove obstacles to ensure Japanese investors remain confident in Thailand, he said. Continued …
Ministry prepares launch of ‘Thai Tiew Thai Plus’ tourism program in October
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is gearing up for the launch, tentatively on Oct. 1, of the first phase of the “Thai Tiew Thai Plus” program, aimed at boosting domestic tourism.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said 1.75 billion baht will be used to fund the first phase of the program, adding that, if it is successful, a second phase would be considered. Continued …
Thai hotels expect Q3 revenue fall
Most Thai hotel operators expect their revenue to decline year on year during the third quarter of 2026, with lower-rated properties and hotels in the south likely to face the greatest pressure during the low season.
The industry is looking to the government’s proposed Thai Tiew Thai Plus domestic-tourism program to stimulate travel and support hotel revenue toward the end of the year. However, the proposed Oct. 1 launch and the scheme’s preliminary benefits remain subject to the Finance Ministry completing its registration and operating systems. Continued …
Chao Phraya express boat fares to rise by 1 baht from today
Fares for all passengers on Chao Phraya express boat services will be raised by 1 baht from today due to an increase in diesel prices.
The company’s managing director, Charoenporn Charoentham, said that diesel prices had risen to 37.59 baht per liter as of Aug 12. The service provides boat services between Pak Kret and Wat Rajsingkorn piers. Continued …
A Guide to Phang Nga: Beyond James Bond Island, Where Southern Thailand Slows Down
Phuket may already be on your travel radar, but drive just a little farther, and the crowds begin to fade. Welcome to Phang Nga, where towering limestone cliffs rise from emerald waters and jungle-covered landscapes invite you to slow down.
Best known as the home of James Bond Island, this southern Thai province has far more to offer than its silver-screen fame. Paddle through hidden lagoons, wander laid-back fishing villages, discover farms and fisheries championing sustainable local ingredients, and feast on some of southern Thailand’s boldest flavors. Continued …
Bangkok eighth in global attractive city index
Bangkok has been ranked eighth worldwide in the 2026 Global Tourism City Attractiveness Index, placing the Thai capital ahead of Okinawa and Chicago but immediately behind Rome.
The study, published by Yanolja Research, assessed 261 cities and issued rankings for the top 200. Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second-largest tourist destination, came 27th overall. The index is based on online traveler discussion and sentiment, not visitor arrival numbers, hotel prices or official safety assessments. Continued …
Bangkok pushes ahead with 1,520 EV bus transition
The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is preparing for a major operational overhaul, as it transitions to electric buses, with a plan to lease 1,520 electric vehicles (EVs) over seven years under a 14.9-billion-baht contract with Nakhonchai Air Co.
Delivery of the air-conditioned electric fleet will take place in three batches between March and May 2027. The first 500 buses are scheduled for delivery in late March 2027, followed by another 500 in April and the remaining 520 in May. Continued …
GAC supplies 115 EVs for Grab’s ride-hailing fleet in Thailand
GAC has delivered 115 Aion EVs for use on Grab’s ride-hailing platform in Thailand through two separate partnerships: 100 units under a tie-up with CLVG and ICBC (Thai) Leasing, and 15 units through a collaboration with Siam Taxi Cooperative.
CLVG, a local car rental and mobility solutions provider, has acquired the 100 EVs from GAC and leased them to Grab drivers. ICBC (Thai) Leasing, a subsidiary of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Thai) and part of the broader ICBC Group, is providing the drivers with financing support for the lease. Continued …
Global EV Sales to Hit 27% of Market in 2026 Despite US Policy Headwinds
Despite US market turbulence from the discontinuation of federal tax credits and supply disruptions caused by on-again, off-again tariffs, electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, according to a new report from BloombergNEF.
BloombergNEF’s annual Electric Vehicle Outlook (EVO) predicts that more than a quarter (27%) of cars sold globally in 2026 will be electric. That is up from 9% five years ago, and more than half (52%) of all passenger vehicles sold worldwide will be electric by 2035. Continued …
Court fines Israeli man over Koh Samui zoo threat
The Koh Samui Provincial Court has fined an Israeli man 5,000 baht for threatening the life of the owner of Samui Exotic Park, a zoo on the island in Surat Thani. Police had set up a safety checkpoint outside Samui Exotic Park from Aug.15 after learning of the alleged threat. They said they are still seeking another person accused of placing a 500,000-baht bounty on the zoo owner. Continued …
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Fire probe in France at Samui park manager mother’s home – Continued …
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Israeli restaurant in Phuket refuses to serve Thai customers – Continued …
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Koh Tao arrests: Six foreign dive instructors held – Continued …
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Foreign woman eventually admits Koh Pha Ngan shop theft – Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Cocaine addiction rehab in Thailand spans budget value centers to five-star clinics, and the right fit depends on price, location, and clinical need. Clinicians treat cocaine dependence through the mind, not a prescription pad, which raises the stakes on choosing well. The wrong center wastes money and momentum, while the right one separates a person from triggers and rebuilds the brain’s reward system.
Walking Naresdamri Road: The Heart of Hua Hin
TrueMoney, Southeast Asia’s leading fintech platform under Ascend Money, has rolled out Thailand’s first inclusive “tap-to-pay” digital financial service. “The move is part of a strategy designed to make contactless payments more accessible for consumers,” said Monsinee Nakapanant, co-president of Ascend Money.
The deadly fire at a beer hall in Lat Phrao has left the public with a haunting image: a long jet of flame bursting through the upper part of the main entrance like a fire-breathing dragon, even as people at floor level were still trying to escape.
Thailand, a country of 67 million inhabitants, has an elderly population of more than 12 million people, and growing, with medical needs that require highly trained staff. This is straining the capacity to meet the needs of this age group and is negatively impacting health services that provide increasingly sophisticated medical services.
The government has insisted cannabis is “not freely available” in Thailand, reiterating that cannabis buds are strictly regulated and may only be bought or sold with a valid medical prescription.
U.S. And Iran Escalate Strikes Across Mideast
Thailand’s policy of cutting retail fuel prices is coming under growing pressure, as renewed confrontation between the United States and Iran drives global oil prices higher and raises fresh concerns over supplies from the Middle East.
A majority of Thais surveyed credit the government’s “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” co-payment scheme with effectively easing their daily financial burden, though more than half use their monthly allowance within the first two weeks of the month, according to a recent poll by the King Prajadhipok’s Institute (KPI).
Vendors struggle despite aid plan
Thailand has urged the United States to accelerate negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement, as Bangkok seeks a competitive tariff outcome and greater clarity over two US Section 301 investigations.
Thailand could face a significant blow to exports if proposed US Section 301 tariffs take effect after July 24, according to Pachara Naripthaphan, a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission board.
People’s Party deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun has strongly criticized the stricter eligibility criteria for the state welfare card program, arguing that the tighter screening process has excluded many genuinely poor people from receiving assistance.
Nearly 40% of hotels report a sharper decline in guest numbers than expected last month due to the Middle East conflict, prompting them to offer deeper discounts while cutting costs to stay afloat.
Thailand has asked Japan to support four new water-management projects aimed at improving flood prevention, including measures for the flood-prone Chao Phraya River basin, as the Southeast Asian nation seeks to strengthen resilience against increasingly frequent extreme weather.
A Russian-run nominee network controling more than 775 homes worth over B5 billion, was dismantled in Chonburi, with four arrests, 41 raids and a nationwide investigation now under way into hundreds of companies and suspected foreign land ownership. 
PM Anutin Presides Over Buddhist Consecration Ceremony in Hua Hin
The State Railway of Thailand is turning the rainy season into a new travel window, launching nine special rail-tourism programs across the country from July to September. The programs are designed to promote rail-based tourism while connecting travelers with nature, local culture, religious traditions, history, and lesser-known destinations in several provinces.
Western men and indeed families are moving to Thailand in growing numbers, turning holiday romances into marriages, businesses and permanent new lives as high living costs, remote work, COVID-19 controls, and anger over Western dating culture drive a quieter migration east.
Thailand’s immigration system holds detailed records of foreign arrivals and overstayers but continues to struggle to consistently act on that information, meaning some long-term overstayers are only detected during raids, at departure points, or after unrelated criminal investigations.
The Faculty of Medicine at Prince of Songkla University (PSU) has developed CAR-T cell therapy, a highly effective and affordable treatment for patients diagnosed with lymphoma, leukemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has declared victory in the Bangkok governor election after unofficial results showed the independent incumbent heading for a landslide second term.
Two PT service stations in Pattani province and another in Yala province were set on fire by what appeared to be coordinated bombings last night. One man was injured.
The Transport Ministry will extend measures to support airlines affected by unrest in the Middle East, including a 30% reduction in air navigation service charges for domestic flights during July and August, Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit said.
One of the key raw materials for the production of plastic products is ethylene, which is produced from naphtha – a byproduct of oil refining. Approximately 60% of Asia’s current naphtha imports come from the Gulf region.
Thailand is experiencing a continuous deterioration in household credit quality amid expanding household debt, which has risen to 86.7%of national gross domestic product.
Thailand is eyeing growth in the “global pink economy” as speakers at a forum highlight rising market value, changing consumer behavior and new investment opportunities. Speaking on the topic of “Pink Economy: From Visibility to Economic Value”, Tanachai Kulsomboonsin, chief executive and co-founder of Canvas Ventures International, said awareness of the pink economy has expanded in Thailand over the past two years.
Thailand has officially opened its state-owned railway network to private operators for the first time, allowing companies to apply for track access to run passenger, tourism, and freight train services.
The global beauty industry is no longer being shaped only by Western markets. Southeast Asia, once seen largely as a follower of K-Beauty, J-Beauty, and European brands, is now positioning itself as a beauty economy hub with growing influence over the direction of the global industry.
Thai cocoa and chocolate products are expected to benefit from a growing but niche global market, particularly for high-value, environmentally friendly, and health-focused products.
The government is moving ahead with its “Thailand 365 Days” policy to position the country as a year-round, high-value tourism destination, using rising interest in natural attractions and local experiences to spread income beyond major tourist cities and support sustainable growth.
Pattaya‘s nightlife strip is leaning hard on discounts and happy hour deals this June, as bar operators describe a slow season where every customer counts. As the sun sets, colored lights flick on and staff step outside with familiar routines: smiles, greetings, and quiet invitations to passing tourists and hotel guests. Behind the lively atmosphere, though, June has become what many in the trade call a “survival month”.
Short breaks are becoming one of the defining travel trends of summer 2026, as travelers look for quicker, more flexible escapes without giving up the sense of a rewarding holiday, according to Trip.com Group.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has launched a solar rooftop power purchase program for the public sector. Applications to sell electricity from solar rooftops can begin on July 1.
Rescue teams raced yesterday to find more survivors of the two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week, with signs of life bringing occasional relief to a grim quest to whittle down a list of tens of thousands missing. The death toll from Wednesday’s twin earthquakes rose to at least 1,450 as of Saturday. 
Europe faced temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) yesterday as storms swept other areas, with France reporting 1,000 excess deaths in a record-breaking heatwave. Its public health agency said most heat-related fatalities involved older people and warned the toll was expected to rise as more details emerged from residential care and private homes. 
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the country was suffering from “a certain shortage” of fuel in an interview published by the Kremlin yesterday, after repeated Ukrainian strikes in their four-year war. 
Thailand’s consideration of an expanded foreign ownership quota for condominium units is being viewed as a possible measure to attract overseas investment, support the property sector, and improve liquidity in a market still facing a slowdown.
Warning signs of a “Super El Niño” are becoming clearer, and Thailand may not have much time left to prepare before the situation escalates from dry spells to drought, extreme heat, and a water-shortage crisis that could last until the middle of next year.
The Thai army is closely monitoring reports of Cambodian tank and military hardware movements along the border, Second Army Area commander Weerayuth Raksilp has confirmed, warning that readiness, speed, and equipment would be decisive if a third round of clashes broke out.
Thailand’s cannabis policy is facing fresh scrutiny after the House Public Health Committee convened a tense meeting to examine whether cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list, as concerns grow over widespread sales, legal loopholes, and public health risks.
Residents have raised alarm over what they describe as a growing army of stray dogs roaming the grounds of Chiang Mai City Hall, saying the animals are intimidating visitors, chasing pedestrians, and creating safety concerns at the government complex.
Thailand’s residential property market is showing clearer signs of a supply slowdown, with developers holding back new projects despite an improvement in home transfers and housing loans at the start of 2026.
Bypassing Malacca is a bridge too far for Thailand’s ports project
The Finance Ministry is expediting its review of welfare reforms to ensure the benefits target those most in need, minimize duplication across programs, and promote greater participation in the labor force. This approach is based on the concept of a negative income tax (NIT) system.
True Internet Data Center Co., or True IDC, the largest data center and cloud service provider in Thailand under the Charoen Pokphand Group, announced a continuous investment of over 6 billion baht and held a groundbreaking ceremony for its seventh data center in northern Bangkok.
The Thailand Wellness & Healthcare Expo × SPORTEC Thailand 2026 is set for June 24-27, the most complete health, wellness, fitness, and sports event of the year. Taking place across 10,000 square meters at BITEC Bangna, the three-day expo unites 22 innovation zones spanning wellness, spa, longevity, aesthetics, fitness, and sport.
Chiang Mai’s bid to become UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in jeopardy
For decades, Thailand built its economy on the assumption that energy would remain cheap, stable, and someone else’s responsibility. That assumption is beginning to break. Many see this as a threat. It may also be an opportunity.
Thailand’s rapid solar energy expansion has grown from 2.5 megawatts to nearly 5,000 megawatts, supported by government policy and falling costs. End-of-life panel management remains largely unaddressed, however, with projections estimating between 431,000 and 728,000 tons of solar waste by 2050.
Design plans reviewed for Phon Kingphet Public Park
Prachuap Khiri Khan has launched Wellness Tourism 2026 as part of a plan to promote the province as an international health and wellness destination.
Registration is opening for the Wellscape Prachuap Khiri Khan Night Run 2026, an evening health run taking runners through the “City of Three Bays”. The event, organized by Prachuap Khiri Khan Province and the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports, will take place on Friday, July 3.
Authorities have postponed a plan to impose higher electricity rates on large households with heavy consumption, citing the need to revise how power bills are calculated, says Energy Minister Akanat Promphan.
Five Thai reservoirs above maximum storage levels
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dramatically shaken up Phuket’s administration, removing the governor and transferring two deputy governors amid escalating allegations of internal conflict, influential networks, disputed beachfront land, intimidation, and claims of political protection.
Commerzbank’s analysis highlights that global energy market volatility, particularly in early 2026, is exerting substantial downward pressure on the Thai baht. Thailand’s significant reliance on energy imports, primarily crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), means that rising global energy costs directly worsen its trade balance.
Thailand’s property market is sending an interesting signal, as the number and value of “second-hand” homes listed for sale nationwide have risen significantly.
Malaysia and Thailand are edging closer to resolving a tit-for-tat seafood safety dispute, offering a lifeline to exporters after weeks of halted shipments and retaliatory restrictions on Thai shrimp and Malaysian sea bass.
Arnupharp Kongmalai, vice president of marketing at MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) evealed that the company’s operational outlook for the second half of 2026 continues to be supported by ongoing branch expansion, a value-focused business model, and government economic stimulus measures, which may partially support consumer spending.
TAT Looks to Rail Travel for the Next Chapter of Thailand’s High-Value Tourism
Traveloka reveals Thai destinations gaining global interest
Police in Vietnam have rescued more than 500 cats after dismantling a suspected cat meat trafficking network in one of the country’s largest animal welfare operations in recent years. The raid, carried out in and around Ho Chi Minh City last week, followed an investigation into a series of pet thefts. Authorities detained nine suspects and uncovered hundreds of live cats allegedly destined for the meat trade. 
The Phetchaburi Half Marathon on Sunday at Chao Samran Beach will feature a 21km half marathon (790 baht), 10km mini marathon (690 baht), and 5km race (590 baht). A VIP category priced at 1,500 baht will allow participants to compete across distances. Registration has now closed. 
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.
Fuel prices dropped by 1 to 1.20 baht per liter at PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. petrol stations nationwide this morning.
Domestic oil prices in Thailand are expected to remain elevated until the final quarter of this year, even though global crude benchmarks have eased and the US is set to sign a peace deal with Iran this Friday to end nearly four months of conflict in the Middle East.
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.
Thai financial institutions may face higher-than-average risks from AI-driven fraud as artificial intelligence reshapes financial crime and makes scams faster, more automated, and harder to detect, according to a new survey by BioCatch.
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.
Tisco Financial Group expects the global economy to face mounting challenges in the second half of 2026, warning that stagflation risks, elevated energy prices, and geopolitical tensions could create a more volatile environment for investors.
Krabi International Airport is attracting growing interest from international airlines, with new routes from Finland and Scandinavia expected to strengthen tourism and support local development, the Ministry of Transport says.
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.
The World Bank Group is supporting Thailand’s use of natural capital accounting (NCA) as a tool to help policymakers balance economic growth with environmental protection. NCA measures the stocks and flows of natural assets and translates them into data that can be used alongside existing national accounting systems.
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. 
Is Hua Hin really the perfect retirement destination in Thailand… or is there a side of life here that most YouTube videos never show? In this video, I take an honest look at what happens after the honeymoon period ends for many expats and retirees living in Hua Hin.
The real way to travel Thailand: Bangkok to Hua Hin by train
The Thai Meteorological Department has warned people in the north, northeast, east, and south to prepare for heavy rain in some areas over the next 24 hours, while Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are forecast to see thunderstorms across 70% of the area.
Replacing visa-free entry with a visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian tourists will not affect this market as affordable prices remain the decisive factor for them, while the policy change can help curb visa abuse, according to an Indian travel agent.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is positioning Africa as a key growth market as it seeks to diversify visitor sources amid ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East.
India’s largest low-cost carrier, IndiGo, has announced that its direct service to Krabi will be suspended from July 1 to Sept. 30 as part of a restructuring of its international route network.
A British man who left the UK due to rising living costs says he now lives comfortably in Chiang Mai on just GBP800 a month, compared with more than GBP3,000 a month previously. Robert Hoadley, 45, from Portsmouth, relocated in 2025 and says the move has given him greater financial freedom, improved work-life balance, and a healthier lifestyle.
Skip Chiang Mai’s usual northern loop for this 3-day Lamphun-Lampang road trip
At first glance, it may appear to be a simple question. Yet, it exposes a potentially significant anomaly within Thailand’s fisheries data system. While government agencies have consistently maintained that Thailand legally imported blackchin tilapia only once — and solely for research purposes — official records indicate that the same species was subsequently exported in remarkably large quantities to foreign markets during roughly the same period.
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the Foreign Ministry would today submit to the Cabinet a proposal to cancel the 60-day visa-free measure, known as P.60, and revise the 30-day visa-free measure, known as P.30.
Thailand has yet to decide whether to buy the broadcast rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the asking price of at least 1.3 billion baht is far above the 600-million-baht framework previously used by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, while unfavorable match times in Thailand may reduce viewership, advertising revenue, and wider economic benefits.
The Thai Meteorological Department forecast heavy rain in parts of upper Thailand over the next 24 hours, covering the north, northeast, central region, Bangkok, and surrounding provinces, today.
Consumer confidence in April plunged into crisis territory, recording the sharpest monthly decline globally and across the Asia-Pacific region, as economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, rising living costs, and dissatisfaction with government efforts to address the economy eroded public sentiment, according to the Ipsos Global Consumer Confidence Index.
The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has launched an influencer-led campaign alongside Thai celebrity couple “Cee” Siwat Chotchaicharin and “Amy” Amika Klinpratoom to showcase the economic and culinary value of the nation’s Geographical Indication (GI) products.
Thai tourism operators are looking beyond the sluggish low season and expect healthy bookings, particularly from European tourists, when the high season returns in the third quarter.
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau posted a video on Sunday warning travelers not to trust claims that a paid fast track immigration service is available at Suvarnabhumi Airport through Trip.com.
Chiang Mai On A Budget: Thailand’s Cosy Mountain Escape
Thailand is emerging as Southeast Asia’s most NEV-ready market, with 58% of consumers considering hybrid or electric vehicles — significantly above the regional average of 42.8%. Key purchase motivators include lower fuel costs, charging availability, and longer driving range.
The end of Bangkok Street food
What your go-to street food in Thailand says about you
Hua Hin Red Cross Fair on June 5-14
The Thai private sector’s damning report on the 10 most-corrupt state agencies has sent a shockwave through the government bureaucracy, prompting immediate reactions, from Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn to the director general of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), who has demanded to see evidence of the alleged bribe taking.
Thailand’s worsening corruption situation was raised as a key proposal at a joint meeting between the government and the private sector on ways to improve the country’s economic competitiveness, held at Government House on Friday.
Poll Urges End to Hidden School Fees and Equal Access
Thailand has urged Iran to allow the safe passage of eight Thai-flagged ships stranded at either end of the near-closed Strait of Hormuz. The call was made by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi last week.
Oil prices extended gains today as efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran appeared to have stalled, after a nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates came under attack and as US President Donald Trump is expected to discuss military options on Iran.
The Anutin government is under immediate pressure to ease living costs and restore economic confidence, as most respondents to a new Suan Dusit Poll want urgent action on prices and debt, while nearly half expect the economy to worsen over the next three months.
Thailand’s economy grew by 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026 from a year earlier, official data showed today, higher than the median forecast of 2.2% in a Reuters poll of analysts
Nearly three months have passed since the US-Israeli air strikes on Iran began, with no resolution to the war in sight, while almost two months have elapsed since the Thai government took office.
Thailand Land Bridge Faces Investor Doubts
Chinese investment continues to make inroads into Thai retail, with “Chinese supermarkets” expanding into Huai Khwang, Rama 9, and tourist cities. The stores stock Chinese goods ranging from snacks, drinks, tea, soft drinks, mala sauces, and instant noodles to ready-to-eat food, responding to strong online trends.
Thailand’s influencer economy is no longer just about content creation but has become a fast-growing business sector worth 45 billion baht, prompting calls for clearer standards, stronger oversight, and support to help Thai influencers compete internationally.
Swedish defense company Saab plans to expand investment in Thailand following the Royal Thai Air Force’s decision to procure Gripen E/F fighter jets, with ambitions to develop the country into a regional defense technology and production hub.
Elephant Nature Park: Inside Chiang Mai’s Ethical Elephant Haven
Thailand’s Largest Lake Is A Breathtaking Body Of Water With Islands, Bird Sanctuaries, And Fishing
In our latest travel title, Thailand: The Monocle Handbook, we showcase the very best of this sunny nation, including the multitude of excellent hospitality hotspots on offer.
Preparing for Climate-Related Losses
The BECC Primary International School has begun construction on a new purpose-built campus off Soi 112 in Hua Hin, with the school scheduled to open at the site in August 2027.
The Kite and Art Festival Prachuap Khiri Khan will take place at Saran Withi Pier from May 15-16, bringing two evenings of kite displays, art and family-friendly activities to the seafront.
Thailand could face a “dual water crisis” in 2026 after the Thai Meteorological Department forecast that El Niño could occur during May to July, putting many areas at risk of water shortages and prompting the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) to accelerate nationwide response plans and monitor 20 branches at risk of shortages.
Thailand’s Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) is pushing ahead with four new rail projects in Bangkok, while accelerating tram developments in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Nakhon Ratchasima, with all three provincial tram systems targeted to open by 2032.
From Epic Fury to Project Freedom: Who Pays the Bill for a Blocked Strait?
Land bridge faces uphill battle
Kukrit Areepakorn, manager of the Thai Broiler Processing Exporters Assn., revealed that the export situation and prices of chicken are currently declining due to two main reasons: China suspending exports from 17 processing plants, and the Middle East war.
Foreign tourists in Thailand are actively observing the Thai baht’s depreciation against the US dollar, a trend that directly impacts their vacation budgets. The currency opened at 31.77 per dollar, a slight weakening from 31.60, and analysts foresee continued fluctuation within the range of 31.55 to 31.95 as global economic conditions evolve.
Thailand Bets on Revamp of Chaing Mai Hot Springs to Spearhead Wellness Drive
Did you know Thailand is actually the first nation in Southeast Asia to successfully revive its tiger population? While most of the world is losing these incredible big cats, Thailand’s jungles are seeing a serious comeback. We’re talking about a massive conservation effort that’s bringing the king of the jungle back to the Western Forest Complex. It’s a huge win for wildlife and shows a side of Thai conservation history that most people completely miss. 
This Unknown City Wants To Become Thailand’s Next Vacation Hotspot
Why Koh Kut remains one of Thailand’s most beautiful island escapes
Thailand’s energy crisis, sparked by Middle East tensions, has rapidly turned solar power from a green option into an economic necessity. As electricity costs surge, homes and businesses are rushing to install rooftop panels, with demand outpacing supply and installers struggling to keep up.
The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) is exploring ways to make loans more accessible for households joining the rooftop solar buyback scheme, aiming to encourage wider adoption of clean energy and help families generate their own electricity.