Tag Archives: thailand nominees

Saturday’s news-Aug 22

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  • Hua Hin Rotary sponsors forest restoration/Telepharmacy Enters the Market/21 provinces face heavy rain/Seven to nine more storms possible/Urgent rehabilitation of flood-affected districts/High flood risk in Sukhothai, Phitsanulok/Israeli couple blame Thai lawyer/Pattaya firms raided/Nene Royal named Best New International Artist
  • ECONOMY: Data Center Boom Tests the Grid/Thai electronics order books/Investments and fishing communities clash
  • TOURISM: Thailand losing appeal to Chinese tourists/Thai Airways Sets Auckland Relaunch
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Master of Bangkok’s Crab Glass Noodles/Thailand, done differently
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Carbon Footprint Becomes a Critical Factor/Green Rules Called an Opportunity
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin Rotary sponsors forest restoration project

In collaboration with the Forest Restoration Foundation, state agencies and local stakeholder groups, the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin was the primary sponsor of the Participatory Forest Restoration Project at Kaeng Krachan National Park. At the heart of the project is a simple but powerful idea; “Restoring Forest, Building an Ecosystem” with community engagement and inclusion.

Over 350 volunteers participated in the planting of 4,000 tree seedlings of 12 indigenous species on 20 rai of vacant land in the wet season to ensure survivability. The selection of native species is intended to support natural ecosystem recovery, enhance biodiversity, and provide suitable habitats for wildlife. Reforesting the 20-rai plot of land is a pilot initiative to eventually increase to an area of 100 rai in the subsequent phases.

According to Suvat Singhaphun, president of the Forest Restoration Foundation, the success of the project cannot be measured simply by the number of trees planted. He explained, “A forest cannot be restored in a single day. Trees need continued care and forests need people who understand their value. Conservation requires long-term commitment and the foundation, therefore, places equal emphasis on building people who build forests. Building people who care for forests is what makes restoration last.”

President Napa Keawtem of the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin highlighted the importance of environmental action and the organization’s commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact. She praised the extensive planning, preparation, and dedication behind the project, particularly the cooperation between the Forest Restoration Foundation and Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Telepharmacy Enters the Thai Market

Telepharmacy in Thailand has moved from the development of the regulatory framework to its implementation phase. With the FDA’s telepharmacy framework now in place and telepharmacy platforms entering the market, the focus is increasingly turning to how businesses can participate in this emerging healthcare ecosystem.

As pharmacies, digital platforms, and delivery providers come together under a regulated model, telepharmacy is becoming an increasingly important component of Thailand’s digital health landscape. Continued … 

21 provinces face heavy rain as depression strengthens

Heavy rain is forecast in 21 provinces today, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning that accumulated rainfall could trigger flash floods, rapid run-off and overflowing rivers.

Video … 

Thunderstorms will affect large parts of Thailand during the 24-hour period from 6 am today to 6 am tomorrow. Heavy rain is most likely in western areas of the north and central regions, as well as parts of the east. Continued … 

Seven to nine more storms possible as northern floods ease

Flood conditions in Nan and Sukhothai have begun to improve, but another 7-9 storms could form before the end of the current storm season, climate and disaster specialist Seree Supratid has warned.

Seree, director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University, said rainfall was expected to decline gradually through the end of August. Weather conditions would still require close monitoring on Aug. 25-26 and again around Aug. 29. Continued … 

Urgent rehabilitation of flood-affected districts in Nan province ordered

Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) Yodchanan Wongsawat ordered the rehabilitation and restoration of public utilities today in flood-ravaged Pua and Wiang Sa districts of Nan province, as floodwater is steadily receding.

The deputy prime minister, who has been in Nan province since Wednesday to assess and monitor flooding, held a meeting this morning with Nan Gov. Chainarong Wongyai and Nopparat Thawong, the mayor of the Nan Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), at the flood command center in the PAO office to discuss urgent measures to restore power and clean water supplies, clean the roads of the thick layer of mud, and fix damaged properties. Continued … 

GISTDA warns of high flood risk in Sukhothai, Phitsanulok

More than 3,900 square kilometers across Sukhothai, Phitsanulok and neighboring provinces are at high risk of flooding, according to data released by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) yesterday.

In Sukhothai, high-risk areas cover large parts of the central and southern sections of the province. The risk extends across Sawankhalok, Si Samrong, Mueang Sukhothai and Kong Krailat districts, as well as parts of Si Satchanalai district in the north. Continued … 

Israeli couple blame Thai lawyer after Koh Samui arrest

An Israeli property developer and his wife, arrested in a Koh Samui investigation into alleged nominee-shareholder arrangements, say a Thai lawyer and accountant were responsible for guiding their business setup.

Gal Bieber, 45, and his wife Roni Bieber were arrested by police from Bo Phut Police Station and Surat Thani Immigration. The Samui Provincial Court had reportedly issued 20 arrest warrants for Israeli nationals linked to the wider investigation. Continued … 

Pattaya firms raided in foreign nominee probe

Thai authorities have searched three locations in Pattaya and Bang Lamung as part of an investigation into suspected Thai nominee arrangements used to hold land and run businesses for foreigners.

Search warrants were issued by the Criminal Court under the Foreign Business Act 1999. The investigation centers on suspected use of Thai nationals as proxy shareholders in companies said to be ultimately controlled by foreigners. Continued … 

Nene Royal named Best New International Artist in Ireland

Thai teenage singer-guitarist Nene Royal, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, has been selected to receive the Best New International Artiste 2026 award at The Phil Lynott Convention in Ireland, marking another milestone in the 16-year-old Phuket musician’s growing international career.

The recognition follows her breakthrough appearances on America’s Got Talent Season 21, where her powerful vocals and guitar performances brought her international attention and secured her a place in the competition’s live shows. Continued … 

Thailand’s Data Center Boom Tests the Grid, the Rules and the Workforce

Thailand’s pitch to the world’s technology companies has, for the past two years, been built on numbers that keep climbing. The Board of Investment approved 26 data center projects worth almost 500 billion baht in 2025, and by the first quarter of 2026, fresh applications had already reached 1.01 trillion baht — roughly 2.4 times what they were a year earlier.

The country’s planned pipeline now stands near 2.87 gigawatts, concentrated overwhelmingly in the Eastern Economic Corridor provinces of Chonburi, Rayong and Chachoengsao. What was, until recently, a story about how much capital was arriving has become a harder question: whether the electricity grid, the water supply and the workforce can actually absorb it. Continued … 

AI demand extends Thai electronics order books beyond three years

Thailand’s electronics industry is entering a significant upcycle, as artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers accelerate global demand for components, with a clear impact on the country’s production base.

Export value rose steadily from B1.56 trillion in 2022 to B2.39 trillion in 2025, while exports in the first six months of 2026 had already reached B1.63 trillion, up 46%. Continued … 

Investments and fishing communities clash in Rayong

Fisherfolk in Thailand’s Rayong province are currently facing multiple impacts from industrial expansion in the region – in particular, the construction of a MapTaPhut Phase 3 port and the development of large-scale investment projects including liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, including LNG terminal and regasification facilities.

The expansion of LNG projects in the eastern provinces, part of Thailand’s plan to position itself as a regional LNG hub, has disturbed and now threatens to destroy the coastal fisheries resources that communities have long relied on. Continued … 

Thailand losing appeal to Chinese tourists as Vietnam rises

Thailand’s grip on China’s vast tourism market is slipping, as safety fears drive holidaymakers toward fast-rising Vietnam. The kingdom now expects only 5.1 million Chinese arrivals, less than half its 2019 total.

Meanwhile, Vietnam’s foreign tourism market is surging 13.8%, while Thailand’s contracts despite retaining a narrow lead. The battle is intensifying as China’s weakening economy leaves travelers choosier about safety, prices and value. Continued … 

Thai Airways Sets March 2027 Target for Auckland Relaunch

Thai Airways is set to resume direct non-stop services between Bangkok and Auckland ahead of schedule, with launch plans brought forward by a year to March 2027.

Speaking during a visit to aircraft maker NZAero’s hangar at Auckland’s Ardmore Airport yesterday, Thailand Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas confirmed the accelerated timeline following bilateral talks between the Thai and New Zealand prime ministers. Continued … 

Somsak Pu Ob: The Master of Bangkok’s Crab Glass Noodles

There are few Thai eateries as nerve-racking as Somsak Pu Ob. From 5 pm onward, there is always a line, filled with would-be diners every bit as nervous as we are, watching with barely concealed envy as those who reached the steel tables on the sidewalk tuck into their glass noodles – the only dish available at this establishment.

That is, if Nai Somsak hasn’t arbitrarily decided to take a holiday, abandoning a posse of hungry and bewildered people to roam the streets in search of dinner. Continued … 

Thailand, done differently

Most travelers to Thailand take in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket in one order or another. Usually, however, each is ‘ticked off’ far too quickly, with only their staple, standard sights on the agenda. Far fewer holidaymakers think to float along Bangkok’s historic canals, weave with hill tribes on the fringes of Chiang Mai, or take time to admire Old Phuket Town’s vivid Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Whether you’re a first-timer keen on authenticity or a repeat visitor seeking extra immersion, here’s a riff on the classic itinerary with under-the-radar experiences. Continued … 

Can Thailand Adapt as Carbon Footprint Becomes a Critical Factor in Food Trade?

Thailand’s agriculture and food industry features a complex, multi-tiered supply chain, ranging from upstream inputs like seeds to downstream processing and exports. This intricate system complicates carbon management, as all elements are interconnected.

The primary challenge lies with smallholder farmers, who often question financial incentives when pressured to modify practices, such as banning burning or reducing chemical fertilizer use. Their inquiries emphasize a need for economic viability, indicating that traditional enforcement methods, like laws and penalties, are insufficient. To foster genuine compliance, there must be real economic benefits for environmentally friendly practices. Continued … 

Green Rules Called an Opportunity, Not a Burden

As pressure mounts on industries to treat climate action as systemic rather than a compliance exercise, Tetra Pak Thailand is pointing to a philosophy it says predates the current wave of ESG regulation by decades.

For Patinya Silsupadol, head of sustainability at Tetra Pak Thailand, the case for climate action was never abstract. It was written into the company’s founding purpose more than 70 years ago, when its founder identified an early form of inequality: uneven access to safe, quality food caused by weak production, storage and transport systems. Continued … 

Central African Republic gold mine landslide

The death toll from Aug.18’s gold mine collapse in Zamboye, Central African Republic, has surpassed 100. Several survivors were also critically injured. An investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the collapse, identify the victims and those responsible for operating the site, and establish any potential criminal liability. Video … 

World’s five busiest international airports revealed

Incheon International Airport became the world’s busiest airport for international passengers in the first half of 2026, moving ahead of London Heathrow and Singapore Changi, according to preliminary data compiled by Airports Council International (ACI). 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

Wednesday’s news-Aug 5

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  • Mrs. Tourism International at Market Village/Prachuap sees red skies/Safety standards for automated cars/Thailand’s first moon mission/Cannabis shop enforcement/Giant sinkholes in Khon Kaen
  • ECONOMY: Thailand property market shaken/Uneven recovery ahead/Thailand records export growth/Robot Supply Chain Comes to Thailand
  • TOURISM: Hotels warn abou Bangkok 3% tax/What Phuket’s Record Tourism Numbers Mean/Flight turbulence injures 12/Birth certificate to leave Thailand/New Indonesia flights
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Shan Mines an ‘Environmental Catastrophe’/Stricter data center rules
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Mrs. Tourism International 2026 pageant held at Market Village

Vietnamese representative Van Pham recently won the Mrs. Tourism Queen International 2026 competition, and also won the title of Charity Queen 2026 (Beauty with a Purpose), creating a remarkable mark for Vietnamese beauty on the international stage.

The final competition included representatives from 21 nations and territories, such as Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa, Malaysia, Taiwan (China), Cambodia, and the Philippines. The final night took place at Market Village Hua Hin shopping center. Continued … 

Chumphon and Prachuap see red skies amid rough seas warning

Residents along the southern coast have been advised to prepare for strong winds and rough seas after reports of unusual sky conditions and worsening weather in Chumphon and Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Reports today said the sky over parts of Chumphon, including Muang, Tha Sae and Pathio districts, as well as areas bordering Prachuap Khiri Khan, turned a deep red color yesterday evening. Continued … 

Five new safety standards prepare Thailand for automated cars

The Royal Gazette has published five Ministry of Industry announcements introducing new Thai industrial standards for intelligent transport systems involving driver-assistance and automated-driving technologies.

The standards were developed by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) to establish a technical framework for vehicle manufacturers, technology developers and related service providers, as vehicles equipped with varying levels of automated driving capability are expected to enter the Thai market more widely in the near future. Continued … 

Thailand’s first moon mission to launch Thai-made payload

Thailand is preparing for a historic step in space exploration, with a Thai-designed and developed scientific payload set to travel to the Moon as part of China’s Chang’e 7 mission on Aug. 24.

The CE-7 MATCH scientific payload, developed by Thai researchers and engineers at the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), will be one of seven international scientific instruments carried by the Chang’e 7 mission. Continued … 

Thailand steps up cannabis shop enforcement

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has intensified enforcement against cannabis businesses, inspecting 1,326 shops since October 2025 and seizing products worth more than 109 million baht.

Authorities have carried out 83 seizures and started legal action against 40 people or businesses since the campaign began last October. They have suspended 84 operating licenses, revoked four licenses and considered 39 appeals against suspensions or revocations. Continued … 

Seven giant sinkholes open up in Khon Kaen farmland

Seven large sinkholes have emerged in farmland in Phu Pha Man district, Khon Kaen province, alarming local residents and prompting authorities to investigate the cause. The sinkholes were reported yesterday in an agricultural area used by local residents.

An initial survey found seven sinkholes at the site. Each hole was reportedly large and deep, with signs that the affected areas could continue to expand.The incident has caused concern among residents, who fear further ground collapses in the area. Continued … 

Thailand property market shaken by nominee crackdown on luxury homes

Thailand’s crackdown on nominee structures used to hold property on behalf of foreign interests is creating new pressure on the luxury housing and condominium markets, as authorities intensify checks on ownership arrangements in the real estate sector.

The issue gained attention after officials investigated the purchase of 33 luxury houses worth more than 1.27 billion baht in the Pattanakarn and Krungthep Kreetha areas of Bangkok. The purchases were linked to a network allegedly using more than 33 companies as fronts, with Thai nationals acting as nominee shareholders to hold ownership of luxury homes across several projects. Continued … 

BofA views uneven recovery ahead

The Thai economy is expected to miss the country’s potential growth level of 2.5%-3% over the next two years, says Bank of America (BofA), noting that the ongoing recovery remains “limited and uneven”, while energy supply shocks and price volatility persist.

In recent research by BofA Securities, the corporate and investment banking division of BofA reported that Thailand’s economy has improved sequentially, but the recovery remained limited and uneven. Continued … 

Thailand records export growth in US and Europe

Phantong Loykulnanta, director-general of the Customs Department, reported that Thailand’s international trade reached B21.4 trillion in the first 10 months of fiscal 2026. The figure was close to the full-year total of B22 trillion recorded the previous year.

Although economic conditions may appear to be slowing, the country’s actual trade figures have continued to grow across all major markets. Exports to the United States alone increased by 30%-34% from the same period a year earlier. Continued … 

Robot Supply Chain Comes to Thailand: Inside China’s Humanoid Push into the EEC

For years, the story of Chinese robotics in Southeast Asia was a trade story: finished machines shipped south to serve a growing industrial base. That story is changing. China is no longer just exporting robots to the region — it is exporting the supply chain that builds them, and Thailand has just landed one of the first major pieces of it.

In February, Thailand’s Board of Investment approved more than 10 billion baht in combined investment from five Chinese companies — Xusheng Group, Sanhua Intelligent Drives, Hangzhou Seenpin Electromechanical Transmission, Beite Technology and Tuopu Technology — to build what the BOI describes as the country’s first humanoid robot component production base, sited in the Eastern Economic Corridor. Continued … 

Hotels warn Bangkok 3% tax could hurt tourism recovery

As the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to introduce a 3% hotel tax to increase revenue, the Thai Hotels Association (THA) has urged the authority to begin with a lower rate of 0.5%-1% and provide additional support to help tourism operators affected by the Middle East conflict.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt earlier proposed amendments to the BMA Act to allow the city to levy new local taxes, including a 3% tax on hotel and accommodation room charges. Continued … 

What Phuket’s Record Tourism Numbers Mean for Long-Term Residents

Siam Legal Phuket is noting that Phuket’s first-half 2026 tourism figures, which show the island attracted nearly 7 million visitors and generated 263 billion baht in revenue between January and June, reflect a structural shift in how foreign nationals are engaging with Thailand rather than simply a strong season for the hospitality sector.

What the headline numbers do not capture is a quieter but equally significant trend running alongside the tourism figures. The nationalities that dominate Phuket’s visitor data are increasingly the same nationalities that make up Phuket’s long-term foreign resident population. Russians, British, Australians, and Germans account for four of the top nine source markets and also represent the dominant demographics among foreign nationals seeking long-term visa arrangements, property ownership, and business registration in Phuket. Continued … 

Air India Phuket-Delhi flight turbulence injures 12

Twelve people were injured after an Air India Airbus A320 flying from Phuket to Delhi encountered severe turbulence yesterday, forcing some passengers who were not wearing seatbelts into the cabin ceiling.

Flight A12379 was carrying 134 people when it was hit by a sudden drop about 90 minutes after leaving Phuket. The early-morning service was cruising at altitude when the turbulence struck, with reports of cracks to the aircraft’s interior. Continued … 

Thai children under 18 to need birth certificate to leave Thailand

Thai nationals aged under 18 leaving Thailand via Suvarnabhumi Airport must now show a birth certificate to immigration officers, under a new measure announced Monday.

Previously, Thai children under 18 could travel overseas using only their passport. Immigration said the change is intended to protect children’s best interests and prevent them being taken out of Thailand unlawfully or without the permission of a parent or legal guardian. Continued … 

New Indonesia flights support Thailand’s 890,000-visitor target

Thailand is strengthening its tourism links with Indonesia through agreements with TransNusa Airlines and Traveloka, as it seeks to attract 890,000 Indonesian visitors in 2026.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) signed separate memoranda of understanding with the Indonesian airline and the regional travel platform at the Fairmont Jakarta yesterday, during Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s official visit to Indonesia. Continued … 

Shan Mines an ‘Environmental Catastrophe for Thailand’

Citizens in northern Thailand are enduring an environmental catastrophe from the ballooning number of gold and rare earth mines in eastern Myanmar, speakers told an event in Bangkok on Monday night.

A boom in unregulated mining in Shan State – most reportedly set up by Chinese companies because of bans in their homeland – have polluted rivers that flow into northern Thailand with heavy metals, a forum on transboundary pollution featuring a Thai senator, a UN representative and a local activist warned. Continued … 

Thailand plans stricter data center rules over power and water use

The Thai government is drafting a new regulation to oversee data center operations, aiming to manage the sector’s impact on national resources and improve control over investment-related risks.The planned regulation would allow authorities to monitor data center activities more comprehensively, particularly their use of national resources such as electricity and water.

Once the regulation is issued, a new legally empowered committee would be established to specifically supervise the data center sector, including approvals, permissions, monitoring and assessments of potential impacts from projects operating in Thailand. Continued … 

High bills, cheap panels drive Philippines solar surge

Edwin Salas watched as the first of 20 solar panels was installed on the roof of his home, joining a Philippine solar energy boom sent into overdrive by the Middle East war. The country’s eye-watering electric bills – the highest in the region – were the primary driver of his decision, he said. Regular brownouts were a factor, too. Continued … 

Trump’s sale of access to Truth Social raises eyebrows

US President Donald Trump’s move to charge for early access to his often market-moving Truth Social posts is raising eyebrows a year and a half into an administration that has already seen unprecedented enrichment for the First Family. 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

Tuesday’s news-Aug 4

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  • Thailand in 1946/Cha Am Music Festival/Mini-Balloon Festival/T&C Scholars Begin Hua Hin Camp/Songkla University unveils cancer treatment success/Boy dies after jellyfish stings/Thai deaths overseas/Lost wild elephant calf dies
  • THE IRAN WAR: Tehran denies talks/Iranians voice distrust of US/’Last chance before decapitation’/Seafarer recounts Gulf ordeal
  • ECONOMY: Thailand GDP claims questioned/Lost due to nominee problems/Extending co-payment scheme/Thailand Post unveils strategy/Second-Largest Pet Food Exporter
  • TOURISM: Repeat visitors favor Hua Hin/Foreign tourist arrivals down 3.2%/Short breaks, marathons win over Thai travelers/Sniffer dogs at Suvarnabhumi/Songkhla gastronomy tourism campaign/Indonesia, Thailand launch new flight routes
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s Naga serpent/How History Made Thais Obsessed with Sugar
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

What Thailand (Siam) was like in 1946

This is a long video …

Cha Am Music Festival set for August 7–9

The Cha Am Music Festival will be held Aug. 7–9, offering three evenings of free live music, food and fireworks beside Cha Am beach. The festival will take place at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, with admission free throughout the three-day event.

Phetchaburi province is organizing the festival in partnership with Cha Am municipality, Cha Am District, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Thai Hotels Association Western Chapter, and public and private sector organizations. – HHT

Mini-Balloon Festival returns to Pak Nam Pran

The MiniBalloon Festival Pranburi will return to the Pak Nam Pran beachfront Aug. 7-9, alongside the annual Sun-Dried Squid and Seafood Festival.

The free event will take place from 4 pm to 9 pm each day at Maharaj Field in Pak Nam Pran, with balloon displays, live music and local seafood. Continued … 

T&C Scholars Begin Hua Hin Climate Empathy Camp

Scholarship students of the T&C Foundation are embarking on a journey to expand the scope of their empathy by directly facing the climate crisis and ecological environment issues on site.

The T&C Foundation announced that 25 scholarship students from the 28th Fellow and 8th Ami cohorts will participate in the ‘2026 T&C Global Summer Camp’ held in the Hua Hin area of Thailand from Aug. 2-8. This camp is an empathy exploration program planned for scholarship students to directly confirm the impact of climate change on the livelihood and safety of local communities and the lives of the next generation. Continued … 

Songkhla University unveils therapy with 90% cancer treatment success rate

The Faculty of Medicine at Prince of Songkla University (PSU) has unveiled progress in using locally developed CAR-T Cell therapy to treat blood cancers and autoimmune diseases, reporting that nearly 90% of patients have achieved complete remission.

The treatment uses a patient’s own immune cells, which are genetically modified to recognize and attack targeted cells. The university said treatment outcomes so far have shown nearly 90% of patients achieving complete remission. Continued … 

Boy, 13, dies after jellyfish stings

A 13-year-old schoolboy has died after being stung by jellyfish while swimming at Ban Fai Tha beach in Sichon district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Three people who went to help him were also injured by the stings but are now safe and recovering.

Nantaphat, known as New, was a student at Sichon Kunatharn Witthaya School. The fatal incident happened Saturday evening. The boy had traveled to the area to take part in a charity football competition raising money for the local community. Afterward, he entered the sea with friends, around 10 meters from the shore. Continued … 

Thai deaths overseas hit five-year high

Thai embassies and consulates handled reports of 1,320 deaths involving Thai nationals overseas in 2024, based on latest available full year data, the highest figure in five years of data from the Consular Affairs Department.

Annual totals generally range from 1,100 to 1,300, with deaths increasing after Covid-19 restrictions eased and overseas travel and employment resumed. The figures cover assistance cases recorded between 2020 and 2024, as well as notifications from local authorities where deaths occurred. Continued … 

Lost wild elephant calf dies after suspected acute kidney failure

Jiew Sai Yok, a lost wild elephant calf being cared for at Sai Yok National Park, died peacefully at around 2am yesterday, leaving veterinarians and park officials deeply saddened.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) said the calf, which had been separated from its herd and cared for at Sai Yok National Park in Kanchanaburi province, had passed away. Veterinarians initially suspected acute kidney failure as the cause of death. Continued … 

Oil falls sharply as Trump cancels Iran strikes, but Tehran denies talks

Global oil prices fell sharply after US President Donald Trump said he had cancelled planned attacks on Iran and claimed talks were under way, raising hopes that tensions in the Middle East could ease and the Strait of Hormuz may reopen more fully.

However, Iran denied that negotiations with the United States were taking place or scheduled, leaving markets to balance optimism over a possible diplomatic opening against continuing uncertainty over the five-month conflict. Continued … 

Iranians voice distrust of US after previous deal ‘betrayals’

Iranians yesterday expressed deep distrust of the United States, saying any future agreement must guarantee Tehran’s rights after a history of what they described as broken promises by Washington. Video … 

Trump says Iran facing ‘last chance before decapitation’

US President Donald Trump said yesterday that negotiations with Iran were ongoing despite Tehran’s denials and the Islamic Republic was facing a “last chance before decapitation.”

Trump, speaking to reporters at the White House, said he agreed to continue to pursue talks with Iran at the request of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and other countries. Continued … 

Trapped by war, Bangladesh seafarer recounts Gulf ordeal

For 115 days, captain Mohammad Shafiqul Islam was stranded on the high seas of the Gulf, watching missiles light up the night sky and rationing food and water for his crew.

“I tried to stay calm because I was responsible for 31 lives, a ship worth $40 million, and cargo valued at US$8.2 million,” the 51-year-old Bangladeshi mariner told Agence France-Presse (AFP), back home after the ordeal. Continued … 

Thailand GDP claims questioned as households cut spending

A Thai analysis published Sunday has challenged government claims of a strong GDP recovery, arguing that headline growth is failing to reach ordinary households and small businesses.

The analysis says the gap between positive official economic reports and daily financial pressures has become increasingly stark. It cites polls and public sentiment suggesting that nearly 90% of people feel financially vulnerable, with many cutting spending, including on food. Continued … 

What Thailand has lost due to nominee problems

Video … 

Government considers extending co-payment scheme

The government has not ruled out extending the Thais Help Thais Plus co-payment scheme following positive public feedback. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the government would consider any measure that benefits the public while taking into account economic conditions and fiscal constraints.

Under the co-payment scheme, the government subsidizes 60% of spending on food, beverages, goods and services, while consumers pay the remaining 40%. The subsidy is capped at 200 baht per person per day and 1,000 baht a month. The current program runs until Sept. 30. Continued … 

Thailand Post unveils transformation strategy

Thailand Post is repositioning itself as a key driver of Thailand’s digital economy, unveiling a new corporate strategy dubbed “RelationSHIFT” as it seeks to transform from a traditional postal operator into a lifestyle logistics brand that connects people, businesses, communities and government services through its nationwide network.

The announcement coincided with the state-owned enterprise’s 144th anniversary, with executives highlighting the company’s role in supporting inclusive economic growth while reporting continued revenue growth in the first half of 2026, following total revenue of 22.1 billion baht in 2025. Continued … 

Thailand Retains Rank as World’s Second-Largest Pet Food Exporter

Thailand has solidified its standing as the world’s second-largest exporter of pet food, trailing only Germany, as a global shift toward health-focused pet nutrition continues to drive robust overseas demand.

Data released by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) confirms the country’s pet food industry is maintaining strong momentum, recording an export value of $3.28 billion (107.47 billion baht) in 2025. Continued … 

Thailand’s repeat visitors favor Hua Hin and Pattaya over Phuket

Thailand’s repeat visitors are showing stronger loyalty to Hua Hin and Pattaya than to Phuket, according to a new analysis by travel platform 12Go.

The company’s Destination Devotion Index (DDI) analyzed 3.6 million bookings from 1.46 million international travelers between 2023 and 2025. The index ranks destinations based on how often first-time visitors return within two years. Continued … 

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals down 3.2%

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals ‌dropped 3.2% year-on-year in the Jan. 1 to Aug. 1 period ‌to 18.51 million visitors, the Tourism and Sports Ministry said yesterday.

Tourism, a key driver of Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, ‌had a record of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, before the pandemic. – Bangkok Post

Short breaks, marathons and hidden cities win over Thai travelers

Thai travelers are increasingly choosing short restorative breaks, marathon-related holidays and more in-depth visits to secondary cities as travel patterns shift in 2026.

Data from Agoda and Traveloka indicate that holidays are becoming easier to fit around work, study and personal schedules, while cost, wellbeing and local experiences are playing a greater role in destination choices. Continued … 

Sniffer dogs permanently deployed at Suvarnabhumi airport

Sniffer dogs have been deployed on permanent basis at Suvarnabhumi international airport to help officials in drug trafficking interdiction operations.

The deployment of the K-9 units is a joint operation by the Customs Department, the Border Patrol Police, the Airports of Thailand Co. and other relevant security agencies. Continued … 

Songkhla serves up new gastronomy tourism campaign

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thailand Gastronomy Network and HUG – Hatyai University Gastronomy Lab will launch a new campaign to position Songkhla as a gastronomy destination through an international livestream tomorrow.

The livestream, titled “World Kitchen of Spices: Thailand × Indonesia”, will bring together chefs, educators, tourism professionals, students and food enthusiasts from Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong and other markets. Participants can either cook along or join a watch-and-learn session. Continued … 

Indonesia, Thailand launch new flight routes to boost tourism

Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the launch of new direct air routes connecting key cities in Indonesia and Thailand, highlighting expanded aviation connectivity as a vital driver for strengthening people-to-people ties and boosting regional tourism.

“In terms of connectivity, we welcome the opening of new direct flight routes from Jakarta to Bangkok and Denpasar to Phuket, which are expected to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries,” Prabowo said in a joint press statement with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta yesterday. Continued … 

Some history behind Thailand’s Naga serpent

Video … 

How History Made Thais Obsessed with Sugar

Thailand’s love affair with sugar began centuries ago in the Ayutthaya royal court. During the 17th century, Marie Guimar introduced Portuguese-inspired egg-and-sugar sweets, embedding heavy sugar consumption into traditional Thai desserts.

In 19th-century Siam, refined white sugar had become an expensive imported luxury reserved exclusively for royalty and elites, while commoners still relied solely on local palm sugar. As refined sugar gradually became more accessible, commoners began adding it to their everyday cooking to emulate royal palace cuisine, believing that sweetness represented sophisticated, high-class food rather than unrefined rural cooking. Continued … 

North Korea advises citizens to eat dog meat to beat the summer heat

North Korea’s state media has recommended dog meat soup as protection against summer heat, reviving Pyongyang’s long-running effort to promote the controversial dish as record high temperatures grip both sides of the Korean peninsula. Continued … 

South Korea’s heat wave kills 16

South ⁠Korean President Lee Jae Myung urged authorities to ‌step up support for people affected by a record heat wave in the country, saying the death toll had risen to 16 and warning that extreme weather was becoming more frequent. Continued … 

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi meets Red Cross: Son says first proof of life in years

Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi met with a representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross yesterday, her son Kim Aris said, who has not heard from her directly in years. Video … 

After dark, Malaysia’s crocodile hunters go to work

Searchlights sweep across the rivers of Malaysia’s Sarawak state as licensed hunters track crocodiles in the dark. Their work is part of a broader effort to manage a tension between wildlife and the communities that rely on the water every day. Video … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Monday’s news-Aug 3

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  • A little Thai history/Thailand Riviera coastal drive/Nominee investigations reach Hua Hin/Thailand widens checks on foreign-linked companies/Making a ‘better world possible’/Taco Bell opens in Hua Hin/Entry fees for Pranburi park/Digital platform liability for scams/Tak Bai police shooting/No bail for four murder suspects/Talay Noi swamp buffalo meat
  • THE IRAN WAR: New Iran talks set to start/Thailand to avoid war oil shock
  • ECONOMY: Thai Baht Hits 15-Month Low/Only 5.1 million Thais pay income tax/Why Nordics Queue Up to Pay Tax/Tariffs an opportunity to fight/Trade deficit marks sea change/To tackle Thailand’s economic malaise/Trade war pressures hit Thai jobs/Thailand Personal Spending Rises/Thais Help Thais Plus/Thailand’s Next Generation of Industry
  • TOURISM: Tale of two tourist incidents/Bangkok’s Chao Phraya draws projects/Thailand launches 10 hiking schools
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Cobra by the bed/History of Talad Noi
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Green manufacturing no longer optional/Waste into wealth/Super El Niño to hit Thailand /Data center race faces power, water logjam
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

A little Thai history

Video …

Thailand Riviera coastal drive gets tourism push

Regional authorities are stepping up efforts to promote the Thailand Riviera coastal route as a major tourism corridor, as part of plans to improve public awareness, enhance visitor facilities and spread tourism income to communities along the Gulf of Thailand’s western coastline.

The project was discussed at a recent meeting of the Joint Public and Private Sector Committee for Economic Problem Solving (JPPCC) for the Lower Central Region 2, which comprises Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram. Continued … 

Business nominee investigations reach Hua Hin

Immigration and police in Hua Hin have stepped up efforts to investigate suspected nominee business structures involving foreign nationals, as authorities intensify scrutiny of foreign-linked companies and land transactions.

A meeting was held at Hua Hin Police Station on July 30 to establish operational guidelines for a joint task force investigating cases in which Thai nationals may be acting as nominees for foreigners. Continued … 

Thailand widens checks on foreign-linked companies

Thailand’s Department of Business Development has begun tougher checks on company changes involving foreign investors, shareholders, directors and authorized signatories, under a new order taking effect from Aug. 1.

The measure is intended to stop Thai nationals being used as nominee shareholders, while the government says legitimate foreign investment will continue to be supported.Until now, screening focused mainly on the point at which a company was first registered. Continued … 

Hua Hin students pitch making a ‘better world possible’

Choosing tailor-made digital platforms as their primary tool for social change, the young changemakers presented innovative non-profit solutions addressing some of the country’s most persistent social, ecological, and human challenges.

The Catholic Education Council of Thailand and LiCAS News co-organized the gathering at the Salesian Retreat House and Hua Hin Vittayalai School in the Thai resort town of Hua Hin under the theme, “Together We Make a Better World Possible.” Continued … 

Taco Bell opens in Hua Hin

Hua Hin has a new Taco Bell, which opened a new branch on Phetkasem Road, near the Hua Hin Clock Tower.

The restaurant offers its usual tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, fries and other Mexican-inspired fast food. Dine-in and takeaway are available.

Entry fees start for Pranburi park

Visitors to Pranburi Forest Park are now being charged an entrance fee, ending many years in which access to the popular park was free.

The new fee structure was announced by Pranburi Forest Park in May and has now come into effect, introducing separate rates for Thai and foreign visitors, as well as charges for vehicles, camping and other services, in line with other national parks in Thailand. Continued … 

Thailand lawsuit tests digital platform liability for scams

Thailand’s Civil Court will hold its first case-management hearing today in a consumer lawsuit against 17 digital platform, application and financial service providers over alleged losses linked to fraudulent investment advertisements and other online scams.

All 17 defendants, including entities based in Thailand and overseas, have now been legally served with copies of the claim and court summonses, according to the legal team representing the Thailand Consumers Council (TCC). Continued … 

Tak Bai police shooting leaves two dead, three injured

Two police officers were killed and three were injured when a gunman opened fire on an investigation team in Tak Bai district, Narathiwat, yesterday.

The officers were conducting a search linked to a narcotics case at Ban Bueng Chalam in Phrai Wan subdistrict when they came under gunfire. The attacker escaped and was believed to still be carrying a rifle. Continued …

Pattaya court denies bail to four murder suspects

Pattaya Provincial Court has refused bail for four suspects in murder cases involving two Russian siblings and a family of three, citing the severity of the allegations and the possibility that they could flee.

The decisions were issued Saturday after police brought suspects before the court in connection with the two linked investigations. The court said the alleged crimes carry high penalties and that investigators opposed temporary release. Continued … 

Appetite grows for Talay Noi swamp buffalo meat

A research-driven initiative to develop premium meat products from naturally raised swamp buffalo in the Talay Noi wetlands is gaining traction, with demand growing locally and from China.

The initiative, led by Thaksin University’s Phatthalung campus, in collaboration with local communities and livestock authorities, is looking to expand across southern Thailand. It aims to transform the area’s traditionally raised swamp buffalo into a high-value product while preserving the centuries-old farming system within Phatthalung’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). Continued … 

Trump says new Iran talks set to start after calling off massive attack

US President Donald Trump said that new negotiations with Iran will begin today after he decided to hold off on striking the Islamic republic to pursue a deal to end the war entering its sixth month.

Trump told reporters yesterday that the talks would cover the Strait of Hormuz –- a route for global energy supplies that has become a key sticking point in the conflict — and ultimately, the denuclearization of Iran. Continued … 

Thailand to avoid Mideast war oil shock

Thailand will not face a crude oil shortage in August despite the ongoing war in the Middle East, as supply remains sufficient for all six domestic refineries, according to the Department of Energy Business (DOEB).

Sarawut Kaewtathip, director-general of DOEB, said shipping routes remain partially open, ensuring continued transport of crude oil and petroleum products. Continued … 

Thai Baht Hits 15-Month Low

The Thai baht is trading near its weakest level in over 15 months against the US Dollar, as a confluence of external pressures continues to erode its value. The currency’s decline has been driven by a renewed spike in oil prices, compounded by a firmer USD and rising US Treasury yields.

Thailand’s heavy reliance on imported energy makes it especially vulnerable to these global cost pressures, which, in turn, have stoked concerns about imported inflation. This dynamic has reinforced market expectations that US interest rates may remain elevated for longer, further diminishing the baht’s relative appeal and sustaining depreciation pressure across the currency pair. Continued … 

Only 5.1 million Thais pay income tax

Thailand’s personal income-tax base remains heavily concentrated among a relatively small number of earners, with only 5.14 million of 12.57 million people who filed returns for the 2024 tax year required to pay tax.

Budget Committee data, based on returns filed in 2025, have put government revenue collection under fresh scrutiny as Thailand considers how to make its revenue structure more balanced and sustainable. Continued … 

Why Nordics Queue Up to Pay Tax While 21 million Thais Stay Off the Books

When Thailand’s Revenue Department released its latest personal income tax filing figures, the headline number was not the roughly 12 million people who submitted a return. It was the much smaller group behind it: an estimated 5 million filers, or around 40%of those who filed, who actually owed any tax at all.

The gap looks starker still when set against the size of Thailand’s workforce, which numbers close to 40 million. That implies more than half the country’s workers — an estimated 21 to 22 million people — sit entirely outside the formal tax system. Continued … 

New tariffs an opportunity to fight

Here he goes again. US President Donald Trump is increasing and decreasing tariffs willy-nilly, violating international agreements that he himself signed and almost surely violating federal law. The only difference this time is that he has a new pretext for abusing tariffs: stopping forced labor.

Of course, the administration is right that too little is being done about forced labor. But its stated concern is a ruse. With the new tariffs closely tracking the ones that Trump imposed on the basis of trade balances, are we supposed to believe that bilateral trade deficits just so happen to be highly correlated with the use of forced labor? Continued … 

Trade deficit marks a sea change

Thailand’s widening trade deficit may appear alarming at first glance, but a deeper analysis suggests it is more a sign of economic transformation than deterioration. The surge in imports has been driven largely by machinery, production equipment, industrial raw materials and electronic components — inputs that businesses need.

Trade analysts argue as long as rising imports are for productive investment that strengthens the export base, lifts industrial output and generates higher economic growth, the trade deficit may reflect the country’s transition toward a more investment-driven, higher value-added economy with enhanced competitiveness. Continued … 

Government outlines new plans to tackle Thailand’s economic malaise

Thailand’s biggest investment drive in years was unveiled on Friday as fresh Bank of Thailand data exposed a sharply deteriorating trade position, a US$3.5 billion current account deficit and a baht at its weakest level in 15 months. While Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul warned of a “New World Disorder”, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas responded with an ambitious five-part blueprint centered on AI, infrastructure and industrial transformation.

However, soaring imports, record trade deficits, new US tariffs and weakening external accounts are raising urgent questions over whether the government’s long-term vision can deal with economic pressures reshaping Thailand’s outlook. Continued … 

Trade war pressures hit Thai jobs and spending

Thailand’s economy faces mounting pressure from global trade tensions, higher energy and shipping costs, and an influx of lower-priced Chinese goods, according to an analysis published last week.

The analysis argues that the effects are now reaching workers, farmers and small businesses, as companies cut costs, reduce operating hours and close unprofitable production lines or branches. Continued … 

Thailand Personal Spending Rises at a Faster Pace

Private consumption in Thailand increased by 1.1% month-on-month in June, accelerating from 0.6% in the previous month. It marked the second straight month of growth, driven mainly by stronger spending on non-durable goods amid higher consumer goods sales  following government stimulus measures, as well as improved fuel consumption as retail fuel prices declined and sales returned closer to normal levels.

Spending on durable goods also strengthened, supported by higher motorcycle registrations and passenger car sales, partly reflecting growing consumer interest in electric vehicles. Continued … 

Thais Help Thais Plus sees over B86 billion circulate in two months

The government has welcomed what it described as an excellent response to the Thais Help Thais Plus (60/40) program after more than B86 billion circulated through the economy during its first two months.

It also highlighted AI tools in the Tung Ngern (Money Bag) app that help small retailers analyze their businesses and reminded participants to use their monthly entitlements before the program ends on Sept. 30. Continued … 

Building the Infrastructure Behind Thailand’s Next Generation of Industry

Thailand’s emergence as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, electric vehicles, data centers, digital infrastructure, and smart industries is fundamentally reshaping the country’s industrial landscape.

Today’s factories are no longer merely production facilities — they are highly integrated ecosystems combining automation, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, industrial IoT, advanced analytics, renewable energy systems, and digitally connected supply chains. Continued … 

A tale of two tourist incidents

Inviting the fury of the Thai public on a matter that is admittedly done and dusted, I cannot help but feel compelled to at least voice my misgivings over the recent “noisy Italian students” incident, especially how it played out compared with another similar occurrence.

By now, most readers are familiar with the details of the viral encounter. A raucous group of young Italians was told by a Thai woman to quiet down on a crowded public train in Bangkok. In defiance of her plea, they chose instead to berate and mock her, going as far as implying that because they had arrived in the country to spend money, they were somehow entitled to do as they please. Continued … 

Bangkok’s Chao Phraya draws new hotels, attractions and megaprojects

A second major wave of investment is taking shape along both banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, as large corporations develop luxury hotels, entertainment attractions and mixed-use projects intended to strengthen the capital’s tourism economy.

The latest expansion follows the development of Iconsiam by Siam Piwat Co., Magnolia Quality Development Corp. and Charoen Pokphand Group, which helped establish the riverside as a major investment and tourism district. Continued … 

Thailand launches 10 hiking schools for responsible forest tourism

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has launched the “Khon Doen Pa School… A First Step into the Wilderness with Understanding” project (“Khon Doen Pa” means “forest hikers” in Thai) at Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The initiative is intended to give visitors the knowledge, skills and appropriate attitudes needed before entering protected forest areas, while reducing accidents, waste and ecological impacts under the Leave No Trace principle, described as “leaving no burden on nature”. Continued … 

Thailand hotel guest bolts awake as partner spots cobra by the bed

Footage from a hotel in Krabi is leaving viewers unsettled after a couple reportedly discovered a large cobra lurking near their bed before sunrise.One of the guests initially treated the commotion as just being startled from a bad dream or some other misunderstanding. Only moments later did they realize why their partner had suddenly woken up and run from the room in a panic at about 5 am.

The threat soon became unmistakable: There was a snake inside the room. Reports said the cobra was discovered near the bed and later found hidden underneath it. Continued and video … 

The History of Talad Noi

The story of Talad Noi dates back to the early Rattanakosin period in the late 18th century. Following the establishment of Bangkok as the new capital, Chinese immigrants settled in Sampeng, which rapidly transformed into the city’s primary commercial center.

As trade boomed, business naturally spilt over into neighboring areas. This burgeoning satellite district quickly became known as the secondary trading hub, smaller than Sampeng, but equally vital to daily commerce. Continued … 

Thailand told green manufacturing is no longer optional

Thailand must accelerate its transition to advanced green manufacturing if it hopes to remain competitive in an increasingly sustainability-driven global economy, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).

The agency says environmentally friendly manufacturing is no longer simply a corporate responsibility or additional business cost, but a new engine of economic growth capable of strengthening Thailand’s long-term position in international markets. Continued … 

Waste into wealth: A regenerative path

Waste is often seen as the inevitable by-product of economic growth. In reality, it may become one of the most valuable resources economies possess.

Thailand generates more than 27 million tons of municipal solid waste each year, according to data from the Pollution Control Department (PCD), and more than half is either improperly managed or left to accumulate in expanding landfills. What appears to be an environmental problem is increasingly becoming an economic one. Continued … 

Super El Niño to hit Thailand next year

A super El Niño is expected to hit Thailand in October and last through the early part of the 2027 rainy season, affecting crops, rice plantations and water consumption. The Thai Meteorological Department has warned that rainfall could fall by at least 10% as a result.

A super El Niño is an unusually strong warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, during which sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific become significantly warmer than normal. Continued … 

Data center race faces power, water logjam

Power, not land prices, has become the biggest hurdle for data center investors evaluating Thailand, as growing demand is increasingly constrained by limited electricity and water infrastructure, according to property consultancy Savills Thailand.

Prapaporn Boonkajornkul, deputy managing director of the consultancy, said inquiries from overseas data center investors remain steady, although the market is dominated by a small number of hyperscale operators requiring extensive infrastructure. Continued … 

Indonesian ferry fire leaves five dead and 41 missing

At least five people have died and 41 remain missing after an Indonesian ferry caught fire off Madura island in East Java, authorities said. Indonesia’s search and rescue agency said the ferry was carrying 271 passengers and crew, of whom 225 had been rescued by yesterday afternoon. A search and rescue operation was still under way. 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

Monday’s news-July 20

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  • Please welcome returning sponsor Anantasila Beach Restaurant/Bluport Hua Hin adjusts/Hua Hin videos/Thailand updates criminal record check rules/Thailand targets civil servants/Thailand Targets EV Dealers/Farang groom allegedly skips dowry/Two dead and 73 cats killed/Pathum Thani volunteers relocate 120 cats
  • THE IRAN WAR: US and Iran intensify military exchanges/Brent oil surges
  • ECONOMY: Business closures rise 12.5%/Thailand secures Chinese investment/Poll blames officials for illegal foreign businesses/Land bridge project can wait/Pet ownership creates new economic opportunity
  • TOURISM: Visa Destinations in Hua Hin, nationwide/Swiss seasonal retirees face 30-day visa-free limit/Koh Samui cruise terminal project
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How to Ride MRT/7 art-filled hotels
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 
Please welcome returning sponsor:

Anantasila Beach Restaurant Hua Hin

Our beach bar and restaurant veranda give access to beautiful, unobstructed views of the sea and Khao Takiab shoreline. The restaurant’s tree-canopied outdoor dining area offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.

Our restaurant offers a taste of local specialties, but also a wide choice of European dishes. Diners hoping for something a little more personalized can enjoy a fresh custom made pizza. Wine drinkers are invited to visit our wine pantry, which stocks a handpicked selection of Old World and New World wines. For those looking to enjoy a refreshing seaside cocktail or an evening aperitif, our bar serves a menu of classic and signature drinks.

Our restaurant is open seven days a week from 7.00-23.00 hrs. and we welcome all residents and non-residents. For reservation, Tel : +66 32 527 638; Email : fb@anantasila.com.

Bluport Hua Hin adjusts to emphasize family

Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall is repositioning itself to attract more families and local visitors by expanding its lifestyle, sports and entertainment offerings, aiming to raise occupancy to 97% next year from 80%.

Vajee Klomkliang, an executive committee member of Hua Hin Asset Co, the developer and operator of the complex, said the strategy reflects changing consumer behaviour. “Hua Hin’s retail sector can no longer rely solely on tourists, despite the steady recovery in the area,” she said. “Bluport once appeared too luxurious and difficult for many people to access. We are making it friendlier and more welcoming.” Continued … 

Hua Hin’s Most Atmospheric Night Markets? Tamarind & Cicada Walking Tour

This walking tour in Hua Hin takes you through two of the town’s most atmospheric night markets — Tamarind Market and Cicada Market — on a lively tropical evening. The walk captures the colorful lights, delicious street food aromas and relaxed seaside vibe that make Hua Hin’s weekend markets so popular with locals and travelers.

Experience authentic ambient sounds, live music in the background and the natural buzz of people enjoying the evening. Food stalls serve a wide variety of Thai dishes, seafood and international snacks, while small bars and seating areas create a cozy open-air dining atmosphere. Video … 

Thailand updates criminal record check rules for foreign applicants

Thailand’s Criminal Records Division has announced requirements that may affect foreign nationals undertaking official procedures in the country. Under the rules, criminal record checks for nine categories of applications must be conducted using fingerprints.

These categories include key Immigration Bureau procedures, such as applications for permanent residence and extensions of stay. They also cover applications for Thai nationality handled by the Department of Provincial Administration. Continued … 

Thailand targets civil servants aged over 40 for retirement

Thailand’s government is considering a voluntary retirement scheme for civil servants as young as 40, in a bid to reduce personnel costs and modernize the bureaucracy. Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt said the proposed programm would initially cover officials in roles where technology could replace routine administrative tasks.

A detailed study is expected to be completed in time for the 2027 fiscal year. Officials aged 40 are being targeted because they have time to retrain, gain new skills and adapt to labor-market changes, Pakorn said. Those aged 50 and over may find career changes and reskilling more difficult. Continued … 

Thailand Targets EV Dealers Over Warranties, Disclosures, and Defect Issues

Thailand’s government has ordered nationwide inspections of electric vehicle dealers and showrooms, tightening scrutiny of a market that has grown faster than the regulatory and after-sales infrastructure built to support it.

The directive, issued by the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), comes as complaints over defective vehicles, misleading range claims and collapsing service networks pile up across the country’s dominant EV segment. Continued … 

Thai bride throws lavish 130-table wedding, farang groom allegedly skips dowry

A wedding catering business in Nakhon Ratchasima has filed a police complaint after being left with an unpaid bill of nearly 200,000 baht when a Thai bride allegedly failed to settle the cost of her lavish wedding reception, claiming her foreign groom never paid the promised dowry.

The owner of Krua Thong To Chin, a catering service in Pak Chong district, reported the incident to police after suffering losses of 195,000 baht. According to the complaint, the bride hired the company to organize a full-service wedding reception, including 130 banquet tables, a live band, lighting and sound systems, and other event equipment. Continued … 

Two dead and 73 cats killed in Thonburi house fire

Two people were found dead and 73 cats were killed in a fire at a three-story house in Bangkok’s Thonburi district early on Saturday. During the firefighting operation, rescuers safely rescued and evacuated a two-month-old baby and a bedridden elderly woman who had been trapped inside the house.

Rescue workers searching a second-floor room found the bodies of a couple, a 62-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman. Officials found the remains of more than 73 cats inside cages in the house. A further 19 cats were rescued alive, with two being given oxygen by responders for smoke inhalation. Continued … 

Pathum Thani volunteers relocate 120 cats before eviction

A total of 120 cats have been relocated from a rented home in Pathum Thani after the landlord required the animals to be removed. Volunteers, rescue workers and animal welfare supporters transported the cats to a newly built shelter in Khlong Luang district.

Their owner sought public help in June after being told to vacate the property. After the case received media attention, a donor contributed 100,000 baht toward the construction. The landlord also agreed to extend the deadline, giving the owner additional time to complete the new accommodation. Continued … 

US and Iran intensify military exchanges amid regional escalation

Fresh Iranian attacks were reported in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan yesterday as the United States concluded an eighth consecutive night of military operations against Iran. The latest escalation came as an interim ceasefire signed a month earlier continued to unravel.

Growing confrontation over control of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about one-fifth of global oil trade, has heightened the danger of full-scale hostilities resuming. The renewed US action followed an Iranian attack in Jordan on Friday that killed two American service personnel and left another missing. Continued … 

Brent oil surges past $90 as US-Iran conflict hits Gulf shipping

Oil prices jumped today, with Brent crude rising above US$90 a barrel, as intensified attacks between the United States and Iran deepened concern over energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude futures rose US$2.69, or 3.05%, to US$90.79 a barrel, touching their highest level since June 11. The gain extended a sharp rally from last week, when Brent rose 15.9%, its largest weekly increase since April. Continued … 

Business closures rise by 12.5% in first half

A total of 7,024 businesses ceased operations in the first half of this year, up 12.5% year-on-year, with total registered capital of 98.9 billion baht, an increase  of 224%, according to the Department of Business Development (DBD).

The sectors with the highest upticks for closures were general construction with 671 closures and registered capital of 1.64 billion baht; real estate with 400 closures and registered capital of 4.21 billion baht; and electrical installation with 89 companies and registered capital of 124 million baht. Continued … 

Thailand secures Chinese investment pledges worth B70 billion

Thailand expects more than B70 billion in investment from four leading Chinese electric vehicle and advanced-technology companies, following talks in Chengdu yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said the commitments followed a Thailand investment roadshow led by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in the Chinese city.

The expected total comprises B50 billion in expansions of existing investments and more than B20 billion in new investment. Ekniti said geopolitical tensions were encouraging companies to shift manufacturing capacity from China to ASEAN, with Thailand among their preferred destinations. Continued … 

NIDA poll blames officials for illegal foreign businesses

Corrupt government officials are seen as the leading reason foreigners can illegally run businesses in Thailand, according to a nationwide NIDA Poll. Some 67.1% of respondents blamed corruption or misconduct among state officials for businesses directly operated by foreigners or run through Thai nominees.

The findings were released yesterday after telephone interviews conducted from July 13-15 among Thai residents aged 18 and over. The issue has particular relevance for foreigners living, investing or working in Thailand. The poll reflects strong public concern about nominee businesses, restricted occupations and alleged gray-money operations. Continued … 

PM says controversial land bridge project can wait

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said in China’s Chengdu that the controversial land bridge project can wait and the seaports in the southern provinces of Ranong and Chumphon should be upgraded as the first priority.

He added, however, that the land bridge remains a flagship policy of his government and further study will continue, but that an urgent infrastructure project must be implemented to connect the Ranong province on the western coast with Chumphon province on the eastern coast, and a land-based logistics infrastructure to connect with other countries in the region. Continued … 

Pet ownership creates a new economic opportunity

Once regarded as household companions, pets are increasingly being treated as family members, and that emotional bond is transforming into a major economic force. From premium pet food and health supplements to insurance, luxury boarding services and even pet strollers, owners around the world are spending more than ever on their four-legged companions.

The trend, known as the pet economy, is creating new business opportunities globally while positioning Thailand to become one of the world’s leading producers of premium pet food. Continued … 

Thailand launches Visa Destinations in Hua Hin and nationwide

Thailand has become the first country in the world to introduce Visa’s Destinations program nationwide, with the scheme intended to make payments easier for visitors and widen digital-payment acceptance among smaller businesses.

Launched with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Visa Destinations Thailand covers Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Udon Thani, Samui, Hua Hin and Hat Yai. It is open to all Visa cardholders. Continued … 

Swiss seasonal retirees face Thailand’s 30-day visa-free limit

Thailand plans to halve visa-free entry from 60 to 30 days for citizens of 54 countries, including Switzerland, a move likely to affect those seasonal retirees who spend much of the European winter in the kingdom. The change has not yet appeared in the Royal Gazette. It will take effect 15 days after publication. Until then, Swiss visitors and other eligible nationals can still enter visa-free for 60 days.

The existing arrangement, introduced in July 2024, allows a 60-day stay followed by one 30-day extension at a local immigration office. This has enabled many visitors to remain for up to three months with relatively little paperwork. Continued … 

Thailand advances B12-billion Koh Samui cruise terminal project

The Transport Ministry is advancing a 12.17-billion-baht cruise terminal project on Koh Samui that is expected to accommodate up to 400,000 tourists and 240 cruise calls annually.

The proposed terminal, capable of serving large cruise ships, is among the ministry’s 262 major transport projects planned for 2027, with a combined investment of 229.76 billion baht. Continued … 

How to Ride MRT: Easy Thai Phrases for Asoke and Sukhumvit Transit

Traveling around Bangkok is great, but it becomes so much more fun and rewarding when you can speak the local language. In this episode of THE JOURNEY GO OUT, we are changing the way you commute by teaching you basic Thai phrases specifically for riding the city trains.

You do not need to rely only on English or automatic machines because speaking Thai with the station staff and locals adds a whole new layer of excitement to your adventure. We break down everything from buying tickets at the counter to finding the right platform, making your underground transit smooth and stress-free. Video … 

7 art-filled hotels to explore across Thailand

It’s no secret that Thailand is home to some of the world’s most stunning stays. Beyond breezy beachfront resorts, Thailand is also home to stunning art-filled hotels where art takes center stage — whether through paintings, sculptures, bold design, traditional Thai craftsmanship, or contemporary installations.

For travelers who like their stays with a side of artistry, there are seven art-filled hotels across Thailand worth checking into. More than just a place to sleep, these properties turn the hotel experience into part of the destination itself. Continued … 

Lax visa and enforcement encourages fugitives to Thailand

A former FBI agent who spent a decade based in Thailand says lax visitor entry and law enforcement, combined with the country’s appeal as a place to live, have made it attractive to international fugitives. Continued … 

Russia batters Kyiv in major ballistic missile attack

Russia battered Ukraine’s capital Kyiv overnight with one of its biggest ballistic missile barrages of the war, killing at least one person and wounding 16 others, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said yesterday. Video … 

Over 500 Rohingya feared dead after boats capsize off Myanmar

More than 500 people, mostly Rohingya, are feared missing after two boats reportedly capsized off Myanmar, the UN refugee agency and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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Friday’s news-July 17

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  • Cha Am Music Festival/Hua Hin videos/Pub fire victims died from cyanide poisoning/Chonburi raids target nominee firms
  • THE IRAN WAR: Red Sea oil route closure
  • ECONOMY: China’s Growing Influence/Chinese Investments in Thailand
  • TOURISM: 2-3 hour immigration queues/B2.45-billion travel subsidy package/Gastronomy Tourism Beyond Bangkok/Thailand taps Nene Royal/flydubai doubles Bangkok flights
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Isan Cuisine Part of Wellness Food Conversation/Koh Samui named world’s best island/Krabi’s Quiet Luxury
  • HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Cha Am Music Festival set for August 7–9

The Cha Am Music Festival will be held Aug. 7–9, offering three evenings of free live music, food and fireworks beside Cha Am beach. The festival will take place at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, with admission free throughout the three-day event.

Phetchaburi province is organizing the festival in partnership with Cha Am municipality, Cha Am District, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Thai Hotels Association Western Chapter, and public and private sector organizations. Continued … 

9 Best Areas To Stay In Thailand’s favorite Beachside City – Hua Hin

Walk through all of the best areas to stay in Hua Hin. Hua Hin has long been a favorite holiday for locals and expats, so in today’s video we breakdown all of the best neighborhoods to stay in while visiting this amazing beachside town in Thailand. Video … 

Hua Hin Tamarind Market Night Walk

Explore the atmosphere, street food stalls, seafood, grilled meats, desserts, Thai snacks, preserved fruits, and the relaxing evening vibe that makes Tamarind Market one of the most popular night markets in Hua Hin. Video … 

Autopsies reveal Lat Phrao pub fire victims died from cyanide poisoning within four minutes

Preliminary evidence from the investigation into the fatal fire at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao indicates that an overloaded electrical system may have triggered a short circuit, while an emergency exit near the toilets was reportedly bolted shut when the blaze broke out.

More than 106 people have been questioned, including the business’s management and employees, relatives of those killed or injured, forensic officers, engineers and electricity officials. Investigators are also seeking testimony from electricians previously involved in alterations at the premises. Continued … 

Chonburi raids target 33 suspected nominee firms

Thai police and Chonburi provincial authorities launched coordinated searches at 41 locations on 17 July, targeting 33 companies suspected of using Thai nominees to hold land for foreign nationals.

The operation also covered a housing development in the district. Officers are examining suspected arrangements involving 32 land plots with a combined estimated value of about 235 million baht. Continued … 

Iran urges Houthis to prepare for possible Red Sea oil route closure

The Middle East’s two principal oil-export corridors could be disrupted simultaneously if the Bab el-Mandeb Strait is closed. At the same time, the Strait of Hormuz remains shut, deepening the global energy crisis and opening another front in Iran’s wider conflict with the United States.

Three sources said yesterday that Iran had asked Yemen’s Houthi movement to prepare to close the Red Sea oil route should the United States attack Iranian power infrastructure. Such a move would create a serious new threat to global energy supplies. Continued … 

China’s Growing Influence Calls for a Measured Thai Response

The past week saw tensions mount among Thais who are becoming increasingly alarmed about China’s growing influence and role in Thailand. Four issues have emerged that patriotic Thais should, at the very least, be concerned about and contemplate within the larger context of Sino-Thai relations.

First, there is the ongoing crackdown on cases involving children allegedly fraudulently registered as Thai despite being born to Chinese parents. Dozens of cases have emerged, with several Thai and Chinese nationals arrested. The Thai government has ordered nationwide scrutiny of other potential cases. Continued … 

Chinese Firms Eye Data Centers, Smart Manufacturing, New Energy Investments in Thailand

Leading Chinese companies have shifted their investment plans in Thailand to data centers, the manufacturing industry’s intelligent transformation, and new energy opportunities amid rising land and labor costs and stricter compliance requirements in the country, as well as global tariff shocks.

Internet giants ByteDance and Alibaba Group Holding are investing in Thai artificial intelligence data centers, while leading home appliance firms Haier Group, Midea Group, and Skyworth Group focus on building smart manufacturing bases and developing new energy businesses. Continued … 

Suvarnabhumi arrivals face 2-3 hour immigration queues

Foreign visitors arriving at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport are again reportedly facing waits of two to three hours at immigration during some periods, as stricter screening and staff shortages create bottlenecks.

Tourism industry sources say the long queues have returned as a major concern at the airport, with the delay affecting travelers’ first experience on arrival in Thailand. The problem is most apparent during busy flight periods, when checks can build into lengthy lines. Continued … 

Thailand proposes B2.45-billion travel subsidy package

Thailand is considering a B2.45-billion tourism stimulus package that could offer 500,000 travel co-payment entitlements, discounts on 400,000 domestic airline seats and support for international flights.

None of the measures is available yet. They must be approved by the main joint public-private committee and the Cabinet, while funding would need to be allocated from the central budget. Continued … 

Gastronomy Tourism Tipped to Spread Wealth Beyond Bangkok

Southeast Asian tourism officials are pushing gastronomy tourism as a tool to redistribute visitor spending away from saturated hotspots such as Bangkok and Phuket, delegates heard at the Nikkei Asia Forum 2026 yesterday.

Speaking on a panel titled “From Arrival to After-Dinner: Upgrading Tourism Value Chain Across the Region”, Noor Ahmad Hamid, chief executive of the Pacific Asia Travel Assn. (PATA), said national tourism bodies were increasingly using regional cuisine to steer travelers toward secondary destinations. Continued … 

Thailand taps Nene Royal for global tourism promotion drive

The Thai government is preparing to support Phuket singer-guitarist Nene Royal in the next stage of her America’s Got Talent journey and involve her in promoting the country’s tourism, international image and soft power.

The 16-year-old musician, whose real name is Rattikarn “Praew” Amloy, gained worldwide attention after combining powerful vocals with live guitar in a rock-driven performance of The Cranberries’ “Zombie” during her audition for Season 21 of the US talent show. Continued … 

flydubai doubles Bangkok flights

Dubai carrier flydubai is pressing ahead with its expansion in Thailand, doubling its daily flights to Bangkok from tomorrow as travel demand between the UAE and Southeast Asia continues to climb despite recent geopolitical uncertainty.

The additional service was first announced by the airline in February and comes just a week after Thai tourism officials visiting the UAE confirmed that airlines would continue increasing seat capacity between the two countries. Thailand expects the number of weekly flights between the UAE and the Southeast Asian destination to rise to around 140 as demand continues to grow. Continued … 

Why Isan Cuisine Is Part of Thailand’s Wellness Food Conversation

“Food is medicine” is an idea that predates modern wellness by centuries. Yet, in an era increasingly defined by mindful eating and nutrition, it has taken on renewed relevance.

Few culinary traditions illustrate the point quite as convincingly as Isan cuisine, where bold flavors are built from fresh herbs, fermented ingredients, and techniques that have long prioritized balance over excess. Continued … 

Koh Samui named world’s best island

Koh Samui has been named the World’s Best Island for 2026 in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, giving Thailand another major boost on the international tourism stage.

The Surat Thani island received a reader score of 95.64, placing it ahead of globally renowned destinations including the Maldives, Bali and Milos. Continued … 

The Future of Krabi’s Quiet Luxury

As the tourism industry continues to chase volume, one Andaman province is quietly betting on something else entirely. For decades, Thailand’s tourism strategy has mostly been about volume – more visitors, more hotels, more revenue. But on the Andaman coast, Krabi, with its dramatic limestone karsts, emerald-green waters, and slow-paced coastal charm, has long been the antidote to mass tourism.

Yet, its popularity is booming. The province now ranks as the fifth highest revenue-generating destination in Thailand for international tourism, with annual visitor numbers swelling to between 3.8 and 6.3 million travelers. 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

Wednesday’s news-July 15

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Time is short when you’re on the road, so while Expat News travels, our daily news report will use headlines only to save some time. Regular coverage resumes Friday.
  • Hua Hin water supply sufficient,/Mini-Balloon Festival/Hua Hin videos/Deportation Rules For Foreigners/Five Targets in Nominee Probe/How licensing loopholes put customers at risk
  • THE IRAN WAR: Trump threatens to hit Iran power plants/BOT Monitors Middle East Tension
  • ECONOMY: Three-airport rail deadlock/Krabi island up for sale
  • TOURISM: Thailand revamps visa rules/Thailand buckles to India/Cash Fine Racket in Pattaya/Phuket beaches to be ‘restored’
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: What Americans Get Wrong About Thailand
  • HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin water supply sufficient, officials say

Continued …

Mini-Balloon Festival returns to Pak Nam Pran

The MiniBalloon Festival Pranburi will return to the Pak Nam Pran beachfront Aug. 7-9, alongside the annual Sun-Dried Squid and Seafood Festival.

The free event will take place from 4 pm to 9 pm each day at Maharaj Field in Pak Nam Pran, with balloon displays, live music and local seafood. Continued … 

Finding the Forgotten Side of Hua Hin

Searching for the, older, local and lesser seen parts of Hua Hin in between the popular tourists streets. Trying to find small alley ways, old wooden thai houses, beach side restaurants, local fisherman casting their nets for their daily catch. Come along for the journey as we see the contrast between the luxury resort style side of Hua Hin and the laid back local side. Video … 

Saphan Pla Night Market (fishing pier)

One of Hua Hin’s most unique local night markets is the Saphan Pla Night Market on the fishing pier. Video … 

Thailand Approves First Deportation Rules For Foreigners

Continued … 

Thailand Searches Five Targets in Nominee Probe

Continued … 

 

When a restaurant becomes a pub: How licensing loopholes put customers at risk

Continued … 

Trump threatens to hit Iran power plants next week if no deal

Continued … 

BOT Monitors Middle East Tension as Baht Drops 6% Year to Date

Continued … 

Three-airport rail deadlock clouds Thailand’s B140-billion PPP pipeline

Continued … 

Krabi island up for sale to raise state revenue

Continued … 

Thailand revamps visa rules for 65 countries and territories

Continued … 

New Thai-Malaysian checkpoint a boon for tourism

Continued … 

Thailand buckles to India, restores visa-free scheme

Continued … 

 

Kuwaiti Tourists Allege Cash Fine Racket in Pattaya

Continued … 

Phuket beaches to be ‘restored’

Continued … 

What Americans Get Wrong About Life in Thailand

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

Saturday’s news-July 11

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Editor: Expat News will be traveling next week, July 12-16. We wil try to keep you up to date on the news during this time, but our reports may be fewer and at a different time. We will return to full service next Friday, July 17.
  • Phuket teen rocks AGT/Top 5 Beachfront Pool Villas in Hua Hin/Hua Hin videos/Airport rail deal faces review/CP Group confirms rail commitment/DSI Raids Nominee Networks/Bangkok underground tunnel problems/Four monks missing/Thailand’s heroin trafficking network
  • ECONOMY: Price Hikes Hit Lunch Staples/Consumers upbeat, businesses cautious/IMF raises Thai GDP forecast/Foreign film boom
  • TOURISM: Thailand Needs to Soak Its Own Rich/Ministry restructure a tourism priority/China Tourist Numbers Still Trail/New Sadao checkpoint/Luxury cruise line debut
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s Automatic Rice Planting Machine/Thai Craft Heritage Being Redesigned/Witchcraft lands in Bangkok
  • HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Phuket teen Nene Royal transforms from shy girl to rock star on AGT

(Editor: This article also includes a video of the entire performance – and it is not something you want to miss, even if you don’t like the song selection. This Thai girl is talented! Today’s moment of pure joy.)

When the 15-year-old girl from Phuket introduced herself to the four judges of America’s Got Talent, she looked shy, almost overwhelmed, and admitted it was her first time performing on a stage of that scale.

But the moment she struck the opening chords of The Cranberries’ Zombie, the room changed. The audience roared, the judges leaned in, and Nene Royal was no longer the nervous newcomer. She had transformed into a young rock star in full command of the stage. Continued … 

Top 5 Beachfront Pool Villas in Hua Hin For a Luxury Escape

Sometimes, you just need to pack a bag, leave the traffic behind, and head straight to where the waves hit the sand. Hua Hin has lately become the ultimate spot for this exact kind of escape. It offers a slower, calmer rhythm than other beach towns, making it a favorite for quick weekend getaways.

If you want to wake up to the ocean breeze and step directly from your bed into a private pool, a beachfront villa is the only way to go. Here is a curated look at the top five luxury beachfront sanctuaries in the area that deliver total privacy and coastal bliss. Continued … 

Try These Thai Seafood Dishes in Hua Hin

If you are looking for great and tasty seafood where tourists don’t go to then this is the place to go. It is one of my favorites in Hua Hin. Bring your best translator along as there is no English script menu but that means that great Thai dishes are going to be served. Video … 

Is Hua Hin Soi 94 the new heart of city’s nightlife?

Take a walk through Soi 94, Hua Hin’s fastest-growing entertainment zone. While Soi Bintabaht is the classic choice, Soi 94 offers a massive variety of themed bars, live music venues, and some of the friendliest spots in town. Explore the entire length of the street after dark, checking out the bar scene, the local “bar girl” culture, and why so many expats and tourists are choosing this area over the town center. Video … 

Airport rail deal faces July 15 review after eight-year delay and 21.8-billion-baht investment

Thailand’s long-delayed high-speed railway linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports is heading toward a crucial review on July 15, after more than eight years without construction beginning and combined public and private investment exceeding 21.8 billion baht.

The project has remained stalled since the invitation to tender was issued on May 30, 2018. Its progress has been held back by prolonged negotiations over revisions to the public-private partnership agreement, including requests by the private concessionaire for relief following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued … 

CP Group confirms rail commitment after PM warns against unilateral withdrawal

PMAnutin Charnvirakulhas insisted that the three-airport high-speed rail project must continue under its existing agreement, warning that a private concessionaire cannot unilaterally terminate a contract with the state.

His remarks followed reports that a company within CP Group had submitted a letter to the State Railway of Thailand seeking to end the contract for the rail link connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports. Continued … 

DSI Raids Nominee Networks in Surat Thani

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI), together with the Ministry of Justice and multiple government agencies, announced yesterday the results of coordinated raids at five locations on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, as part of an investigation into suspected nominee companies allegedly used by foreign nationals to own land and operate restricted businesses.

Investigators said they uncovered luxury villa developments, land holdings and corporate structures worth billions of baht linked to the probe. The first target was a Chinese-owned luxury villa development in Bo Phut. The project covers more than 14,000 square meters and was found to include 15 land plots totaling 97 rai, 3 ngan and 88.4 square wah, with an estimated land value of 1.567 billion baht. Continued … 

Bangkok underground tunnel causes subsidence and cracks in buildings and roads

A widening underground engineering emergency beneath one of Bangkok’s busiest intersections has forced evacuations, road closures and round-the-clock repairs after a leaking Purple Line MRT tunnel triggered ground subsidence and fresh cracking around Wongwian Yai, reviving memories of the capital’s 2025 sinkhole disaster.

Although a minister says subsidence has slowed and engineers expect to seal the leak within 12 days, residents remain displaced and businesses are closed as investigators race to stabilize the ground and determine what caused the crisis. Continued … 

Four monks missing after bamboo raft breaks up in Surat Thani

A search operation has been launched for four Buddhist monks who vanished after a bamboo raft carrying 12 monks broke apart while drifting along a canal in Kaengkrung National Park in Surat Thani province on Thursday night.

Park officials, local community leaders, villagers and rescue workers yesterday joined forces to search for the missing monks after the incident in Khlong Mui, located within Bang Yuan forest of Kaengkrung National Park, which stands in Vibhavadi district of the southern province. Continued … 

Police in Thailand and Laos moving to take out heroin trafficking network

The arrest of Thai airline hostess Meena in Melbourne has exposed what investigators now believe is only the outer edge of a far larger international heroin trafficking syndicate stretching from Laos through Thailand to Australia and Taiwan.

As Thai authorities widen their investigation, secure four new arrest warrants, make another arrest, and intensify cross-border operations with Laos, police say those caught so far were merely couriers, while the organization’s leaders remain at large, prompting an increasingly aggressive hunt for the network directing one of the region’s most sophisticated heroin smuggling operations. Continued … 

Price Hikes Hit Lunch Staples as Thai Workers Face Living Cost Crunch

Thailand’s urban workforce is facing an escalating squeeze on disposable income as the price of popular ready-to-eat meals climbs across the country, driven by stubborn energy costs and transport inflation.

A market survey conducted by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), under the Ministry of Commerce, revealed that prices have been adjusted upward for 438 items across seven staple one-dish meals — including fried rice, noodles, and the ubiquitous Pad Kra Prow (basil stir-fry). The increases affect 28.5% of all surveyed items. Continued … 

Consumers upbeat, businesses cautious

Consumer confidence rebounded for the first time in four months in June, supported by falling oil prices and the implementation of the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” (Thais Help Thais) co-payment scheme, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). The consumer confidence index (CCI) tallied 50.7 in June, according to a survey by the UTCC’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting.

Meanwhile, the Thai Chamber of Commerce confidence index (TCC-CI), based on a survey of 369 business operators nationwide, was 41.4, down 0.3 points from May and roughly three points below the level recorded before the Middle East conflict began, at 44.5 in February. Continued … 

IMF raises Thai GDP growth forecast

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has upgraded Thailand’s GDP growth forecast to 1.9% from 1.5%, supported by the government’s stimulus measures.

According to the IMF’s World Economic Outlook Update released on Wednesday, the uptick reflects the emergency fiscal measures and is supported by robust technology-related exports and investment. The lender also raised its 2027 growth forecast for Thailand by 0.1 percentage points to 2.2%. Continued … 

Foreign film boom spurs national revenue

Thailand generated just over 4.025 billion baht from foreign film productions during the first half of this year, with 302 overseas projects filmed across the country. The figures reinforce its position as a leading production hub in Asia and put it on course to set another annual revenue record.

The financial figures exceed half of the total investment recorded throughout last year, reflecting continued confidence among international content producers in Thailand as a regional production base, she said. Continued … 

Thailand Needs to Soak Its Own Rich, Not Just Wealthy Tourists

Thailand’s government has decided, like Japan and others, that the quality of the tourists it attracts is far more appealing than the quantity. After receiving just 33 million foreign arrivals to the Kingdom this year, far below the record 40 million it recorded in 2019, Thailand is betting that a smaller number of more wealthy tourists can generate the same amount of revenue.

It is seeking to attract them, in part, by providing “meaningful experiences” for the rich in the form of golf resorts, wellness retreats, fine dining, and luxury packages. Thailand is suffering not only from a decline in tourism volume, as a strong baht, a rising Vietnam, and an ugly transnational crime problem have hampered interest, but also from the fact that its solution to the problem is a loser, as there are other wealthy people to “soak” right at home. Continued … 

Ministry restructure a tourism priority

Once the Bhumjaithai Party assumed government leadership earlier this year, one of its key tourism priorities was to restructure the Tourism and Sports Ministry, creating a dedicated Sports Ministry and merging the Tourism and Culture ministries.

This proposal is not new, raised by previous governments to promote tourism and sports more effectively. There are several approaches to managing and developing the tourism industry that depend on a strategic vision and long-term objectives. Continued … 

China Tourist Numbers Still Trail in Thailand

Thailand’s tourism sector continues to feel the impact of a sharp decline in Chinese visitors, despite China regaining its position as the country’s largest source market in 2026. Between Jan. 1 and July 4, Thailand welcomed 16,210,890 foreign visitors, down 3.1% year on year, generating 782.57 billion baht in tourism revenue, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

China accounted for 2,654,728 arrivals during the period, ahead of Malaysia with 2,109,956, followed by India with 1,239,023, Russia with 1,022,483 and South Korea with 596,673. In one recent summer week, Continued … 

New Sadao checkpoint linking Malaysia opens today

A new Sadao checkpoint compound and road linking southern Thailand and northern Malaysia has been slated to open for users today after the prime ministers of both nations officiated its launch yesterday.

The new, larger checkpoint is located about six kilometers east of the present office in Sadao district of Songkhla. Construction began in 2016 with a budget of 1.5 billion baht and an aim to ease congestion for trucks, cars and buses at the border. The checkpoint connects Songkha with Kedah state through the Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint. Continued … 

Luxury cruise line debuts in Thailand

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, one of the world’s leading ultra-luxury travel and cruise brands, has officially launched its brand in Thailand for the first time through a strategic partnership with World Travel Designer (WTD), a specialist in luxury travel marketing and distributor of leading global cruise brands.

The partnership aims to capture the growing demand among Thailand’s high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), whose travel preferences are shifting beyond traditional luxury toward exclusive, meaningful experiences that cannot easily be found elsewhere. Continued … 

Thailand’s Automatic Rice Planting Machine

Thailand’s automatic rice transplanter can plant rice seedlings with incredible speed and precision. This smart farming technology helps farmers save time, reduce labor, and increase efficiency. Video … 

 

How Thai Craft Heritage is Being Redesigned for Foreign Lifestyles

For centuries, the identity of Thai textiles and handicrafts has been explicitly clear: vibrant, multi-colored regional weaves, intricate gold ornamentation, and complex motifs. These are not merely everyday materials but historic cultural artefacts reflecting local wisdom passed down through generations. Yet, a hard truth has loomed over the loom.

Without adapting to the shifting habits of modern consumers, these ancient practices risk fading into obsolescence. Enter the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (SACIT). Continued …

Glastonbury-style witchcraft lands in Bangkok

Voralapa “Pyn” Lochaya, a “green witch” and Destiny Matrix coach, says witchcraft is a lifestyle rooted in the five elements and herbal healing.

After studying Thai, Chinese and Yunani herbal medicine and training in Glastonbury, she’s opening a “witch shop” in Thailand to promote healing, astrology and a new, less fearful view of witchcraft. Video …

Hua Hin Links and Transport

Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Tuesday’s news-July 7

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  • Hua Hin Ban Krut tourism rally/Hua Hin videos/Scottish Hua Hin resident in motorbike crash/Thailand’s medical doctor crisis/Push to help regional airports/The Rise of Plai
  • THE IRAN WAR: A Strategic Win for China
  • ECONOMY: Thailand must act swiftly/Living costs may stay high/Nationwide nominee crackdown/Chambers Urge Corruption Curb/Data center industry touts benefits/Harness full potential of AI/Bangkok’s ultra-wealthy population/Cannabis industry on the brink
  • TOURISM: Seaplane takeoff grounded
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 2,000-year-old burial site in Phetchaburi
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s Energy Reform/Thai village finally seeing the light
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin Ban Krut tourism rally this weekend

The Hua Hin Ban Krut Tourism Rally will take place Saturday and Sunday, with organizers inviting drivers, travelers and car enthusiasts to join a two-day route through Prachuap Khiri Khan. The event is being organized by the Prachuap Khiri Khan Tourism Industry Council and tourism partners under the theme “Drive along the two seas and discover the charm of Prachuap Khiri Khan.”

The rally will follow a route from Hua Hin to Ban Krut, covering about 120 kilometers. The starting point will be Sundance Beach Club 19 Rai in Hua Hin, with the rally finishing at Ban Krut Beach in Bang Saphan district. Continued … 

What Does it Cost to Live in Hua Hin?

If you’ve ever wondered what it really costs to live in Hua Hin, this in-depth video breaks down everything you need to know after nearly two years of real-life experience living in Hua Hin. From rent and utilities to groceries, transportation, and healthcare, this guide is packed with valuable insights for expats, retirees, digital nomads, and anyone considering moving to Thailand. Video … 

Soi 80 Walking Street

Welcome to Soi 80. Full of bars, street food, live music and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere – whether you’re planning a trip to Hua Hin or just curious about Thai nightlife. Video … 

Hua Hin Walking Street Soi 94 city athmosphere at night

This Hua Hin walking tour captures the unique city ambience after dark, offering an experience for those who love to explore the local Thai food scene, live music, bars, restaurants and more. Video … 

Scottish Hua Hin resident ‘may never walk again’ after motorbike crash

A Scottish man involved in a head-on motorbike crash in Thailand has been told he may never walk again. Darren Cummins, who has lived in the country for more than a decade, says he was T-boned by another driver at around 100km/h (60mph) during a crash on Saturday, June 13.

The Scot says the other driver was “traveling in the opposite direction” and “suddenly decided to u-turn directly across all three lanes”, leaving him with no time to react. The 34-year-old, originally from Falkirk, moved to Thailand in October 2015, and lives in Hua Hin. Continued … 

Thailand’s brewing medical doctor crisis

The recent call by more than 1,200 doctors urging the government to halt the approval of new medical degree programs proposed by Rajabhat universities must prompt policymakers to examine a more fundamental question than whether Thailand needs more medical schools.

Thailand’s healthcare crisis cannot be solved simply by a simplistic law of demand and supply. Expanding medical schools without addressing the structural weaknesses of the public health system risks treating the symptoms rather than the disease. Continued … 

New push to help regional airports grow

Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit has instructed Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) to develop an upgraded air traffic-management system to support the growth of the country’s regional airports and strengthen tourism links across Thailand’s lower northern provinces.

Phattrapong said the initiative aims to modernize aviation infrastructure and improve airport services through the adoption of advanced technology. He said the plan would help turn secondary provinces into stronger tourism destinations while boosting local economies. Continued …

The Rise of Plai: How an Ancient Thai Root Became a Modern Pharmaceutical Heavyweight

In the rapidly expanding global wellness economy, the line between traditional folklore and modern biochemistry is becoming increasingly blurred. Nowhere is this pharmaceutical evolution more apparent than in Thailand, where a humble, subterranean root belonging to the ginger family has quietly staged a medical revolution.

Once relegated to rural kitchen gardens and traditional massage clinics, the medicinal plant Plai has undergone a massive state-backed transition into mainstream clinical practice. Continued … 

How Trump’s Middle East War Handed China a Strategic Win It Never Asked For

Some foreign policy failures don’t make headlines or appear in casualty counts or ceasefire agreements. They surface months later, buried in a consultancy report no one in the White House was eager to read. Last week, the geopolitical research firm Asia Group confirmed what should have been clear from the beginning: the biggest winner of Donald Trump’s Middle East war isn’t the United States, Israel, or even Iran — it’s China.

The bare facts are stark enough to make the point on their own. After the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, killing Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, in the process, Tehran responded by effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz. That single act of retaliation choked off a waterway carrying roughly 80% of the region’s oil exports and nearly 90% of its liquefied natural gas, almost all of it bound for Asia. Continued …

Finance minister: Thailand must act swiftly to avoid crisis

Thailand must act quickly to stem its mounting current account deficit before it spirals into a current account crisis, says Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas. Ekniti said that while the government’s emergency borrowing decree would increase public debt, the loans are necessary to accelerate Thailand’s transition from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy.

“If we fail to act now, we risk facing one crisis on top of another,” he wrote, citing the fact that, after Thailand was hit by soaring oil prices in April and May, the country’s current account, which had traditionally remained in surplus, swung into a deficit of nearly 500 billion baht over the past two months. Continued … 

Thai inflation past peak but living costs may stay high

Thailand’s inflation rate is showing signs of moving past its sharpest point, as production costs and global oil pressure begin to ease, but households may still face a more lasting rise in daily living expenses.

The Trade Policy and Strategy Office, or TPSO, said the headline consumer price index for June stood at 102.85, up 2.42% from the same month last year. The rate marked a third consecutive month of annual increase, although the pace began to slow. Headline inflation for the first six months of 2026 averaged 1.08%. Continued … 

Anutin orders nationwide nominee crackdown amid EEC land concerns

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered police and relevant agencies to inspect suspected nominee landholdings nationwide, following concerns over Chinese-linked capital acquiring large plots in the Eastern Economic Corridor to develop illegal industrial estates.

Anutin rejected claims that illegal industrial estates could be operating in the EEC, saying any such development would require official approval, utility systems and compliance with multiple legal conditions before it could proceed. Continued … 

Foreign Chambers Urge Thailand to Curb Corruption

Thailand must strengthen anti-corruption efforts, improve law enforcement and reform regulations to restore investor confidence and maintain its competitiveness, according to Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT) Chairwoman Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag.

She said foreign investors closely assess a country’s anti-corruption record before making investment decisions, with concerns over transparency, regulatory uncertainty and inconsistent enforcement causing some existing and prospective investors to reconsider expanding or relocating operations in Thailand. Continued … 

Data center industry touts economic benefits

Thailand’s data center industry is seeking to recast concerns over resource strain as an economic opportunity, arguing that Thailand’s unused power capacity can be converted into investment, tax revenue and a new industrial growth engine if the government moves quickly and ensures more benefits stay in the country.

According to the Thailand Data Center Assn., the sector’s direct GDP contribution could rise from about 0.93% to 2.47% over five years, supported by roughly 2 trillion baht in capital inflows, significant fiscal revenue and wider private sector spillovers. Continued … 

Thai businesses urged to harness full potential of AI

True Corp. is urging businesses to look beyond artificial intelligence as a standalone technology and instead combine AI with data-driven human insights to better understand increasingly complex consumer behavior and strengthen their competitiveness in the digital economy.

Speaking at the company’s recent “Human Insights in the AI Era” forum, Oliver Kittipong Veeratacha, True’s chief brand officer, said businesses are entering an environment where customer journeys are becoming more fragmented as AI becomes embedded across every stage of consumer decision-making. Continued … 

Bangkok sees ultra-wealthy population expand rapidly

Bangkok is emerging as Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing hub for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal as a destination for global wealth despite persistent economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

According to wealth intelligence firm Altrata’s World Ultra Wealth Report 2026, Thailand was home to 2,090 UHNW individuals in 2025, including 1,210 primary residents in Bangkok. Continued … 

Cannabis industry on the brink, huge seizures worldwide

Thailand’s landmark cannabis revolution is on the brink of collapse after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the architect of Asia’s first cannabis decriminalization policy, warned he is prepared to recriminalize the drug and shut down the industry following a wave of major international cannabis seizures linked to Thailand.

Backed by senior Bhumjaithai Party legal adviser Supachai Jaisamut’s insistence that the party only ever intended cannabis for medical use, the intervention signals the gravest threat yet to the 2022 reforms, as organized trafficking networks, collapsing prices, stalled legislation and mounting international pressure drive the government toward a historic policy reversal. Continued … 

Seaplane takeoff grounded by regulations

While Thailand holds the potential to lead the regional seaplane market due to its tourism resources, it faces regulatory challenges that have delayed development, says aviation operator Siam Seaplane.

“Thailand has recorded strong demand for seaplane services, but the industry developed slower than regional competitors such as Vietnam and Indonesia,” said Worakanya Siripidej, chief executive of Siam Seaplane. Continued … 

What a 2,000-year-old burial site reveals about ancient Phetchaburi

What began as the accidental discovery of a bronze drum beneath a rice field has become one of Thailand’s most significant archaeological excavations in recent years.

Months after archaeologists broke ground at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site in Ban Don Phlap, Ban Lat district, Phetchaburi, the picture emerging from the excavation is no longer about a single artefact. Instead, it tells the story of an affluent prehistoric community connected to regional trade networks stretching from present-day Vietnam to India some 2,000 years ago. Continued … 

Thailand’s Energy Reform: Supercharging Our Way to a Future-Forward Economy?

Countries laser-focused on attracting the next wave of investment may soon find that tax breaks and affordable labor may not be enough to keep investors engaged. The new criteria for raising funds may very well be in the energy space, and more specifically, which country has clean, stable, and scalable energy, with credible governance to ensure that the landscape is ready for future industries.

For Thailand, this makes the latest sweeping energy policy reforms more significant than the passing headlines about 3-baht tariffs or short-term cost reductions. The real question here is the future-forward industries at stake, those fueling Thailand’s regional ambitions. Continued … 

After years in darkness, this Thai village is finally seeing the light

“Do you see those flowers?” the driver asked as our vehicle wound slowly along a narrow hillside road. He pointed to rows of chrysanthemums stretching across the slope, their outlines fading in the late afternoon light. “They need light at night,” he said.

“What happens if there isn’t any?” “No light, no flowers.” It was a simple explanation, but one that perfectly captured life in Huay Nam Rin. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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Monday’s news-July 6

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  • International flights for Hua Hin?/Hua Hin Airport upgrade/Tourism Minister visits Hua Hin/Parking changes for soi 94/Hua Hin recognized/Hua Hin videos/Crackdown on unfair bank fees/Egg prices up 20 satang/Nominee crackdown steps up/Parents debate social media time
  • THE IRAN WAR: War constrains auto industry
  • ECONOMY: CPI up 2.42%/Prolonged property slump/Gold and Food Security Emerge/EU’s €3 parcel fee/Data centers and power infrastructure/IMF-World Bank in Bangkok
  • TOURISM: Thailand Targets 33 Tourism Firms/Second-half tourism campaign/Koh Tao arrivals/Pattaya Hotels Face Steep Occupancy Drop/Saudi pilgrimage trip collapses/Thai-Made Train Joins Tourism Fleet
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Ranong for eco-tourism and wellness/Exploring Bangkok’s urban wildlife/13 common mistakes to avoid
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Sell excess rooftop solar power/Thailand Pushes Clean Energy Drive/Regional roadmap to tackle climate/How much plastic are we using?
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Singapore, Taipei, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur flights for Hua Hin?

Government agencies and the private sector have taken a major step toward bringing international flights to Hua Hin Airport, with Thai AirAsia identifying four potential overseas routes. A Market Insights and Customer Insights Workshop was held on Friday, bringing together more than 60 tourism, hotel and hospitality operators from Hua Hin and Cha Am.

Singapore, Taipei, Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur were identified as high-potential international routes for Hua Hin. The routes are seen as having the potential to bring more international visitors directly to Hua Hin, particularly families, honeymooners and travelers with higher spending power. Continued … 

Hua Hin Airport upgrade: More tourists the priority

Hua Hin’s long-running push for international flights is now being tied to a wider plan to reposition the city as a year-round destination, rather than one reliant mainly on weekend visitors and domestic tourism.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the development of Hua Hin Airport was now being considered alongside wider tourism planning for the city. She cited an important collaboration between the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, TAT and Thai AirAsia, with discussions focused on passenger demand, market potential and what Hua Hin needs to offer future visitors. Continued … 

Tourism Minister visits Hua Hin with plans to boost connectivity

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul has unveiled a sweeping plan to reinvent Hua Hin as a world-class tourism hub, with direct international flights, a transformed Hua Hin Airport and a premium tourism strategy designed to rival Phuket and Koh Samui.

Backed by major infrastructure upgrades, new airline partnerships and a drive to attract higher-spending visitors from across Asia and beyond, the government says the royal resort can become a leading international gateway, while generating billions of baht in new tourism revenue and reshaping Thailand’s western Gulf coast. Continued … 

Parking changes on the way for soi 94

Hua Hin parking measures, including odd-even day no-parking signs in Soi 94 and designated parking areas for rental vehicles, were discussed at a municipal road safety meeting held last week. The meeting focused on traffic management, road safety and the use of public spaces, as Hua Hin continues to experience heavier traffic linked to the city’s growth.

Officials discussed the installation of odd-even day no-parking signs on Hua Hin Soi 94 as part of efforts to manage roadside parking and improve traffic flow. The issue was raised alongside complaints about congestion in several areas, including Hua Hin Soi 88, near Ban Khun Por restaurant, and the Khao Phitak community. Continued … 

Hua Hin recognized for environmental health services

Hua Hin City Municipality has received an EHA Excellence Award recognizing it as a model local administrative organization for environmental health services.

The award was presented during Thai Environmental Health Day 2026, held on Friday at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok. The event was organized by the Ministry of Public Health and the Department of Health under the theme “Scaling Up Environmental Health for a Low-Carbon Society and Better Well-Being”. Continued … 

Is Living in Hua Hin better Than Phuket?

Explore Hua Hin as a real world living option, not just a holiday destination. We break the city down into clear categories so you can actually understand what life is like here day to day if you were to move, retire, or spend a long-term stay.

We cover accommodation options, including budget stays, mid-range condos, and long-term rental potential. We explore beaches and what the coastline is actually like for swimming, relaxing, and everyday use. We dive into shopping and markets to see how convenient and affordable daily life feels. We also review restaurants and bars to understand the food scene, variety, and value. Video … 

Hua Hin Nightlife

Go bar hopping across some of the town’s best nightlife spots, including Hard Rock Cafe, the Hilton Rooftop Bar, Soi Bintabaht, Soi 94, Soi 80, Khao Takiab and more! From rooftop sunset drinks and live music to DJ bars and hidden local spots, this vlog captures the atmosphere of Hua Hin after dark. Also check out drink prices along the way to see what a night out in Hua Hin actually costs in 2026. Video … 

BOT cracks down on unfair bank fees

Individual customers and businesses in Thailand are set to benefit from lower service fees charged by commercial banks and other financial institutions under a new regulation issued by the Bank of Thailand (BOT).

BOT Gov. Vitai Ratanakorn told the media that the regulation is intended to reduce the financial burden on the public and businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Continued … 

Thailand egg farmers lift mixed-size egg prices by 20 satang

Thailand’s Egg Farmers’ Co-operative Network has announced a 20-satang increase in the farm-gate price of mixed-size eggs to 3.80 baht each, raising the cost of a 30-egg tray by six baht from today. The rate will remain in force until further notice.

The network comprises four major co-operatives: Paet Riw Egg Farmers’ Co-operative, Chonburi Egg Farmers’ Co-operative, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Egg Farmers’ Co-operative and Noi River Basin Egg Farmers’ Co-operative. Continued … 

Nominee crackdown steps up

The Commerce Ministry has vowed to intensify its crackdown on the illegal use of Thai nominees by foreign investors as part of a broader effort to protect fair competition and the country’s economic interests.

Its Department of Business Development (DBD) said nominee shareholding had become a long-standing problem that distorts market competition and disadvantages legitimate businesses operating in Thailand. The number of companies considered at risk of nominee arrangements had risen steadily over the past two decades, from 523 firms in 1998 to 11,746 in 2025. Continued … 

Parents debate curbing kids’ social media time

As policymakers debate whether Thailand should follow countries such as Australia and the United Kingdom in restricting children’s access to social media, many parents say the real battle is already taking place inside their homes.

For some, smartphones and online games have become a constant source of conflict. Others have spent years carefully building routines to limit screen time before problems emerge. Still others argue that no law can replace consistent parenting. Continued … 

Mideast war continues to constrain auto industry

Thailand’s automotive industry and supply chain may continue to feel the strain of conflicts in the Middle East despite peace negotiations, says Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand) Co., a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned electric vehicle (EV) maker Chery Automobile.

The prospect of Washington and Tehran fully halting hostilities remains uncertain, fueling concerns over a drawn-out conflict. Such instability is expected to exacerbate semiconductor scarcity and push global prices higher, said Cedric Cui, president of Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand). Continued … 

Thailand’s June headline CPI up 2.42% y/y

Thailand’s headline consumer price index rose ‌by 2.42% in June from a year earlier, following an annual rise of 2.79% the previous ​month, the commerce ministry said today.

The reading compared with a forecast ‌increase of 2.79% in a Reuters poll, and was inside the central bank’s target inflation range of 1% to 3%. The core CPI, which excludes volatile energy and fresh food prices, rose 1.23% in June compared to a year earlier. Continued … 

Thai real estate sector faces prolonged property slump and energy pressure

Thailand’s real estate sector faces mounting pressure, as a prolonged property downturn, weak purchasing power, tight credit and higher energy costs continue to weigh on production, investment and employment.

The broader picture of the Thai economy points to a recovery that remains concentrated in limited areas, with several key industries still showing few clear signs of a rebound. Property and automotive businesses, in particular, are facing severe challenges, as household debt stays high and consumer demand remains fragile. Continued … 

Gold and Food Security Emerge as Pillars of a New Thai Trade Strategy

Thailand is positioning itself as a resilient, neutral hub in a fracturing global economy, leveraging its geography and gold’s growing strategic value to navigate the deepening rivalry between the United States and China.

Speaking at the Thailand Gold Summit 2026 yesterday, Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun set out a “mutual benefit” trade strategy intended to balance ties with the world’s two largest economies, while elevating gold from a traditional savings vehicle to what she termed a “strategic national asset”. Continued … 

EU’s €3 parcel fee puts Thailand between export opening and import risk

The European Union’s new €3 customs fee on low-value e-commerce parcels may deal a blow to Chinese online giants such as SHEIN, Temu and AliExpress, but for Thailand the bigger question is whether the measure will create a new export opportunity — or trigger a fresh influx of cheap Chinese goods into ASEAN.

The EU began applying the new charge on July 1, targeting the surge in low-value e-commerce imports that had previously entered the bloc under the duty-free de minimis threshold of €150. The European Commission says the temporary €3 customs duty applies to low-value consignments worth up to €150 imported from outside the EU, replacing the exemption that was in place until June 30. Continued … 

Data center success depends on power infrastructure

Investment in data centers, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, remains economically viable and attractive, but it must be evaluated in the context of three fundamental constraints, says Gartner Inc., a business and technology insights company.

The first constraint is the availability and cost of key components, especially AI-optimized servers such as graphics processing units, said Linglan Wang, director analyst at Gartner. Continued … 

IMF-World Bank meeting puts Thailand on global investment stage

Thailand’s Finance Ministry expects the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok to give the country a rare global platform to showcase its economic readiness, crisis-management capacity and investment potential.

The meetings will take place Oct. 12-18 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The ministry views the gathering as more than a short-term boost from visitors and spending. It says the event will give Thailand valuable international “airtime” to communicate its direction, policy priorities and ability to manage challenges at a time of global uncertainty. Continued … 

Thailand Targets 33 Tourism Firms in Nominee Crackdown

Thailand is stepping up its crackdown on foreign-operated tourism businesses suspected of using Thai nationals as illegal nominees, with authorities identifying 33 high-risk firms across five key tourism provinces.

The government is also expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology to detect suspicious business structures, while four tour operators have already lost their licenses following investigations. Continued … 

TAT intensifies second-half tourism campaign as arrivals edge up

Although the war in the Middle East and intensifying regional tourism competition are factors affecting Thai tourism in 2026, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) still sees the outlook for foreign visitors to Thailand this year at 33 million, representing a slight growth of 0.1%. TAT is moving to stimulate the market heavily in the second half of the year.

Thai tourism this year continues to face negative factors from the economic crisis, the impact of the energy crisis caused by the war in the Middle East, as well as risks that are difficult to control, including epidemics, natural disasters, geopolitical and political conflicts, and Thailand’s current value-for-money challenge. Continued … 

Koh Tao arrivals set to top 800,000

Tourist arrivals on Koh Tao continue to grow, with local tourism operators expecting visitor numbers to exceed 800,000 by the end of the year and generate around 10 billion baht in revenue.

Rumluek Assavachin, president of the Koh Tao Tourism Assn., yesterday said the island welcomed 407,697 visitors between January and June, up 50,076, or 14%, from the same period last year. Continued … 

Pattaya Hotels Face Steep Occupancy Drop This Low Season

Pattaya’s tourism sector is experiencing a particularly weak low season, with tourist numbers falling in Pattaya and Chon Buri, leaving many hotels unable to reach break-even occupancy levels. Many properties are reporting occupancy rates of just 15% to 20%, below the estimated break-even threshold of 40% to 50%.

The downturn follows the April to May school holiday period, when family travel would normally help sustain demand into the early low season. However, this year the decline has been more pronounced, with reduced meetings, seminars and government-related travel contributing significantly to weaker performance. Continued … 

Thai tour operator arrested after Saudi pilgrimage trip collapses

A Thai man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport Saturday after police received complaints from 150 travelers who alleged they had paid for a pilgrimage tour to Saudi Arabia that never departed, with reported losses exceeding 4 million baht.

Police said the group had booked a 10-night, 11-day trip to Saudi Arabia scheduled to run from July 3 to 13. Each traveler allegedly paid 25,000 baht. Continued … 

Thai-Made EV Train Joins SRT Tourism Fleet

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has received its first Thai-made luxury-class EV passenger train prototype, marking a significant milestone for the country’s rail industry and plans to expand domestic manufacturing. The handover ceremony took place on Friday, with the prototype set to undergo comprehensive safety testing before entering service on tourism routes.

The luxury-class EV passenger train was designed and built entirely in Thailand by Thai researchers and engineers. The project, an official said, demonstrated successful collaboration between research institutes and more than 30 private-sector companies, highlighting the country’s growing engineering capabilities. Continued … 

Ranong touted as premier destination for eco-tourism and wellness

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is positioning the southern province of Ranong as a premier destination for eco-tourism and wellness, leveraging its pristine natural resources and award-winning universal design features to attract both domestic and international travelers.

Despite being classified as a secondary tourism city, Ranong boasts highly abundant terrestrial and mangrove forests, alongside stunning marine resources, according to DNP Director-general Attapol Charoenchansa. Continued … 

Exploring Bangkok’s urban wildlife: A night with snakes and reptiles

It looked like a string bean at first. Wrapped around a branch behind a clutch of parked motorcycles, the snake’s chartreuse skin was just a few swatches brighter than the tall foliage it was trying to blend into. Thai-American snake expert Christopher Shannon caught it in the beam of his flashlight, quickly identifying it as an Asian long-nosed vine snake. Its pointy snout and slit-like pupils gave it, in his words, “binocular vision.”

Within minutes, our small group spotted several more critters. A flying fox, the world’s largest bat species, crashed through the trees overhead. Just below, a puff-faced water snake writhed through a concrete ditch, while a large-eyed pit viper rested nearby. Their home: a roadside plot of shrubs and palm trees, just 15 minutes from the gleaming skyscraper jumble of downtown Bangkok. Continued … 

13 common mistakes to avoid in Thailand

Traveling in Thailand requires awareness of cultural etiquette, legal restrictions, and environmental factors. Key considerations include respecting local customs such as removing shoes, dressing modestly in temples, and avoiding gestures like touching heads or pointing feet.

Practical tips cover planning realistic itineraries, preparing for seasonal weather, ensuring proper documentation, managing money and transport, practicing food and health safety, and steering clear of activities or behaviors that violate laws or ethical standards. Continued … 

Householders can now sell excess rooftop solar power

Householders with solar rooftops can now apply to sell their excess power to electricity authorities. People in Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan can file application to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority via the website address.

Those who live in other provinces can do so through the Provincial Electricity Authority website . Both state-run power enterprises will buy power at 2.20 baht per unit for 10 years and each approved householder can sell up to five kilowatts per meter. Continued … 

Thailand Pushes Clean Energy Drive

The Thai government says it is accelerating the restructuring of the country’s energy sector to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, expand renewable energy and strengthen energy security, while making Thailand more attractive to investors. The announcement comes as global demand for clean electricity continues to grow and governments compete to secure investment linked to low-carbon energy.

A government spokesperson said the global economy is entering a new phase of competition focused not only on technology and manufacturing, but also on the ability to produce clean electricity. She said clean energy is becoming a key factor in attracting investment, supporting exports and creating future jobs, prompting the government to speed up reforms to ensure Thailand remains competitive. Continued … 

Asia-Pacific nations adopt new regional roadmap to tackle climate and environmental crises

Governments across Asia and the Pacific have adopted a new regional roadmap to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution through closer cooperation, during a meeting convened by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).

ESCAP stressed that the region continues to face growing environmental pressures. At the current pace, 88%of measurable environment-related sustainable development goal targets are projected to be missed by 2030, while 90% of the population is exposed to unsafe levels of air pollution. Continued … 

How much plastic are we using?

From dishes to furniture, electronics, toys, and even clothing, it feels like everything these days is made of plastic. Most plastics take decades, or even centuries, to break down. This means that even when properly disposed of, plastic items do not just go away.

Recycled plastic sticks around, too, although recycling plastic into new objects does help reduce the demand for new plastic to be made from fossil fuels. Continued … 

British Woman Charged With Murder in Pattaya

A 20-year-old British woman has been charged with murder after her 33-year-old British partner was found dead with multiple stab wounds at a villa in Pattaya. Thai police allege Isabelle Violet Carreras was responsible for the killing, although she has denied the accusation during questioning. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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