• Hua Hin Motor Show/Thailand swelters/Phuket Taxi Drivers to Strike
• THE IRAN WAR: Thailand Faces ‘Worst Energy Crisis in History’/Huge loan needed/Conflict has hollowed out Bangkok tourism/Construction Crisis/Thai steel industry seeks state backing/Three baht scenarios as oil spikes/Ferry operator hikes fares 4th time/Iran downs two US warplanes/War fuels inflation risks/Scramble to contain fuel costs/Not a ‘New Normal’
• ECONOMY: Can Thailand avert US trade retaliation?
• TOURISM: Thailand Pivots to ‘Quality Tourism’/300-baht tourist fee/CAAT foresees flight reduction/Strict Power Bank Rules
• THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Why travelers can’t seem to go home/Thailand’s favorite hotspots/Bangkok’s 244th Birthday Festival/Best of the country from all angles
• CLIMATE THAILAND: Air pollution sickens Chiang Mai/Calls for clean air/Rooftop solar could save 77%
• FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin Motor Show at Bluport through tomorrow

The Hua Hin Motor Show opened with a focus on new electric vehicles and promotional offers, as organizers aim to attract buyers and support the local automotive sector. The event was officially opened by Suwat Liptapanlop at the Hua Hin Convention Center on the first floor of Blúport Hua Hin Resort Mall. The show runs until Sunday.

A total of 12 major automotive and motorcycle brands are taking part, showcasing new electric vehicles, updated car models, and both electric and petrol-powered motorcycles. Promotional campaigns are being offered across a range of models, targeting both first-time buyers and those considering switching to electric vehicles. Continued … 

Thailand swelters as temperatures hit 42°C

The Thai Meteorological Department has warned that much of Thailand will experience hot to extremely hot conditions today to April 9, with maximum temperatures expected to exceed 42°C in some areas, alongside hazy skies during the daytime.

In its latest forecast, the department said upper Thailand will continue to be dominated by a heat-induced low-pressure system, resulting in widespread high temperatures and reduced visibility due to haze. At the same time, weak southerly and westerly winds are prevailing across the region, contributing to unstable weather conditions. Continued … 

Phuket Taxi Drivers to Strike Over Fuel Costs and App Fares

Taxi drivers in Phuket have announced a one-day strike on Monday, citing rising fuel costs and falling fares due to competition from ride-hailing applications. The action is expected to disrupt transport services across the island, with more than 4,000 drivers from taxi, van and green-plate hire services involved.

Watee Wasanarungruang, president of the Phuket Yellow-Red Taxi Club, said members are struggling to survive on daily earnings of just 100 to 200 baht. He criticized app-based operators and investors for generating significantly higher incomes while traditional drivers face mounting expenses and declining passenger numbers. Continued … 

Thailand Faces ‘Worst Energy Crisis in History’ as Diesel Prices Treble

Thailand is grappling with its most severe energy crisis on record, with the government moving to seize “windfall profits” from refineries to prevent a total collapse of the country’s fuel subsidy mechanism.

Prasert Sinsukprasert, permanent secretary for energy, revealed yesterday that global diesel prices have surged to nearly $300 per barrel — almost triple the standard rate of $92. The current volatility far outstrips the previous records set during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which saw prices peak at $150. Continued …

Huge loan needed to finance fuel subsidies

Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund is seeking a loan of up to 150 billion baht to stabilize its finances and continue subsidizing domestic fuel prices as global diesel costs soar, according to Prasert Sinsukprasert, energy permanent secretary.

The fund, which recorded a loss of 48.2 billion baht as of April 2, well above the legal limit of 40 billion baht, has been forced to scale back diesel subsidies. Continued … 

How the Iran conflict has hollowed out Bangkok tourism

Retail assistants sat idly on stools outside their stores, scrolling on their mobile phones, while hotel receptions fell silent, with barely any guests checking in. This scene in Nana, a downtown Bangkok neighborhood popular among Middle Eastern tourists, was a telling snapshot of the toll the US-Israel strikes on Iran had taken on Thailand’s vital tourism sector.

The conflict that began on Feb. 28 sent booking cancellations soaring and foot traffic plummeting, not only in establishments catering to Middle Eastern visitors but across the broader industry. Continued …

Construction Crisis: Industry Leaders Warn of Mass Project Abandonment as Costs Spiral

The Thai construction industry has issued an urgent distress call to the government, warning of a potential wave of abandoned projects and site closures as the cost of essential raw materials and fuel reaches “unsustainable” levels.

Liza Ngamtrakulpanit, president of the Thai Contractors Assn. (TCA), warned that the sector is facing a terminal crossroads. Operators are now being forced to choose between halting work entirely or continuing at a loss that threatens their solvency. Continued … 

Thai steel industry seeks state backing as costs force price rises

Thailand’s steel industry is stepping up calls for government support as war-related cost pressures force manufacturers to raise prices and rethink how long they can remain competitive under mounting external strain.

Steel producers have announced that prices for all categories of steel products will rise by 10%-15% in the first round of increases this April, with another adjustment possible in May if energy and freight costs continue to climb. Continued … 

Three baht scenarios as oil spikes: what currency swings could mean for Thailand’s exports and tourism

Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said Thailand is a net oil importer, relying on crude imports for around 86% of domestic consumption. He added that energy imports account for about 6.5% of GDP, leaving the economy highly exposed when oil prices surge.

A sensitivity analysis by financial institutions, he said, suggests that every US$10 per barrel increase in global crude prices could reduce Thailand’s trade balance by around 0.9% of GDP, because the country must spend substantial US dollars to pay for energy. That outflow can quickly weaken both the trade balance and the current account, raising the risk of flipping from surplus to deficit. Continued … 

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan ferry operator hikes fares for 4th time

One of two ferry operators in Surat Thani yesterday announced a fourth fare hike for its service to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan since the oil crisis erupted with the outbreak of US and Israel’s war on Iran on Feb. 28.

Seatran Ferry said with the diesel price having reached 49.90 baht a liter, effective today, passenger fares from Don Sak pier to Koh Samui will rise from 220 baht to 230 baht, while vehicle fares climb from 700 baht per vehicle to 730 baht. Continued … 

Iran downs two US warplanes, one pilot missing

Two U.S. warplanes were downed over Iran and the Gulf, Iranian and U.S. officials said yesterday, with two pilots rescued and a third still missing and being hunted by Tehran’s forces.

The incidents show the risks still faced by U.S. and Israeli aircraft over Iran despite assertions from U.S. President Donald Trump and his Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that their forces had total control of the skies. Continued … 

War fuels inflation risks as IMF urges prudent fiscal response

The economic fallout from the war in the Middle East is widening well beyond the battlefield, with the International Monetary Fund warning that the shock is likely to mean higher prices, weaker growth, and tougher policy choices for countries already burdened by record debt. The IMF says the impact is highly uneven, with major energy importers, poorer economies, and countries with limited reserves facing the greatest risks.

At the heart of the disruption is energy. The IMF says the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to regional infrastructure have created the biggest disruption in the history of the global oil market, citing the International Energy Agency. Continued … 

Asian governments scramble to contain fuel costs amid Strait of Hormuz crisis

Geopolitical tensions and rising energy costs are impacting Asian financial markets amid Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closures. Countries like Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and Indonesia focus on energy security and cost mitigation, with major indices declining.

Thailand’s financial markets are being affected by ongoing geopolitical tensions and rising energy prices. The cabinet is considering fuel tax cuts to alleviate inflationary pressures. This reflects a broader regional trend, where governments are balancing supply concerns with economic stability. Continued … 

No, this is not a ‘New Normal’

“This is the new normal” is how spokesperson for the Center for Monitoring the Situation in the Middle East, Nuttaa Mahattana, has characterized Thailand’s current struggle with soaring fuel and commodities prices triggered by the war in the Middle East.

Specifically, she explained that the upward trajectory of energy prices is set to continue and that heightened living costs can be expected into the long term. In the assessment of the center, pricy oil is a reality that no one can escape. Continued …

Can Thailand avert US trade retaliation under Section 301?

Thailand finds itself once again in the crosshairs of the Trump administration even before the uncertainties caused by US tariff policies have been ironed out. On March 11, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced new trade investigations under Section 301 of the US Trade Act.

The US is aiming to replace President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, which were earlier ruled illegal by the Supreme Court. Thailand is being targeted due to its sizable trade surplus with the US, which rose to $71.9 billion last year from $45.6 billion in 2024, making it the sixth largest trade partner, according to trade statistics from the United States Census Bureau. Continued … 

Thailand Pivots to ‘Quality Tourism’ as Global Economic Headwinds Force Target Revision

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has signaled a decisive shift in its national strategy, moving away from chasing record-breaking arrival numbers in favor of a “Value over Volume” model. The move comes as the agency adjusts its annual targets in response to a cooling global economy and persistent logistical constraints.

Data released for the first quarter of 2026 reveals that Thailand welcomed 9.31 million foreign arrivals between Jan. 1 and March 31. While the figures show a robust recovery, tourism officials are concerned by a widening gap between visitor volume and actual revenue growth. Continued … 

Why Thailand is reviving its 300-baht tourist fee plan

Thailand’s proposed “landing fee”, often described as a tourist tax, has resurfaced once again, as authorities prepare to revive a plan to charge foreign visitors 300 baht per person. The concept is straightforward: a government collects a fee from incoming visitors and channels the money into tourism-related needs, such as infrastructure upgrades, environmental management, visitor safety, and welfare support.

Around the world, similar schemes are already in place in many destinations, especially those under pressure from high visitor numbers or rising public costs linked to tourism. Continued … 

CAAT foresees flight reduction after Songkran festival

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) expects airlines to gradually reduce the number of flights, as they adjust their operational plans to align with rising fuel costs while mitigating oil supply risks after the Songkran festival.

Signs of international airlines gearing up to reduce the number of flights have already emerged, with CAAT having coordinated with Thai airlines to review their service strategies appropriately, which may include reducing or consolidating flights on certain routes to align with travel demand and efficiently manage costs. Continued … 

Thai Airways Enforces Strict Power Bank Rules on Flights

Thai Airways has issued a new safety notice on power bank regulations for flights, effective since March 27,. According to the announcement made on April 3, passengers are restricted to carrying a maximum of two power banks each.

Additionally, the use or charging of these devices on board is strictly forbidden, as per international aviation safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Continued … 

The real dark side of Thailand: Why travelers can’t seem to go home

Vacation blues is normal, but is it real or just a tourism hype in the case of Thailand? A drop in dopamine levels when transitioning from a vibrant, carefree, friendly, and affordable lifestyle to dull routines and familiar gloom is common.

But why are there no “America Blues” or “Singapore Blues”? Why is it that foreign tourists who have spent time in Thailand are the ones suffering from the supposed mental condition the most? Continued … 

The luxury way to see Thailand’s favorite hotspots

Ancient history and wild nature go together in Thailand like coconut and lime, all wrapped in an emerging deluxe tourism scene with sustainability baked in.

Characterful electric tuk-tuks weave through busy market streets, while farm-to-table restaurants showcase fresh ingredients and eco-conscious hotels champion minimal waste. Thailand may have an ancient culture but it also has one foot firmly in the future. Continued … 

Your Guide To Bangkok’s 244th Birthday Festival

Happy (almost) birthday, Bangkok. The capital is turning 244, and instead of a quiet nod to history, the city is going all out with ‘The 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin.’ It is Bangkok, after all; extravagance is expected. Here’s a guide to the upcoming event.

From April 22–26, the Ministry of Culture is staging a five-day, city-wide celebration spanning three culturally significant locations: Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, National Museum Bangkok, and Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan. Continued … 

Thailand 3 ways: Enjoying the best of the country from all angles

With the sun about to dip below the horizon, our yacht approached a curious looking island. In the crystal-clear water ahead, there was a hive of activity, as a troop of Samae monkeys excitedly swam out toward the vessel.

For the next 10 minutes, we took turns tossing segments of watermelon and cantaloupe toward the hungry macaques, with each scrambling to get their hands on their juicy tea-time treat, before looking up at us with adorable red-tinted smiles. This encounter with the grinning primates was one of the many times I’d seen happy faces in Bangkok and eastern Thailand. Continued … 

Sharp rise in illnesses as air pollution grips Chiang Mai

Authorities have warned that this year’s haze crisis in Chiang Mai is among the most severe in recent years, with pollution-related illnesses more than doubling. Thick haze continued to blanket Chiang Mai yesterday, as PM2.5 levels remained several times above safe limits.

Hourly air-quality data from Chiang Mai University’s CCDC monitoring system showed extreme readings, including a peak of 808 micrograms per cubic meter in Chiang Dao district – more than 20 times the recommended safety level. Continued … 

Calls for clean air as pollution worsens

Calls are mounting for the government to back the Clean Air Bill, as persistent PM2.5 pollution continues to threaten communities across northern Thailand and beyond.

The chairman of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has urged the new administration to fast-track six key reform bills within 60 days of parliament convening, while the People’s Party pressed Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to clarify the government’s position on the Clean Air Bill amid worsening air quality. Continued … 

Thai households with rooftop solar could save 77% on electric bills

An increasing number of Thai households are installing rooftop solar PV to generate their own power and reduce bills. According to official sources, rooftop solar for residential and commercial use grew from 2 MW in 2019 to 3.3 GW in 2024 – a 1,650-fold increase.

Rooftop solar makes up a major share of Thailand’s total solar capacity, accounting for a third of total installed solar generation capacity by 2024.TransitionZero used satellite imaging to estimate residential solar capacity specifically, and found there to be around 1.38 GW installed in 2025. Continued … 

• Six Foreign Workers Detained at Phuket Kindergarten – Continued …
• Two Taiwanese Arrested for Wildlife Smuggling at Don Mueang – Continued …
• South Korean Loan Shark Gang Leader Arrested in Thailand – Continued … 
• Three Foreigners Arrested for Using Toy Money at a Phuket Venue – Continued … 

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