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Monday’s news-June 15

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  • Food festival returns/Turkish man arrsted in Hua Hin/Turtle found on Cha Am beach/Cha Am drug seizure/Road works on Soi 102/Briton Details Thai Prison Ordeal/Vaping and erectile dysfunction/Lisa Performs at World Cup/Underage prostitution ring
  • THE IRAN WAR: US and Iran Reach Agreement
  • ECONOMY: 10 proposals for Thai economy/Thai Baht Weakens/Safety and health risks in the workplace/Koh Phangan Property Investment/Thailand’s AI Optimism/AI layoff trap raises wider risks/How China is replacing Japan/Thailand urged to close trade loopholes/Four influencer groups stay in demand
  • TOURISM: CAAT Allocates Winter Slots/Krabi set for 126 winter flights/India visa-free review
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Sunday at Khlong Tan
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Waste-to-Energy Drives Clean Power Shift/Green Revolution in the Paddy Fields/Warning when EVs subsidies end
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Food festival returns Aug 28-30

The Hua Hin Food Festival will return to Hua Don Beach Aug. 28-30, bringing together leading hotels, restaurants, and food vendors for one of the town’s best-known annual events. The festival is one of Hua Hin’s most popular food events and has gained national recognition over the years for showcasing the town’s dining scene in a beachfront setting.

The event is being organized following a meeting between Hua Hin officials and the Cha Am-Hua Hin Chefs’ Club. The aim is to promote local food, support restaurants and hotels, and help stimulate the local economy. Continued … 

Turkish man arrsted in Hua Hin over 274-day overstay

A Turkish national has been arrested in Hua Hin for overstaying his visa by 274 days, Prachuap Khiri Khan Immigration announced on Friday.

Immigration officers said the man was found in Hua Hin District and charged with remaining in Thailand after the expiry of his visa. Continued … 

Dead green turtle found on Cha Am beach

A green turtle weighing more than 50 kilograms has been found dead after washing ashore on Cha Am beach, with officials preparing to carry out a necropsy to determine the cause of death.

Tourists discovered the carcass near the Cha Am beach viewpoint on June 11 and alerted officers from Cha Am Police Station. Police then coordinated with officials from the Marine and Coastal Resources Office 3 in Phetchaburi to inspect the scene. Continued … 

Prison tip-off leads to Cha Am drug seizure

A Cha Am drug seizure involving more than 8 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 10,000 methamphetamine pills followed a tip-off from inside Phetchaburi Central Prison, officials said.

Officials said the operation began after prison officers monitoring a visitation room noticed suspicious behavior during a visit to an inmate. According to authorities, the inmate allegedly used the prison communication system to give coded instructions to relatives, telling them to go to a location in Cha Am district and dig up drugs that had been buried before his arrest. Continued … 

Road works to begin on Soi 102

Roadworks on Hua Hin Soi 102 will begin near Laguna Village tomorrow. The project will involve the construction of a reinforced concrete road and drainage system in the Laguna Village area of Soi 102.

During the works, traffic and access to the area may be affected at certain times. Motorists are advised to avoid the route where possible while construction is taking place. – HHT

Thai tap water is not drinking water quality. Many components in tap water, such as limescale or microbiological impurities, cannot be seen with the naked eye. Nevertheless, they affect the entire water supply and ultimately also the wholesomeness and taste of the water. Water purifier systems are indispensable to improve the quality of life. Thanks to the innovative technology of our water filter systems, it is possible to turn conventional tap water into high-quality drinking water.

Briton Details Thai Prison Ordeal in Bangkok

British national Oliver Hardy has described his experiences inside Thai prisons after serving one year and four months following convictions related to visa fraud and forged immigration documents.

Hardy, 27, a heating engineer from Croydon, said he traveled to Thailand in January 2023 after saving for five years for what he described as the holiday of a lifetime. He was later convicted of remaining in Thailand after permission to stay had expired, leaving through an unauthorized route without immigration inspection, forging immigration stamps used for international travel, forging official seals and official documents, and using forged immigration stamps and documents. Continued … 

Vaping and E-Cigarettes said sharply increase chances of erectile dysfunction

A new Thai health study has linked regular e-cigarette use to a sharply higher risk of erectile dysfunction, finding users face double the risk even without underlying medical conditions.

The findings add to concerns over nicotine’s impact on blood vessels as Thailand enforces some of the world’s toughest anti-vaping laws, with heavy fines and possible prison terms for offenders. Continued … 

Lisa Performs at World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles

Thai superstar Lisa performed at the US opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of the Group D match between the United States and Paraguay in Los Angeles, helping launch the tournament before a packed crowd. The Blackpink member appeared alongside Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian artist Rema to perform “GOALS”, FIFA’s official song for the 2026 World Cup. (aseannow.com)

Underage prostitution ring run from a Kanchanaburi hotel busted

An elite Royal Thai Police raid smashed a hidden child-trafficking ring operating inside a Kanchanaburi hotel, exposing the sexual exploitation of children under 15 and leading to the arrest of two hotel workers accused of arranging children for paying guests.

The anti-trafficking probe uncovered a commission-based operation in which a cashier and housekeeper used their access to rooms, guests, and payments to broker the abuse in a rural border region near Myanmar and Laos. Continued … 

US and Iran Reach Agreement to End War, Signing Set for Friday

US and Iranian officials said yesterday they had agreed on a framework to end their war, halt the US blockade of Iran, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The preliminary pact sent oil prices falling but leaves the fate of Iran’s nuclear program to further negotiations.

The memorandum of understanding is scheduled to be officially signed on Friday in Switzerland. The precise terms were not immediately known. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the pact called for “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” Continued … 

Palapon Kitchen is the culinary part of Camp Palapon. For over 17 years, our camp has helped people hit their health and fitness goals. Now, we are offering our specialized, calorie-controlled meal prep directly to the Hua Hin community! What We Offer: Clean & Convenient: Calorie-controlled meals (1,400 / 1,600 / 2,000 kcal) fresh prepared. Never frozen. Great Variety: Our meals are prepared fresh weekly (never frozen) and combine Mediterranean-style meals with healthy Thai dishes, designed for weight loss, fitness, and healthier everyday eating.

Thai Chamber lists 10 proposals to pull Thai economy out of ICU

Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, led the Board of Trade of Thailand’s executive committee to meet Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the government’s economic agencies at Government House last week.

At the talks, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand presented a survey report based on opinions from members and business networks nationwide. It found that Thai business operators were facing a confidence crisis and cost pressures across the board. Continued … 

Thai Baht Weakens as April Trade Deficit Hits Record USD 10 Billion

Thailand’s economy is currently facing a significant challenge, as its currency, the baht, weakens despite the presence of portfolio inflows. A record USD 10.0 billion trade deficit in April, primarily driven by robust import activity, is exerting considerable downward pressure on the baht.

This widening gap between exports and imports has surpassed expectations, marking the seventh consecutive monthly deficit and representing the largest on record. The concerning trade imbalance is a central factor influencing the baht’s stability in the near future, overshadowing other economic indicators. Continued … 

Thai trade unions address reduction of safety and health risks in the workplace

Thai trade unions are strengthening their role in helping workers prevent occupational accidents and diseases, as Thailand advances efforts to enhance occupational safety and health (OSH), with support from the ILO and the government of Japan.

In today’s evolving work landscape, which is causing multiple challenges in both physical and mental health and safety of workers, stronger worker participation in OSH management is becoming more important for preventing accidents and diseases. Continued …

Israel, Europe, and Australia Driving Koh Phangan Property Investment Past B7.9B

The international real estate landscape in the Gulf of Thailand is undergoing a profound structural shift. Koh Phangan, long celebrated as a world-renowned holiday destination, has successfully transitioned into a mature international property market. Inflows into residential developments have soared past 7,940 million baht, propelled by robust purchasing power from Israel, Europe, and Australia.

According to a comprehensive market analysis, the island is rapidly shedding its singular identity as a tourism hotspot. Instead, it is emerging as a premier investment center and a highly sought-after “second home” destination for expatriates seeking long-term residency. Continued … 

Thailand’s AI Optimism Signals Robust Investment Potential

Thailand is emerging as one of the world’s most promising markets for AI-driven investment, as artificial intelligence in global finance moves beyond experimentation and into serious real-world use.

The country has ranked sixth globally in the Global Wealth AI Optimism Index, according to BridgeWise’s State of AI for Wealth in 2026 report, underlining strong confidence among Thai investors in AI’s role in wealth creation. Continued … 

AI layoff trap raises wider risks for workers, firms, and demand

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is sending another tremor through the economy, as organizations around the world continue to cut jobs and adopt AI to replace workers and reduce costs. But when workers are laid off and lose income, consumer purchasing power also falls, affecting sales of goods and services across the wider economy.

The study, The AI Layoff Trap, indicates that while AI can raise productivity and reduce costs for businesses, broad labor replacement may cause people’s income and purchasing power to decline, creating a new risk that affects not only workers but also businesses and the economy as a whole. Continued … 

How China is replacing Japan as Thailand’s dominant industrial partner

For more than half a century, Thailand held a proud title: the “Detroit of the East.” This economic engine was built almost entirely on Japanese blueprints. Beginning in the 1960s, Japanese auto giants like Toyota, Honda, and Isuzu constructed vast industrial networks across the country, establishing a seemingly unshakeable dominance.

But a profound structural shift is rewriting the rules of Southeast Asian industry. Driven by a global transition toward electrification and high-tech supply chains, China is structurally replacing Japan as Thailand’s dominant industrial partner. Continued … 

Thailand urged to close trade loopholes as US tariff talks intensify

Thailand is being urged to close legal loopholes and revise its import strategies as the country seeks to secure a lower tariff rate under Section 301 in negotiations with the United States.

Along with 46 countries, including China, Thailand would face a higher tariff rate of 12.5%, while another 14 economies, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan, would be subject to a lower tariff rate of 10%. Continued … 

Four influencer groups stay in demand as brands chase sales over likes

Foodie, mom and kids, lifestyle, and beauty influencers remain the four groups most sought after by businesses as Thailand’s influencer marketing industry enters a more performance-driven era, according to IdeasLabs.

Thanadol Pittayanuwat, executive director and founder of IdeasLabs, a developer of influencer and MarTech solutions, said brands are shifting marketing budgets away from vanity metrics such as likes, shares, and views toward creators who can prove sales, return on investment, and tangible business results. Continued … 

CAAT Allocates Winter Slots to New Airlines to Thailand

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has allocated airport slots to four new airlines for the winter 2026/2027 schedule, paving the way for additional international services during Thailand’s peak tourism season. The new routes will strengthen air connectivity between Thailand and key markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Under the new allocations, Riyadh Air will operate seven weekly return flights between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Virgin Atlantic will launch a new service linking London Heathrow and Phuket with three return flights per week. Continued … 

Krabi set for 126 winter flights as Nordic demand rises ahead of high season

Krabi is attracting fresh interest from international airlines, with new direct routes from Helsinki and Copenhagen planned for the 2026–27 winter schedule as Thailand prepares for the high-season tourism period.

The Ministry of Transport reported strong demand for slots at Krabi Airport following the 158th IATA Slot Conference, organized by the International Air Transport Assn. in Bangkok. Airlines have requested a total of 126 flights to Krabi during the winter schedule. Continued … 

Andaman tourism groups seek India visa-free review

The Thai Hotels Association – Southern Chapter and 12 private-sector tourism and economic organizations in the Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, have submitted a letter to the minister of Tourism and Sports and the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), proposing that the government consider reviewing the measure to end visa-free entry for Indian tourists.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said the Cabinet had approved revisions to visa-exemption measures, particularly the cancellation of visa-free entry for India, which would affect Indian tourists traveling to Thailand. Continued … 

Sunday at Khlong Tan: Railside stalls serve rare Thai delicacies

Discover one of Bangkok’s lesser-known gems: the Khlong Tan Railway Market, also known as the Lao Market. Tucked along active tracks in the heart of the city, this lively food hub requires vendors and visitors to stay alert and step back safely whenever a train approaches.

Stalls brim with authentic and rare Thai dishes made from local herbs, fresh seafood, wild vegetables, and other regional produce. The market opens every Sunday from 5 am to 11 am. Video … 

Waste-to-Energy Drives Thailand’s Clean Power Shift

Thailand is increasingly using waste-to-energy projects as part of its drive to reduce landfill, generate electricity, cut pollution, and support the country’s clean-energy transition.

Waste-to-energy is emerging as one of the country’s key approaches to turning municipal waste into a domestic energy resource. The concept allows solid waste to be converted into electricity, making use of materials already available in urban areas while helping strengthen local power generation. Continued … 

Green Revolution in the Paddy Fields

Thailand’s central plains are set to become the frontier for sustainable agriculture as the Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Rice Research Center aggressively deploys the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economic Model to pioneer low-carbon rice production.

The state-backed initiative targets a massive 50,000-rai pilot area across eight central provinces, looking to tap into the lucrative international green agriculture market and secure a foothold in the burgeoning global carbon credit ecosystem. Continued … 

Warning over risk to Thai EVs when subsidies end

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is concerned that the expiration of the government’s electric vehicle (EV) incentive program in 2027 could leave Thailand vulnerable to a surge of Chinese EV imports and weaken local automotive supply chains.

The scheme, known as EV3.5, runs from 2024 to 2027 and provides tax cuts and subsidies to automakers in exchange for investment in battery electric vehicle (BEV) assembly plants in Thailand. Continued … 

Indian Tourists Asked to Leave Songkhla Resort

A seaside camper resort in Songkhla has shared details of a dispute with a group of Indian tourists, describing it as the worst experience in its five years of operation. The incident ended with the resort issuing a full refund and asking the guests to leave the property. Continued … 

‘This is our culture’: Japan fans clean up World Cup stadium

Japan fans left the stands spotless after their World Cup opener against the Netherlands in Texas yesterday, saying it was “Japanese culture” to tidy up after themselves. Spectators stayed behind after the 2-2 draw to make sure they left the stadium as they found it, meticulously picking up litter and stuffing it into blue plastic bags. Continued … 

Deadly strikes on Ukraine leave Kyiv cathedral in flames

Russia fired a barrage of missiles at several major Ukrainian cities, setting Kyiv’s historic Dormition Cathedral on fire and killing nine, while Ukraine strikes claimed three lives south of Moscow. Continued … 

Swiss voters set to reject population cap, avoiding EU clash

Switzerland yesterday rejected a proposal to cap its population at 10 million, a projection showed, as voters prioritized economic stability and ties with the European Union over worries immigration was straining public services and pushing up rents. 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

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Thursday’s news-Oct 23

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Flood warning for Prachuap Khiri Khan/Alcohol sales ban may be lifted/Loy Krathong celebrations in Hua Hin/Communication cables to be reorganized/Legend Fighting Championships at Bluport/Inside bottled water/Thailand Bans All Card Games/Cambodian scams threaten Thai government/Scams allegedly involve Thai politicians/Too close for comfort/Myanmar raids on scam syndicates/Starlink rigs disabled in Myanmar/Thailand and Cambodia to sign peace pact/Bolt rider and passenger killed after phone distraction/ECONOMY: BOT forecasts 1.6% growth in 2026/Stimulus drives GDP growth in Q4/Car sales expected to top last year/Durian Gold Rush/TOURISM: Over 250 airlines for winter schedule/Outrigger retreat on Phi Phi/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The Karen highlands of Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: American e-waste in Southeast Asia/China’s SUS Leads Thailand’s Waste-to-Energy Market/Panasonic Thailand Using Solar-Plus-Storage Solution/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Flood warning issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan

The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has issued a warning for flash floods, forest runoffs, and flooding across all areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan between Oct. 23-26.

Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and monitor weather updates closely as widespread heavy rain continues to affect the province. Areas prone to flooding, particularly those near hillsides, rivers, and low-lying zones, are advised to take extra precautions. Continued …

Afternoon alcohol sales ban may be lifted in January

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has directed government agencies to lift restrictions on alcohol sales and extend nightlife operating hours, in a move expected to boost state revenue by hundreds of billions of baht. The proposal includes abolishing the current zoning system for alcohol sales and allowing entertainment venues to stay open until 4 am.

Anutin instructed the Interior Ministry (MOI) and the Public Health Ministry (MOPH) to work together on revising regulations to permit alcohol sales across the country without zoning limitations. The initiative also aims to relax the nationwide alcohol sales ban between 2 pm and 5 pm,, with implementation targeted for January. Continued …

More details released about Loy Krathong celebrations in Hua Hin

Hua Hin City Municipality has announced further details for this year’s Loy Krathong Festival, which will take placeNov. 4-5 under the theme “Naresdamri Reminiscence… Beside the Waves… Under the Full Moon.” The event will be held along Naresdamri Road, in the historic Seaside Community, one of Hua Hin’s oldest neighborhoods.

The municipality aims to revive the traditional charm of the Seaside Community by transforming the area into the main venue for this year’s celebrations. Naresdamri Road will be decorated with festive lights and cultural displays for 10 days, from Nov. 1-10, creating a vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Continued …

Communication cables to be reorganized across key areas of Hua Hin

Communication cables in several major areas of Hua Hin are set to be reorganized between November and December, following a recent meeting led by local authorities and utility providers.

The move comes after the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Hua Hin branch received numerous complaints from residents about tangled or hanging cables that pose safety hazards and affect the appearance of the city. Continued …

Legend Fighting Championships returns to Bluport on Saturday

Legend Fighting Championships 2025 returns to Bluport Hua Hin this Saturday with a seven-bout card featuring Thai and international fighters across Muay Thai Kard Chuek and gloved Muay Thai.

The event will take place at the Hua Hin Convention Center on the first floor of Bluport Hua Hin, with the first bell at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Doors open at 4pm. Entry is free. Continued …

What’s really inside the bottled water we drink?

When we reach for a bottle of mineral water, it often feels like we’re making a healthier choice, certainly cleaner than tap water. But while the water itself may be pure, the packaging, which involves plastic, tells a different story.

A new study finds that bottled mineral water is far from pristine: each sip may contain microscopic plastic particles invisible to the naked eye. These particles can enter the body, bypass its defenses, and potentially lodge in vital organs. Continued …

Thailand Bans All Poker, Card Game Permits Nationwide

In a move reflecting Thailand’s hardline stance on gambling, the Ministry of Interior has announced the immediate ban on permits for all poker and card games. The directive overturns a prior directive from July, halting all current and potential approvals for gambling-related card activities.

This announcement follows Anutin’s promise to Parliament committing to a stringent crackdown on illegal gambling activities. The government’s position is firm: there will be no legalization of gambling or the creation of gambling-inclusive entertainment venues. This initiative specifically targets poker, a popular sport. Continued …

Cambodian scam center mess in Thailand threatens to topple interim government

The Cambodian scam center crisis is fast threatening Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s new interim government. esterday, firebrand People’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn warned of a no-confidence motion, while Anutin himself earlier threatened to dissolve the House at will.

The turmoil deepened as Deputy Finance Minister Woraphak Thanyawong quit and a Cambodian senator was found with Bt70 million frozen in Thailand, despite tycoon Ly Yong Phat’s long presence on the U.S. sanctions list. Wiroj says Hun Sen is preparing to expose Thailand’s elite just as he helped topple Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government this summer. Continued …

DSI to probe scams allegedly involving politicians

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will set up a special committee to investigate all major scam-related cases nationwide, says Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat.

The committee will cover allegations linking certain Thai politicians to scam operations and the relationship between Prince International Co. and Prince Group, a conglomerate led by Chen Zhi, a Chinese-Cambodian businessman blacklisted by the United States. Continued …

Scam scandal draws too close for comfort

Vorapak Tanyawong was hailed as a reliable and trusted financial guru by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul when he brought him in from the private sector to help run the economy as deputy finance minister. Vorapak had a good reputation and has worked in public office before, serving as an adviser to then-finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira in the Paetongtarn Shinawatra government.

So, he must have been aware of the potential pitfalls when Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas told reporters earlier this month his deputy would lead a task force to follow the money trail left by scam centers across Southeast Asia. Continued …

KK Park in Myawaddy

Myanmar launches second wave of raids on scam syndicates

According to reports, Myanmar troops have launched a major crackdown on transnational scam operations in Myawaddy’s notorious KK Park project, long controled by Chinese investors and the Border Guard Force (BGF).

The operation began on Oct. 16, when Myanmar soldiers surrounded KK Park, known as a hub for online fraud and human-trafficking syndicates, and arrested more than 2,198 men and women. Over 30 Starlink satellite devices were seized. The raid followed the military’s earlier seizure of the nearby New Lay Kay Kaw area. Continued …

2,500 scammer-linked Starlink rigs disabled in Myanmar

SpaceX says it has cut service to more than 2,500 Starlink devices at Myanmar scam centers, in response to reports that their use by crime gangs for satellite internet service had soared.

Starlink has come from nowhere to become the war-torn country’s biggest internet provider in three months, recent data from the Asian regional internet registry APNIC shows. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia to sign peace pact at ASEAN Summit

Thailand and Cambodia plan to sign a declaration at a regional summit to ease border tensions and boost cooperation on security and territorial issues.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow revealed that both nations are expected to officially sign the Declaration of Thai-Cambodian Relations during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, held from Oct. 25-28. The agreement is poised to signal a major diplomatic breakthrough. Continued …

Bolt rider and passenger killed in motorcycle crash after phone distraction

A Thai Bolt rider crashed into an electricity pole on a road in Bang Na, Bangkok, Tuesday, after focusing on a map on his mobile phone, leading to the deaths of himself and his passenger.

Officers from Bang Na Police Station received a report of a fatal motorcycle accident near the entrance of Soi Bang Na-Trat 16 on Bang Na-Trat Road. At the crash site, officers found the bodies of two people lying on the left lane of the three-lane road. Continued … 

BOT forecasts 1.6% growth in 2026 amid export slump and strong baht pressure

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has warned that the Thai economy is set to expand by only 1.6% in 2026, following a projected 2.2% growth in 2025, as exports slow and the strong baht weighs on tourism.

The forecast, presented at the Monetary Policy Forum, reflected rising risks from US trade tariffs and weakening global demand. While Thailand’s GDP grew 3% in the first half of 2025, the BOT expects sharp deceleration in the second half — 1.5% growth in Q3 and 1.3% in Q4. Continued …

BoT predicts stimulus drives GDP growth in Q4

The Bank of Thailand expects the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme to help drive GDP growth in the final quarter this year. The central bank projects the Thai economy to expand by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter this year, recovering from a 0.5% contraction in the previous quarter.

The rebound will largely be supported by the government’s economic stimulus measures, particularly the co-payment program, said Piti Disyatat, deputy governor for monetary stability at the central bank, during the Monetary Policy Forum held yesterday. Continued …

Car sales expected to top last year’s level, BEV sales up 99%

Domestic car sales are expected to increase this year to 600,000 vehicles despite a sluggish auto industry, as electric vehicles (EVs) dominate total sales and sales of oil-fueled cars continue to decline, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

In September, battery EV (BEV) sales soared 99% year-on-year, representing an 18.8% share of all types of car sales, exceeding the proportion of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered cars (18.7%) for the first time on record, as sales of the latter plunged by 22%. Continued …

Durian Gold Rush: Thailand’s Top Export Rakes in Over 11 Billion Baht

Durian has cemented its position as Thailand’s hero export, with the “Khao Banthat Mon Thong Durian” becoming the country’s highest-earning Geographical Indication (GI) product, generating over 11 billion baht in revenue in the first nine months of 2025.

According to the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), the success of Thai GI goods reflects their outstanding quality and unique regional characteristics, driving high demand both domestically and abroad. Continued …

Over 250 airlines set for Thailand’s winter schedule

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has confirmed that more than 255 airlines have been allocated flight slots for Thailand’s winter 2025 schedule, running from Oct. 26 to March 28. The allocation, which covers all major airports nationwide, reflects renewed momentum in Thailand’s aviation and tourism sectors despite earlier signs of a slowdown in Chinese arrivals.

According to CAAT, Suvarnabhumi Airport tops the list with 127 airlines, including 21 cargo carriers, followed by Phuket Airport with 68 airlines (one cargo carrier), Chiang Mai Airport with 30, Don Mueang Airport with 17, U-Tapao Airport with 11, and Samui Airport with two airlines. Continued …

Outrigger to launch barefoot-luxury retreat on Phi Phi

Outrigger Hospitality Group is set to unveil its newest beachfront escape — Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort, a five-star sanctuary where southern Thailand’s natural beauty and culture converge.

Opening in early 2026, the reimagined resort marks a defining new chapter for one of the world’s most celebrated island destinations. Set on the northern tip of Thailand’s famed Phi Phi Island, the resort overlooks a secluded white-sand beach framed by swaying palms and the emerald Andaman Sea. Continued …

Forest sanctuaries and spiritual balance in the Karen highlands of Thailand

“Do you hear the birds calling?” asks Noraeri Thungmueangthong, as the vibrant trill of a blue-throated barbet rings through the pine trees looming up ahead. “That’s a sign we’re entering the sacred forest.”

Noraeri is a leader in Huay Ee Khang village, an Indigenous Pgaz K’Nyau Karen community of 125 households nestled between undulating hills in the highlands of northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai province. Within the sanctuary of the forest, she points out a wooden receptacle attached to the trunk of a tree. Continued …

American e-waste is causing a ‘hidden tsunami’ in Southeast Asia

Millions of tons of discarded electronics from the United States are being shipped overseas, much of it to developing countries in Southeast Asia unprepared to safely handle hazardous waste, according to a new report released yesterday by an environmental watchdog.

The Seattle-based Basel Action Network, or BAN, said a two-year investigation found at least 10 U.S. companies exporting used electronics to Asia and the Middle East, in what it says is a “hidden tsunami” of electronic waste. Continued …

China’s SUS Leads Thailand’s Waste-to-Energy Market

Amid the global push to address climate change, waste-to-energy (WtE) has emerged as a critical solution for Thailand’s dual challenges of energy transition and urban waste management. In line with the government’s Q3 development plans, 39 new WtE plants are slated for development, with a total processing capacity of 168,211 tons per day.

Thailand was the first overseas destination for Shanghai SUS Environment Co.. At the time, the market, though nascent, was dominated by established local players. Leveraging technological innovation as its core strength, SUS adopted a long-term strategy – establishing a locally registered entity and setting up representative offices to deepen its presence. Continued …

Panasonic Thailand Facility Using Advanced Solar-Plus-Storage Solution

GoodWe has strengthened its presence in the commercial and industrial sector with the successful deployment of a solar-plus-storage system at Panasonic Energy’s manufacturing facility in Thailand.

The system optimizes TOU tariffs by storing energy during off-peak hours and discharging during high-demand periods, achieving cost savings of approximately 2 baht per kWh while supporting sustainable operations. Continued …

  • Russian-Owned Koh Phangan Rental Firm Raided, 400 Vehicles Seized – Continued …
  • Chinese CEO Arrested at Suvarnabhumi Over Plastic Waste Fraud – Continued …
  • Kuwaiti Arrested in Patong Over Drugs and Visa Overstay – Continued … 
  • Chinese Man Arrested for Illegal Tour Guiding at Wat Phra Kaew – Continued …
  • Myanmar Broker Arrested for Forging Worker Registration Papers – Continued …

Hua Hin Links

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

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Monday’s news-July 31

  • Chomsin Road (Soi 55) road work Aug 6-15/
  • Illegally stored explosives blow up in Narathiwat, killing 12, injuring 121/
  • Thai Meteorological Department warns of soaking showers/
  • Hua Hin Profile: Flying high but with his feet firmly rooted in the soil/
  • MFP calm amid election rejig buzz/
  • Reviewing the five visa options for retirement in Thailand/
  • Electric Tuk-Tuks reduce greenhouse gas emissions, easier for the elderly to use/
  • Thai traditional medicine popularity surges amidst Covid-19 crisis/
  • Thailand’s missing monkeys: US labs or Chinese medicine to blame?/
  • Economy: EEC can expect severe water shortage by 2037 if steps not taken, says agency/Transforming waste into sustainable raw materials/Thai Food Delivery Services: Quick Entry, Quick Demise/Bangkok residential market records 29% drop in new sales/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 tees off, 30,000 golfers expected/Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht/Cars form long lines to catch ferry out of Koh Chang/Chiang Rai flaunts its skillful tattooists in bid to expand tourism/
  • International: As Khanun forms, China warns of third typhoon in three weeks/Typewriters popular again in Singapore, not just for aesthetic reasons/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Chomsin Road (Soi 55) road work Aug 6-15

Chomsin Road, Soi 55, will be partially closed to traffic from Aug. 6-15, between 9am-6pm. One lane will be closed and there will be power disruptions, as well.

The contractor will be carrying out pavement removal work for a road surface expansion project.

Illegally stored explosives blow up in Narathiwat, killing 12, injuring 121

A warehouse near the main market of a village in Narathiwat’s Sungai Padi district blew up on Saturday evening, killing 12 people and injuring some 121 others.

As of press time on Sunday, 111 of the injured had been discharged from hospital. Among the deceased, seven have been claimed by families, two have been interred, two are yet to be identified and the authorities have yet to disclose information about the 12th body. Continued …

Thai Meteorological Department warns of soaking showers

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a warning today of increased and heavy rainfall due to the southwestern monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. As a result, 47 provinces are at risk of sudden flooding and forest runoff.

People in these areas have been urged to be wary of heavy rain and accumulated precipitation, which can cause these dangerous situations. Continued …

Flying high but with his feet firmly rooted in the soil

By Felicitee Lawrie

The best word I can find to describe Khun Ong, Chaiyapat Butrdee, is trailblazer. He is a man of passion and vision, is perfectly sure about the path he has decided to follow, and is doing everything in his power to smooth the path for those who make the very wise choice to travel alongside or in his footsteps.

But getting to where he is now has not been a straight or even smooth trajectory, yet Ong has displayed the tenacity and the determination required of him. His best friend would say that Ong is not like 95% of people, and I would have to agree. There is something about this man that sets him apart, as an individual and as a leader. Continued …

MFP calm amid election rejig buzz

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has dismissed speculation it will be excluded from a new government led by the Pheu Thai Party, insisting that unity among the eight prospective coalition parties remains intact.

According to sources, the latest possible configuration of a new government has emerged, still comprising the original coalition allies but with the Bhumjaithai and Chartthaipattana parties also invited to join. The Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) and the United Thai Nation Party (UTN) would remain excluded. Continued …

Reviewing the five visa options for retirement in Thailand

Thailand regularly appears in the top 10 destinations chosen by foreigners wanting to retire abroad. Unlike other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand does not offer a retiree visa, as such, but a number of choices aimed specifically or partially at this market.

Non-immigrant “O” visa conversion

This is the most popular route at present. A foreigner aged at least 50 enters the country with a visa exempt or tourist visa (30 or 60 days) and applies at local immigration to convert it to a three months non-immigrant “O” and thence to an annual extension of stay based on retirement. Typically, the financial requirement is 800,000 baht in a Thai bank or proof of monthly transfers to Thailand of at least 65,000 baht. The detailed bureaucracy varies in immigration offices nationwide and several embassies now refuse to get involved in certifying the creditworthiness of their own nationals. Continued …

Electric Tuk-Tuks reduce greenhouse gas emissions, easier for the elderly to use

Thailand is well-known for its brightly colored tuk-tuks, which are as much of a feature of the country as the ancient temples built during the Ayutthaya period. Today, the country is preparing for a greener future, by moving away from reliance on fossil-fuels and these three-wheeled vehicles might very well lead the way.

A start-up company called Muvmi was launched in 2017 with the goal of filling gaps in the transportation market. It has played an active role in putting electric tuk-tuks into widespread use in large cities. The 6 million active users are expected to continue to grow in numbers. Continued …

Thai traditional medicine popularity surges amidst covid-19 crisis

The turbulent times of the Covid-19 pandemic have become a potent catalyst for the growing popularity of Thai traditional medicine (TTM), which finds its roots firmly intertwined with diverse aspects of Thai culture, ranging from religious practices to local cuisine. This newfound acceptance of TTM as a fundamental fabric of Thai identity has emerged in the wake of the pandemic.

Traditional medicine in Thailand, known for the utilization of a broad spectrum of indigenous herbs, has seen a staggering surge in usage, as evidenced by the 20th National Herbs Expo hosted by the Ministry of Public Health. Spanning five days, from June 28 to July 2, this event provided a platform for active dialogue among professionals in the field, budding entrepreneurs, and visitors keenly interested in the mystique of TTM. Continued …

Thailand’s missing monkeys: US labs or Chinese medicine to blame?

Authorities in Thailand believe animal traffickers are smuggling monkeys across the border into Cambodia and Laos to be used for testing in laboratories.

Thai authorities blame the smuggling of long-tailed macaques on high demand from Chinese traditional medicine, but U.S. labs implicated.The U.S. has been cracking down on wildlife smuggling, and has passed a law removing the requirement for drugs to be tested on animals before humans. Video …

EEC can expect severe water shortage by 2037 if steps not taken, says agency

Thailand’s national water resources agency reckons the three provinces that make up the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) will suffer severe water shortage by 2037.

The Office of the National Water Resources puts this shortage down to rising population, industrial development, tourism and farming. EEC comprises Chachoengsao, Chonburi and Rayong provinces. Continued …

Transforming waste into sustainable raw materials

Thailand generated about 37 million tons of waste last year, of which 3 million tons were hazardous waste.

To reduce waste, a collaborative research and development agreement was signed by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), the National Science and Technology Development Agency, and the Department of Industrial Works. This initiative aims to reduce waste. Continued …

Thai Food Delivery Services: Quick Entry, Quick Demise

The Thai food industry is a “paradise” for foodies, ranging from street food to upscale restaurants, with an estimated value of more than 4 trillion baht and continuous growth.

According to Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of LINE MAN Wongnai, however, the data collected from restaurant owners on the delivery platform reveals a somewhat sad truth. Within 12 months of opening, about 50% of new restaurant businesses have to close due to “lack of sales”. Continued …

Bangkok residential market records 29% drop in new sales

The Bangkok residential property market witnessed a significant 29.1% drop in new sales in the first quarter of 2023, with condos being the primary factor contributing to the slowdown.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said the number of newly sold residential units in Greater Bangkok in the first quarter tallied 21,291 units, with a total value of 105.7 billion baht. Continued …

Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 tees off, 30,000 golfers expected

The Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 officially got underway on Sunday at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, marking the start of a month-long golfing extravaganza set to energize tourism and boost the local economy.

The festival offers discounted green fees throughout the entirety of August and September, making it an ideal time for golfers to experience golf in the region. Continued … 

Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is forecasting a substantial influx of travel and expenditure within the nation from July 28 to Aug. 2. Projections are currently pointing at nearly five million trips, which could potentially rake in 16.6 billion baht across the country.

TAT Gov. Yuttasak Supasorn indicated that the estimated surge in domestic travels during this unique long holiday weekend may spur hotel occupancy rates to around 63%. Continued …

Cars form long lines to catch ferry out of Koh Chang

Tourists who had gone to Koh Chang on Friday for the long weekend created chaos on the island on Sunday, as cars began queuing up to catch the ferry.

Police said cars had filled the 4-kilometer road between Ban Had Sai Khao and Ban Dan Kao villages, as tourists waited for their turn to get on the ferry to Trat. The queue also spilled over to the top of Koh Chang Mountain to the pier of Pineapple Bay, with vehicles moving at a snail’s pace, police added. Continued …

Chiang Rai flaunts its skillful tattooists in bid to expand tourism

In an effort to boost tourism and revenue, the northern province of Chiang Rai is now looking to woo tourists interested in getting tattoos at cheap prices.

For this, local authorities and businesses got together to launch the “Tattoo Body Artists” and “Amazing Body Art @ Chiangrai” promotions at Central Chiang Rai shopping mall on Saturday. Showcased at the events were displays of body art created by local tattoo shops. Continued …

As Khanun forms, China warns of third typhoon in three weeks

China is bracing for the third typhoon in three weeks to roar in next week as scientists warn of more frequent and violent storms as a result of global warming. Khanun, now more than 1,000km east of the Philippine archipelago in the Pacific, may make landfall in China’s economically important Zhejiang province as early as Tuesday, Chinese forecasters said. Continued …

Typewriters popular again in Singapore, not just for aesthetic reasons

The ubiquitous clickety-clack of their keys was supposed to have gone the way of the dodo. But typewriters have become fashionable again. People continue coming up with novel ways to reinforce the relevance of typewriters in the digital age – from a stress-relieving pastime to a useful tool for engaging children. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590