- Feedback/Pranburi Reservoir water released/Rare serow on Prachuap beach/PKK emissions testing/Padel courts open in Hua Hin/Nene Royal: Global Stardom Won’t Change Me/Nene Royal lands 10 brand partnerships/Woman killed by an angry elephant/Thailand floods hit 4,216 businesses/Very heavy rain through Wednesday/Rising threat of disasters is now normal/50 health facilities halt services/Nine dead in Prachin Buri districts/Floods affecting Thai food industry/20,000 rai of durian trees have died/Flood crisis center opened/Ministry orders flight safeguards/Bangkok’s floods fuel fury/Flood-damage levels for vehicles/Floods damage 1.64-million rai of farmland
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran Says Strait Of Hormuz Will Not Reopen/Iran tells US there is no military solution/Houthis claim Aramco attacks/Bangchak prioritizes energy security
- ECONOMY: Thailand records 2.53% inflation/Thai exports under fresh pressure/Thailand tightens foreign business crackdown/OR, Centara plan budget hotels/Thailand, Laos set US$11-billion trade target
- TOURISM: Positioned for Q4 tourism bonanza/Tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome/The wellness jigsaw puzzle /US warships dock in Phuket/US sailors can roam Phuket/Phuket’s 69th Vegetarian Festival/100,000 baht found, 100-baht tip given/Two German tourists killed/American tourist found dead /Koh Samui horse-riding business protest
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Best Mental Health Retreats in Thailand/Disused Shophouses Bangkok’s New Hotspots
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand prepares farmers for climate change/Chiang Rai warns against using Sai River water
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
“I am looking to contact my friend of 50 years. Brian Masson, guitarist and biker who had triple bypass on Friday or Saturday, and it was not a success, the balloon burst and poisoned his kidneys, and he was put on dialysis, but I can’t get in touch with him and worried sick he always lets me know what is going on and the last message I got was very garbled..He is like my brother, as we were both orphans and went to Masonic School in Dublin in the late sixties.We were both only children.“ Contact at revdavesyms@hotmail.com
With more rain expeced, Pranburi Reservoir water released
Officials have begun releasing water from Pranburi Reservoir to create space for further rainfall, after its water volume reached 82% of capacity in the update issued on Saturday.
Irrigation officials said the Pranburi River remained within its normal range and could accommodate the releases. Residents downstream and in low-lying areas have nevertheless been advised to follow official updates as more rain is forecast. Continued …
Rare serow makes unusual appearance on Prachuap beach
A wild serow, a rare and protected species, has been spotted roaming on a beach in Kui Buri district, an unusual sighting hailed by wildlife officials as a positive sign for the area’s ecosystem.
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park on Saturday released photos of the short-horned goat antelope walking along Sam Phraya Beach. Sightings of serows in coastal lowland areas are uncommon. The species typically inhabits steep limestone mountains and cliffs. Continued …
No black smoke found in PKK emissions testing
Vehicle emissions checks in Prachuap Khiri Khan found no breaches of legal black smoke limits among 753 vehicles tested on Friday, the provincial transport office said.
Officials used standard testing equipment to measure emissions as part of continuing measures to tackle PM2.5 fine particulate pollution and reduce air pollution at its source. Continued …
New Padel courts open in Hua Hin
Padel Sozial Hua Hin celebrated its official opening on Saturday, with Deputy Mayor Sanphop Ungrasmi attending as guest of honor on behalf of Hua Hin municipality.
The opening program included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, speeches and a professional exhibition match, followed by an afternoon and evening of padel, food, drinks and music. Continued …
Nene Royal: Global Stardom Won’t Change Me, Says AGT Winner at Bangkok Homecoming
Nene Royal has insisted that global stardom has not changed her, telling reporters yesterday that she remains “a 16-year-old girl who plays guitar” as Thailand welcomed its newest international champion home with a triumphant victory parade through the capital.
The teenage singer-guitarist, born Rattikarn Amloy, spoke to the media following an exuberant procession through central Bangkok yesterday. Hundreds of well-wishers lined the main thoroughfares waving banners and chanting her name before the celebrations moved indoors to a packed Paragon Hall at Siam Paragon for the official homecoming event. Continued …
Nene Royal lands 10 brand partnerships after AGT 2026 win
Thai singer and guitarist Nene Royal has attracted partnerships with at least 10 brands in Thailand within 10 days of winning America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 21 on Sept. 24.
The 16-year-old, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, has appeared in announcements covering skincare, cosmetics, haircare, snacks, bread and drinking yoghurt. The collaborations extend Nene’s AGT breakthrough into Thailand’s advertising market, expanding her work beyond singing and playing guitar to representing consumer brands. Continued …
Husband in Chonburi watches his wife killed by an angry elephant early Sunday
A wild elephant chased down and killed a 36-year-old woman collecting latex with her husband in Chonburi early yesterday, leaving her body severed in two. Wanna Sridachama spotted the animal first and shouted for her husband to run before it pursued her through the plantation.
Her death is the latest in a grim series, with three Chonburi rubber workers killed in under four months. The tragedy exposes a far wider threat across eastern Thailand, where elephants increasingly roam beyond protected forests. Wild elephants have killed 273 people nationwide since 2012, including 141 in the eastern forest complex alone. Continued …
Thailand floods hit 4,216 businesses in 55 provinces
Thailand’s flooding crisis has affected 4,216 businesses across 55 provinces, with factory shutdowns, damaged equipment and blocked transport routes disrupting production networks nationwide.
The Ministry of Industry says 4,006 of the affected establishments are small and medium-sized enterprises, alongside 126 industrial factories, 82 community enterprises and two mining operations. Its preliminary assessment puts direct damage at 147.84 million baht, although the final bill is expected to rise as water recedes and companies inspect their premises. Continued …
TMD warns upper Thailand of very heavy rain through Wednesday
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its eighth warning today, forecasting thundershowers, gusty winds and isolated heavy to very heavy rain in upper Thailand through Wednesday. Heavy and accumulated rainfall could trigger flash floods and sudden run-off, particularly near foothills and in low-lying areas.
The TMD’s warning identifies the affected regions in two stages: Oct. 5–6: The north, central region, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, the east and upper south face unsettled weather. Rainfall in the northeast is expected to decrease. Oct.7: The affected areas are the western parts of the north and central regions. Continued …
Rising threat of disasters is now normal
Disaster risks are considered structural challenges because they are becoming normalized and represent a long-term weight on Thailand’s economic growth. The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, driven by climate change, require fundamental changes to infrastructure and economic resilience rather than just short-term fixes.
The economic impact of these risks is significant, with flooding in Bangkok alone potentially causing billions of baht in damage and affecting essential services, transport, and supply chains. Beyond immediate physical damage, disasters create structural vulnerabilities by disrupting business continuity, impacting the livelihoods of low-income households, and necessitating massive government spending on disaster management and infrastructure improvements. These risks are interconnected with other systemic issues, such as fiscal stability and energy security, as the country must balance disaster relief with the need to fund long-term economic transitions. – Bangkok Post AI
Flooding forces 50 health facilities to halt services
Flooding has affected 141 healthcare facilities across 18 provinces in Thailand, forcing 50 of these facilities to suspend their services. The Public Health Ministry reported that these disruptions have increased the pressure on remaining healthcare resources and left many vulnerable people and shelters in need of support.
In addition to the facility closures, several hospitals in the eastern region have been impacted, such as Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri and Klaeng and Bankhai hospitals in Rayong, which have been partially closed but continue to treat emergency patients. Mobile medical teams and medical supplies are being deployed to assist those in affected areas, including the distribution of essential medicines to vulnerable populations. – Bangkok Post AI
Nine dead as floods submerge seven Prachin Buri districts
Prachin Buri is one of the worst-hit provinces, with seven districts inundated and 55,286 households affected. Nine people have died and all seven districts have been declared flood disaster zones.
Medical teams in the province have requested additional suction machines, ventilators and IV pumps. Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital has evacuated several inpatients to a field hospital in the compound of Chakrapong Military Hospital. Continued …
How do floods affect supply chain operations in Thai food industry?
Flooding in Thailand has significantly impacted the food industry by disrupting transport routes, hindering the movement of essential goods, and forcing manufacturers to adjust their business continuity plans. These disruptions have led to delivery delays for parcel services and the temporary suspension of cargo operations for major carriers.
Food producers and farmers are facing various operational challenges, such as damaged logistics routes and the need to monitor supply levels to prevent shortages. For example, the egg industry has experienced transport difficulties, though current supplies remain sufficient to meet domestic demand. In the manufacturing sector, companies like Toyota have been forced to suspend operations at certain plants due to parts delivery interruptions, while others are implementing risk-management frameworks to ensure business continuity amid rising water levels. Additionally, there are concerns regarding food security and the potential for price fluctuations, prompting government agencies to monitor essential goods and prevent hoarding. – Bangkok Post AI
Flood crisis in Chanthaburi as 20,000 rai of durian trees have died
While the flooding has eased in Chanthaburi, around 4,000 fruit farmers are in deep distress as stagnant floodwaters led to durian trees grown on over 20,000 rai of orchards having died.
The farmers said floodwaters caused extensive damage with durian trees in particular affected by deprivation of oxygen, which led to their leaves withering, curling, turning brown and dropping off. Continued …
24-hour flood crisis center opened as southern Thailand braces for rain
The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has established a 24-hour crisis coordination center to manage flood conditions, accelerate drainage and prepare for another round of heavy rain, with southern Thailand under particularly close watch.
The move follows instructions from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who ordered agencies to intensify water management and provide full assistance to flood-affected communities while preparing for further rainfall in several parts of the country. Continued …
Transport Ministry orders flight safeguards for Oct 4–7 storms
The Transport Ministry has instructed Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (Aerothai) to prepare contingency plans for storms and unsettled weather during through Wednesday, covering flight routes and airports nationwide. The measures prioritize aviation safety and preparations for possible delays, holding patterns and diversions.
Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit said the instructions followed a direct assignment from Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn to monitor storms and changing weather conditions across Thailand. Continued …
Sinking city, rising rage: Bangkok’s floods fuel fury over government inaction
As floodwaters surged from Bangkok’s drains, Fon’s car sank faster than her hopes of escaping the floods unscathed. She had bought it less than a month earlier.
“I woke up at 5 am but it was too late,” the 24-year-old said, recalling her decision last weekend to wait until dawn to move her car to a nearby shopping center. “My car was already submerged. I hadn’t even started making the payments and it’s gone.” Continued …
Insurance regulator sets 5 flood-damage levels for vehicles
The Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) has set five damage levels for flood-affected combustion-engine vehicles, based on how high the water reaches, as Thai insurers prepare for a surge in claims once floodwaters recede.
The five levels are: Level A: Water reaches the floor carpet; estimated repair costs are 8,000 to 10,000 baht; Level B: Water reaches the seats; estimated repairs cost 15,000 to 20,000 baht. Continued …
Thailand floods damage 1.64-million rai of farmland
Flooding across 42 Thai provinces has affected more than 1.64 million rai of cropland and left almost 3.9 million farm animals dead or missing, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives said.
Figures compiled on Oct. 2 cover flooding since Aug. 21. A total of 144,738 crop farmers have been affected, with flooding reported on 1,644,172 rai, or 263,067.52 hectares, of cultivated land. Continued …
Iran Says Strait Of Hormuz Will Not Reopen Until Conditions Are Met
The Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until seven Iranian conditions set out in a June interim agreement with the US are met, state media reported Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf as saying yesterday.
Iran presented a proposal during the UN General Assembly under which the Strait of Hormuz waterway could be reopened and normal maritime passage restored within seven days if the conditions were met, with the US replying to this proposal last week via Qatari intermediaries. Continued …
Iran tells US there is no military solution to Middle East war
Iran’s top diplomat insisted yesterday that there would be no military solution to the United States’ war against the Islamic republic, with talks on ending the conflict apparently at an impasse.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said at a gathering of foreign ambassadors, “There is no military solution, nor any solution based on new sanctions,” he continued, adding “only negotiations based on justice and fairness” could end the conflict. Continued …
Brent up 0.79% after Houthis claim Aramco attacks
Brent crude futures rose 0.79% to US$103.06 a barrel in early trading today, after Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis said they had launched ballistic missiles and drones at Saudi Aramco sites in Riyadh and the Khurais area. The claim raised concerns about production in Saudi Arabia, the region’s leading oil exporter.
Brent’s gain amounted to 81 US cents a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude was trading at US$91.57 a barrel, up 46 US cents, or 0.50%, at the same time. Continued …
Bangchak prioritises energy security
Bangchak Corp. is prioritizing energy security by reinforcing its supply chain management and business continuity frameworks to protect against unpredictable natural disasters and geopolitical tensions. The company aims to ensure a reliable energy supply for Thailand by diversifying its fuel sources and reducing dependence on any single supplier, particularly in response to volatility in global energy markets.
To achieve this, Bangchak is implementing a wide-group strategy that includes securing alternative crude supply options from regions like North America and Africa to mitigate risks such as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The company is also investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood protection systems and real-time monitoring, to safeguard against extreme weather events. Furthermore, Bangchak is expanding its use of biofuels and diversifying its energy portfolio to maintain operational balance and long-term resilience. – Bangkok Post AI
Thailand records 2.53% inflation as consumer prices increase
The Ministry of Commerce’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) reported uneven conditions in Thailand’s regional economies in its August 2026 review. Rising living costs remained a key source of pressure and consumer confidence stayed weak, although business formation and tourism continued to grow well in some areas.
TPSO data showed that the headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 2.53% in August from a year earlier, with increases in every region. The south recorded the highest inflation rate at 2.85%, followed by the central region at 2.81%, the northeast at 2.43%, Bangkok and surrounding provinces at 2.38%, and the north at 2.21%, reflecting widespread price pressures. Continued …
US tariff probes put Thai exports under fresh pressure
Thailand’s effort to secure a US trade agreement is facing fresh pressure after US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer called for stronger action against industrial overcapacity, while separate tariff investigations continue to target Thai exports.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is seeking an effective ceiling of about 19% on Thailand’s overall tariff exposure in the American market. However, Washington has not guaranteed such a limit, and additional Section 301 duties could be imposed independently of the proposed Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, or ART. Continued …
Thailand tightens foreign business crackdown as backlash grows on tourist islands
Thailand is stepping up a crackdown on foreigners accused of using nominee companies and other arrangements to control businesses and property illegally, as growing local resentment over foreign investment threatens to reshape the country’s lucrative tourism industry.
The campaign, which began on the southern resort island of Koh Phangan, has expanded to seven provinces and resulted in more than 110 arrests and dozens of search warrants, as the government moves to curb foreign ownership structures it says undermine Thai businesses and national economic security. Continued …
OR, Centara plan budget hotels
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) is partnering with Centara Hotels & Resorts to develop budget hotels at PTT service stations and other high-potential locations, as it seeks to increase daily traffic across its nationwide station network to 5 million visits.
ML Peekthong Thongyai, chief executive officer of OR, said the company aims to raise traffic at more than 2,000 PTT service stations nationwide from about 3.9 million visits a day to 5 million by expanding its range of businesses and services to meet changing consumer lifestyles and strengthen its service-station ecosystem. Continued …
Thailand, Laos set US$11-billion trade target for 2027
Thailand and Laos have set an ambitious goal of boosting bilateral trade to US$11 billion by 2027 during high-level talks in Luang Prabang on Friday. The two countries’ economic push is part of a broader strategy to transform border transport networks into major international trade corridors.
To increase trade, the two sides agreed to streamline border logistics, upgrade key checkpoints, bridges and road links, and align digital economy policies. Both sides also noted that expanding Thai-Lao transport corridors would serve as pivotal links connecting Southeast Asian supply chains with regional trade routes extending to China, Central Asia and Europe. Continued …
Thailand positioned for Q4 tourism bonanza
The projected rise in international arrivals to Thailand is driven by expanding flight connectivity, particularly through new direct routes from markets like China, Japan, and Taiwan. Additionally, the recovery of short-haul demand and an increase in high-season marketing events and festivals are contributing to the growing momentum.
The tourism sector is also benefiting from specific cultural and seasonal drivers, such as the Chinese Golden Week and Mid-Autumn Festival, which attract significant visitor numbers. Expanding air capacity remains a critical factor, with analysts noting improvements in flight availability to support higher arrival volumes. Furthermore, the government is actively preparing large-scale events for the final quarter of 2026 to secure significant revenue and maintain arrival momentum. – Bangkok Post AI
As Thailand cracks down on foreigners, a tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome
As tourists step off the pier on Thailand’s Koh Phangan island, they are greeted by a sales pitch tailored to outsiders – billboards touting luxury beachfront plots or clifftop villas as high-yield investments, a message repeated along the palm-fringed roads winding up into the hills.
This tiny tropical island of fewer than 10,000 is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, welcoming more than one million overseas visitors a year. But locals say a surge in internationally run businesses and land ownership is reshaping it beyond recognition, breeding resentment toward some foreigners that has spread across the country. Continued …
Tourism and real estate complete the wellness jigsaw puzzle
Thailand has emerged as a leader in medical and wellness tourism, attracting a large number of tourists worldwide. Specifically in the medical field, most tourists travel for major procedures such as heart surgery, orthopedic surgery, dentistry, IVF and ICSI, as well as cosmetic surgery, eye surgery, and cancer treatment.
In the health and wellness sector, the hotel and real estate industries are accelerating the upgrading of health and sports services to attract demand from working professionals, health-conscious tourists, and those interested in active activities. Continued …
US warships dock with 5,100 personnel in Phuket
Some of the almost 5,100 US Navy personnel began coming ashore in Phuket yesterday after the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and destroyer USS Delbert D. Black arrived for a six-day visit.
The USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77), an aircraft carrier carrying about 4,820 personnel, is anchored around 1.78 nautical miles, or about 3.3 kilometers, from Phuket Deep Sea Port. Continued …
US sailors can roam Phuket island during visit
Around 5,000 US navy sailors who arrived in Phuket yesterday for a six-day rest and recreation visit can travel freely around the island during their stay. Officials said they will be allowed to travel freely around the island, but are prohibited from renting vehicles or riding pillion on motorcycles.
Phuket authorities have stressed the importance of cooperation from US personnel in complying with Thai law, regulations and local customs, particularly respecting local traditions and culture. Continued …
Phuket’s 69th Vegetarian Festival opens Friday, expecting cash flow of 1.4 billion baht
Phuket Province is ready to host the Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Jie Chai) from Oct. 9-18. This is an important tradition and a valuable cultural heritage that reflects the faith of Thai people of Chinese descent and people of all religions in Phuket Province.
A key highlight of the event is the raising of the Koteeng pole, a symbol marking the official start of the Vegetarian Festival. This takes place on Oct. 9, the day before the actual start of the festival. The Vegetarian Festival itself runs from Oct. 10-18, with ceremonies held at various shrines and temples throughout Phuket province. Continued …
100,000 baht found, 100-baht tip given to honest Phuket hotel staff
Hotel staff in Phuket returned an envelope containing cash worth about 100,000 baht to a French tourist after he accidentally left it in a wardrobe when checking out.
The incident was shared by the owner of OASIS Phuket Airport, who said a housekeeper found the envelope containing stacks of banknotes in the wardrobe after the tourist had checked out. The tourist gave the staff a 100-baht tip after receiving his money back. Continued …
Two German tourists killed in Khao Lak hit-and-run
Two German tourists were killed after being struck by a pickup truck at a pedestrian crossing in Khao Lak Friday night, with the driver fleeing the scene. Continued …
American tourist, 35, found dead in Patong hotel
A 35-year-old American tourist was found dead on a bed in his hotel room in Patong, Phuket, yesterday. Police said the cause of death remains under investigation.
The deceased was identified as Smith Gray Allen, a 35-year-old US national. He was found lying dead on the bed in the room, shirtless and wearing only shorts. Officers said there were no signs that property had been searched through or disturbed, and nobody else was found in the hotel room. Continued …
300 Koh Samui residents protest against horse-riding business
More than 300 residents on Koh Samui protested against a horse-riding business Saturday, saying horses used for tourist rides had caused problems on public beaches and in communities for more than a year.
Demonstrators carried signs reading, “Koh Samui residents do not want horse businesses operating on public beaches and in community areas.” Continued …
Best Mental Health Retreats in Thailand: What to Look for and Where to Go
The best mental health retreat in Thailand, for anyone dealing with a clinical condition, is one that pairs licensed clinical care with a restful setting. For depression, anxiety, burnout or trauma, The Dawn Wellness Center and Rehab in Chiang Mai is one of the options most often cited: it is licensed by the Ministry of Public Health and runs a mental health program separate from its addiction treatment. First, though, it helps to know that “retreat” means very different things in Thailand.
Over the past decade, Thailand has moved well beyond spa tourism into serious mental health care, for three main reasons. Cost comes first. Residential treatment at a reputable Thai center typically costs a fraction of an equivalent program in the US, UK or Australia. Continued …
In Bangkok, Disused Shophouses Are the City’s New Hotspots
In Bangkok, timeworn shophouses peek out between gleaming high-rises. Widely found across Southeast Asia, these buildings have traditionally functioned as both their owners’ places of business and their homes, with stores at the front and living areas at the back. Now, the century-old spaces are being resurrected to house some the city’s coolest haunts, from award-winning restaurants and cocktail bars to avant-garde galleries.
While repurposing industrial spaces is nothing new, Bangkok’s conversions have taken a different tack. Its shophouses retain their age-old atmosphere, with geometric floor tiles, peeling paint and creaking shutters. And often, their transformation is carried out by descendents of the original owners. Continued …
Thailand prepares farmers for climate change to protect food security
Why are goods expensive these days, vegetables easily bruised and the seasons so unpredictable? These changes are warning signs that the “global boiling crisis” is quietly eating into household budgets and affecting the food on our plates.
It is time to recognize that this is a national challenge close to home, requiring a smart, collective response before it is too late. Many people remain unaware of the vast sums being lost as natural disasters take a heavy toll on Thailand’s economy and society. Continued …
Chiang Rai warns against using Sai River water, eating fish
Chiang Rai’s provincial administration is advising people to stop using water from the Sai River for consumption and eating fish caught in the river because arsenic and lead contamination levels in the water are 28 times and five times above safety limits, respectively.
The administration has also ordered all waterworks that rely on raw water from the Sai River to produce tap water to tighten their treatment processes to ensure safety before the tap water is distributed to the public. Continued …
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Two foreigners held at Suvarnabhumi with 56-million-baht cash – Continued …
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Chinese extortion suspect detained in Samut Sakhon – Continued …
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UK teen convicted for Thailand drug parcels – Continued …
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Vietnamese pair arrested after ketamine parcel tip in Bangkok – Continued …
The U.S. Vaccine Pullback is a Strategic Mistake
In early 2020, international and national health authorities alike in Laos watched with disbelief as hospitals in New York City, a city in one of the world’s richest countries, were overwhelmed with patients. During the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic, 203,000 cases of laboratory-confirmed COVID were reported in New York and a third of people hospitalized died. Continued …
EU, China to hold Beijing talks to avert trade war
EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic will head to Beijing on Thursday for two days of make-or-break meetings with Chinese officials to try to stave off a trade war. The European Union has toughened its stance toward Beijing to defend businesses against what it believes is unfair competition in critical sectors, including cars. Continued …
US carmakers’ share in home market at all-time low
Major US automakers have watched their domestic market share shrink even more thanks to their Asian competitors — a situation that may worsen if Chinese firms are able to enter the US market, an idea floated by President Donald Trump. 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
Personnel from the USS Abraham Lincoln have reportedly been prohibited from entering Pattaya Soi 6 and Soi 7 after sunset as part of safety rules imposed during the aircraft carrier’s port call in Chonburi.
Hordes of US sailors were up early yesterday as they set out to explore this tourist city on their second day of shore leave. They began their explorations on Wednesday night, with many making a beeline for the famous Walking Street to soak up the atmosphere.
Thailand’s use of trade preferences under free trade agreements reached US$48.069 billion, or approximately 1.57 trillion baht, during the first six months of 2026, rising 7.3% from the same period last year. The Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) reported that preferential treatment was claimed on 80.8% of the value of eligible exports between January and June.
Thailand has formally removed the foreign business license requirement for seven specified service activities, under a new ministerial regulation published by the Royal Gazette yesterday.
The siting of a data center in central Bangkok near Praram 9 Hospital, along with concerns among nearby communities about a data center in Hua Mak storing several hundred thousand liters of fuel, has prompted questions about how such facilities can be located in the capital.
Asia still accounts for roughly half of global GDP on a purchasing-power-parity basis, and multilateral forecasters expect that share to keep inching up even as headline growth rates cool. The World Trade Organization sees Asia-Pacific trade growth slipping to 3.8% in 2026 from 4.1%, and the Asian Development Bank’s most recent outlook points to a similar moderation across the region.
Thai Navy schedules four September royal barge rehearsals
Thailand’s ‘Jurassic Park’ shines light on dinosaur evolution
Gallothai: Three Decades of Chocolate Craftsmanship
Covid-19 cases are increasing in Thailand, with the total number of patients from Jan. 1 up to yesterday reaching 94,402, with 14 deaths, but it is the NB.1.8.1 variant that does not cause severe illness that is dominant, accounting for over 50.9% of cases.
Foreign condominium demand in Thailand weakened during the first half of 2026, but a sharp rise in purchases by Russian nationals suggests that the market is shifting rather than experiencing a uniform decline.
Phuket recorded a 52.5% year-on-year increase in Israeli visitors in July, with arrivals from Israel also up 1,205% on pre-Covid July 2019 levels, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Phuket office.
From canals to city streets: The story of Thai boat noodles
Bangkok has been named the world’s best city for nightlife in 2026 by Time Out, climbing from 13th place last year to beat Berlin, New York City, Melbourne and Sao Paulo.
State energy agencies and policy experts have outlined a series of systemic reforms to modernize Thailand’s national power grid, refine the upcoming Power Development Plan (PDP 2026), and transition away from legacy utility structures.
US President Donald Trump said yesterday his administration has reached a huge oil deal with Venezuela that gives the United States majority control of 65 billion barrels of proven petroleum reserves. 
Haakon, who comes to the throne as two major scandals batter his family, struggled for years to accept his status. “Yes, I was a royal, but I did not want to talk about it … At school it made me anxious,” he wrote in his 2023 autobiography “Haakon”, recalling his days in a state primary in the 1980s. 
Thai herbs targeted for pharma use
Thailand’s Election Commission is facing its biggest test yet, as powerful new evidence, conflicting findings from its own committees, and a newly filed police complaint pile unprecedented pressure on the watchdog to decide whether 229 people linked to the fiercely disputed 2024 Senate election should face the Constitutional Court.
Thailand seeks solution to human-elephant conflict
Commercial viability key to land bridge, panel says
Tourism operators expect the domestic market will be flat or contract from last year unless the government launches an effective stimulus scheme to increase low-season trips, as Thai household income generation weakened last year.
The Transport Ministry is speeding up infrastructure development to support economic and tourism growth, with the government now positioning Udon Thani as a key mechanism linking the northeast with international markets.
Wellness is a fast-growing industry in Thailand and Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), the country’s largest private healthcare group, has set its sights on becoming a global leader. Thailand’s flagbearer for preventative medicine, BDMS has a flagship address in central Bangkok and a portfolio to match, including 60 hospitals, drug-making laboratories, and a nationwide pharmacy with more than 140 stores.
Il dolce far niente — the sweetness of doing nothing. The Italian saying celebrates the simple pleasure of slowing down, something Thailand has long mastered. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes stretching from north to south, the Land of Smiles is renowned for its warm hospitality and deep-rooted wellness traditions, making it a world-class destination for anyone seeking to recharge, both physically and mentally.
The death toll after a two devastating earthquakes in Venezuela soared to more than 900, as crews worked for the third day yesterday to comb through rubble for signs of life. 
Thailand remains one of the most attractive destinations in Asia for foreign investors, retirees, entrepreneurs, and long-term residents. In 2025 alone, Thailand welcomed more than 32.9 million foreign visitors, while tourism continued to contribute enormously to the national economy.
Thailand’s Consumer Council (TCC) and the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) are pushing for a major overhaul of Bangkok’s traffic-management system after a deadly train–bus collision exposed critical weaknesses at railway crossings.
Sentient Animals Like Elephants Deserve More Respect
The economic relationship between Thailand and Vietnam, neighboring ASEAN countries, is shifting from trade partners to direct rivals on the global economic stage amid production relocation and changes in global supply chains.
Thailand is accelerating efforts to become a top 10 global food exporter, leveraging its agricultural richness, manufacturing strength, and innovation in food technology. As part of this ambition, THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 is being held this week in Bangkok. The event is expected to generate over 130 billion baht in trade value, attracting 90,000 visitors from 130 countries.
The US and Thailand are in talks on new long-term supply of US-produced liquefied natural gas, two sources said yesterday, negotiations that have accelerated since the US-Israeli-led war on Iran led to LNG production damage in key exporter Qatar.
The global influencer economy is experiencing explosive growth, evolving from simple online content into a complex commercial ecosystem. This sector now encompasses advertising, e-commerce, brand promotion, digital services, and consumer engagement.
Thailand welcomed 13,428,857 foreign tourists from Jan. 1 to May 24, down 2.8%, generating an estimated B653.986 billion in tourism spending, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. China remained the largest source market, followed by Malaysia, and India.
Thailand’s rainy season has a reputation it doesn’t entirely deserve. Yes, it rains, sometimes heavily, but the idea that monsoon months mean washed-out days and ruined plans is largely a myth.
Thai food manufacturer and exporter Thai Choice says resilience, product innovation, and easier-to-cook authentic meals are helping transform Thai cuisine from a niche export into an everyday global food category.
Thailand’s household debt reached 86.7% of GDP at the end of 2025, among the highest ratios in Asia. The Bank of Thailand’s own data shows that debt for consumption is rising; debt based on income-generating assets such as property or housing loans is contracting. The data reflects bread-and-butter issues and the rising cost of living.
Local residents have raised concerns that a proposed coastal highway could damage mangrove forests and threaten oyster-farming livelihoods, despite government claims the project would boost tourism and the local economy.
Petrol prices will rise today, with PTT and Bangchak service stations announcing their latest price adjustments. Gasohol 95, Gasohol 91, Gasohol E85, Gasohol E20, Super Power Gasohol 95, and petrol will all increase by 1 baht per liter, while diesel and Super Power diesel will rise by 70 satang per liter. Effective from 5 am today, fuel prices for tomorrow will be as follows: 
Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, has warned that a possible “super El Niño” could trigger severe climate disruption across Thailand and the wider ASEAN region, bringing heightened risks of drought, food insecurity, soaring agricultural prices and a worsening PM2.5 crisis.
The Thai baht is set to weaken further as the Middle East war is intensifying and dragging on, while the US Federal Reserve also may not be in a rush to cut interest rates.
Thailand’s tourism sector is facing renewed concern after warnings that a potential oil shortage could disrupt travel and damage visitor confidence more severely than rising fuel prices. Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said a lack of fuel supply would create immediate uncertainty, leaving tourists unsure whether they could complete their journeys. He cautioned that such disruption could undermine the overall travel experience and deter both domestic and international visitors.
The Bank of Thailand is warning the war in the Middle East could weigh on Thailand’s economy across multiple fronts, potentially dragging GDP growth below its 2% forecast for this year.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered the restart of two decommissioned units at the Mae Moh coal-fired power plant in a bid to contain rising electricity bills.
A fuel shortage is severely disrupting taxi services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, with large SUV taxis gradually suspending operations and only about 2,500 vehicles currently in active service, out of a fleet estimated at more than 5,000, operators say.
Three major hospitals have adjusted outpatient drug dispensing as a precaution to prevent potential shortages amid energy-related disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis, while the Ministry of Public Health says national stocks remain sufficient.
Five major consumer goods manufacturers are signaling possible price increases from April, as the global energy crisis drives up costs across supply chains and puts fresh pressure on the retail market.
The Finance Ministry is preparing tax reduction measures for large businesses that help bring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into their supply chains, in a bid to help upgrade local SMEs.
European companies are increasingly favoring Vietnam over Thailand for future investments in Southeast Asia, according to Chris Humphrey, executive director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council.
Singapore Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport for 2026 by Skytrax, extending its long-running dominance, while Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport climbed to 36th place in the latest global rankings. The annual list highlights continued strong performance by leading Asian hubs and steady improvement in Thailand’s main international gateway.
Finland has ranked as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report 2026, while Thailand dropped from 49th to 52nd place. The report, released by the Wellbeing Research Center at the University of Oxford on Thursday, highlighted that the top three countries were Finland, Iceland, and Denmark. Costa Rica saw significant improvement, climbing to fourth place, the highest among Latin American nations.
The ocean has always felt like home to Claire Narida Charanachitta. Long before she spoke at international forums or produced award-winning documentaries, the Thai teenager spent her childhood exploring forests, coastlines, and environmental camps that introduced her to the delicate balance of nature.
The Thai premium smartphone market has entered a high-stakes season following the official debut of the Samsung Galaxy S26 on Feb. 26. With a starting price of 41,900 baht, the flagship’s arrival has set a new benchmark for the high-end segment this year, closely followed by the March 2 launch of the iPad Air M4, which entered the market at 21,900 baht and iPhone 17e, which entered the market at 22,900 baht.
Cheap Thai meals at risk as global oil tensions threaten food prices
The war in the Middle East has intensified, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key strategic route for global oil shipments, has caused world oil prices to surge rapidly. This has raised concerns over energy shortages and wider repercussions for the global economy.
It has been six days since the deadly joint attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, followed by Iran’s retaliatory strikes against mostly American targets in half a dozen Gulf states and against Israel, as people around the world grapple with the economic and geopolitical repercussions.
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), in cooperation with the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and partners from the public and private sectors, hosted the “Thailand-China Investment Forum: Keys to Success & Sustainable Growth for Chinese Enterprises” on Thursday at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok.
Hat Yai is back in business, and now is the time to visit
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US President Donald Trump said y esterday Cuba was next on his agenda after Iran, predicting that the communist-run island, crippled by a US energy blockade, is “gonna fall pretty soon”. “They want to make a deal so badly,” Trump said, a day after suggesting that he would turn to an unspecified project for Cuba after the war against Iran. 
Four years ago, NASA purposely smashed a spacecraft into a small asteroid to see if they could deflect it – a test to prove humanity could protect Earth from threatening space rocks. The experiment pushed the moonlet asteroid Dimorphos into a smaller, faster route around its sibling Didymos – and according to new research out yesterday, it also pushed the pair into a slightly different orbit around the Sun. 
Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. 
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted that the summer of 2026 will be hotter than the previous year. The summer season is expected to begin later than usual, around the end of February (approximately two weeks later than typical), and will last until mid-May 2026.
Thailand is facing a “perfect storm”, as a low birth rate, persistent poverty, and a rapidly aging society place mounting pressure on the tax base, welfare system, and social structure, says the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).
Ahead of the Feb. 8 election, various political parties in Thailand have expressed their support for sex workers, pledging to enhance protection and dignity under the law in a nation where prostitution remains illegal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported yesterday that PM 2.5 levels in Bangkok have exceeded the safety limits in all districts.
Cambodia has carried out a massive raid on scammer gangs, detaining more than 2,000 people amid pressure from China to crack down on its online fraud industry. Nearly 1,800 Chinese nationals were among those held, according to the Cambodian Interior Ministry.
The rapid emergence of instant commerce in Thailand, a retail evolution defined by delivery within a few hours, will become the new battlefield for on-demand players and e-commerce platforms, say brands.
Gold prices hit a record high above $5,500 due to US-Iran tensions, with expectations of the Federal Reserve moving to rate cuts, pushing the baht to strengthen below 31 baht per dollar, the strongest in almost five years.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling for Thailand to expand into new high-potential markets to support the country’s export and manufacturing sectors, as key trading partners face economic weakness amid a global slowdown.
Thai gold prices on Saturday were down by 1,200 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams), as a global and local correction continued after a surge to record highs earlier in the week.
This year is being seen as a “structural turning point” in business, as the combined pressures from the climate crisis, technological advancements, and demographic changes make the concept of “sustainability” no longer just a policy for improving image. It has become the new foundation for growth, competitiveness, and long-term survival for businesses.
Thai EV charging service provider Sharge has partnered with Grab to build a dedicated charging network for the company. It plans to invest over 400 million baht in the project.
Japan will expand overtourism countermeasures from 47 to 100 areas nationwide as it positions inbound tourism as a core strategic industry after foreign visitor spending hit a record 9.5 trillion yen in 2025.