- Wat Khao Kalok in Pranburi/Can you trust the medicine in Thailand?/Nene Royal didn’t apply to America’s Got Talent/Nene Royal opts for AGT $400,000 payout/USS George H.W. Bush leaves Phuket/Watching Lisa’s Always Lalisa/Thai man wakes with wild python/Thailand weather warning/Death toll reaches 24/Thailand’s new disaster insurance scheme/Inside Bangkok’s flash floods/Toyota Thailand extends production suspensions/Villagers hang motorcycles from trees/Residents fear another month underwater
- THE IRAN WAR: Strait of Hormuz remains volatile
- ECONOMY: IMF-World Bank 2026 agenda/2026 tax revenue beats target/US Thai trade deal is in sight/High-tech industries to shift labor force
- TOURISM: Tourism firms balk at arrival fee/10.14 billion baht from Vegetarian Festival/Chinese flyers to Chiang Mai surge/Krabi eyes boost from Russian tourists/Vietjet Thailand’s Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok route
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai Rice Farmers End Stubble Burning
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Wat Khao Kalok, Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi
Wat Khao Kalok , also known as Wat Sumanawat, is a colorful and serene seaside temple located near Khao Kalok Beach in Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.
Its Golden Sanctuary (Vihara) is a striking four-gabled (Jaturamuk) golden sanctuary combining intricate Thai design with Khmer architectural influences, guarded by two giant statues at the entrance.
Inside the sanctuary, visitors worship sculptures of Luang Por Huang Uttamo (the temple’s first abbot) and Prince Admiral Chumphon Khet Udomsak, alongside a prominent statue of Thao Wessuwan outside.
The temple is famous in local folklore (Sai Mu) for the legend of a wealthy man reincarnated as a crocodile to guard hidden treasure, making it popular for seeking business success and good fortune via its sacred “Crocodile Flag” amulets.
Can you trust the medicine in Thailand?
Thailand is stepping up its fight against fake medicine, but recent cases show how lucrative and sophisticated the trade has become. With counterfeit products increasingly finding buyers online, stopping them before they reach consumers is becoming its own challenge. Video …
Nene Royal didn’t apply to America’s Got Talent. An American fan did it for her. His name is Sean, and like thousands of others, he first saw her playing on the street in Phuket. Unlike most of them, he didn’t just film it and walk away.
Struck by her voice, her guitar playing and the way she owned a crowd, he went to her parents with an idea that must have sounded almost absurd. Send her to America’s Got Talent.
Then he did the work. According to Thai media, Sean gathered clips of her performances, filled in the English-language application and handled the communication with the show’s casting team in the United States. It didn’t happen on the first try. He kept going until the family finally got the message they’d been waiting for: Nene was invited to audition in Los Angeles.
You know the rest. Zombie, the most-watched audition of the season. A Golden Buzzer. Linkin Park. A million dollars, and the first Thai winner in the show’s history.
He isn’t the only foreigner in her story. Years earlier, an American musician living in Phuket, known online as Banana Man, sat with a 10-year-old Nene and helped her with English pronunciation, including the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody. When people started crediting him for her success, he pushed back, saying it belonged to her family, her coaches and her.
That’s the fair way to see it. The talent was hers. The thousands of hours were hers. Her parents bought the guitar and drove her to the market. But sometimes a career turns on a stranger who notices, and then bothers to fill out the form.
Nene Royal opts for AGT $400,000 lump-sum prize payout
Thai singer Nene Royal, named as the winner of America’s Got Talent 2026, has said she will take the program’s prize money as a one-off payment rather than in instalments.
America’s Got Talent offers its US$1 million prize under terms allowing winners to choose either scheduled payments or a single lump sum. Under the program’s stated terms, a winner choosing a one-off payment receives net cash estimated to be around US$400,000, before any tax deductions. Continued …
USS George H.W. Bush leaves Phuket after five-day visit
The US aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its escort, USS Delbert D. Black, left Phuket yesterday after a five-day stop that gave more than 5,000 personnel time ashore.
The two vessels had been anchored about 1.78 nautical miles, or around 3.3 kilometers, from Phuket Deep Sea Port in Mueang district . All personnel departed with the ships. Continued …
Things to know before watching Lisa’s Always Lalisa
Always Lalisa, a documentary following Thai singer and actor Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal during a year away from Blackpink’s group activities, opens in Thai cinemas on Oct. 12. Screenings run until Oct. 18 in IMAX and standard formats, with standard tickets starting at 350 baht.
The film explores Lisa’s professional ambitions and private experiences as she develops her solo career, offering audiences a closer look at the person behind her public image. Continued …
Thai man wakes to rescuers, then sees video of himself carrying a wild python home
A night out in Thailand turned into a wildlife rescue story after an intoxicated man brought a wild python home. Even more amazingly, the man, who had no recollection of bringing the animal home, woke up to rescuers removing it from his house.
According to the report, the man had been out drinking with friends before they noticed a snake in the roadway blocking an area where they wanted to park. Continued …
Thailand weather warning: storms and hail until October 15
Thailand is facing a week of thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and lightning, with heavy to very heavy rain possible in some areas through Oct. 15. The Thai Meteorological Department warned that accumulated rain could bring flash floods and forest runoff, particularly in vulnerable areas.
People across the country have been advised to prepare for thunderstorms, gusty winds, hail and intense rainfall. The department said the risk is greatest near foothills, waterways and low-lying locations that are prone to flooding. Continued …
Prachin Buri floods ease as death toll reaches 24, recovery begins
Flood conditions in Prachin Buri have begun to improve, with water levels falling steadily in several areas and along the province’s main river. Local authorities are deploying pumps and sandbags to protect economic zones, while preparing recovery efforts as the disaster’s death toll reaches 24.
the Prachin Buri Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command reported that water levels along the Prachin Buri River at monitoring stations in Kabin Buri, Si Maha Phot and Mueang districts were trending downward. However, prolonged heavy rain has affected seven districts, 65 subdistricts, 691 villages and 37 communities, impacting a total of 60,317 households. Continued …
Thailand’s new disaster insurance scheme caps household payouts at 100,000 baht
Thailand’s government-funded disaster insurance program took effect on Oct. 1, covering an estimated 30 million homes against flooding, windstorms, and earthquakes across Bangkok and all provinces.
Households affected by flooding receive an initial payment of 10,000 baht. Windstorm or earthquake damage triggers 5,000 baht. Total compensation is capped at 100,000 baht (roughly US$3,020) per household per disaster, based on verified physical damage to house structures. A separate 2 million baht payment applies to disaster-related deaths. Continued …
Inside Bangkok’s flash floods
Bangkok’s severe flash floods, exploring how extreme rainfall, sinking geography, and communication breakdowns are testing the city’s infrastructure limits.
The flashpoints: Non-stop heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems, cars floating away, and residents left stranded in neck-deep water across the capital. Video …
Toyota Thailand extends production suspensions due to flooding
Toyota Motor Thailand has extended production suspensions at its Samrong, Ban Pho and Gateway plants, with operations now expected to resume between Oct. 14 and 19 as flooding continues to disrupt parts deliveries.
The company initially suspended production at the three plants from Oct. 5-10 due to flooding affecting deliveries in Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao and Chon Buri provinces. Continued …
Villagers hang motorcycles from trees to protect them from floodwaters
Flood-hit Chachoengsao residents fear another month underwater
Residents of Pak Nam subdistrict in Bang Khla district, Chachoengsao, have endured flooding for more than two weeks, with reports that the situation could continue for another 30 days, adding to their anxiety over how long they must live with the hardship.
Flooding continued to disrupt daily life in Bang Khla, particularly in Pak Nam, where many families have been living with standing water for more than two weeks. The possibility of another month of flooding has left residents worried about the prolonged impact on their homes, livelihoods and families. Continued …
Strait of Hormuz remains volatile, with attacks reaching their highest level
Media has reported that oil tankers traveling through the Strait of Hormuz are being targeted almost daily, as Iran is escalating its attacks in an attempt to halt its recovering crude oil exports.
Data from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations agency, indicates that in the week ending Oct. 4, 11 oil tankers were attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the highest number since the war began in late February. Continued …
IMF-World Bank 2026 agenda puts global outlook, AI and Thailand in focus
Thailand is preparing to host the 2026 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group from Oct. 12 to 18 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, bringing global economic forecasts, financial stability, artificial intelligence and green investment into focus.
The gathering marks Thailand’s return as host after 35 years, following the 1991 annual meetings, and will bring together economic policymakers, central bank governors, financial institutions and business leaders from around the world. Continued …
2026 tax revenue of 2.5 trillion baht beats target
The Revenue Department collected 2.52 trillion baht in tax revenue in the 2026 fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, exceeding its target by 7.5 billion baht, according to Acting Director-general Salakjit Phongsirichan.
She said revenue collection was 8% higher, or 186 billion baht, than in the previous fiscal year, partly due to higher value-added tax (VAT) receipts. Continued …
Commerce Minister says that a November signing of a US Thai trade deal is in sight
A US–Thailand trade deal is heading for a November signing after President Donald Trump wrote directly to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. However, critical terms remain unresolved despite agreement in principle. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is targeting the ASEAN summit in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Thai exporters face existing US tariffs and further Section 301 threats. Vietnam is advancing its own deal, while Thailand seeks parity with regional competitors. Even a November signing may leave exporters waiting for implementation. Continued …
High-tech industries to shift labor force
Thailand’s high-tech industries require a diverse array of specialized technical and soft skills to keep pace with rapid technological transitions. Key requirements include expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) development, coding, and robotics, as well as proficiency in digital technologies, data science, and automated systems.
Additionally, there is a growing demand for specialized skills in green technology, such as electric vehicle (EV) engineering and sustainable energy management, to support the transition to a green economy.
Beyond technical mastery, high-tech sectors increasingly prioritize advanced soft skills and human-centric capabilities. Professionals are expected to possess strong analytical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities to manage complex, AI-driven systems. – Bangkok Post AI
Tourism firms balk at arrival fee being used for medical insurance
Tourism operators oppose the 450-baht fee because they believe it is unfair to genuine travelers. They argue that the funds intended for travel insurance for all foreign visitors are more likely to cover unpaid medical bills incurred by foreign workers rather than tourists.
The Association of Thai Hotels has suggested that the government instead require travelers to purchase their own insurance before arriving in Thailand, which would reduce individual responsibility and mitigate risks. Additionally, industry representatives have expressed concerns regarding the lack of a clear budget allocation, noting that the funds should prioritize tourism development, such as infrastructure, environmental improvements, and digital transformation. – Bangkok Post AI
TAT forecasts 10.14 billion baht from Vegetarian Festival
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts more than 1.32 million domestic visitor trips and about 10.14 billion baht in tourism revenue across 10 key provinces during the Vegetarian Festival from Oct. 9–18.
TAT expects Bangkok to generate 6.71 billion baht in tourism revenue during the festival, with nine southern provinces contributing a combined 3.43 billion baht. Phuket accounts for 1.43 billion baht of the southern forecast. Continued …
Chinese flyers to Chiang Mai surge during Golden Week
Visitors from China using Chiang Mai Airport jumped during the Golden Week period, reinforcing the northern city as a popular vacation destination for the Chinese.
An average of 1,744 Chinese travelers passed through the airport each day of the Golden Week from Oct. 1-7, soaring 37% from the daily average of only 1,271 last month. Continued …
Krabi eyes boost from Russian tourists
Four Russian cities will be connected to Krabi via charter flights this month. These flights, operated by Siamwings airlines, are intended to boost tourism and strengthen the region’s role as a gateway to the Andaman coast.
The specific Russian cities included in these new routes are Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Krasnoyarsk, and Novosibirsk. Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit noted that these charter services are expected to bring more than 3,000 Russian tourists to the area. The flights are being operated by Siamwings airlines using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which have a capacity of 453 passengers. – Bangkok Post AI
Vietjet Thailand’s Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok route starts
Vietjet Thailand has launched daily flights between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, marking the airline’s first route to Malaysia. The service will run between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) on a Boeing 737-8.
VZ680 departs Bangkok at 11 am and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 2.10 pm. VZ681 departs Kuala Lumpur at 3.15 pm and arrives in Bangkok at 4.30 pm. Continued …
How CNH Equipment Is Helping Thai Rice Farmers End Stubble Burning
CNH Industrial is demonstrating how the right mechanization can help rice farmers move away from crop-residue burning, with a successful trial in Thailand showing a practical path to healthier soils and cleaner air.
Equipment from its New Holland brand is supporting Thai farmer Pichai Tosa to manage rice straw sustainably after harvest. Tosa, a well-established rice and mung bean grower in Nakhon Sawan province, trialed a New Holland TT3.50 tractor and mulcher during the April rice harvest in central Thailand. Instead of burning, the straw was chopped and retained on the field or incorporated back into the soil to build organic matter. Continued …
Burmese drug kingpin with multiple identities and lives linked to massive cash seizure in Chiang Rai
Two boxes packed with 23 million baht inside a pickup at the Chiang Rai border have exposed a suspected international crime network. At its center is Noo Chen, a Burmese-born drug kingpin who reportedly faked his murder in 2022 before his arrest in South Korea in April 2026. Now, Thai investigators are tracing over 1 billion baht in suspected drug money laundering and 2.5 billion baht in call-center fraud losses. Continued …
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Chonburi police raid alleged Chinese nominee firm – Continued …
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Indian passenger held as 6-million baht in gold found in speaker – Continued …
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Pattaya condo raid nets two Nigerians and cocaine – Continued …
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British tourist questioned over Pattaya motorbike theft – Continued …
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Chinese man held over alleged Thai identity fraud – Continued …
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Thailand starts China extradition case against reporter – Continued …
Trump calls Nobel Peace Prize pick ‘disgraceful’
US President Donald Trump slammed the “disgraceful” Nobel Peace Prize choice yesterday as leaving an “indelible stain” on Norway, arguing that the award should have gone to him. South African judge and human rights champion Navi Pillay won the prestigious prize in recognition of her work against war crimes and crimes against humanity. 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
Hua Hin municipality is seeking to speed up construction of the Hua Hin railway road by resolving design issues and relocating electricity poles, with the aim of opening the new route to residents as soon as possible.
Thailand closes 132 risky railway crossings
Central region hardest hit by floods
Short-haul markets, specifically South Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia, have been most significantly impacted by the recent flooding in Thailand, seeing arrivals drop by 5.96%, 7.25%, and 8.32%, respectively, between late September and early October. The Chinese market also experienced a notable decline, which the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) noted coincided with the Golden Week holiday period.
Three property associations have identified five major challenges in reviving the market through action by the government and banks. These range from unlocking home loans for a new generation of borrowers, promoting energy-efficient homes and developing urban infrastructure to withstand natural disasters, to regulating foreign property transactions and building stronger communities.
Thailand has attracted more than $11.72 billion (approx. 396.5 billion baht) in investment applications from Japanese enterprises across 1,380 projects between 2021 and mid-2026, according to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI).
Thailand’s Cabinet has acknowledged a proposal to overhaul vehicle excise taxes, under which certain imported cars would face the highest proposed rates, while domestically manufactured vehicles could qualify for lower rates linked to investment and locally produced components.
The 10th round of Thailand-EU free trade agreement negotiations has seen significant progress, with most negotiating texts now concluded. The commerce minister reported that major issues resolved include trade in goods, services, investment, and market access, as well as provisions regarding sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, energy, war materials, and rules of origin.
Marriott Internationalhas signed an agreement with FICO Corp. to bring seven hotels to Thailand, which are projected to add a further 1,262 keys to Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.
Earlier this year, Bangkok’s food and beverage scene pulled off a coup. At Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards in Macau, eight venues from Asia’s “City of Angels” crowded the list – rankings historically dominated by Hong Kong and Singapore – with four more in the 51-100 tier. The city’s restaurant honors tell a similar story – Sühring recently joined Sorn in holding three Michelin stars, and Bangkok claims nine spots on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, more than any other city.
Thailand is preparing to replace the Hotel Act B.E. 2547 (2004). In July 2026, the House of Representatives accepted in principle proposed amendments to the Hotel Act and referred them to an extraordinary committee. On Sept. 29, the government set out its draft Accommodation Establishment Act. The draft moves away from a single hotel licensing regime and toward a tiered system based on the size of the property.
Fifteen minutes with a pair of clippers, a mirror check, and out the door for the price of a sandwich. Or: lying back on a reclined chair, eyes covered, a hot towel over the face, a straight razor worked slowly along the jaw, warm oil worked into the beard, a shoulder press at the end, someone offering you a coffee while you wait for the chair — 45 minutes, and a bill that can run to three or four times the first one.
From one mother to nine cubs: the tiger helping tell Thailand’s recovery story
Preparing Thailand’s rescued leopard cats for life in the wild
Authorities in Phuket are seeking a land plot to build a second incinerator to handle a growing amount of garbage. Phuket is facing increasing challenges in dealing with as much as 1.3 million tons of waste that has accumulated at landfills supervised by the Phuket municipal office.
Unverified reports of a second death in Russia’s Irkutsk region in Siberia have raised concerns about a possible pneumonic plague outbreak, although Russian authorities maintain that no cases of the disease have been detected. 
Hua Hin Profile: Humanitarianism in action
Thai rocker Nene Royal, winner of America’s Got Talent 2026, will make her acting debut as the Thai voice of Billie Doe in Disney’s animated fantasy Hexed.
Nene Royal to sing for over 400 guests at IMF–World Bank reception
British banker and whistleblower Simon Andriesz, 57, was found dead in Khlong Luang, just outside Bangkok, on the morning of September 23. The local municipality recorded his cause of death as “asphyxiation from hanging”.
Thailand has not implemented any additional measures regarding the suspected plague in Russia, as Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat stated there are currently no plans for further action unless new developments emerge.
As the planet warms, cities like Bangkok could be increasingly inundated by deadly floods
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has drawn up a five-to-seven-year flood-management program expected to require at least 100 billion baht, combining drainage maintenance with major canal, tunnel and water-retention projects to protect the capital’s role as Thailand’s economic center.
Thailand’s headline consumer price index rose 2.82% in September from a year earlier, the Commerce Ministry said yesterday, as food and fuel prices increased.
The World Bank has upgraded its GDP growth forecast for Thailand in 2026 to 2.3%, up from a previous estimate of 1.5%. This upward revision is primarily attributed to robust exports fueled by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom and a smaller-than-expected impact from energy shocks.
Thailand has expanded a crackdown on suspected foreign nominee businesses from Koh Phangan into seven provinces, according to a media report, as concern grows over overseas investors, land deals and long-stay visitors on the country’s resort islands.
Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund has begun scaling back diesel support as its deficit has passed 100 billion baht, an Energy Ministry source said. The ministry is preparing a gradual withdrawal of subsidies to slow cash outflows while awaiting policy direction on further measures.
The Thai cabinet has approved tax measures for the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) sector that allow businesses to claim a double tax deduction for expenses related to space rental and services for trade fairs and exhibitions. These incentives are intended to stimulate economic activity by attracting international events and increasing spending in related industries such as tourism, transport, and hospitality.
An increase in the value-added tax (VAT) of 3% was discussed during a session where senators also called for a broader tax base to address a reported net deficit of 760 billion baht for fiscal 2025.
Singapore-listed DFI Retail plans to open 250 new Starbucks outlets over the next three years, mainly in Thailand and Vietnam, after taking full control of the licensed business operating more than 1,100 coffeehouses across seven Asian markets.
The Middle East conflict and oil price volatility have highlighted Thailand’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, prompting calls to accelerate its clean energy transition. A seminar involving energy experts, policymakers, and industry representatives concluded that reducing fossil fuel dependence is now an economic and security necessity, not just an environmental goal, with ASEAN neighbors facing similar pressures.
Southeast Asia could save approximately US$45.4 billion by installing enough solar photovoltaic capacity to generate the same amount of electricity as planned gas power projects across five major economies, according to research group Zero Carbon Analytics (ZCA).
Clean Kinetics, a Singapore-based solar energy developer, has started construction of a $2-million solar photovoltaic project at Sats Thailand’s central kitchen facility in Pathum Thani province, around 40 kilometers north of Bangkok.
A Khao Tao power outage is scheduled for tomorrow from 9 am to 5 pm, affecting residents and businesses in parts of the area.
Officials to keep tabs on Hua Hin beachfront demolition
Water released from Pranburi Reservoir
Erik Brown, Tham Luang cave rescue diver, dies at 44
Canadian cave diver Erik Brown, who helped rescue the Wild Boars football team and their coach from Tham Luang cave in Chiang Rai in 2018, has died aged 44. Brown’s family and friends announced his death, but did not give the precise date and cause of death, or any further details.
Thailand has sharply widened its foreign nominee crackdown, sending details of over 100,000 foreign-linked companies to 43 embassies covering 48 nationalities. The move comes as officials trace investment funds, property holdings and corporate structures nationwide. Separate screening covers 125,622 companies, while 36,277 foreign-invested firms hold over 305,000 land plots.
Chai Nat-Gulf canal plan faces Bangkok flood doubts
Flooding in Thailand has forced Toyota Motor to halt operations at four factories temporarily. A Toyota spokesperson said flooding had disrupted parts deliveries to the company’s factories in Thailand.
Farmers in the Bua Yai district of Nakhon Ratchasima are primarily struggling with severe drought conditions that are threatening their rice crops. This lack of sufficient water has left many rice fields unable to survive, forcing some farmers to release water into their fields to save crops or face losing their entire harvest.
Thailand’s long-awaited US trade deal has hit a serious hiatus as conflicting accounts emerge from Bangkok’s top negotiators. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun says an agreement has been reached in principle. Yet, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow says market access remains the key issue.
Thailand is preparing a new 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan for 2028–2032 that places digital technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced electronics and cleaner energy at the center of the country’s next development cycle. The government seeks to reposition Thailand as a higher-value investment and production base.
Phuket developers are promoting long-term residence visas and registered property-use rights to attract foreign residents and investors, as the island’s property market cools after several years of rapid growth.
Bangkok has recorded one of the strongest increases in luxury residential prices among major global cities over the past decade, with values rising by about 75%, according to Savills Research.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) raised its 2026 GDP growth projection for Thailand from 1.8% to 2.0%, primarily citing a robust performance in the export sector. This growth is particularly driven by strong performance in the technology and electronics industries.
Russia has proposed bilateral cooperation with Thailand on small modular reactors (SMRs), Russian Ambassador Evgeny Tomikhin said yesterday. He added that Moscow wants to build on a run of high-level contacts to lift trade, which he described as far below its potential.
Southeast Asia’s digital economy was valued at $300 billion in 2025 and could reach $1 trillion by 2030. Structural shifts in ASEAN countries drive growth, with e-commerce dominating. Policy, platform evolution, and investment opportunities support this growth potential.
A World Economic Forum report on ASEAN’s digital economy highlights the gap between digital ambition and practical execution, positioning Thailand’s leadership as pivotal. Having chaired negotiations for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) across 14 rounds culminating in 2026, Thailand now faces the challenge of translating this agreement into functional cross-border systems for payments, digital identity, and data governance.
Suvarnabhumi Cargo Terminal Stays Open as Thai Airways Clears 8,000 Delayed Bags
When an expatriate dies in Thailand, relatives may have to deal with Thai authorities, the deceased’s embassy, funeral arrangements and an estate spread across several countries. The process is easier when each step is handled in the correct order.
Living in Thailand does not mean your estate exists only in Thailand. An expat may own a Thai condominium, maintain bank accounts offshore, hold US shares through an international platform and have pensions or property in their home country.
A retiree who ditched Australia for a “better life” in Thailand has revealed how he “lives like a king” for roughly $65 a day and is now helping other older Aussies do the same.
US President Donald Trump unveiled what he called a “damn good” AI chatbot, but it quickly drew attention for contradicting some of his contentious political claims. A day later, however, it stopped answering some political questions. 
Switzerland’s glaciers, which are disproportionately impacted by climate change, have lost nearly 20% of their mass in five years, experts said today, with 2026 registering the second-biggest melt on record. 
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan have been ordered to closely monitor heavy rain and water conditions and prepare to assist residents if flooding or other disasters occur.
Residents and visitors gathered at Hua Hin’s Chao Mae Thapthim Shrine on Saturday for the traditional Ship to Sea ceremony.
Bangkok bears brunt of estimated 25.3-billion-baht Thai flood losses
Thailand will begin tougher enforcement of rules covering ride-hailing apps, drivers and vehicles on Thursday, the Ministry of Transport has announced.
Nene Royal returns home to a grand Phuket welcome
Some 6,000 kilometers separate the anchorage off Hormuz from a petrol station forecourt in Nonthaburi. In 2026, that distance has counted for very little.
Thailand is attracting billions of baht in investment into data centers, electronics and advanced industries, while household finances remain under pressure. A government survey found that 32.8% of respondents had reduced the number of meals they eat or were eating less. Almost two-thirds were buying cheaper food or waiting for discounts.
Thailand’s high season test begins as tourism numbers rise
JustPow is calling for stronger environmental oversight of waste-to-energy plants because they believe the current regulatory framework is too weak to ensure the safety of local communities and the surrounding environment. The advocacy group argues that current regulations lack sufficient environmental impact assessments, particularly for smaller facilities that generate less than 10 megawatts of capacity.
What a way to start a day! Watching the sun rise over the Gulf of Thailand, cool ocean breezes, with a gentle sea lapping at the white sand beach. And behind you is breakfast, served by the attentive staff of the 
Hua Hin beacfront building owners request demolition delay
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warned of heavy rain across Thailand today, naming 55 provinces in its regional forecasts and also warning Bangkok and surrounding areas.
A deadly night of violence hit Yala’s Bannang Sata district before security forces moved in yesterday. Assistant village headman Hamdee Jehsoh, 42, was shot dead in a roadside ambush. Hours later, attackers struck Highway 410, burning tires, scattering road spikes and leaving a suspicious wired object.
Hong Kong customs has made its largest-ever drug seizure from a sea shipment, finding cannabis worth HK$125 million, or about 530 million baht, in a 40-foot container declared as arriving from Thailand.
Disruption to Gulf shipping routes could raise transport costs and lengthen delivery times for Thai businesses, the Dubai office of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) warned in a report.
The cumulative spending under the government’s Thais Help Thais Plus 60/40 co-payment scheme has surpassed 161 billion baht. The Finance Ministry is expected to request a cabinet consideration to extend the program, which was designed to support the grassroots economy by easing household expenses and boosting purchasing power amidst rising living costs.
Following increased immigration traffic at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand has now made the immigration eGates widely accessible. The immigration department at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport is now allowing citizens of 33 foreign countries to utilize the electronic gates in order to enter the country.
For many Thai people, 7-Eleven is much more than a place to grab a quick snack. It has become part of everyday life, offering everything from morning coffee and ready-to-eat meals to drinks, beauty products, accessories and household essentials.
Protected Areas Regional Office 9 (Ubon Ratchathani) officially opened Kaeng I Khiao as a new natural attraction at Buntharik-Yot Mon Wildlife Sanctuary in Kho Laen subdistrict, Buntharik district, Ubon Ratchathani province, on Friday.
The United Nations has issued a top-level warning: the world is facing a “Super El Niño,” shattering all previous heat records. This is closer than you think. Why do vulnerable areas like northern Thailand need to prepare now? Find out in this report. 
Thailand data-center boom raises wider clean-power challenge
Thailand’s 65- billion-baht coffee market is moving beyond the beverage business, as consumers increasingly prioritize quality, experience and sustainability.
Ukrainian forces fired more than 1,000 drones at Russia overnight Saturday, including hundreds that were launched toward Moscow, officials said yesterday, as the Kremlin was wrapping up the third and last day of its parliamentary elections. 
The leaders of France and Canada yesterday pledged closer ties to grapple with rising geopolitical tensions, climate change and the erosion of democratic values, after they met in the French territory of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon off Canada’s Atlantic coast. 
Covid-19 infections in Thailand are on an upward trend, with an average of 15,000 new cases reported each week over the past four weeks, according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC).
Thai star Lisa hits big time in US
LISA brings Thai food and drinking culture to Jimmy Fallon show
Shipping costs are being driven by a combination of geopolitical tensions, severe weather events, and capacity constraints in critical maritime corridors. Conflicts in the Middle East, specifically involving Iran, have caused shipping standstills in the Strait of Hormuz, forcing vessels to seek alternative and often more expensive routes.
Average household debt in Thailand has risen to nearly 800,000 baht, reaching its highest level in 17 years, according to a 2026 survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
Ally Logistic Property (ALP) selected the Eastern Economic Corridor for its Omega 1 Bangna smart warehouse to access its logistics route project, which offers a business model known as infrastructure-as-a-service. This model allows tenants to utilize integrated automated warehouses without the high upfront costs or the need to own their own storage facilities.
Thai Airways will operate the new Bangkok-Da Nang service with 41 flights per week. The service is scheduled to begin on Dec. 1.
Thailand Ecotourism Is Now Third in ASEAN
Government plans to liberalize forest use have sparked fears that Thailand’s pristine natural landscapes will be opened to industrial activities, including waste disposal. The Cabinet this month approved in principle a draft regulation allowing the commercial and industrial use of larger forest zones – including national reserves. If enacted, the scope of permitted activities will be expanded from the current 10 categories to 16.
Thailand has built much of the machinery of sustainable finance — a taxonomy, disclosure rules, transition loans and a coming climate fund. What it has not yet solved is who can afford to use it.
Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan have reviewed efforts to address wild elephant problems in Hua Hin and Kui Buri, including assistance and compensation for affected residents.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has warned all provinces nationwide, including Bangkok, to prepare for very heavy rain during Sept. 16-20, with risks of flash floods, forest run-off, landslides, waterlogging and rough seas.
Thailand is piloting a system that replaces the name, address and phone number on a parcel with a six-digit code and QR code, in an attempt to stop personal data leaking to scam gangs.
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Energy concerns have resurfaced in Thailand as the Middle East war becomes more complex. Traders are assessing regional supply risks, particularly the shutdown of a major Saudi Arabian oil pipeline following an attack, while shipping conditions through the Strait of Hormuz have failed to improve.
Thailand is accelerating its energy diversification to mitigate risks from extreme global market volatility and geopolitical instability. Specifically, the country is seeking to reduce its heavy reliance on Middle Eastern energy imports following surges in crude oil prices and significant spikes in liquefied natural gas costs driven by ongoing regional conflicts.
Professor Watcharapong Kasaree, a political scientist from Chulalongkorn University, warns that Thailand’s fiscal system could face a severe crisis within a decade if urgent reforms are not undertaken. He expresses concern that the current trajectory of increasing public debt, which could reach 80%-90% of GDP within 5-10 years if revenue is not significantly increased, could lead to a loss of economic stability.
The new Employee Welfare Fund is expected to increase operating costs for restaurants due to mandatory monthly contributions from both employers and employees. These contributions are set at a rate of 5% of employee wages, beginning on Oct. 1.
The cabinet has granted oil and gas exploration concessions to two companies following the Round 25 onshore petroleum auction. The winning companies are PETTP International and Pan Orion Energy (Siam) Co., which were awarded concessions for areas in the central and northeastern regions.
Thailand could impose an excise tax of around 30% on fully imported electric vehicles, Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said, revealing for the first time the potential rate of a levy designed to steer automakers toward local production.
Thailand’s Commerce Ministry has rejected claims that foreigners can now operate hotels, restaurants or tour businesses without a license under a new Foreign Business Act regulation.
Israel’s ambassador to Thailand, Alona Fisher-Kamm, has again urged Israeli visitors to respect Thai laws and culture after protests and a series of disputes involving tourists. Fisher-Kamm said both countries needed to ensure the Middle East conflict was not brought into Thailand. She nevertheless pushed back against describing recent protests as antisemitic.
A police lieutenant colonel and three other men were arrested Tuesday after they allegedly extorted 200,000 baht from a Chinese national in San Kamphaeng district, Chiang Mai province.
Koh Lanta truly is a magical place. It feels like stepping back in time, allowing you to experience the essence of what Thailand is all about. Located on the Andaman Sea, it’s a collection of rugged islands in the Krabi province. The biggest and most inhabited is Koh Lanta Yai, which is highlighted by nine golden sand beaches and lush, palm tree jungles.
Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei province has announced that its 2026-27 season for mountaintop visits and overnight stays will run from Oct. 1 to May 31, 2027.
The US Federal Reserve yesterday raised interest rates for the first time since 2023, defying President Donald Trump’s demand for cuts, as central bank chief Kevin Warsh stressed the need to combat inflation that has been “too high” for “too long.” The Federal Open Market Committee voted unanimously to raise rates by 25 basis points to between 3.75% and 4.00%. 
Asia-Pacific will account for 45% of global demand for new passenger aircraft between 2026 and 2045, requiring 19,120 aircraft as passenger traffic grows faster than the worldwide average, Airbus forecasts. Airbus’s Global Market Forecast (GMF) for 2026–2045 puts worldwide demand at 42,060 new aircraft. 
August was the hottest single month ever recorded globally, with ocean temperatures also reaching unprecedented highs as western Europe capped its warmest summer, the EU’s climate monitor said today.
Apple joins foldable phone race with $1,999 passport-shaped iPhone Duo
Benchmark Brent crude oil futures rose past $100 a barrel yesterday, breaching the symbolic barrier for the first time since July 24 as intensifying conflict in the Middle East fueled growing concern about supplies.
Thailand and the United States are days from a sweeping trade deal reaching far beyond tariffs. Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun says every substantive issue is settled, with only legal drafting left. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is then expected to speak directly with US President Donald Trump to close the pact.
Nestlé invests $194 million in Purina pet-food production in Thailand
Top Family-Friendly Tourist Destinations in Thailand
Registration will open in mid-October for a solar rooftop scheme offering subsidies of up to 50,000 baht per installation, initially targeting one million households.
Nawee Changpirom has spent years working to rescue trafficked wildlife in Thailand, but even he can sometimes hardly believe the creatures he has found: leopards, hornbills, and once an anteater. “We even found living corals hidden in a ceiling,” he said.
US President Donald Trump promised every adult U.S. citizen would receive a $5,000 check if Republicans retain their majorities in Congress during the party’s first-ever midterm convention yesterday. The president capped off the event by attacking Democrats while rallying supporters in Texas in a bid to boost GOP enthusiasm across the country. 
Most fuel prices at PTT Station and Bangchak rose yesterday, while premium grades remained unchanged. PTT Station increased petrol and non-premium gasohol prices by 0.80 baht a liter and non-premium diesel by 0.70 baht.
Thailand’s proposed secondary alcohol rules could severely limit how breweries, bars and restaurants display beer products, according to the Craft Beer Business Assn. The draft measures will be discussed at a public consultation today and are not yet in force.
10 popular lunch dishes in Thailand loaded with sodium that could wreck your kidneys
The Thai baht weakened against the US dollar from 33.90 to 32.70, supported by dollar softness and Middle East risks. Thailand’s central bank kept rates unchanged at 1.00%, maintaining accommodative stance through H1 2027. Commerzbank expects near-term consolidation around 32.50-33.00 range.
Thailand’s consumer confidence strengthened for a third consecutive month in August, reaching its highest level in six months, as purchasing power and economic activity showed early signs of improvement, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
Thailand had 26 companies licensed to operate data centers by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) as of July 27, with their declared electricity demand exceeding 1,059MW.
Bangkok ranked second among Asia’s most revisited destinations in Agoda’s latest repeat visitor ranking, behind Tokyo and ahead of Bali, based on accommodation bookings made during the first half of 2026.
Royal Thai Navy opens free ticket bookings for Royal Barge Procession