Brit Pensioner Swept Out to Sea/Hua Hin celebrates Pone Kingpetch/Wyndham Hua Hin Tennis Camp/Push to keep transport fares low/Northern Thailand choked by pollution/Songkran road deaths down/Border crossings to stay shut
- THE IRAN WAR: Ceasefire offers fragile hope/Trump brushes off high fuel costs/Fuel crisis upends state’s fiscal plans/The war and its likely consequences/Lufthansa grounds aircraft/Who really is Donald Trump?
- ECONOMY: Thai Baht Faces Challenges/Thailand Submits Tariff Defense/K-Research foresees stagflation risk/Thailand pivots to targeted aid/Retail recovery still missing/Workplace happiness at 67%
- TOURISM: Phuket Calls for Stricter Measures on Foreigners/Songkran in Bangkok draws nearly 5 million/Isaan tops travel growth/Tourism seeking clear policies/Middle East conflict hits Phang Nga/U-Tapao plan eyes 3 million travelers/Thai Gen Z travelers
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How Bangkok Is Changing/Chiang Mai Asia’s Premier Culinary Destination
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand May Let Households Sell Power/Thai farmers pin hopes on microbes/Rules to boost data center power
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Brit Pensioner, 75, Swept Out to Sea and Dies in Hua Hin
A 75-year-old British pensioner from Liverpool has died after being swept out to sea while swimming in Hua Hin. The man was reportedly caught in a rip current as his girlfriend watched from the beach, unable to help. His body was later discovered by a fisherman near a pier at around 4.30 pm local time on Wednesday.
Police Captain Prasong Jaturat said the victim was a widower whose family remains in England, where he lives with his children, since the death of his wife. He had been swimming every morning at the same location since arriving in Thailand, where conditions had typically been calm. On the day of the incident, however, the sea was rough and no other swimmers were in the water. Continued …
Hua Hin celebrates famed boxer Pone Kingpetch
Hua Hin held a Pone Kingpetch anniversary commemoration yesterday, marking 66 years since Pone Kingpetch became Thailand’s first world boxing champion.
The event took place at Pone Kingpetch Public Park, where Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul presided over a ceremonial offering to honor the late boxer. An exhibition highlighting his life and achievements was also held, recalling his historic victory over Pascual Perez on April 16, 1960, when he secured the flyweight world title. Continued …
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort Holds Tennis Camp for Kids
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has launched its “Introduction to Tennis” camp this April, designed to help kids learn the sport or enhance their skills during the school holidays. The three-day program aims to build players’ confidence, skills, and friendships in a fun and supportive environment under the guidance of an experienced tennis coach and trainer.
Two age-based groups are available to ensure the best learning experience for every child. Group A, or the Mini Tennis Group (ages 5-9), focuses on fun movements, coordination, and basic ball control. Group B, or the Junior Tennis Group (ages 10-15), introduces participants to proper techniques, rallies, and real match play. Continued …
New push to keep transport fares low
The government has approved a 2.06-billion-baht support package for the transport sector, aiming to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices, stabilize fares, and ease pressure on household living costs. Registration for assistance opened yesterday and will last until Sunday.
Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said yesterday the cabinet endorsed measures covering public buses, freight trucks, and for-hire vehicles, with a total budget of about 2.06 billion baht. Continued …
Northern Thailand choked by pollution from over 2,000 forest fires
The north of Thailand remains under a thick blanket of hazardous smog, as the latest satellite data yesterday reveals a surge in forest fires, with over 2,000 hotspots detected across 17 provinces.
According to the Northern Forest Fire and Haze Control Center of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, data from the Suomi NPP satellite (VIIRS system) recorded a total of 2,165 hotspots as of 1.43 am yesterday. The vast majority of the fires are concentrated within protected forest lands, with conservation forests accounting for the highest share at 1,329 hotspots. Continued …
Songkran road accidents, deaths and injuries down from a year ago
Traffic accidents and injuries over the first six “dangerous days” of the Songkran holiday were down by 20% from the same period a year ago, while fatalities declined by 6.5%, according to data released yesterday.
A total of 1,108 road accidents were reported during the busy travel period from April 10-15, with 216 deaths and 1,073 injuries, said Deputy Interior Minister Jeseth Thaiseth. That compared with 1,391 accidents, 231 deaths, and 1,350 injuries over the corresponding 6-day period in 2025. Continued …
Eastern border crossings to stay shut for now
Border crossings in Trat and Chanthaburi will remain closed, with no diplomatic talks or timeline set for reopening, says Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Thailand has yet to enter any discussions regarding Cambodia’s request to reopen border checkpoints in the eastern provinces, saying this was not an appropriate time. Any progress would have to follow a step-by-step process, beginning with efforts to restore bilateral relations. Continued …
Ceasefire offers fragile hope as Trump says Iran deal may be near
A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into force yesterday, opening a narrow window for diplomacy, as US President Donald Trump said a fresh meeting with Iran could take place as early as this weekend. The dual developments added to hopes that the war with Iran may be edging toward a pause, or even a broader political settlement.
Speaking outside the White House, Trump said Iran had offered not to possess nuclear weapons for more than 20 years and suggested Washington was close to striking a deal. He said the next round of talks with Tehran could happen soon, after negotiations in Islamabad last weekend left Iran’s nuclear ambitions as one of the main unresolved issues. Continued …
Trump brushes off high fuel costs as ‘fake’
US President Donald Trump yesterday dismissed high fuel costs amid his war with Iran, claiming that the economic damage inflicted by the war was much less severe than expected.
Speaking in a hotel ballroom off the Las Vegas Strip at an event aimed at promoting a tax credit for tipped workers, Trump said that “we’re having some fake inflation because of the fuel, the energy prices, which everybody said was going to US$250.” He appeared to refer to the swings in the price of a barrel of oil, which has increased substantially in the war and dipped below $95 yesterday. Continued …
Fuel crisis upends state’s fiscal plans
The energy crisis may pose a challenge for the Thai government in pursuing its fiscal plan, which aims to reduce the fiscal deficit to no more than 3% of GDP, increase revenue through a higher value-added tax (VAT), and keep public debt below 70% of GDP, according to the Finance Ministry.
A source from the Finance Ministry, who requested anonymity, said the ongoing energy crisis may force the government to revise its medium-term fiscal plan for 2027-2030, as higher energy prices are affecting economic forecasts. Continued …
The war and its likely consequences
As the joint attack between the United States and Israel against Iran that resulted in a wider regional conflict in the Middle East approaches its two-month mark, the directions of the war remain precarious, while some of the longer-lasting consequences appear evident.
Unsurprisingly, the war has been detrimental and damaging for all states and societies concerned, not just within the affected region but the wider world. Already, we can start counting some of the long-term costs. Continued …
Lufthansa grounds aircraft as fuel crisis bites; more airlines warn of cuts and suspensions
Global aviation is coming under severe pressure as an energy shock linked to the US-Israel war with Iran squeezes jet fuel supply and drives prices sharply higher, pushing airlines to adopt emergency measures to cut costs and protect liquidity.
Germany’s flagship carrier Lufthansa has moved to suspend operations of up to 27 aircraft, making it the first major airline to take such a step. In Nigeria, airlines have warned they may be forced to stop services from early next week if fuel prices, reported to be up more than 270%, do not fall. Continued …
Jesus Trumo, Don Tzu: Who really is Donald Trump and how well is he?
Depicting himself as Jesus Christ this week was just US President Donald Trump’s latest narcissistic exercise on social media. It would not have been a big deal were he not the most powerful man on Earth – and now arguably the most powerful buffoon on the planet.
After deleting the controversial AI-generated image, Trump excused himself by claiming it actually depicted him as a doctor healing a man; he was either ignorant of how a modern doctor dresses or simply lied through his teeth in order to salvage as many offended Christian voters as possible. At least one thing is clear: Trump is no Jesus Christ. Continued …
Thai Baht Faces Challenges Amid Energy Crisis
An analysis by Commerzbank indicates that global energy market fluctuations are putting significant downward pressure on the Thai baht. As Thailand imports over 50% of its energy, mainly through crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), rising global energy costs have worsened its trade balance. Consequently, the USD/baht exchange rate has become a focal point for currency traders, closely monitoring the potential policy reactions from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).
Historical trends, such as the energy crisis of 2022, have highlighted the baht’s sensitivity to energy price changes. During the 2022 energy crisis, the USD/baht pair surged beyond 37.00. Likewise, current market conditions reflect similar pressures, prompting analysts to cite this precedent when evaluating potential currency trends. Continued …
Thailand Submits Section 301 Defense to US Over Tariffs Threat
Thailand has submitted its formal defense document to the United States by the April 15 deadline, rejecting allegations under Section 301 trade measures relating to excess production capacity and goods linked to forced labor. Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is also preparing to meet the US Trade Representative (USTR) in early May as discussions intensify over potential tariff actions affecting Thai exports.
The case covers two main allegations: excess production capacity in automotive and parts, rubber products, and electrical appliances, with 16 countries, including Thailand, named, and concerns over imports of goods linked to forced labor, with 60 countries, including Thailand, identified. Continued …
K-Research foresees stagflation risk in H2
Thailand is expected to enter a state of stagflation late in the second quarter and the beginning of the third quarter of this year, as businesses begin material restocking while oil prices remain high amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
Nuttaporn Triratanasirikul, deputy managing director of K-Research, sees a low probability that the US and Iran will reach an agreement to end their conflict in the Middle East in the near term, even though there are hopes of an extended ceasefire and a second round of negotiations. Continued …
Thailand pivots to targeted aid, green investment
Thailand is pivoting away from broad-based subsidies toward targeted support and long-term investment, Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said, as the country prepares to host the IMF–World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok this October.
Speaking at the IMF Governor Talks during the spring meetings in Washington, DC, Ekniti signaled a clear shift in economic strategy — from short-term relief measures to building resilience through green, digital, and infrastructure investment. Continued …
Retail recovery still missing as Q2 confidence sinks
Thailand’s retail sector showed a temporary improvement in March, but the industry is still flashing warning signs for the months ahead, with confidence for the second quarter falling back below the 50-point threshold, as oil prices, higher operating costs, and weak purchasing power weigh on the outlook.
The Retailer Sentiment Index, or RSI, is compiled jointly by the Thai Retailers Assn. and the Bank of Thailand. The March 2026 survey, conducted from March 16 to 30, found that the retail index rose by 13.5 points from February. The increase was seen across every component of the index, all regions and key retail categories, including FMCG and construction materials. But the rise did not reflect a broad-based consumption recovery. Instead, it was driven largely by consumers rushing to stockpile goods in anticipation of higher energy prices and possible product shortages. Continued …
Workplace happiness at 67% in Thailand, but burnout risks persist
Thailand’s workforce is broadly happy — but warning signs are emerging beneath the surface. A new survey by Jobsdb by SEEK shows that overall workplace happiness among Thai employees stands at 67%, placing the country third in the region, behind Indonesia and the Philippines.
However, the 2025 Workplace Happiness Report, based on more than 1,000 respondents, highlights a growing concern: burnout and stress are quietly undermining that positive headline figure. Continued …
Phuket Calls for Stricter Measures on Foreigners’ Aggresive Songkran Behavior
A group of foreigners in Phuket faces backlash after displaying aggressive behavior during the Songkran Festival. Video footage shows them blocking roads, harassing motorists, and engaging in inappropriate conduct toward women. The Patong Police arrested the group on April 14, charging them with causing a public nuisance and obstructing traffic.
The incident has intensified public criticism, highlighting concerns over disruptive behavior by tourists in Thailand. A viral video shows the group forcing open a van door and throwing water inside. They face potential penalties of up to three months in prison and a fine of 10,000 baht, though specific penalties remain undisclosed. Continued …
Songkran in Bangkok draws nearly 5 million revelers
Almost 5 million people joined Songkran celebrations across Bangkok this year, up 93.4% from last year, with Siam Square topping 1.5 million, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
Songkran celebrations in the capital were notably vibrant this year, with cumulative attendance reaching 4,958,965 people across 94 venues citywide. This represents an increase of 2,394,302 people, or 93.4%, from the 2,564,663 recorded over the same period of 2025, Ekwaranyu Amrapal, BMA spokesman, said yesterday. Continued …
Songkran mobility data shows Isaan tops travel growth
True Corp. said its latest mobility data highlights shifting travel patterns and real-time digital usage during Songkran 2026, showing more evenly distributed travel nationwide, led by the northeast (Isaan), while international arrivals continued to rise, with Chinese tourists ranking first.
True’s mobility data covering April 11-15 found that 15.5% of residents from Bangkok and the metropolitan area, and 4.5% from the eastern region, traveled during the period. Travel to other regions increased markedly, with Isaan posting the strongest growth at +12.6%, followed by the north (+7%), central (+3.6%), and the south (+2.2%). Continued …
Tourism sector seeking clear policies
Tourism operators have criticized the government for lacking clear policies to address the debt burden and improve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized operators.
Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, said that providing subsidies via the latest phase of the Khon La Khrueng Plus (half-half plus) co-payment scheme would also not be sufficient to sustain growth during the Middle East conflict. Continued …
Middle East conflict hits Phang Nga tourism – hundreds of tour boats sitting idle
The Middle East conflict has led to tourism in southern Phang Nga province declining, with hundreds of tour boats sitting idle at Surakul pier, aka Kasom pier, in Takua Thung district, which is a popular departure point for tours of Phang Nga Bay.
The manager of Kiat Charoenchai 1 Co., a major tour boat operator, said the main factor triggering the tourism slump is the conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted oil prices and increasing travel costs. Continued …
U-Tapao plan eyes 3 million travelers a year
The launch of the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Airport City (EECa) development plan aims to transform U-Tapao into a new aviation hub capable of handling three million passengers annually.
The plan was unveiled recently by project developer U-Tapao International Aviation (UTA). Its chief executive, Keeree Kanjanapas, presented the project alongside Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Secretary-general Chula Sukmanop at the Naval Aviation Command in Ban Chang district, Rayong. Continued …
Thai Gen Z travelers prefer short, frequent trips
Thai Gen Z travelers are reshaping travel habits in 2026 by favoring short but frequent trips over traditional long holidays, with mental well-being and value for money emerging as top priorities, according to the online booking platform Agoda.
The platform’s Agoda Travel Outlook 2026 report shows young Thai travelers increasingly view travel as an essential way to recharge and relieve the stresses of daily life, rather than as an occasional luxury. As a result, many are choosing brief getaways that fit more easily with their work, study schedules, and budgets, allowing them to travel more often throughout the year. Continued …
The Revival of the World’s Top Tourist City: How Bangkok Is Changing
Returning to Bangkok after two years, I found the city far more organized than expected. The once-chaotic and disorderly image of a Southeast Asian metropolis — especially the dire conditions on Bangkok’s streets during the COVID-19 pandemic — had faded. Instead, I was struck by a sense of managed order and tidy streets.
In disbelief, I meticulously explored the back alleys around the main tourist attractions to check for myself. The scope of change was far too great to be attributed to mere beautification efforts. Even cigarette butts were hard to find. As the city prepared to overflow with water and people for the Songkran Water Festival, the streets remained impressively orderly and stable. This city is undeniably changing. How did Bangkok become so clean? Continued …
Agoda Names Chiang Mai Asia’s Premier Culinary Destination
Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed that Chiang Mai has emerged as the top destination in Asia for culinary activities, based on activities booked on Agoda from January to March this year.
For travelers eager to explore cooking classes, Bangkok, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi round out the top five, underscoring the appeal of Thailand and Vietnam as culinary hubs in Asia. Continued …
Thailand May Let Households Sell Power Back to the Grid in Energy Shift
Thailand is preparing to open its electricity system to households, allowing those with rooftop solar panels to sell surplus power back into the grid, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said yesterday.
The proposal forms part of a broader push to strengthen energy resilience and reduce household costs amid global volatility. If implemented, the move could create a new income stream for families, while improving national energy security. Continued …
Thai farmers pin hopes on microbes to end annual burning crisis
Rice farmers Siriporn and Amnat Taidee used to burn their paddy fields between plantings — a common method of clearing crop residue partly blamed for toxic smog that blankets much of Thailand every spring.
A quick and affordable way to prepare for a new growing cycle, the practice has long been seen as the only feasible option for millions of Thai rice farmers. But for the couple from Chiang Rai, abandoning what Amnat called “the old way of doing things” for new microbial solutions has been a boon. Continued …
New rules to boost data center power
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has finished drafting requirements for investors in data centers and other electricity-intensive businesses, mandating bank guarantees or collateral to secure power purchases.
Energy officials said the measure is designed to prevent investors from shifting projects to rival Southeast Asian countries competing for data center investment. The regulation aims to ensure investors follow through on commitments to buy electricity from state utilities such as the Provincial Electricity Authority, and avoid leaving costly power infrastructure underutilized. Continued …
- Two French Nationals Arrested for Attacking Thai Man in Phuket – Continued …
- Four Chinese Nationals Held for Staged Kidnapping in Samut Prakan – Continued …
- Restaurant Worker Injured by Tourists on Pattaya Walking Street – Continued …
Global warming causes Colombian glacier to disappear
Where once there was ice, only rock remains. One of the glaciers in a chain of snow-capped mountains in the Colombian Andes has vanished due to high temperatures driven by climate change. Satellite images show how the ice sheet covering the mountain gradually shrank from 2015 until it disappeared completely in March. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
The governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan has confirmed that fuel supplies in Prachuap Khiri Khan remain sufficient and urged residents not to panic buy, following concerns about potential price increases linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Royal Gazette Confirms 200,000 Baht Solar Tax Relief
Cha Am Municipality is taking urgent steps to address a growing water shortage after construction works on an irrigation canal disrupted the flow of raw water used to produce tap water for residents.
A new water production system planned for the Bor Fai area was the focus of a meeting chaired by Hua Hin City Municipality officials this week, as authorities reviewed design proposals and the next steps for the project.
Construction of a reinforced concrete road near Yarm Saad School is under way as part of a 15.37-million-baht project aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing local flooding.
The war involving Iran in the Middle East remains protracted, with the United States and Israel continuing to strike Iran, while Iran insists it will exercise its right to self-defense to the fullest extent.
Fuel price rises start to bite
Fears of a prolonged Middle East conflict disrupting global energy supplies are rippling across Thailand, triggering price anxieties, panic buying, and warnings of logistical strain.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the Transport Ministry will ban fare increases for taxis, ride-hailing riders, and motorcycle taxi services from today, warning of legal action against profiteering.
The Ministry of Public Health is closely monitoring potential drug price inflation amid unrest in the Middle East, with possible intervention in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce if necessary.
Thai business and industry leaders are concerned that the Mideast war could significantly disrupt logistics and transport costs, with ripple effects for manufacturing in Thailand and other countries.
“Cash” has become the most prized asset in global markets as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, triggering a rare sell-off in gold, bonds, and equities at the same time and reshaping what investors see as traditional hedges.
Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) dropped 0.88% in February from a year earlier, following an annual fall of 0.66% in the previous month, the Ministry of Commerce said today.
A leading business group maintained its forecast for Thailand’s economic growth this year at 1.6% to 2.0%, but said yesterday a prolonged conflict in the Middle East would hit activity.
Foreign buyers remained a significant force in Thailand’s condominium market in 2025, with Chinese nationals retaining the top position despite a decline in purchases, while buyers from Myanmar recorded the strongest growth to rank second.
Foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand down in first two months of 2026
Traveloka reveals top Songkran travel destinations
The growing cost of elephant intrusions
Foreign residents in Hua Hin who own property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders are being urged to review their legal position as enforcement intensifies across Thailand.
Thai massage industry set for overhaul
Today, amid escalating unrest linked to the Iran war in the Middle East, Shell and Chevron — which markets fuel under the Caltex brand — were cited as having sharply raised retail fuel prices yesterday.
Foreign media cited a report by Iranian International yesterday saying Iran’s Assembly of Experts has chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s new supreme leader, ending days of speculation after his father was killed in Israeli and US strikes on Saturday. However, Mojtaba’s selection could raise questions because the Islamic Republic of Iran has often criticized hereditary rule and portrayed its system as fairer.
Donald Trump is not just Benjamin Netanyahu’s glove puppet, but it is remarkable how much influence the Israeli prime minister has over the American president. If you are seeking a reason why Trump felt the need to attack Iran again, only nine months after he declared that he had eliminated any nuclear threat from that country, you need look no further.
As in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, the new war in the Middle East is exposing once again how far Europe and others lag in replacing imported fossil fuels with domestic solar and wind power, specialists say.
The price of flights between Asia and Europe has soared after the closure of key Middle Eastern hubs due to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, with airline websites showing tickets on many popular routes booked out for days. 
The immigration queue certainly takes the edge off the excitement of a new adventure into the world’s most visited city. This time, I threw some dollars at the problem. The result? It was just 30 minutes from the plane reaching the gate to me sitting in a taxi heading into the city. On my previous visit, the immigration queue alone took 70 minutes.
A rare astronomical event, a total lunar eclipse, will take place tomorrow, which also falls on Makha Bucha Day. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand says the Moon will appear brick-red across the entire disk.
A thunderstorm warning has been issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging residents to prepare for thunderstorms and strong winds across the province from tomorrow through Friday.
Food safety training was the focus of a workshop held in Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday, as local food business operators gathered to strengthen hygiene standards and protect consumer health.
Since the government canceled the long-standing prohibition on selling alcoholic beverages between 2-5 pm, in a move aimed at stimulating the economy and tourism, the early assessments indicate the change is likely to increase restaurant revenues by more than 20%, after aligning sales hours more closely with tourist behavior.
Crude oil prices jumped more than 10% on Monday, surging about 13% at the market open as the escalating war in the Middle East rattled global markets. US stock index futures opened sharply lower, while gold climbed alongside oil as investors moved into perceived safe havens.
Thailand’s exports to Iran, led by canned and processed fruit and rubber-related products, could face disruption risks as fighting involving Iran, the United States, and Israel escalates, raising concerns over logistics, insurance costs, and payment channels for trade with the region.
Medical Tourism Corp. (MTC), a Dallas-based international healthcare facilitation organization, has released its Thailand Dental Tourism Market Research Report 2026, a comprehensive analysis of patient demand patterns, competitive positioning, and strategic growth opportunities across six major Thai cities.
Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Vacation in Thailand
I followed Thailand’s Royal Coast/Children removed from Cha Am forest shelter/Thailand to enter hot season/Provinces told to prepare for drought/Online Driving License Applications Fake/Government ramps up gun controls/Thailand 9th in Cybercrime Losses/British ASOS Co-Founder Dies/Light rail tram in Khon Kaen
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
A street interview posted online has gone viral after an Israeli tourist shared critical remarks about her experience in Thailand. In the clip, the host asked a female tourist from Israel: “After being here for only two days, what are some things you think Thailand can improve on?”
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 
Living in Thailand means co-existing with a healthcare system that’s brilliant in some ways and frustrating in others. Oftentimes, private hospitals feel like five-star hotels, with doctors trained internationally, and the costs seem reasonable compared to Western countries – until you’re actually sitting in that consultation room without insurance, watching the bill climb.
Nikkei Asia reports that Vietnam is on track to overtake Thailand in economic size as soon as this year, fueled by a major state-led infrastructure push. While Vietnam targets real GDP growth of 8% in 2025 and over 10% in the following years, Thailand’s growth is slowing.
Entertainment venue operators in Phuket have formally petitioned provincial authorities to investigate allegations of officials demanding illicit payments from nightlife businesses, raising concerns about transparency and confidence in the tourism sector.
Bangkok is a perennial favorite among travelers, and it’s no surprise why! Between the mouthwateringly good local cuisine, unique cultural experiences, and endless shopping destinations that await, visiting Bangkok is a magical experience unlike any other.
The White House has said President Donald Trump and his advisers are weighing “a range of options” to acquire Greenland, including the possibility of using US military force, as European leaders warned that only Denmark and Greenland can decide the territory’s future. 
Thailand’s Chearavanont Family Among World’s Top 25 Wealthiest
Thailand rewrites SEA Games history with record-breaking gold rush
Hun Sen’s war is his last gasp
Big C shuts 170 Big C Mini outlets as growth falters
Thai brands eye China’s booming premium health and beauty market
Air drops of relief supplies begins in Hat Yai
How to keep Thailand’s EV boom going
Hong Kong fire: At Least 44 Dead And 279 Reported Missing
How an Independent Tourism Board Could Attract Millions More Tourists
Waghor Super Mini Marathon set for Sunday
Supreme Court Orders Thaksin to Pay 17.6-Billion-Baht Tax Bill
