Month: April 2024

  • Business NewsThai economy forecasts growth between 2.8% and 3.3%

    Thai economy forecasts growth between 2.8% and 3.3%

    The Thai economy, driven primarily by exports, forecasts growth between 2.8% and 3.3% for this year, as reported by the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). The committee, representing diverse sectors, has retained its initial forecast, projecting a 2.0% to 3.0% increase in exports. Following a 1.9% expansion in the previous year, Thailand’s economic growth is projected…

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  • Thailand NewsThai man runs naked after Buddha statue grants conscription exemption

    Thai man runs naked after Buddha statue grants conscription exemption

    A Thai man honoured his vow to a Buddha statue at a shrine in the central province of Ang Thong by running naked after the statue granted conscription exemption. The Royal Thai Army (RTA) summons Thai men aged over 21 years old for military conscription every year. Failure to attend the conscription draw can result in imprisonment for up to three…

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  • Things To DoWhere to eat this Songkran in Bangkok 2024

    Where to eat this Songkran in Bangkok 2024

    It’s Songkran season, and you know what that means: a feast to remember! Whether you’re gearing up for a water-splashing frenzy in the heart of Bangkok or just looking to savour some scrumptious eats under the Thai summer sun, the city has a number of restaurants serving up special feasts for Songkran 2024. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 5…

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  • Business NewsNBTC excludes World Cup from ‘must have’ broadcast rule

    NBTC excludes World Cup from ‘must have’ broadcast rule

    The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) board yesterday unanimously decided to exclude the World Cup football tournament from its “must have” rule, effective immediately. This rule has been in place since 2012, obliging companies that own the broadcast rights to seven major sporting events to allow free TV channels to air the content. The seven events include the FIFA World…

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  • EventsCelebrate songkran in style with ‘Songkran Splash Away Tropical Edition’ at W Bangkok

    Celebrate songkran in style with ‘Songkran Splash Away Tropical Edition’ at W Bangkok

    Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis as W Bangkok presents ‘Songkran Splash Away – Tropical Edition’, an exciting pool party happening on 13 – 14 April 2024, from 3pm to 9pm. Bringing together the spirit of Songkran with a touch of tropical flair, this two-day event promises an unforgettable experience with fun beats in the city centre, the perfect venue…

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  • Thailand NewsLocal beauty queen stuns at Chaiyaphum military draft

    Local beauty queen stuns at Chaiyaphum military draft

    The annual military draft in Chaiyaphum province witnessed an extraordinary event yesterday as a local beauty queen, known as Gantong, reported for service, stunning the crowd with her striking appearance. Gantong, who has a history of pageantry success, including recent titles such as Miss Teen GOSOCIAL Queen Thailand 2021 and the Nong Khai’s Daughter of the Mekong River 2022, took…

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  • Thailand NewsBangkok man arrested for flaunting gun while intoxicated

    Bangkok man arrested for flaunting gun while intoxicated

    Bangkok police arrested a 60 year old man following reports of him brandishing a firearm while intoxicated at a rental room. The arrest was a coordinated effort by senior law enforcement officers, including Police Lieutenant General Thiti Saengsawang, the Metropolitan Police Chief, and his deputies, along with investigative officers from the fourth subdivision. The man, Prasobchok, also known as Chok…

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  • Cannabis NewsDeputy PM supports regulated cannabis use in Thailand

    Deputy PM supports regulated cannabis use in Thailand

    In a significant public announcement, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul voiced his stance on the ongoing cannabis debate in Thailand, declaring he supports regulated use. This followed an interview with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on France 24, in which the leader suggested the reclassification of marijuana as an illicit substance due to its deemed harmful effects on Thai society.…

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  • Pattaya NewsThai health pushes for alcohol-free Songkran celebrations

    Thai health pushes for alcohol-free Songkran celebrations

    The Thai Health Promotion Foundation, StopDrink Network (SDN), and other relevant agencies conducted a press conference on Monday to deliberate on the celebration of Songkran in a manner that prioritised enjoyment, safety, and the absence of violence. Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy Manager of Thai Health, emerged as one of the prominent speakers at the event. Pairoj ardently advocated for the celebration…

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  • Thailand NewsDive tour boat Sea World 1 catches fire in Phuket

    Dive tour boat Sea World 1 catches fire in Phuket

    A fire broke out yesterday on a well-known dive tour boat, Sea World 1, at Thap Lamu in Thai Mueang District, Phang Nga, north of Phuket, causing substantial damage. The Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command (3AC) was alerted to the blaze at 6.30pm yesterday. Despite the main headquarters of the 3AC being located in Cape Panwa, Phuket, they operate…

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  • Press RoomExplore the wonders of Thailand with the Big C Lucky Landing Campaign

    Explore the wonders of Thailand with the Big C Lucky Landing Campaign

    Embark on an unforgettable journey to Thailand with the Big C Lucky Landing campaign, the ultimate shopping extravaganza from April 1 to May 31, 2024. Partnering with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Big C Supercenter invites international tourists to explore Thailand’s vibrant culture and heritage while enjoying a treasure trove of rewards. Prime Destination for Authentic Thai Souvenirs Mr.…

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  • Thailand NewsRatchaburi highway police arrest wanted criminals

    Ratchaburi highway police arrest wanted criminals

    Highway police officers made a significant arrest yesterday after pulling over a vehicle with an expired registration plate. During a routine check near kilometre marker 83 to 84 on Rama 2 Road in Wang Manao, Pak Tho district, Ratchaburi province, the officers uncovered connections to a high-profile criminal case. The vehicle, driven by 49 year old Samart (surname withheld) and…

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  • Thailand NewsSmokin’ scuffle: Foreigner’s taxi tantrum goes viral in Phuket

    Smokin’ scuffle: Foreigner’s taxi tantrum goes viral in Phuket

    A video of a foreign man attacking a Thai taxi driver on a road in the Thalang district of Phuket this morning went viral on Thai social media. The physical assault was reportedly sparked after the driver asked the foreigner to stop smoking in the cab. The Facebook page, Newshawk Phuket, shared a video of the incident at about 9.40am…

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  • CannabisBuild Your cannabis brand in Thailand with proven marketing strategies

    Build Your cannabis brand in Thailand with proven marketing strategies

    Establishing a cannabis brand in Thailand by the year 2024 necessitates engagement with a dynamic and swiftly transforming market. In the era of digitalization, cultivating a robust online presence transcends preference and becomes imperative. Whether embarking on this venture anew or aiming to broaden your market footprint, comprehension of the digital domain is pivotal for success. Confrontation with advertising limitations…

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  • Road deathsFatal Bangkok motorcycle collision leaves unknown foreigner dead

    Fatal Bangkok motorcycle collision leaves unknown foreigner dead

    A fatal collision in Bangkok on Monday resulted in the death of an unknown foreigner and the severe injury of a Thai man. The incident took place on Charoen Nakhon Road, Khlong San, Bangkok at 2.50pm on April 1, and involved a large motorcycle colliding with a smaller one. Officers from Samre Police Station and emergency services were alerted to the…

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  • AutomotiveHow to drive safely during Thailand’s Songkran festival

    How to drive safely during Thailand’s Songkran festival

    Navigating the roads safely during Songkran in Thailand necessitates a specialized set of skills and preparatory measures. As the Thai New Year, Songkran is renowned for its national water festivities, which metamorphose streets into vibrant arenas of celebration. Although this period is marked by jubilation, driving amidst such exuberance presents distinct challenges, particularly for those not accustomed to the festival’s…

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  • Phuket NewsSupersmash: SuperCheap truck delivers chaos in Phuket

    Supersmash: SuperCheap truck delivers chaos in Phuket

    A SuperCheap delivery truck yesterday caused havoc in the car park of the Eua-Athorn Housing Authority estate in Srisoonthorn, Moo 1 when it smashed into two parked pickup trucks. The police are still in the process of contacting the pickup trucks’ owners. The incident was reported to Police Lieutenant Kraisorn Bunprasop of the Thalang Police Station around 4.10pm, yesterday, April…

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  • Thailand NewsBig Joke denies money laundering charges

    Big Joke denies money laundering charges

    Deputy National Police Chief Police General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn made a high-profile visit to the Taopoon Police Station yesterday afternoon, where he officially acknowledged the money laundering charges levied against him. After enduring four hours of intense questioning, he was eventually granted bail. Speaking to reporters as he exited the police station at around 8pm, Big Joke vehemently denied…

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  • Thailand NewsThailand tourism revolution: Five key strategies

    Thailand tourism revolution: Five key strategies

    In a monumental event dubbed Ignite Tourism Thailand, the government revealed a groundbreaking roadmap aimed at catapulting Thailand to the zenith of global tourism. With Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin and Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol at the helm, the unveiling at Government House marked a pivotal moment in Thailand’s ambition to become a multifaceted tourism hub…

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  • Thailand NewsBangkok man arrested for filming under women’s skirts

    Bangkok man arrested for filming under women’s skirts

    Bangkok police officers recently apprehended a 50 year old suspect for his involvement in a string of perverse incidents, where he covertly filmed under women’s skirts. The arrest in the Lam Hin area followed a detailed investigation sparked by numerous reports of such violations. The suspect, known for his disturbing behaviour, was detained at his residence yesterday, April 2, after…

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  • Northern Thailand NewsSurge in smog levels exceeds safe limits in northern Thailand

    Surge in smog levels exceeds safe limits in northern Thailand

    A surge in smog levels was experienced this morning, with PM2.5 dust readings surpassing 200 microgrammes per cubic metre of air in three northern provinces, including Chiang Mai. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) disclosed at 9am that 20 provinces registered red (significantly harmful) levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres and below in diameter (PM2.5). The readings fluctuated…

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  • Thailand NewsFamily fraud: Thai woman’s stolen identity crisis sparks media plea

    Family fraud: Thai woman’s stolen identity crisis sparks media plea

    A Thai woman is seeking help from the media after a distant relative impersonated her and committed multiple crimes under her name for more than three years. The victim appealed to Channel 7 to shed light on her story with the public to clarify that she has never engaged in any illegal activities. She aims to clarify that it was…

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  • Thailand NewsBritish man dies after bathroom fall at Chon Buri residence

    British man dies after bathroom fall at Chon Buri residence

    A British businessman met a fatal end today at 7.10am after slipping and falling onto a glass sliding door in the bathroom at his Chon Buri residence, resulting in glass impaling his chest. Police Lieutenant Colonel Surasingh Sukmak, the deputy investigator, was notified of the incident which involved 54 year old British national, Gareth John Wilson. The accident took place…

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  • Phuket NewsRussian arrested in Phuket for illegally working as tour guide

    Russian arrested in Phuket for illegally working as tour guide

    Phuket Tourist Police recently apprehended a 42 year old Russian national for unlawfully working as a tour guide at Pak Phra Beach, located adjacent to the Chong Pak Phra Channel, the body of water separating Phuket from mainland Thailand. This arrest is part of the ongoing police crackdown on foreigners operating illegally within the country. The officers arrived at the…

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  • Thailand NewsEx-husband in Rayong lures and kills former wife

    Ex-husband in Rayong lures and kills former wife

    A tragic tale of domestic violence turned fatal has emerged from Rayong province, where a 31 year old man killed his 37 year old ex-wife following a deceptive request to meet one last time. The incident, which sent shockwaves through the local community, occurred in the late hours of April 1. Thanet lured Thipakorn to a commercial building on the outskirts of…

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  • Thailand NewsThailand gold prices hit record, surpass 40,000 baht

    Thailand gold prices hit record, surpass 40,000 baht

    Gold prices in Thailand soared to a new high today, breaking the 40,000 baht barrier, as reported by the Gold Traders Association (GTA). The market opened with a significant increase from the previous day’s closing rates, with gold ornaments now priced at 40,100 baht per baht-weight (a traditional Thai unit of measurement). Gold experienced a sharp climb of 350 baht…

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  • Thailand NewsThailand plans to extend minimum wage increases to more regions

    Thailand plans to extend minimum wage increases to more regions

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced yesterday that the government intends to extend minimum wage increases to additional regions and business sectors. This follows the wage increase approved for specific parts of 10 provinces set to take effect from April 13. The 62 year old Thai prime minister further commented that regular Cabinet meetings will be conducted to ascertain which regions…

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  • World NewsThais receive emergency contacts after earthquake rocks Taiwan

    Thais receive emergency contacts after earthquake rocks Taiwan

    A powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.3 struck off the eastern coast of Taiwan today, prompting the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue emergency contact numbers for Thai nationals in the region. The quake, which occurred at 7.58am local time, was centred near the city of Hualien, approximately 100 miles from Taipei, and had a depth of 20 kilometres. The…

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  • Thailand NewsFilipina rescued after robbery and attempted rape in Chon Buri

    Filipina rescued after robbery and attempted rape in Chon Buri

    A Thai man successfully saved a Filipina woman after theft and attempted rape near Huay Chak Nok Reservoir in the Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri province. The 37 year old Thai man, Uthit, rescued a 37 year old Filipina woman on an isolated road near the Huay Chak Nok Reservoir in Chon Buri yesterday, April 2, at around 8.30am.…

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  • Road deathsHighway horror: Young man dies in motorcycle plunge from Thai overpass

    Highway horror: Young man dies in motorcycle plunge from Thai overpass

    A tragic motorcycle accident occurred early this morning, resulting in the death of a 21 year old man after his motorcycle careened off a five-story high overpass. The incident took place at the Thanya-Saraburi overpass, crossing Phaholyothin Road, in front of the Spell Town shopping complex in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani province. Lieutenant Colonel Kriangkrai Saenyod, the investigative inspector from…

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  • Business NewsAirlines urge Thailand to take flight with airport upgrades

    Airlines urge Thailand to take flight with airport upgrades

    Several international airlines have urged Thailand to enhance its key airport facilities and improve transport links between airports and cities, to meet its ambition of becoming a regional aviation hub. The Thai government has laid out a goal of handling 150 million passengers annually by 2030. Egaluk Ngiwprom, Southeast Asia marketing manager of Spring Airlines, believes this is a challenging…

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  • Thailand NewsFormer teacher arrested on forgery and trespassing charges

    Former teacher arrested on forgery and trespassing charges

    An 81 year old former teacher from a renowned school was apprehended yesterday at 6pm in Bangkok under multiple arrest warrants for document forgery and nighttime trespassing. The arrest, led by the Child and Women Welfare Division, culminated in the detainee being handed over to the investigative officers at Thung Song Hong Police Station for legal proceedings. The police operation…

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  • Thailand NewsMan falls to death from Bangkok’s Yellow Line Skytrain station

    Man falls to death from Bangkok’s Yellow Line Skytrain station

    A tragic incident occurred yesterday at the Bang Kapi station of Bangkok’s Yellow Line Skytrain, where an unidentified man fell to his death. Witnesses described the heart-wrenching scene as the man, believed to be between 40 and 50 years old, climbed over the station’s second-floor barrier before plummeting to the footpath below. Emergency services, including forensic doctors from the Police…

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  • Business NewsThai government plans 7% VAT on imported goods from May

    Thai government plans 7% VAT on imported goods from May

    The Thai government, under the directive of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, is preparing to implement a 7% value-added tax (VAT) on imported goods valued at 1 baht and above, starting in May. Currently, goods sold for less than 1,500 baht (US$40) per parcel and imported into Thailand are exempt from VAT. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced these plans after…

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  • Thailand NewsTeenage boy killed in Pattaya motorbike accident

    Teenage boy killed in Pattaya motorbike accident

    A motorbike carrying two young boys collided with a trailer truck yesterday afternoon in Pattaya. The older brother sadly lost his life while the younger one sustained minor injuries. The two were en route to Pattaya from Rayong for a visit to their mother, as narrated by the surviving brother. The catastrophe took place near the entrance of Soi Nong Ket…

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  • Thailand NewsLaotian monks harassed by Thai ladyboy during pilgrimage (video)

    Laotian monks harassed by Thai ladyboy during pilgrimage (video)

    A Thai ladyboy is facing a backlash after she persistently offered sex to two Laotian monks and one of their male followers on a pilgrimage in the central province of Nakhon Sawan. The Laotian monk, Lin Sujitto, was visiting a temple in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat to speak to Thai Buddhists before the unfortunate approach. Lin and…

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  • Northern Thailand NewsThailand’s Lampang province hits 42 degrees Celsius

    Thailand’s Lampang province hits 42 degrees Celsius

    The scorching heat has engulfed Thailand’s northern Lampang province, with temperatures peaking at 42 degrees Celsius in the Thoen district on Monday and yesterday, April 2, recording the highest temperatures of this year’s summer. The Mueang district also experienced soaring temperatures, with the mercury touching 41.8 Celsius, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). This heatwave in Lampang, which began…

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