Business News
Thailand business news, market trends, foreign investment, and economic updates—stay informed on stock market movements, entrepreneurship, and key developments shaping the economy. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for business news in Thailand.
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Sponsored 9 most common health issues covered by insurance for expats in Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for expats due to its affordable lifestyle and excellent healthcare system. However, settling in a new country often brings health concerns. To ensure you’re covered for the most common medical needs, understanding what expat health...
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Bitcoin hits record high after Trump’s US presidential victory
Bitcoin surged past US$81,000 (2.78 million baht) today, November 11, hitting a record high, following Donald Trump’s win in the US presidential election. The victory, alongside the election of pro-crypto candidates to Congress, has fuelled speculation about a more lenient regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies. The digital currency has experienced a remarkable rise, more than doubling from its lowest point of…
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Thai PM Paetongtarn’s APEC visit strengthens Thailand-Peru ties
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s participation in the 31st Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru, is anticipated to bolster bilateral ties between Thailand and Peru while contributing to the advancement of the APEC framework. This prediction comes from Cecilia Zunilda Galarreta Bazan, Peru’s ambassador to Thailand. This trip marks PM Paetongtarn’s inaugural visit to the Latin American continent…
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Thailand implements 8.36 billion baht plan to stabilise rice prices
The National Rice Policy and Management Committee has introduced three strategic measures to stabilise rice prices amidst concerns of potential oversupply during the harvest season. By maintaining a balance between demand and supply, these initiatives aim to prevent a price drop in this year’s rice crop. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the first measure entails an 8.36 billion baht…
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ERC mulls 31% electricity tariff hike despite lower fuel costs
Businesses and households are facing a significant decision regarding the future of their electricity costs as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) considers changes to the power tariff. Despite a projected decrease in fuel costs, the ERC is evaluating whether to maintain the current rate or implement an increase of 26 to 31% early next year. The existing tariff, set at…
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Loy Krathong festival to generate 6.9 billion baht tourism revenue
Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival is set to boost the economy, with an expected 6.9 billion baht in tourism revenue from 1.9 million domestic trips, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The northern region is forecasted to be the most popular destination, drawing the highest number of tourists. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool projected a 9% increase in tourist…
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Gold prices fall 800 baht amid Trump’s election victory
Gold prices have shown potential for a long-term rise, despite experiencing a significant drop yesterday. The domestic price plummeted by 800 baht (US$23.5) per baht weight, largely due to the strengthening of the US dollar following the recent presidential election victory of Republican Donald Trump. The Gold Traders Association (GTA) reported that domestic gold prices sank to 43,150 baht (US$1,267)…
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Thailand to register unregistered hotels in response to EU carbon rules
The Tourism and Sports Ministry is set to register unregistered hotels within a year, responding to the forthcoming EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which introduces strict environmental regulations. CBAM, starting in 2026, will impose carbon pricing on imports, impacting Thailand’s tourism sector if service providers fail to meet standards. Efforts are underway to host a global-scale trade show, such…
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Bangkok Bank backs bold India expansion for Thai businesses
Thai businesses have their sights set on India’s booming market, and Bangkok Bank is rolling out the red carpet to support this promising venture. With an eye on India’s rapid economic growth and vast population, the bank’s president, Chartsiri Sophonpanich, calls it “a golden opportunity” for Thai entrepreneurs eager to expand. India’s economy is powering ahead at an annual growth…
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Thailand leads ASEAN in gold demand growth amid record prices
Thailand continues to lead the ASEAN region in consumer gold demand growth, as reported by the World Gold Council (WGC). In the third quarter of 2024, Thailand’s gold demand surged by 11% year-on-year, reaching 14.5 tonnes, marking its second consecutive quarter of robust growth. Globally, gold demand remained strong, increasing by 5% from a year earlier to 1,313 tonnes. This…
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Thai and mighty: Thailand’s soft power shines in Shanghai
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan led a star-studded delegation to the bustling 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), held from November 4-6 at Shanghai’s grand National Exhibition and Convention Centre. Thailand took centre stage, flaunting its rich soft power in a bold bid to dazzle the international crowd. Opening triumphantly, Pichai inaugurated the Thailand Pavilion to elevate the nation’s global image…
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Thailand biofuel subsidy ends in 2027, costs to rise for farmers
Thailand’s Energy Ministry is set to introduce measures to mitigate the effects of the impending cessation of biofuel price subsidies in 2027. With the expiration of these subsidies, the cost of biofuels is anticipated to rise, impacting palm and sugar cane growers who supply raw materials for biofuel production. Farmers sell their crops to factories that produce two types of…
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What can a foreigner own in Thailand?
Ranked as the 6th most expat-friendly country globally, Thailand offers a welcoming environment for international citizens, though some legal restrictions do apply. While Thai law places certain limitations on foreign ownership and investment, these regulations vary depending on the type of asset or business venture you’re interested in. Whether you’re an expat looking to invest in Thailand or planning to…
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Thai Drinks launches 100m baht campaign to boost local tourism
Thai Drinks Co Ltd, the producer of Crystal Drinking Water, announced a partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to launch a significant marketing initiative aimed at boosting domestic tourism. With an investment of 100 million baht, the campaign seeks to engage consumers by linking the consumption of Crystal water to the exploration of Thailand’s natural beauty. From October…
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TBA to the rescue: Thai bankers roll out debt relief plan
The Thai Bankers’ Association (TBA) is set to roll out a major debt restructuring programme to provide much-needed relief to the country’s household debt crisis. The scheme, expected to span three years, will focus on borrowers with a staggering 1.4 trillion baht in debt, covering everything from mortgages to auto loans and small business borrowings. In a bold move to…
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Thailand enforces stricter regulations on illegal factories
Thailand’s Industry Ministry is intensifying efforts to enforce stricter regulations on substandard products that falsely claim to meet Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) standards. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan announced the initiative following a Cabinet meeting, emphasising the need for collaboration with modern trade stores to conduct random product inspections. “To enforce measures to control substandard products, we are seeking cooperation…
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Thailand’s public debt remains sustainable at 64% of GDP
The recent Cabinet meeting focused on the nation’s public debt status, revealing it remains well within sustainable limits. Public debt as of August reached 11.7 trillion baht, accounting for 64% of the country’s GDP, comfortably below the 70% benchmark for fiscal sustainability. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub detailed during the meeting that the Finance Ministry adhered strictly to the public debt…
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Bitcoin set for record high amid US election and rate cuts
Bitcoin is poised for a potential surge to a new record high this month, driven by expectations of further US policy rate cuts and a potential victory by Donald Trump in the US presidential election, according to insights from Merkle Capital, a digital asset fund manager. Last month, Bitcoin reached US$73,600, marking an increase of over 25% compared to the…
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Thailand to launch 130 billion baht sustainability-linked bonds for 2025
The Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) is gearing up to introduce a sustainability-linked bond (SLB) valued at 130 billion baht for the fiscal year 2025. This move aligns with the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting the use of electric vehicles (EVs). An initial release of bonds worth 20 to 30 billion baht (US$588 to 882 million) is…
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Thailand to ‘China’ its brand with bold e-commerce marketing
Expanding Thai products into the Chinese market relies heavily on creating a distinct corporate identity, testing products among Chinese consumers, and leveraging online marketing channels. According to the Thai E-Commerce Association, tapping into e-marketplaces is essential for Thai exporters aiming to establish a foothold in China. The association highlights the importance of live commerce and suggests setting up a cross-border…
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Thai Airways reshuffle: Finance Ministry calls for new managers
Thailand’s Finance Ministry is set to shake up Thai Airways International Plc (THAI)‘s rehabilitation plan, nominating two high-profile officials to join the team managing the troubled national airline’s comeback. In a bid to secure its position as THAI’s primary creditor, the ministry will propose these candidates at a crucial meeting with debtors on Friday, November 8. The nominees, Polchak Nimwatana,…
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Bank of Thailand board chair decision delayed amid controversy
The selection process for a new board chairman at the Bank of Thailand (BoT) has been delayed yet again, as the independent committee overseeing the choice opted to postpone its decision for another week. They indicated the necessity of more time to fully consider the information presented. This marks the second delay in the decision-making process, following an earlier postponement…
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Commerce ministry urges halt on soyabean oil price hikes
The Commerce Ministry issued a call to edible oil processors, urging them not to increase retail prices, citing no rise in production costs. This follows reports indicating that soyabean oil producers are considering raising the price of bottled soyabean oil. Goranij Nonejuie, Internal Trade Department Deputy Director-General, announced that the department has formally requested the Soyabean and Rice Bran Oil…
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Thai ESG fund rockets to top spot with impressive returns
One Equity Thailand ESG Fund (ONE-THAIESG) is stealing the spotlight in the Thai ESG fund scene, boasting a whopping 8.53% return this year, as proudly announced by One Asset Management (ONEAM). What’s behind this stellar performance? A one-two punch of a policy rate cut by the US Federal Reserve and Thailand’s very own economic comeback. TESG funds are the latest…
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Auto boom: Thailand revving up as global car parts powerhouse
Thailand is racing ahead in the fast lane of auto parts manufacturing in the Asia-Pacific region, speeding towards becoming a crucial export hub for Germany’s esteemed Schaeffler Group. Spotlighting both traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) and the rapidly accelerating electric vehicle (EV) industry, Schaeffler is gearing up for an automotive revolution. Micah Shepard, Schaeffler’s head honcho for vehicle lifetime solutions…
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Thailand to boost trade ties with South Asian nations
Thailand is setting its sights on strengthening ties with South Asian countries to enhance trade in food, energy, and human security sectors across the Southeast region. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, during his visit to India, discussed these ambitions following a meeting with Thai ambassadors and consuls stationed in South Asia. Maris highlighted South Asia’s strategic significance, noting that the…
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5 surprising ways Internet of Behaviour impacts daily life and choices of Thais
It’s strange, almost unsettling, how an online ad seems to read your mind. It knows you’ve been eyeing those Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, popular among Bangkok’s fashionistas, even though you’ve barely mentioned it. That, right there, is the IoB at work—the Internet of Behaviours. Picture IoT (Internet of Things), but more invasive. While the IoT connects physical gadgets, like smart lights…
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Turning up the Thai-mometer: Thailand and Russia in heated talks for free trade pact
Thailand is turning up the heat on trade negotiations with Russia, as both nations look to seal a dynamic free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Recent high-stakes discussions at the Commerce Ministry between Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Pichai Naripthaphan, and Russian Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sergey Levin, underscored a shared ambition to boost trade and investment. The spotlight…
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Thailand embraces AI to lead global economy by 2030
Thailand is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) technology across public and private sectors, aligning with global technological advancements. This movement was highlighted during a seminar, where experts emphasised the importance of an AI-ready workforce to propel Thailand into the forefront of the AI-driven global economy by 2030. Scheduled as a significant milestone, 2030 is anticipated to witness a global economic…
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Thailand shifts gears to keep diesel costs cruising under control
In a bold move to soothe the sting at the forecourts, the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO) unveiled its plan to keep Thailand’s diesel prices under a breezy 33 baht per litre, even though the current subsidy scheme is revving to a halt. This decision steers from an unexpected upturn in OFFO’s finances, courtesy of plummeting global oil prices. Fiscal…
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Gogolook ‘whoscalls’ the shots: Thai HQ set to scamper into anti-scam market
In a move set to shake up Southeast Asia, Gogolook, the brains behind the Whoscall app, unveiled a brand-new headquarters in Thailand. This bold step is part of the tech giant’s grand plan to dominate the burgeoning global anti-scam arena, expected to skyrocket to a whopping US$129 billion by 2029. Jeff Kuo, Gogolook’s co-founder and CEO, spilt the beans on…
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