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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  • Thailand’s debt drive: Putting the brakes on cars and homes

    Thailand’s debt drive: Putting the brakes on cars and homes

    The financial woes of Thailand have taken centre stage as crippling debt levels put the brakes on car sales and curb the housing market, particularly among low-income households. With banks wary of non-performing loans (NPLs), many hopeful borrowers are seeing their applications for mortgages and car loans hit the skids. In response, the government is steering new initiatives to tackle…

  • Thai elderly to soon receive 10,000 baht cash aid: Finance Ministry

    Thai elderly to soon receive 10,000 baht cash aid: Finance Ministry

    The Ministry of Finance is poised to introduce a one-time cash payment initiative targeting the elderly, as confirmed by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. This proposal, amounting to 10,000 baht, will be presented during the upcoming economic stimulus policy committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 19. This new measure specifically excludes state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals who previously received…

  • The rise of online casinos in Southeast Asia: A look at live casino trends

    The rise of online casinos in Southeast Asia: A look at live casino trends

    The online casino scene in Southeast Asia has seen tremendous growth, particularly with the rise of live casino platforms. These digital spaces offer players a unique blend of convenience and excitement, allowing them to engage in their favourite games from the comfort of their homes. As technology continues to evolve, the trends shaping the live casino experience are becoming increasingly…

  • Thailand consumer confidence rises for first time in eight months

    Thailand consumer confidence rises for first time in eight months

    Consumer confidence in Thailand saw its first improvement in eight months this October, driven by reduced concerns over recent floods and improved economic conditions influenced by government policies. The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported a rise in the consumer confidence index to 56, up from 55.3 in September. The consumer confidence index, which measures consumers’ outlook…

  • Thailand explores nuclear energy amid gas supply concerns

    Thailand explores nuclear energy amid gas supply concerns

    The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is gearing up for a deep dive into the legalities of a new small modular reactor (SMR) project right here in Thailand. The nation is at a crossroads, and embracing nuclear energy could be its ticket to a future-proof power grid. Why now, you ask? The country’s domestic gas supplies are drying up, and talks…

  • Thai Airways cash turbulence: Will shareholders give a capital lift-off?

    Thai Airways cash turbulence: Will shareholders give a capital lift-off?

    In a dramatic twist, shareholders of Thai Airways International (THAI) are in a heated debate over whether to pump more cash into the airline, despite its recent financial turnaround. With a shiny rehabilitation plan in place, which includes a bold proposal for capital injection, the airline’s comeback story is under the microscope. Central to this saga is the question of…

  • Gartner’s tech-tacular 2025 trends: AI you ready for the future?

    Gartner’s tech-tacular 2025 trends: AI you ready for the future?

    US technological research and consulting firm Gartner has unveiled the groundbreaking tech trends to dominate 2025, including AI imperatives, novel computing frontiers, and human-machine synergy. These trends promise to revolutionise organisations with responsible and ethical innovation, said Gartner VP analyst Gene Alvarez “Tracking these trends will help IT leaders shape the future of their organisations with responsible and ethical innovation.”…

  • Tourism and gambling: The influence of Thai and Australian casinos on global travel

    Tourism and gambling: The influence of Thai and Australian casinos on global travel

    Tourism plays a major role in countries like Thailand and Australia. Admittedly, it’s more significant for the former, but the latter has been able to benefit in the past from the amount of foreign travel to the country that has been experienced. According to a report by Reuters, Thailand broke its record for tourism numbers and revenues in 2019. That…

  • Thai hoteliers worry foreign businesses could harm tourism image

    Thai hoteliers worry foreign businesses could harm tourism image

    Concerns have risen among Thai hoteliers over the increasing use of Thai nominees by foreign businesses, which they fear may tarnish Thailand’s tourism reputation. The Thai Hotels Association’s (THA) monthly sentiment index highlights this growing unease, especially as the high season begins. THA President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun revealed that nearly half of Thailand’s hotels express apprehension about illegal foreign investments, particularly…

  • Thailand plans 14 new floating solar farms to boost renewable energy

    Thailand plans 14 new floating solar farms to boost renewable energy

    The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is pushing forward with the development of 14 new floating solar farm projects as part of its strategic efforts to increase renewable energy production. These projects, with a combined capacity of 2,656 megawatts, are set to be constructed on the reservoirs of seven hydroelectric dams under the latest national power development plan (PDP) for…

  • Grain expectations: Thailand ‘rices’ to occasion with export boost

    Grain expectations: Thailand ‘rices’ to occasion with export boost

    Thailand is on track to bolster its rice exports to 9 million tonnes this year, potentially generating 230 billion baht (US$6.4 billion), according to the Commerce Ministry. This optimistic projection follows the country’s successful export of 7.45 million tonnes in the first nine months, already yielding 172 billion baht (US$4.95 billion) in revenue. This marks a notable year-on-year increase of…

  • Bangkok: Ratchadaphisek land listed for 11 billion baht sale

    Bangkok: Ratchadaphisek land listed for 11 billion baht sale

    A prominent businessman has put a substantial parcel of land up for sale in the Ratchadaphisek area, valued at 1.5 million baht per square wah, amounting to over 11 billion baht. This prime location has attracted interest from Chinese investors keen on developing a hotel. Over 19 rai of land, located along Ratchadaphisek Road and near the Eastern Orange Line…

  • Thai baht hits lowest level amid central bank independence fears

    Thai baht hits lowest level amid central bank independence fears

    Thailand’s baht suffered a significant drop, marking the largest decline among Asian currencies amid growing concerns over the diminishing independence of the nation’s central bank. The baht depreciated by over 1% to 34.739 against the US dollar, reaching its weakest level since August 19. This decline followed reports that Kittiratt Na-Ranong, a former finance minister known for his critical stance…

  • Hippo hooray: Moo Deng ‘charges’ up Chon Buri’s tourism boom

    Hippo hooray: Moo Deng ‘charges’ up Chon Buri’s tourism boom

    Chon Buri province is experiencing a significant boost in tourism revenue, largely due to the popularity of a baby pygmy hippo named Moo Deng. This charming young hippo, only four months old, has become a major attraction at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Governor Thawatchai Srithong announced that Chon Buri’s tourism-related revenue reached 27 billion baht (US$777 million) from July…

  • SEC to charge violators to boost Thai stock market confidence

    SEC to charge violators to boost Thai stock market confidence

    The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to initiate legal proceedings against violators of the Securities and Exchange Act to bolster confidence in the Thai stock market. This decisive action highlights the SEC’s commitment to safeguarding investor interests and maintaining market integrity. According to Anek Yooyuen, SEC Deputy Secretary-General, the regulatory body will persist in addressing cases involving misconduct…

  • Thailand boosts local content in industries amid US-China trade tensions

    Thailand boosts local content in industries amid US-China trade tensions

    Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is advocating for increased utilisation of domestic raw materials by businesses and the promotion of Thai ownership within supply chain companies. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of local industries by offering privileges through the Board of Investment (BoI). Pichai, serving as the chairman of the BoI, emphasised the importance…

  • Thailand and Italy to ‘grow’ a fruitful partnership in agriculture

    Thailand and Italy to ‘grow’ a fruitful partnership in agriculture

    Thailand and Italy are poised to formalise an agreement to boost collaboration in agriculture, focusing on production, trade, and investment. Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat announced the development after a meeting with Italy’s Minister of Agriculture, Francesco Lollobrigida. The need for a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been highlighted to establish a definitive path for future cooperation between…

  • Thai businesses urged to monitor US trade policy under Trump

    Thai businesses urged to monitor US trade policy under Trump

    The Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association advises local businesses to closely watch global trade dynamics and the international economy in light of Donald Trump’s recent return to the White House. This call to attention comes amid concerns about potential shifts in US trade policy that could have far-reaching impacts. Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, serving as an honorary advisor to the association,…

  • Thaicom 9A satellite repositioned to secure Thailand’s orbital rights

    Thaicom 9A satellite repositioned to secure Thailand’s orbital rights

    Thaicom is set to reposition an EutelSat satellite, now labelled Thaicom 9A, to the 50.5° East orbit. This move comes as the deadline to retain Thailand’s rights to the orbit approaches, expiring tomorrow, November 12. The satellite operator aims to ensure the country’s continued access to this orbital position by completing the relocation process within the stipulated timeframe. Last month,…

  • Vietnam to block Shein, Temu if unregistered by November

    Vietnam to block Shein, Temu if unregistered by November

    Vietnam announced plans to take action against Chinese online retailers Shein and Temu by blocking their Internet domains and mobile applications if they fail to register their operations with the Ministry of Industry and Trade by the end of November. This development arises from concerns over the influence of these Chinese platforms on local markets, particularly regarding their aggressive discounting…

  • Thai PM Paetongtarn’s APEC visit strengthens Thailand-Peru ties

    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…

  • Thailand implements 8.36 billion baht plan to stabilise rice prices

    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…

  • ERC mulls 31% electricity tariff hike despite lower fuel costs

    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…

  • THAI union fights to keep government out of airline’s rehab plan

    THAI union fights to keep government out of airline’s rehab plan

    Thai Airways International (THAI) staff are up in arms, rallying against what they see as an attempt by the government to seize control of the airline under the guise of a rehabilitation plan amendment. The airline’s labour union staged a peaceful but determined protest outside THAI headquarters yesterday, November 8, holding up placards and calling on creditors to reject the…

  • Gold prices fall 800 baht amid Trump’s election victory

    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)…

  • Thailand to register unregistered hotels in response to EU carbon rules

    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…

  • Bangkok Bank backs bold India expansion for Thai businesses

    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…

  • Thailand powers up clean energy game with 3 new hydropower projects

    Thailand powers up clean energy game with 3 new hydropower projects

    Thailand is set to enhance its clean energy capacity with the development of three additional hydropower dams by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). These dams will function as substantial batteries, thanks to a 90-billion-baht (US$2.65 billion) investment aimed at bolstering the country’s electricity supply amid concerns about the intermittency of solar and wind power. Egat is currently conducting…

  • Thai and mighty: Thailand’s soft power shines in Shanghai

    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…

  • Thailand biofuel subsidy ends in 2027, costs to rise for farmers

    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…