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Thailand news, politics, business, crime, lifestyle, and tourism—stay updated with breaking news and in-depth analysis from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond.
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Sponsored Digital nomading in Chiang Mai? What US$1,000 a month really gets you
Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low living costs, rich culture, and active remote work community. The city offers affordable housing, tasty food, reliable internet, and many co-working spaces, making it a great...
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Thai finance chief cautions reform balance to prevent tax shock on economy
Krisada Chinavicharana, the permanent secretary at the Finance Ministry, sounded the alarm bell for the incoming government, stating that the proposed tax reforms aiming to bump up the revenue should not produce a shockwave effect on the economy. Currently, tax revenue stands at just 14% of the GDP, falling short of the expected 15% or 16%, Krisada said. He stated……
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Magazine ranks Thailand 9th best retirement spot on Earth
Thailand secured its position as the world’s ninth-best retirement spot on International Living Magazine’s 2023 Annual Global Retirement Index. The index ranks countries based on their suitability for retirees, taking into account various factors including cost of living, cost of healthcare, cultural activities, and more. In the 2023 index, Thailand shares the spotlight with other popular retirement destinations such as Portugal,…
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Rainfall reigns: Tropical storm Talim puts Thailand on umbrella alert
The Thai Meteorological Department recommends the nation gets its umbrellas out as heavy rainfall bears down on Thailand, providing a tangible reminder of the dramatic effects of tropical storm Talim. The Meteorological Department issued a weather alert for several provinces in the country as the storm continues to show its relentless power. An urgent weather bulletin cautions citizens, particularly those…
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Patong motorbike taxi dispute goes viral, ends in peaceful resolution (video)
An altercation between a local motorbike taxi rider and an unidentified foreign tourist unfolded in Patong, Thailand. The disagreement, which stemmed from a fare dispute, gained social media attention yesterday after a video of the heated encounter started to circulate widely. Patong Police yesterday revealed details of the incident which had been shared on a Facebook page at 4.44pm. A…
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Phuket to face power cuts for PEA Thalang’s system enhancements
The Thalang division of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA Thalang) issued a statement declaring two separate power interruptions planned for tomorrow. The blackouts are reported to impact both residences and businesses in the areas of Bang Tao and Pa Khlok, Phuket. The Bang Tao power cut, specifically in the region of Cherng Talay, is scheduled from 9am through to 4.30pm.…
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Affordable and enriched living in Thailand attracts foreign investors
Thailand is making waves on the world stage with what International Living defines as its attractive blend of enriched living at pocket-friendly costs. The gem in the Thai living appeal seems to be the lucrative real estate sector where, as International Living puts it: “Foreigners are able to buy condos very easily and there are bargains everywhere.” Along with attractive…
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Phuket kickstarts Tsunami Walk & Run aiming to boost evacuation awareness
Over 900 people yesterday took part in the Tsunami Walk & Run event in Mai Khao, Phuket. The initiative was undertaken to increase consciousness about tsunami evacuation routes. Boontham Lertsukekasem, the Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, was on the ground to inaugurate the Walk & Run for Tsunami Learning 2023 event formally, kicking off proceedings at…
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Andaman provinces appeal to continue Phang-nga Airport study amid fears of overcrowding
The Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPSCC) spanning the Andaman provinces appealed to Airports of Thailand (AoT) to ensure the continuation of its feasibility study on the proposed Phang-nga Airport. Previously, a discussion between the JPPSCC across the provinces of Krabi, Trang, Phang-nga, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, and Phuket Airport took place concerning the same issue. As a result…
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Vibrant pink Siam tulips in northeast Thailand draw tourists
Nature enthusiasts and flower fans have flocked in their thousands to Sai Thong National Park in Chaiyaphum province to witness the breathtaking sight of a vast field of blooming pink Siam tulips. The influx of tourists began over the weekend, with visitors eagerly capturing photos and selfies amidst the stunning display. Spanning four districts – Nong Bua Rahaew, Thep Sathit,…
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Thai woman swept away in South Korean floods
A Thai woman working illegally in South Korea has tragically become one of the victims of the devastating flash floods, which have claimed the lives of at least 37 people and left nine others missing. As 9,000 residents grapple with the aftermath of this natural disaster in the East Asian nation, the extent of the destruction is becoming apparent. According…
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German politician’s damning critique of NATO raises questions about alliance’s purpose (video)
As global leaders gathered at the NATO summit in Lithuania last week, seeking to ratify the membership of Sweden and discuss Ukraine’s eligibility, German politician Sevim Dagdelen delivered a scathing indictment of what the North Atlantic Treaty Organization stands for. The 47 year old German Left Party member dissected NATO hypocrisy, lies and smoke and mirrors with the precision of…
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Singaporean man’s Bangkok airport mix-up leads to arresting headlines
The Singaporean man arrested at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok for allegedly stealing the belongings of a German man insists it was all a mix-up. Teo Yu Xuan Kenny was trying to board a plane home when Immigration Bureau officers swooped to apprehend the Singaporean for the alleged theft of 100,000 baht in cash, a laptop, and a passport…
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UK seals deal to join trans-Pacific trade group CPTPP
It was officially announced today that the United Kingdom signed the treaty enabling its inclusion into the prominent trans-Pacific trade group, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This development marks the addition of the first new participant into this significant pact since its establishment in 2018. As the doors open for the UK, the stage is now…
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South Korean woman’s tragic death in Phuket sparks suicide investigation
Phuket Police were alerted early this morning to the tragic death of a 43 year old South Korean woman in her residential bathroom in Rawai. Police believe it was suicide. Police were informed of the case at 7am. The response team arrived at the incident location, a two-story townhouse located on Patak Soi 1. The ground floor of the establishment…
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Bank of Ayudhya predicts pivotal role of politics in Thailand’s economy
In light of the current political climate, a division of the renowned Bank of Ayudhya suggests that the upcoming political decisions could significantly steer Thailand’s economy this year. This report highlights the pivotal role of swift administrative formation in stabilising the economy and buoying investor confidence. However, the prospect of an emerging minority government raises considerable concerns over its potential…
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Overpass construction collapse in Bangkok claims two lives, injures 12
Two people died and 12 were injured after an overpass abruptly collapsed in Lat Krabang district, Bangkok. Currently, those wounded are under constant medical supervision in nearby hospitals. His Majesty the King, demonstrating his kindness, compassion, and deep concern for his subjects’ well-being, has extended his condolences to those left grieving by the unfortunate incident and has offered his best wishes…
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Swinging into trouble: Golfer faces prosecution for ‘fore’-bidden activity in Thai national park (video)
In a bid to uphold the sanctity of national parks, Thai authorities at Khao Yai National Park are preparing to prosecute a golfer who dared to engage in sporting activity such as illegal golfing within the protected vicinity of Sai Sorn Reservoir. This reservoir, nestled within the heart of the national park, is not only home to a diverse array…
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China’s courier sector sees notable growth, June industry report reveals
China’s courier sector exhibited noticeable growth in June, according to a recently-released industry update. As per the State Post Bureau, the index illustrating the development of express delivery for June showcased a notable increase. Recorded at 366.3, it marked a tectonic jump, expanding by 26.6% compared to the same timeframe the prior year. Parsing the various sub-indices provides an even…
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Phuket water supply tests could leave residents dry for days
In a recent announcement, the Phuket arm of the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) outlined water supply test plans to execute a series of step tests over the upcoming three days. The measures are aimed to confirm the water pressure within the main supply pipes – a move that will impact several residences and businesses throughout different regions in Phuket. Upon…
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Thai women cautioned over marriage scams with Chinese nationals
Police cautioned Thai women considering marriage to Chinese nationals against possible legal infringements in both Thailand and China. According to a report on Monday, the alert followed revelations by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) that a case involving a Thai woman from Udon Thani, subjected to marriage scams, and three years of abuse in China, did not constitute human…
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Thailand battles marine pollution with 507 tonnes of waste collected in 2020
Marine pollution issues have impinged on Thailand‘s coastal regions, with increasingly alarming statistics emerging, according to updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Throughout last year, there were reports of 22 oil spill events within the Gulf of Thailand, and an astonishing 507 tonnes of various waste gathered from surrounding seas, as noted by deputy government spokeswoman, Traisulee…
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Trat’s tourism sector hopes to rebound despite ongoing struggles
Trat, one of Thailand’s premier beach destinations, is optimistic about a boost in tourism during the latter part of this year despite a struggling hotel sector that is yet to bounce back from Covid-19 disruptions. Phatcharin Sawettarat, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Trat Office, disclosed that the province accommodated approximately one million visitors last year, just half…
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Sattahip naval base officer investigated over alleged ammunition theft
Investigations by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) are ongoing, following suspicions that an officer at Sattahip naval base might be guilty of stealing a significant number of cartridges. The base, located in Chon Buri in Thailand, is at the heart of a major theft case, according to naval spokesman Admiral Pokkrong Monthatphalin. This was a response to allegations on the…
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EC defends actions amid criticism over MFP Pita Limjaroenrat’s eligibility debacle
Engulfed in the turmoil stirred by criticism over the eligibility of Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, the Election Commission (EC) staunchly defends its actions. Critics, including Pita, have insinuated that he was not given the rightful opportunity to counter the allegations before the case saw its day in court. The EC, in a strong-worded statement, clarified that the…
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Thai cybercrime bureau busts personal data trader in Phuket
In Phuket, there has been an arrest in relation to the sale of personal data extracted from gambling websites. This dramatic event unfolded yesterday, as Thai Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers yesterday swooped down on their unsuspecting target at about 12.30pm. The suspect, only identified as 28 year old Phadungkiat, was apprehended in the Mueang District, as detailed in…
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Pheu Thai may replace MFP in Thai political shakeup
A shift in the political dynamic of Thailand might be on the horizon, according to predictions by a distinguished political science academic. He believes the Pheu Thai Party could rise as the new coalition’s head if Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), fails to secure victory in the Parliamentary selection for Thailand’s Prime Minister. Burapha University’s…
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Murder suspect of Hans Peter Mack case pleads innocence
Pattaya City was recently shocked by the brutal murder of 62 year old Hans Peter Mack, where a Pakistani-Thai man says he was implicated in a gruesome act against his will. The 27 year old suspect, Shahrukh Karim Uddin, who possesses Thai citizenship despite his Pakistani origin, denies the accusations. He claims that the main instigator, 52 year old German…
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MFP challenges military’s role in selection of Thai PM
The Thai political landscape is witnessing a potential upheaval with the Move Forward Party (MFP) taking legislative strides. The party fervently presented a proposal to Parliament yesterday challenging the military-appointed senators‘ right to participate in the selection of the prime minister. This bid comes as a reaction to the MFP leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, falling short of amassing sufficient support for…
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Trade war triggers fear of new EV chip shortage from China export limit
Leading authorities in the industry fear another chip shortage could soon hit electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. This comes as China limits the export of two significant metals, a move driven by the ongoing trade dispute between Washington and Beijing, as reported by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). As of August 1, China will impose trade restrictions on select products…
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Sleepy driver causes pickup truck mishap in Phuket
In the early hours of today, a mishap occurred on Pa Khlok Road, Phuket when a pickup truck steered off the path, resulting in injuries to the two men onboard. The troubling incident unfolded nearby a tranquil 7-Eleven store situated in Baan Promphan, Moo 1, Pa Khlok. Upon arrival, officers of the Thalang Police were greeted with a disconcerting sight.…
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