-
Events
Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association (APOLA) launch at Thailand Tourism Forum 2024
The Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association (APOLA) was founded on the initiative of Robert Hecker, Bill Barnett, and Paul Dean at the PHIST conference in Phuket. The Association was officially launched at the Thailand Tourism Forum in Bangkok on January 15, 2024. The founding members agreed that the trade body would be an advocacy vehicle to guide, promote and structure…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Paws and ponder: Annual military dog auction raises tails in northern Thailand
Curiosity piques as the Department of Military Animals at the Army Canine Centre in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima unveils its annual spectacle, the military dog auction. Dog lovers and curious minds are in for a treat as we unravel why these heroic canines end up on the auction block. Contrary to popular belief, these military dogs aren’t rejected. Instead, they…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Cyber Police dismantle Phitsanulok fake officer scam costing victim 90,000 baht
The Cyber Police recently busted an online fraud ring for impersonating police officers from Phitsanulok and scamming nearly 90,000 baht from a victim by claiming their bank account was involved in a money laundering case. The arrest of 27 year old Worapong was made today, following an investigation by high-ranking officers from the Special Investigation Division. The scam began with…
Read More » -
Business News
Elon Musk warns Chinese automakers set to drive global rivals off the road
Tesla CEO Elon Musk issued a stark warning, predicting that Chinese automakers will demolish global competition if trade barriers are not enforced. This statement highlights the intense pressure the leading American electric vehicle (EV) company faces from Chinese rivals such as Build Your Dreams (BYD), which are rapidly expanding their global presence. Musk’s warning follows recent developments where BYD, supported…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Billion-baht pyramid scam suspect nabbed after years on the run
Law enforcement officials apprehended a key figure in a multibillion-baht pyramid scheme after more than a decade on the run. The wife of the owner of Ufun Store, accused of orchestrating a fraudulent chain-share operation that deceived thousands of people, was arrested in Sri Sa Ket province. The criminal operation, which has caused financial damages amounting to billions of baht,…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai millionaire allegedly murdered to settle 30 million baht debt
Police continue to investigate the death of a Thai millionaire in the central province of Chantaburi. The dead woman’s sister harbours suspicions that her sibling was murdered in connection to a 30 million baht debt settlement. The dead body of the 77 year old woman, named Panithi Kosalanan, was discovered in a pond within her fruit plantation in Chantaburi on…
Read More » -
Business News
Thailand’s retail sector expects double-digit growth driven by private consumption and online retail
Anticipating a robust year ahead, Thailand’s retail sector is poised for a double-digit expansion. The growth is primarily spurred by a surge in private consumption and the government’s stimulus measures, such as the Easy E-Receipt tax refund scheme and a boom in online retail. However, the rising cost of living is a cause for concern, as stated by the Economic…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Pattaya’s traffic nightmare: Deputy mayor tackles commute delays
In a bid to combat the chaos caused by the never-ending construction along Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya, Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai took matters into his own hands, leading a team on a mission to bring relief to frustrated commuters. Accompanied by reps from the contracted company, Pattaya police, and Engineering Office staff, the Deputy Mayor rolled up his sleeves and descended…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Astrological shift promises wealth and stress relief for zodiac signs
Mercury’s auspicious orbital shift this month has sparked excitement among astrology enthusiasts, with forecasts promising substantial financial gains and stress relief for several zodiac signs. The celestial movement is said to herald a period of prosperity and positive transformation, as detailed by the popular astrologer known as Achan White, who has recently revealed what the stars hold for each of…
Read More » -
Business News
Thailand to launch green investment trusts for forestry initiatives
Thai regulatory bodies are paving the way for the establishment of investment trusts dedicated to forestry and tree-planting initiatives. These new financial products, dubbed green investment trusts, are part of an effort to diversify the capital markets and provide financial support to sectors that align with carbon neutrality goals. Pornanong Budsaratragoon, the secretary-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC),…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai company sues Chinese coffee chain Luckin Coffee over trademark infringement
Thailand’s 50R Group unleashed a US$290 million (10 billion baht) legal storm against Chinese coffee giant Luckin Coffee. The lawsuit is over alleged economic losses during a trademark dispute that has shaken the caffeine industry. Thailand’s 50R Group claims it legally staked its claim to the Luckin trademark with the Thai Ministry of Commerce in 2020, unveiling stores in December…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Phetchabun taskforce dismantles illegal resorts in forest reserve
Authorities in Phetchabun province acted swiftly on a tip-off regarding encroachment upon the Khao Polklon Forest Reserve. In a coordinated operation, the Tiger Forestry Taskforce, along with other units, detained five individuals linked to luxury resorts and a café constructed illegally in the Khao Kho area. The mission underscored the government’s commitment to preserving national forest reserves and highlighted the…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai women in cross-cultural marriages unite to tackle the challenge of widowhood
For Thai women residing in Germany, the abrupt demise of a German spouse plunges them into a bewildering maze, especially when language differences compound the already overwhelming grief of widowhood. The Thai Women Network in Europe (TWNE) recently took the initiative to address this dire situation, organising a two-day event in Hua Hin. Chongcharoen Sornkaew Grimsmann, former president of TWNE,…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Prince Mahidol award 2023 goes to two American scientists
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn yesterday awarded the Prince Mahidol Award for 2023 to two American scientists, Professor Dr Napoleone Ferrara, a medical researcher, and Professor Dr Barry H Rumack, a public health expert. The award is a global recognition of their scientific contributions that have significantly advanced medical treatments. The ceremony took place at the Chakri Maha…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai man arrested for attempting to rape 74 year old distant relative
Locals rescued a 74 year old Thai woman after her 42 year old distant relative attempted to rape her in the Satuek district in the Isaan province of Buriram. The 74 year old victim, Mongpramoon, filed a complaint with Satuek Police Station officers that her distant relative, Uthen Jampanuan, stole 400 baht and tried to rape her yesterday morning, January…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thailand’s economic growth labelled underwhelming by government
The economic expansion of Thailand in the previous year and the anticipated growth in the current year have been labelled as underwhelming by the government, referencing a report from the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO). The assertion was made by Chai Wacharonke, the government spokesperson, through a Line chat group created for communication with reporters from the Government House. The FPO…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Jive at Dong Tan: Beach-turned-bazaar sparks excitement in Jomtien
Dong Tan Beach has turned into a night bazaar, buzzing with commerce, stirring both excitement and disarray among local businesses in Jomtien. The once tranquil beach now hosts a nightly spectacle, drawing sellers and buyers alike, transforming this coastal haven into the vibrant Dong Tan Night Market. The market’s meteoric rise in popularity has, however, birthed a set of challenges.…
Read More » -
Thailand News
MFP supports Pheu Thai’s two charter amendments referendums
The Move Forward Party (MFP) backs Pheu Thai‘s proposal for two referendums on charter amendments, promising to reshape Thailand‘s political landscape. Parit Wacharasindhu, an MFP list-MP and the party’s spokesperson, declared on Tuesday, January 23, the MFP’s full-throated endorsement of Pheu Thai’s deputy leader, Chusak Sirinil’s, proposition for just two referendums, stating that it’s a cost-effective and time-efficient approach. Not…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Bangkok bus passengers and soldiers unite to save ailing boy
A spontaneous act of kindness unfolded this morning when a mother and her son, who suffers from an autoimmune disorder, were travelling by bus to Ratchawithi Hospital. The son experienced a seizure on air-conditioned bus number 168 along Rama IX Road at 9.30am. The driver, Anirut Wanwang, and the bus conductor, Nopparat Thanapetchpiboon, along with other passengers, sprang into action…
Read More » -
Thailand News
AirAsia X expansion sparks unprecedented growth
AirAsia X soared to new heights, carrying a staggering 890,289 passengers in the fourth quarter of 2023, experiencing a 2.6-fold increase year-on-year. Passenger Load Factor (PLF) has risen to 82%, a remarkable three-percentage-point surge. The surge comes on the heels of an impressive 2.5-fold increase in seat capacity, making it a clear winner in the aviation race. During the quarter…
Read More » -
Press Room
Thailand’s leading data centre companies forge ‘Thailand Data Centre Council’ for strategic growth
Prominent data centre service providers converged today to officially establish the Thailand Data Centre Council (TDCC) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The TDCC is a pioneering strategic alliance, a first-of-its-kind in Thailand, aimed at catapulting the country’s digital infrastructure to unprecedented heights. The founding members of the Thailand Data Centre Council comprise industry leaders, including AIMS…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Kamphaeng Phet prison sweep finds zero contraband, upholds security
Kamphaeng Phet’s Central Prison conducted a surprise operation following the Department of Corrections’ policy to prevent the smuggling of contraband into the inmates’ quarters. Chathip Rujonseree, the Governor of Kamphaeng Phet Province, today chaired the launch of this special inspection operation to safeguard against the illicit introduction of prohibited items into the prison cells. The operation was a coordinated effort…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai police officer kills boyfriend of his friend’s daughter in Bangkok
A Sutthisan Police Station officer shot dead the boyfriend of his friend’s daughter outside the victim’s house in Huay Kwang district of Bangkok last night. The officer’s disapproval of the relationship was cited as the motive behind the tragic incident The death of the 25 year old Thai man, Thitiwat Auayklang, was reported to Huay Kwang Police Station at 7pm,…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Tourism minister presents six proposals to boost ASEAN relations
The Minister of Tourism and Sports received the Cabinet‘s approval for six proposals set to revolutionise ASEAN tourism. The Cabinet’s green light paves the way for Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol to champion regional partnerships at the 27th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers in Vientiane, Laos. In an exclusive statement on January 23, Minister Sudawan disclosed the approved documents, each designed to…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Ex-municipal tax chief caught after 15 years for embezzling funds
The Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) successfully apprehended a former municipal tax chief after a 15-year-long evasion. She was accused of embezzling government funds on over 100 occasions, resulting in a significant loss of 300,000 baht. Under the directive of Major General Prasong Chalermphan, officers led by Colonel Sanuwong Kongkain and Lieutenant Colonel Amnuay Wichitsophon, along with Krisakorn Sanitsakdee, Director of the…
Read More » -
Business News
Rising Red Sea tensions to spike freight rates warns EconThai
Global supply chains are bracing for further potential disruptions, as rising tensions in the Red Sea are projected to escalate freight rates in February, according to the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai). The organisation has already noted an increase in freight rates by 1.89 to 2.42 times, a trend expected to persist should the tensions continue. Tanit…
Read More » -
Thailand News
DSI officials prosecuted for alleged corruption
Former Labour Minister Suchart Chomklin, alongside three confidants, launched a lawsuit against top officials of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The former DSI director-general, the acting DSI director-general, and the director of the Human Trafficking Cases Division were accused of being involved in a corrupt scheme. Suchart, flanked by his associates, addressed the media with a bombshell revelation. According…
Read More » -
Thailand News
My Thai Boyfriend, new LGBTQA+ dating sim game inspired by Pattaya
Game developer Alright Peaches Studio launched a dating simulator game inspired by the LGBTQA+ community in Pattaya called My Thai Boyfriend. My Thai Boyfriend has been available on Steam since January 1. The game is a dating simulator, also known as a dating sim or visual novel, which allows players to interact and build relationships with characters in the video…
Read More » -
Press Room
Euphoria: the ultimate Bangkok lounge lifestyle experience
Euphoria, located on the second floor of Royal Queen Seeds Thailand in Bangkok, is a lounge and bar that has swiftly become the talk of the town. Known for its unique blend of entertainment, this venue is revolutionizing Bangkok’s nightlife with an organic chill lounge vibe. Starting January 19th, Euphoria is bringing Ladies’ Night to Fridays every week in January.…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Transforming Thailand’s Koh Yao into a wellness tourism hotspot
The Thai Public Health Ministry is set to transform Koh Yao district in Phang Nga into a wellness hotspot by augmenting medical services and expanding long-stay options for tourists. The solitary hospital on Koh Yao Noi, Kohyaochaipat Hospital, currently caters to over 12,000 island residents and sporadic tourists requiring medical attention, according to Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew. The hospital…
Read More » -
Business News
Thailand’s new green utility tariff boosts renewable energy use
The unveiling of a Green Utility Tariff (GUT) next month is set to bring about a significant progression in renewable energy use within Thailand, bolstering local businesses and attracting foreign investment. This move has been eagerly awaited by numerous companies considering expansion into Thailand, as they seek not only the necessary infrastructure but also a source of clean energy to…
Read More » -
Business News
Bangkok gears up for eighth round of FTA talks with EFTA
Bangkok is preparing to host the eighth round of free trade agreement (FTA) discussions with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), scheduled to take place from January 30 to February 2. The Thai government aims to wrap up the negotiations by the middle of this year. Chotima Lemsawasdikul, the director-general of the Trade Negotiations Department, has confirmed that the discussions will…
Read More » -
Business News
Thailand aims to be among top five Asian tech ecosystems
Aspiring to rank among Asia’s top five tech ecosystems within the next decade, Thailand is currently focusing on the development of smart industries, particularly in tourism, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, according to a statement by a corporate innovation accelerator. Dr Kid Parchariyanon, CEO and co-founder of RISE, the accelerator, insisted that the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), along with nurturing…
Read More » -
Thailand Weather Updates
Thailand expects 1-3°C temperature drop amid strong high-pressure system
Thailand is bracing for a further 1 to 3 degrees Celsius drop in temperatures as a strong high-pressure system covers the nation and the South China Sea. This Meteorological Development of Thailand (TMD) is set to bring cooler to cold conditions, accompanied by strong winds across various parts of the country, including the greater Bangkok area. The northern region is…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thai ministries to patrol schools post operational hours following assault
The aftermath of a shocking assault on a school teacher in Chiang Rai last week has instigated the Education Ministry to collaborate with the Interior Ministry and Royal Thai Police (RTP). The objective is to ensure local law enforcement officers patrol schools after operational hours. A 38 year old man was responsible for the severe injuries inflicted on a female…
Read More » -
Business News
Thailand’s GDP growth disappoints with a slow 1.8% rise in 2023
GDP growth in 2023 slowed down to a disappointing 1.8%, according to an announcement by the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO). Director-general, Pornchai Thiraveja, attributed this to a combination of negative factors impacting the economy. Originally, the growth was forecast to rise to 2.7% in 2023, based on a projection made in October last year. The less-than-anticipated growth is due to…
Read More » -
Thailand News
Thailand aims to become Asian aviation hub, says Thai PM
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin outlined plans to transform Thailand into an Asian aviation hub. The announcement was made during his keynote speech at the Thailand 2024 The Great Challenges event. He highlighted the government’s focus on tourism and the introduction of several measures to boost the industry, including reciprocal visa exemption programmes. A reciprocal visa exemption deal will be signed…
Read More »