Thailand is constructing a 3 GeV synchrotron facility in Rayong, aiming to create a platform for advanced research, industrial innovation, and high-value technology development. Increased investment in science and technology infrastructure is seen as crucial for the nation's transition from a middle-income to a high-income economy, fostering collaboration with industry and startups.
Pattaya is in the final stages of preparation for the 33rd Pattaya Marathon, expecting over 21,000 runners this weekend. The event, which sold out in just two days, is a key component of the city's sports tourism strategy.
A fishing boat, the Sor Kanchanawari 888, sank off Sattahip, Chonburi, resulting in 16 crew members rescued but five, all Myanmar nationals, still missing. Search operations are ongoing with the involvement of naval special forces.
Thailand's Cabinet has approved a draft Cannabis Control Act, tightening regulations from cultivation to retail sales. The Public Health Minister reaffirmed that cannabis is intended for medical use only. The bill will be sent to the House of Representatives and includes increased penalties for violations and a registration system.
A six-wheel truck carrying workers overturned on Route 36 in East Pattaya on the morning of September 22, resulting in 12 injuries. Police are investigating the cause of the accident.
US food giant Mars officially opened its first Pringles manufacturing facility in Thailand on September 23, backed by an investment of over 7 billion baht, aiming to boost exports across the AMEA region.
A Thai House of Representatives committee investigating money laundering and illicit drugs has inspected foreign worker employment and business operations in Bangkok's Huai Khwang-Din Daeng districts. Authorities found four Cambodian workers with expired passports and work permits, and two Myanmar workers unable to present their documents. The investigation also considers potential money laundering and nominee-related illicit activities.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met with executives from Bank of America, Microsoft, and PIMCO, inviting investment in AI, digital technology, and clean energy. Thailand seeks quality capital and partnerships.
A key transparency agreement, the "Integrity Pact," was reportedly omitted from the Terms of Reference (TOR) for Thailand's AI Passport project, despite being a mandatory requirement for projects exceeding one billion baht. A politician has raised concerns that this oversight could lead to the project's invalidation, demanding an explanation from the relevant authorities.
Thai Festival Santiago drew over 9,700 visitors, showcasing Thai culture, cuisine, tourism, Muaythai, wellness, and music. The Royal Thai Embassy aimed to strengthen cultural exchange and people-to-people ties by bridging Thailand's traditional heritage with its contemporary creativity.
The Thai Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across the country, urging vigilance for potential floods. In response, the government has approved a 15.5 billion baht disaster insurance plan to stabilize livelihoods and extended the 'Thais Help Thai Plus' handout program for two months to combat rising living costs.
AirAsia's stock plummeted amid a severe quarterly loss and tight cash flow, fueling bankruptcy rumors. While the airline is pursuing refinancing, potential impacts on Thai travelers are a concern. Operations remain ongoing.
Nene Royal, a talent from Phuket, Thailand, is gaining significant attention domestically as she appears on the global entertainment show "America's Got Talent" (AGT). The Thai nation is fervently supporting her performance, fostering a wave of encouragement.
Three Chinese women, lured to Thailand with fake job offers and subsequently held captive, were successfully rescued by Thai police in Chonburi province. The perpetrators were demanding hefty ransoms. The rescued women are receiving medical and psychological support.
China has expelled two high-ranking generals, Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, from the Communist Party and the People's Liberation Army. This move is part of President Xi Jinping's campaign to discipline the military leadership and signals an expansion of the crackdown on corruption and misconduct to the highest levels of government.
This guide explores Thailand's diverse dessert culture, detailing 15 traditional sweets from Mango Sticky Rice to Khanom Chan and Tako. It covers their tastes, where to find them, and ordering tips, offering a practical approach to experiencing local flavors.
Bangkok police have dismantled a major drug smuggling network in the capital, arresting a 26-year-old man from Hong Kong. Officers seized 350 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of approximately 700 million baht, highlighting Thailand's role as a transit hub for international drug trafficking.
The Thai government has approved a strict bill limiting cannabis use solely to medical purposes and research, effectively ending the country's brief era of recreational marijuana. The new legislation mandates registered cultivation, strict licensing, and prohibits sales to minors and vulnerable groups.
Thailand's state-backed energy giant PTTEP, along with partner Valeura Energy, has greenlit the development of the Bussabong gas field in the Gulf of Thailand. Production is slated to begin in late 2028, bolstering domestic energy security.
Ubiquitous outside Thai homes and businesses, spirit houses are shrines honoring protective spirits and seeking their goodwill. Designs and customs vary by region and family, reflecting the diverse spiritual culture of Thai society.
Chiang Rai appeals to retirees seeking a slower pace and lower costs, but practical challenges like healthcare, transport, visas, and the annual smoke season must be considered. While a modest lifestyle may be achievable on $800-$1,200 per month, detailed planning is essential.
Bangkok experiences frequent flooding in specific districts due to low-lying terrain and drainage limitations. The actual flood risk is determined by local topography and drainage infrastructure, not solely by district names.
Thailand confronts a renewed energy security challenge as the Strait of Hormuz crisis pushes LNG prices higher, prompting accelerated domestic gas exploration and procurement strategy reviews.
The Sports Authority of Thailand has launched a project in Chiang Rai to train young athletes in safe fighting techniques and improve facilities. Students from three schools are participating, learning the traditional art of Muay Thai.
Tha Lo Market in Tachileik, a vital trade hub opposite Mae Sai, Thailand, has been devastated by flooding, leaving it buried under thick mud. Businesses have vanished, economic activity has halted, and the impact on cross-border trade is severe.
Northern Thailand offers distinct optimal driving seasons, with seasonal smoke and rainy conditions significantly impacting route choices. Travelers are advised to check weather and air quality beforehand and plan flexibly.
Yotchanan Wongsawat, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, has declared assets totaling approximately 347 million baht and liabilities of about 375,000 baht along with his spouse upon taking office as a party-list MP. The declaration includes numerous properties and luxury items.
Mars, Incorporated has officially opened its new Pringles factory in Chonburi, Thailand, launching a second production line. With over 7 billion baht invested, Thailand is set to become a strategic production and export hub for the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa (AMEA) regions.
Pattaya City officials met with organizers of the upcoming Mister Smart Beach Thailand 2026 event to discuss planning and preparations. The meeting, held at Pattaya City Hall, aimed to advance the event, which is expected to boost tourism and local economy.
The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has granted 490,000 baht to schools near Laem Chabang Port in Rayong for the "Fairy Tales Weaving Dreams… Sustainable Waters" project, aiming to foster early environmental awareness and water conservation among children.
Phatthalung Province in Southern Thailand has formed a special committee to address the severe drought affecting the Pa Bon Reservoir. While the dam's structural integrity is confirmed, the water shortage poses challenges to local communities.
A shop near Wat Nong Prue in Pattaya was burglarized overnight, with thieves stealing liquor, approximately 40 packs of cigarettes, and nearly 10,000 baht in cash. The owner reported the incident, and an investigation is underway.
One more survivor has been rescued following the sinking of the cargo ship S. Kanchana Waree 888 off the coast of Thailand. Authorities are continuing their search for the five individuals still missing. The cause of the incident is under urgent investigation.
BFPL-BPT, operator of Bangkok's fuel pipeline, is preparing to submit an urgent repair plan to the Ministry of Energy following an incident. Repairs and testing are expected to take approximately three weeks.
Authorities in Chonburi province are urgently constructing an embankment around the Pong Phlong Canal's drainage gate due to rising water levels in the lower Chao Phraya River, fearing potential flooding from increased discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam.
Thailand's Meteorological Department has refuted social media claims of a "massive flood" within 120 hours. While heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast from September 23-27, the department clarified that predictions do not indicate continuous downpours or catastrophic flooding, urging public vigilance.