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Thailand's Hom Mali Rice Faces US Tariff Challenge Amidst Competitive Pressures Photo courtesy of Vecteezy Thailand's renowned Hom Mali fragrant rice is facing a significant challenge in the US market due to newly imposed reciprocal tariffs. The US has implemented a steep 36% tariff on Thai rice, increasing costs from approximately US$1,000 to US$1,400 per tonne, threatening its competitive edge against Vietnamese rice. The Thai Rice Exporters Association expressed concerns that these tariffs could shift US importers' preferences towards Vietnamese rice, which, despite a higher 46% tariff, remains more affordable at US$600 to US$700 per tonne. This shift could weaken Thailand’s presence in the US market, where last year it exported 850,000 tonnes compared to Vietnam’s 40,000 tonnes. Chukiat Opaswongse, President of Hom Mali, noted that US buyers have secured roughly 100,000 tonnes of Thai rice before the tariffs take full effect. However, he warned that the price gap would likely drive importers towards cheaper alternatives. He urged Thai authorities to support exporters by negotiating with the US to mitigate the effects of the tariffs. This tariff issue isn't limited to rice. People’s Party Deputy Leader Sirikanya Tansakul emphasized that the US tariffs are part of a broader strategy to reduce its trade deficit and encourage domestic production. She warned that if left unaddressed, these tariffs could shrink Thailand’s GDP growth by over 1% but suggested this impact could be lessened with successful tariff negotiations. Besides rice, other Thai exports like communications equipment, car tyres, and electrical appliances are also affected, potentially slowing foreign investment in the Thai market until stability returns. Sirikanya advised focusing on the service sector, where the US maintains a trade surplus with Thailand, to help cushion economic impacts. As negotiations continue, the stakes for Thailand’s rice exporters—and its economy—remain high, with the need for strategic diplomatic efforts to stabilize the situation and preserve market share in the US, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

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Chinese Tourists' Urination Leads to Pattaya Brawl Picture courtesy of CH7 Pattaya, 4 April – Police intervened after a brawl erupted when a Chinese tourist urinated in a private area, triggering a scuffle with a Thai resident who attempted to intervene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356782-chinese-tourists-urination-leads-to-pattaya-brawl/

Picture courtesy of CH7 Pattaya police intervened after a brawl erupted when a Chinese tourist urinated in a private area, triggering a scuffle with a Thai resident who attempted to intervene. Today, Deputy Inspector Sontaya Khonsap of Pattaya City Police Station received reports of a dispute on Pattaya Soi 6 near the beachfront in Nong Prue. A police team swiftly responded to the scene. On arrival, officers found a heated dispute between a group of local motorcycle taxi drivers and three Chinese tourists. The confrontation turned physical, prompting police to bring both parties to the station for further investigation. According to the moto-taxi drivers, the altercation began when the tourists disregarded explicit 'No Trespassing' signs and urinated in a private area. Efforts to stop them were met with resistance and hostility. The situation escalated to shirt-grabbing and an ensuing melee. Authorities are now working to determine the incident's cause. If the parties wish to pursue legal action, police will proceed with charges accordingly. If not, they will be encouraged to apologise to each other and part ways amicably. Based on a story by Channel 7 -- 2025-04-04

Indian PM Modi Meets Thaksin: Talks to Boost Thai-Indian Ties Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has touched down in Thailand to partake in the 6th Bimstec summit, held on April 4. In a notable move, Modi met yesterday with Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is known for his strong ties with India. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356779-indian-pm-modi-meets-thaksin-talks-to-boost-thai-indian-ties/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has touched down in Thailand to partake in the 6th Bimstec summit, held on April 4. In a notable move, Modi met yesterday with Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is known for his strong ties with India. The main agenda on the table was enhancing cooperation between Thailand and India, especially in areas like defence, trade, and cultural exchange. Modi took to social media platform X.com to express his delight at the meeting, noting, "I am very pleased to meet Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand." He acknowledged Thaksin's governance experience and their shared vision for deepening bilateral relations. Both leaders underscored the significant potential of this cooperation to uplift the economic and cultural prospects for citizens in both nations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's family member, hosted a gala dinner for leaders of the Bimstec nations at Bangkok's prestigious Shangri-La Hotel. Attendees included representatives from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Notably, Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing made an appearance in a rare venture into Southeast Asia post-coup, seeking strategic discussions with Modi and Bangladesh's interim government chief, Muhammed Yunus. Min Aung Hlaing’s visit sparked intrigue, especially as he seeks high-profile diplomatic engagements amid heavy Western sanctions against Myanmar. Despite Myanmar's attempts at forging bilateral talks, India's response has remained measured, with no definitive commitment made towards a meeting between Modi and the junta leader. Bimstec focuses on fortifying regional collaboration across seven broad sectors, including agriculture, security, and trade. Additionally, it encompasses niche areas like the Blue Economy, Mountain Economy, and Disaster Management. As member nations converge in Thailand, discussions aim to harness this cooperation for enhanced regional stability and prosperity. Based on a story by Siam Rath, Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-04

Russian Couple's Beach Frolic Draws Crowd in Pattaya Pictures courtesy Daily News In an unusual spectacle, a Russian couple's intimate moment on Pattaya Beach at 3:06 AM on 4th April attracted a sizeable crowd, turning the scene into a public show. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356772-russian-couples-beach-frolic-draws-crowd-in-pattaya/

Pictures courtesy Daily News In an unusual spectacle, a Russian couple's intimate moment on Pattaya Beach at 3:06 AM on 4th April attracted a sizeable crowd, turning the scene into a public show. Around 50 onlookers, both locals and tourists, gathered to watch the couple engage in risqué activities in the sea, reminiscent of an outdoor cinema experience. Despite some attempts to advise them about the inappropriateness of their actions, the couple appeared unfazed, continuing without any hint of embarrassment. Witnesses reported that the couple repeated their display, further encouraging onlookers to film and share the incident on social media. The unabashed conduct of the couple has raised concerns about Pattaya's image as a tourist destination. Local authorities are urged to more vigilantly monitor potential hotspots to prevent such incidents and restore the city’s tourist image. Based on a story by Daily News COUPLEINPATT.mp4 -- 2025-04-04

Picture courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre The Thai baht is expected to plunge to an alarming 34.50 per US dollar following the US's unexpected announcement of a hefty 37% reciprocal tariff on Thai imports. On Thursday, the baht staggered to its weakest in two and a half months, recording a value of 34.38 per dollar in trading, primarily due to these severe trade measures. Kanjana Chockpisansin from Kasikorn Research Center, Thailand, shared that the latest tariff decisions might drive the baht further downwards. The surprising 37% tariff, significantly above the anticipated 10-25% range, is likely to erode investor trust and stir a ‘risk-off’ sentiment amongst investors. This approach may accentuate economic woes, with greater pressure anticipated for the baht against the dollar, even amidst a rise in global gold prices, traditionally seen as a financial safe haven. As the baht flittered between 34.07 and 34.45 per dollar post-announcement, analysts note the unsettling environment across markets. Krungthai Global Markets noted the baht began Thursday at 34.38 per dollar, recording a notable drop from the prior day’s 34.16, highlighting forex volatility. While the 37% tariff sits below American predictions of a towering 72%, it surpasses market assumptions, leading to intensified market uncertainty and heightened risk aversion amongst investors. Pipat Luengnaruemitchai of Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group urged the importance of strategic negotiations to dampen these tariff impacts. Internal and external discussions, particularly those targeting critical economic spheres like agriculture, food, energy, and finance, may be pivotal. The Thai government's task is now to smartly navigate looming opportunities and threats in light of this significant US tariff challenge. In summary, the baht's facing a tumultuous path ahead, with potential to dip further if strategic measures aren't promptly deployed. The situation underscores the volatile nature of international trade and finance, demanding vigilant and tactful economic diplomacy to safeguard Thailand's financial stability amidst US tariff frictions. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-04

Composite image courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre Devastating tariff hikes from the United States could hit Thailand with a jaw-dropping 360 billion baht loss, shaving a staggering 2% off the nation's GDP, as warned by experts at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). The clampdown, set for April 9, sees reciprocal tariffs soaring to 37% on Thai goods, thanks to President Trump's latest executive order. Initially pegged at 36%, the official document put the rate at a hefty 37% instead. These sweeping tariffs, primarily targeted at steel, aluminium, and automotive sectors, could severely dent export values, potentially slashing it from $4.73 billion to $4.08 billion, equivalent to a staggering 22 billion baht loss. Experts fear an influx of Chinese goods into Thailand as China redirects its exports. As economic losses stack up—recent events including a natural disaster have compounded the trouble—predictions put losses at a grim 375 billion baht, slicing GDP growth estimations to a mere 1% this year. The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), with Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan at the helm, is rallying for strategic responses—pivoting toward negotiations and considering free trade agreements with new partners to dodge pitfalls. Industries are bracing for impact, with a more crystalline picture anticipated by May. In the ready-to-eat food segment, hefty tariff increments hit exports hard, notably crippling canned tuna, veggies, and fruits. Urgent calls ring out for accelerated government negotiations and preventive actions against potential reroutes of Chinese goods facing US tariffs. As businesses grapple with these looming challenges, industry leaders stress cost management, inventory planning, and timely coordination with US partners. Highlighting hidden opportunities, Mr Visit Limlurcha advocates for leveraging the import of US pork offal for pet food, boosting protein supply while addressing consumer health concerns. In a similar vein, Suriyon Sriorathaikul of Beauty Gems—an export giant—urges for government interventions to soften the relentless economic blow, proposing interest cuts or pandemic-mode relief for embattled producers. Gems and jewellery trade make a whopping contribution of 400 billion baht to the economy, underlining the severity of a potential tariff-triggered slump. As talks intensify, all eyes are on the government, tasked with tackling these tariffs head-on to keep Thailand on a competitive footing in the global market. The next steps could determine the balance of trade, growth, and economic resilience in a markedly turbulent year. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-04

Picture courtesy of Travel Weekly A surge of local travellers fleeing Bangkok's recent earthquake filled Pattaya hotels to capacity, while Hua Hin accommodations reported underwhelming results. On the quake's day and the following weekend, Pattaya saw unexpected full occupancy as many opted for a last-minute escape from the capital. In contrast, hotels in the typically bustling resorts of Hua Hin and Cha-am struggled, maintaining only 60% occupancy. Morrakot Kuldilok, president of the Thai Hotels Association's Eastern Chapter, highlighted the Qingming festival and Bangkok evacuees as factors for Pattaya's full house. Many Bangkok residents returned to the city for work by Monday, as remote working options remained limited. Despite structural safety concerns from foreign travel agents, especially after worldwide broadcast of the State Audit Office building's collapse, tourism in Pattaya remains optimistic heading into Songkran with an expected 80% occupancy rate. In Hua Hin, fears over travel safety on Rama II Road, notorious for recent accidents and delays, deterred last-minute visitors fleeing Bangkok's tremors. Udom Srimahachota of THA’s Western Chapter expressed concerns over potential tourist diversion during Songkran due to road safety issues despite official reassurances. The Dao Khanong expressway's ongoing debris clearance and congestion further intensified travel apprehensions. While Hua Hin hopes to attract foreign tourists seeking refuge from the aftereffects in Bangkok, concerns linger. The government is encouraged to assure safe travel conditions and infrastructure improvements ahead of Songkran. Recent THA data highlighted a total of 897 room cancellations across 85 surveyed hotels, with significant losses in Bangkok, indicating a broader impact on the hotel industry due to the quake's disruption. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-04

Pattaya Hotels Boom Amid Post-Quake Guest Surge as Hua Hin Falters Picture courtesy of Travel Weekly A surge of local travellers fleeing Bangkok's recent earthquake filled Pattaya hotels to capacity, while Hua Hin accommodations reported underwhelming results. On the quake's day and the following weekend, Pattaya saw unexpected full occupancy as many opted for a last-minute escape from the capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356733-pattaya-hotels-boom-amid-post-quake-guest-surge-as-hua-hin-falters/

US Tariffs Threaten Thai Economy with B360bn Blow Composite image courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre Devastating tariff hikes from the United States could hit Thailand with a jaw-dropping 360 billion baht loss, shaving a staggering 2% off the nation's GDP, as warned by experts at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356728-us-tariffs-threaten-thai-economy-with-b360bn-blow/

Thai Baht Plummets with US Tariff Blow: 34.50 per Dollar Test Looms Picture courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre The Thai baht is expected to plunge to an alarming 34.50 per US dollar following the US's unexpected announcement of a hefty 37% reciprocal tariff on Thai imports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356731-thai-baht-plummets-with-us-tariff-blow-a-3450-per-dollar-test-looms/

Thai Rice Crisis: Losing US to Vietnam Looms Over Thailand File photo for reference only Thai rice exporters are raising an alarm over potential losses in the US market, as Vietnam threatens to steal the spotlight with their cheaper rice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356767-thai-rice-crisis-losing-us-to-vietnam-looms-over-thailand/

File photo for reference only Thai rice exporters are raising an alarm over potential losses in the US market, as Vietnam threatens to steal the spotlight with their cheaper rice. The situation emerged after the US slapped a hefty 36% tariff on Thai imports, propelling the price of Thai Hom Mali fragrant rice to a potential ฿52,430 per tonne, up from its current range of approximately ฿33,720-฿37,460. Meanwhile, even with a 46% tariff, Vietnamese rice remains a more economical option at ฿22,480-฿26,220 per tonne. Last year painted a contrasting picture, with Thailand exporting 850,000 tonnes of Hom Mali rice to the US compared to Vietnam's modest 40,000 tonnes. Fearful of a market shift, the president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association urges swift governmental intervention to negotiate these worrisome tariffs. The urgency is underscored by the fact that US importers have already preempted the tariff hike, importing a significant 100,000 tonnes of Thai rice. Deputy Leader Sirikanya Tansakul from the People’s Party indicated that this tariff escalation aims not just at balancing trade deficits but also nudging US investment back home. The tariff repercussions could see Thailand’s GDP potentially shrink by over 1% if negotiations fail. A more optimistic outlook predicts a GDP reduction of 0.8% with a 25% tariff, or just 0.3% if cut to 10%. Thai goods facing the brunt of increased tariffs include car tyres and electrical appliances, rounded off by communications kit. Sirikanya issued a warning on potential hesitation or withdrawal of foreign investments amidst this tariff turmoil. She also noted the long-standing trade surplus enjoyed by US service-sector companies in Thailand, suggesting this sector may hold opportunities for offsetting the precarious tariff situation. Based on a story by Thai PBS World -- 2025-04-04

Senators Slam Pheu Thai's Gambling Gambit Based on Thaksin's Vision Picture courtesy of Wikipedia A battalion of nearly 200 former senators has started a full-on offensive against Pheu Thai's audacious plan to usher in casinos and online gambling across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356765-senators-slam-pheu-thais-gambling-gambit-based-on-thaksins-vision/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia A battalion of nearly 200 former senators has started a full-on offensive against Pheu Thai's audacious plan to usher in casinos and online gambling across Thailand. Led by prominent names like Manoonkrit Roopkhachorn, Thiradej Meepian, and Pornpet Wichitchonchai, these ex-lawmakers are calling for an immediate halt to this bold legislative push. They've delivered a starkly worded statement to House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, cautioning that these proposals, if brought to life, could spell doom for the nation. This stern statement, from 189 former lawmakers, states unequivocally that the coalition government ought to backtrack on what they brand as “catastrophic” legislation. They've made it clear that they believe casinos, positioned as enticing tourist traps, will bring more harm than good, spreading socio-economic blight rather than wealth throughout the land. These statements challenge the prevailing idea that casinos equate to riches, pointing to regional neighbours like the Philippines and Myanmar, which are not miraculously transformed into economic powerhouses despite their gambling dens. The former senators warn that legalization would invite a menagerie of criminal activities. They predict a spike in transnational crimes, such as call centre scams, human trafficking, and drug smuggling, which they believe will be fuelled by a gambling economy. They argue that the promise of prosperity is a mirage, failing to translate to real economic growth or benefit the everyday lives of Thai nationals. Though specific figures are cited, they see the risks as vastly outweighing any potential gains. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-04

Songkran 2025 Spending Predicted to Hit Record ฿134 Billion Picture courtesy of Wikipedia Thailand's Songkran festival in 2025 is expected to generate a record-breaking 134.6 billion baht (฿134 billion) in consumer spending, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356762-songkran-2025-spending-predicted-to-hit-record-฿134-billion/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia Thailand's Songkran festival in 2025 is expected to generate a record-breaking 134.6 billion baht (฿134 billion) in consumer spending, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. This marks a 4.5% increase compared to the previous year, making it the highest expenditure since 2020. The university's president and chief economic advisor, Thanavath Phonvichai, noted that only 5% of those surveyed plan to cut back on spending, the lowest percentage since 2016. Additionally, 72.1% of respondents intend to travel during the festival, the highest rate since 2019. Despite lingering caution in spending, the festival is expected to be lively. Concerns such as recent earthquakes and potential tax changes introduced by Trump are not expected to significantly impact the festivities. Current assessments suggest minimal effects on consumer behaviour, although the situation will be reassessed in the following week. Reports from regional chambers of commerce indicate that the aftershocks of the recent earthquake have caused anxiety, particularly in Bangkok and the north. However, local spending among Thais is largely unaffected, with the forecasted figure of ฿134 billion still deemed viable. Attention remains on the international tourist sector and any potential travel disruptions or cancellations. Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-04-04

Crane Accident on Rama 2 Injures One as It Crushes Pickup Picture courtesy of Khaosod In the early hours of 4th April, a six-wheeled crane toppled from an elevated construction site on Rama 2 Road in Samut Sakhon, landing on a pickup truck passing below. The incident occurred around 02:40 near a hotel access road, resulting in the driver of the pickup being injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356753-falling-crane-smashes-pickup-on-rama-2-driver-seriously-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod In the early hours of 4th April, a six-wheeled crane toppled from an elevated construction site on Rama 2 Road in Samut Sakhon, landing on a pickup truck passing below. The incident occurred around 02:40 near a hotel access road, resulting in the driver of the pickup being injured. At the scene, the crane was found overturned across the parallel road heading into Bangkok. The pickup, which was delivering medical supplies, suffered significant damage on the driver's side due to the impact. The injured driver, identified as 36-year-old Mr. Natthaphon, has been transported to Ekachai Hospital. Preliminary investigations suggest that the crane, parked on the construction site for the elevated road, slipped and fell onto the pickup travelling below, causing the injury. Traffic was temporarily halted on the parallel road so that the authorities could safely remove the crane. Normal traffic flow resumed once the crane was cleared. Police in Samut Sakhon plan to question the crane operator and witnesses to determine the precise cause of the accident and to pursue any necessary legal action. They are also addressing the victim’s care and compensation. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-04

Chinese Nationals Flee Accident Scene After Crashing Mercedes in Chonburi Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Police in Chonburi are searching for two Chinese nationals after an early morning crash. The pair allegedly drove a luxury Mercedes-Benz through a red light, lost control, and crashed into a street lamp. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356741-chinese-nationals-flee-accident-scene-after-crashing-mercedes-in-chonburi/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Police in Chonburi are searching for two Chinese nationals after an early morning crash. The pair allegedly drove a luxury Mercedes-Benz through a red light, lost control, and crashed into a street lamp. They subsequently abandoned the vehicle and vanished, leaving bewildered locals questioning their hasty departure. The incident, which took place at 6:23 am on 3rd April 2025, was reported near the Sukhumvit road junction, heading towards Pattaya. The authorities, alerted by the local radio centre, promptly dispatched officers to investigate. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath On-site, they found a severely damaged Mercedes-Benz S560e with auction plates scattered in parts across the road, having taken out a central island street light. However, the driver was nowhere to be found. A roadside vendor witnessing the event said she heard a loud crash, then saw two Chinese men emerge from the car. One headed into nearby woods while the other ran across the road, leaving her puzzled about their reasons for fleeing. CCTV footage confirmed the car ran a red light before skidding and hitting the street lamp. The passengers inspected the damage then fled the scene on foot. Police have documented the incident and have impounded the vehicle as evidence. They are actively seeking the individuals involved to understand their motives for fleeing and to hold them accountable for the damage caused to government property. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Based on a story by Thai Rath -- 2025-04-04

Rescue Teams Make Breakthrough in Bangkok Building Collapse Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Rescue teams have successfully created an opening in the rubble of the collapsed Auditor General's Office in Bangkok, intensifying efforts to find survivors. This follows the unexpected collapse of the city-centre building, which left several individuals trapped underneath. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356738-rescue-teams-make-breakthrough-in-bangkok-building-collapse/