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Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Royal Thai Navy marines have successfully reclaimed Ban Nong Ri in Trat province from Cambodian forces after days of strategic combat, as confirmed on Wednesday. Following an escalating threat since December, the Border Defence Command, along with the Marine Task Force, mounted an intense operation to regain control over the crucial area. The situation came to light when aerial surveillance detected Cambodian troops establishing a new base in Ban Nong Ri, reigniting tensions at a previously contested zone. The Royal Thai Air Force coordinated their efforts from December 9th, engaging in rigorous manoeuvres that eventually secured the border region. Rear Adm Parach Rattanachaiphan emphasised that the mission adhered to international legal standards and human rights principles. The operation was an integrated undertaking to uphold national sovereignty, ensuring security and the safety of civilians residing at the frontier. Overall, the mobilisation of naval and air force units was pivotal in restoring stability, aiming to deter further aggression. The successful expulsion of foreign forces underscores Thailand's commitment to defending its borders against unauthorised intrusions, reported The Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: Thai marines successfully expelled Cambodian forces from Ban Nong Ri. The operation was conducted with adherence to international legal standards. Stability has been restored to the border region, safeguarding national sovereignty. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-18

Phuket Woman Brandishes Gun in Heated Debt Dispute Picture courtesy of The Phuket News A tense encounter unfolded at a Phuket viewpoint yesterday when a woman allegedly threatened finance agents with a firearm over missed car payments. At around 4:20 pm at Khao Khad Viewpoint, two agents approached the woman about a debt of over 33,000 Thai baht on a Honda Jazz. The situation escalated when she reportedly threatened the agents with a gun. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382065-phuket-woman-brandishes-gun-in-heated-debt-dispute/

Picture courtesy of The Phuket News A tense encounter unfolded at a Phuket viewpoint yesterday when a woman allegedly threatened finance agents with a firearm over missed car payments. At around 4:20 pm at Khao Khad Viewpoint, two agents approached the woman about a debt of over 33,000 Thai baht on a Honda Jazz. The situation escalated when she reportedly threatened the agents with a gun. Police quickly intervened after the agents reported the incident to the Wichit Police Station. The suspect, identified as 60-year-old Patch, was located in Wichit’s Moo 1 and brought to the station voluntarily. She brought along a registered .38 calibre Smith & Wesson revolver, approved in Trang’s Hat Samran District. During police questioning, Patch admitted using the weapon, citing panic and health issues as motivations. She explained her actions were unintentional, driven by stress over possible car repossession and her lung condition. Authorities charged her with unlawful possession of a firearm and threatening behaviour. The investigation continues as police proceed with legal actions against Patch. This event follows a similar incident in Bangkok involving a student found with a loaded revolver, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways: A woman in Phuket allegedly threatened finance agents over a car debt with a firearm. Police charged her with unauthorised firearm possession and threatening behaviour. Legal proceedings are ongoing as investigations continue. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-18

Foreign Student's Plea for Justice After Chiang Rai Crash Picture via TikTok/@laminkhaing05 A foreign student in Chiang Rai has taken to TikTok to seek justice following a devastating car crash. The incident left her injured and another man dead, with the Thai driver allegedly failing to take responsibility. The student involved, La Min Khaing, a second-year undergraduate at Mae Fah Luang University, shared her ordeal in a TikTok video on Sunday, 14 December, hoping to raise awareness and gain support. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382064-foreign-students-plea-for-justice-after-chiang-rai-crash/

Picture via TikTok/@laminkhaing05 A foreign student in Chiang Rai has taken to TikTok to seek justice following a devastating car crash. The incident left her injured and another man dead, with the Thai driver allegedly failing to take responsibility. The student involved, La Min Khaing, a second-year undergraduate at Mae Fah Luang University, shared her ordeal in a TikTok video on Sunday, 14 December, hoping to raise awareness and gain support. The accident occurred on 1 December, just outside the university campus. La Min Khaing reported that a Thai driver ran a red light, crashing into a motorcyclist making a U-turn. This impact caused the motorcycle to slide across the road and collide with La Min Khaing's own motorcycle. Tragically, the male motorcyclist died on the scene, while La Min Khaing suffered serious injuries, including a broken wrist and fractured clavicle. Picture via TikTok/@laminkhaing05 La Min Khaing claims the driver has not taken responsibility, offering no support to her or the deceased man's family. Despite having insurance, the compensation she received hasn't been sufficient to cover her extensive medical costs. Doctors have told her she faces a recovery period exceeding two years, affecting both her physical activities and studies. Her TikTok video attracted attention from Thai netizens who showed support and contacted government agencies on her behalf. She expressed gratitude for the public response in a follow-up video and provided an update. She and the victim’s family are scheduled to meet with the driver at a local police station next week to discuss the incident further, reported The Thaiger. Picture via TikTok/@laminkhaing05 Key Takeaways Foreign student injured in Chiang Rai crash seeks accountability. Public support grows as case draws attention on TikTok. Meeting set with driver and victims’ families at police station. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-18

Illegal Cannabis Farm with 1,685 Plants Raided in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Facebook/ตำรวจไทย – Thaipolice Three Vietnamese men were taken into custody after police raided an illegal cannabis farm in a Bangkok warehouse. The operation, conducted on December 17, involved officers from the Crime Suppression Division and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382063-illegal-cannabis-farm-with-1685-plants-raided-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Facebook/ตำรวจไทย – Thaipolice Three Vietnamese men were taken into custody after police raided an illegal cannabis farm in a Bangkok warehouse. The operation, conducted on December 17, involved officers from the Crime Suppression Division and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. The raid was initiated following a complaint from a local resident who noticed a strong odour of cannabis emanating from the warehouse. This led authorities to investigate the site, obtain a search warrant from the Thonburi Criminal Court, and execute the search. Inside the warehouse, officers found Nguyen Duc Anh, 28, Do Van Bay, 27, and Dang Sy Tai, 35. The suspects admitted to cultivating cannabis without a legal licence. Police seized 1,685 cannabis plants, estimated at a total value of 1.7 million Thai baht, with each plant contributing around 100 grammes of dried cannabis flower. Authorities charged the men with violating Section 46 of the Thai Traditional Medical Knowledge Protection and Promotion Act. This law forbids unapproved study, sale, or processing of controlled herbs like cannabis. Those found guilty face up to one year in prison, a fine of 20,000 baht, or both. Similar charges led to the arrest of a Vietnamese individual in January. In that case, the suspect stated that a Thai man employed him for 20,000 baht a month to oversee the plants. No additional information has emerged concerning the Thai individual in the prior case, reported The Thaiger. Picture courtesy of Facebook/ตำรวจไทย – Thaipolice Key Takeaways Three Vietnamese men were arrested for illegal cannabis cultivation in Bangkok. Police seized 1,685 plants valued at about 1.7 million Thai baht. Suspects face charges under the Thai Traditional Medical Knowledge Protection and Promotion Act. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-18

New Regulation to Manage Stray Animals in Bangkok by 2026 Photo courtesy of Khaosod Bangkok is set to implement a citywide program in early 2026 aimed at managing the city's estimated 100,000 stray dogs. The initiative will require mandatory pet registration and microchipping to promote responsible ownership and reduce stray populations. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasized the importance of tracking pet ownership to address issues caused by stray animals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382033-new-regulation-to-manage-stray-animals-in-bangkok-by-2026/

UK Becomes First European Nation to Send 1M Tourists to Thailand Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Thailand achieved a significant tourism milestone this year, with long-haul tourist arrivals breaching the 10 million mark for the first time. A Thai Airways flight from London to Bangkok landed on December 17, symbolically marking this milestone. This year, the UK also claimed the title of the first European nation to send over 1 million visitors to Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382057-uk-becomes-first-european-nation-with-1m-tourists-to-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 18 December 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1382010-thailand-live-thursday-18-december-2025/

US Man Detained After Taking Photos Near Military Airport Picture courtesy of Thai Rat | via The Thaiger On December 16, officers in Surin detained an American man for taking photos near a military airport. Border Patrol Police Unit 21 raised the alarm due to his suspicious behaviour, which led to his detention by Mueang Surin Police Station officers. The man, who refused to have his mobile phone inspected, was wearing a military-style cap and sunglasses at the time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381985-us-man-detained-after-taking-photos-near-military-airport/

UK Becomes First European Nation to Send 1M Tourists to Thailand Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Thailand achieved a significant tourism milestone this year, with long-haul tourist arrivals breaching the 10 million mark for the first time. A Thai Airways flight from London to Bangkok landed on December 17, symbolically marking this milestone. This year, the UK also claimed the title of the first European nation to send over 1 million visitors to Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382057-uk-becomes-first-european-nation-with-1m-tourists-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Thailand achieved a significant tourism milestone this year, with long-haul tourist arrivals breaching the 10 million mark for the first time. The landing of a Thai Airways flight from London to Bangkok on December 17 symbolically marked this milestone. This year, the UK also claimed the title of the first European nation to send over 1 million visitors to Thailand. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, along with other officials, welcomed travellers to Suvarnabhumi Airport to mark the occasion. Long-haul visitors, including those from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa, now make up about 33% of all international arrivals. Thailand is targeting a total of 32.8 million tourist arrivals by the year’s end, with long-haul visitors being big spenders who enjoy extended stays, aligning with TAT's focus on attracting high-quality tourists. To celebrate this achievement, two passengers were awarded Thai Airways international flight tickets for the London-Bangkok route, alongside luxurious accommodations at Anantara Chiang Mai and Avani+ Khao Lak. PANPURI Wellness and Sala Lakorn provided additional dining and spa experiences. Reports from Khaosod suggest that TAT attributes this success to its strategic focus on airlines, aimed at boosting direct flights and increasing flight frequencies to facilitate long-haul travel. The volume of long-haul flights to Thailand increased by 12.8% this year, noticeably outpacing the global average of 1.6%. New and reintroduced routes include services from United Airlines’ Los Angeles-Bangkok, Air France’s Paris-Phuket, and Norse Atlantic Airways’ expanded routes from London Gatwick, Manchester, Stockholm, and Oslo. Arkia Airlines from Israel has also restarted its Tel Aviv-Bangkok flights. Continuing promotional initiatives in the UK, in collaboration with tour operators and airlines, have significantly contributed to these increased numbers. Looking ahead to early 2026, TAT is planning new campaigns with over 10 UK travel companies to sustain this growth. As the holiday season approaches, travellers can anticipate a surge in flights and potential ticket price increases, though there are still chances to find reasonably priced options, according to The Thaiger. Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Key Takeaways Thailand surpassed 10 million long-haul tourists for the first time. The UK is notable as the first European country to exceed 1 million visitors. TAT's airline-focused strategy boosted flight connections significantly. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-17

Beauty Queen's Eye-Slant Gesture Sparks Backlash Across Asia File photo courtesy of Die Zeit Sarah Dzafce, Miss Finland, has ignited a worldwide scandal after a photo showed her pulling her eyelids to mimic "slanted eyes." The image, captioned "eating with a Chinese", has resulted in her losing her crown after a backlash from Asian communities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382024-beauty-queens-eye-slant-gesture-sparks-backlash-across-asia/

File photo courtesy of Die Zeit Sarah Dzafce, Miss Finland, has ignited a worldwide scandal after a photo showed her pulling her eyelids to mimic "slanted eyes." The image, captioned "eating with a Chinese", has resulted in her losing her crown after a backlash from Asian communities. The controversy erupted across Japan, South Korea, and China and even affected Finland's national airline, Finnair. The Finnish Prime Minister, Petteri Orpo, criticised the gesture as "thoughtless," stating that it was damaging to Finland's image. Dzafce, who claims the gesture was due to a headache, apologised, but her explanation met with scepticism, especially because it was in Finnish. Despite Dzafce's apology, public reaction remains intense. Criticism for the timing and language of her apology points to perceived insincerity, with many noting it should have been accessible to Asian audiences. Controversially, two Finnish MPs mimicked Dzafce's gesture in support but were forced to retract their posts following backlash. The uproar extended to calls for a boycott of Finland, impacting Finnair's operations. The airline distanced itself, by expressing respect for diversity. Meanwhile, a petition in Finland demands further investigation into anti-Asian discrimination, highlighting ongoing societal challenges, reported the BBC. Photo composite for reference only Key Takeaways Miss Finland was stripped of her title after a racially insensitive photo went viral. The incident provoked international backlash, affecting Finland’s image and Finnair. Finnish MPs who showed support faced criticism and potential sanctions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

video screenshot The European Commission has decided to soften its original plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035, now allowing 10% of new car sales to be non-zero-emission. This change comes after significant lobbying from car manufacturers, particularly in Germany, who argued for concessions due to current low demand for electric vehicles. Originally, the plan mandated all new vehicles sold starting in 2035 to be "zero emissions," but under the revised scheme, 90% of new cars must meet this requirement. The European carmakers association, ACEA, highlighted that without this adjustment, manufacturers could face "multi-billion euro" penalties. The Commission also aims to increase the use of biofuels and e-fuels to counterbalance emissions. Critics warn that this move could hamper the EU's transition to electric vehicles and heighten competition from abroad. Transport group T&E stresses that the UK should not reduce its targets under the Zero Emission Vehicles Mandate. T&E UK's director, Anna Krajinska, insists that maintaining current policies is essential to continue fostering industry innovation and jobs. Sigrid de Vries of ACEA emphasised the need for "flexibility" for manufacturers because market readiness lags behind policy deadlines. She pointed out the necessity of expanding charging infrastructure and sustaining supportive incentives. Similarly, UK carmakers are appealing for improved incentives to promote electric vehicle purchases, noting the impending 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars. Volvo has already shifted towards a full electric vehicle portfolio and emphasised that short-term policy relaxations could weaken Europe’s long-term industrial competitiveness. Conversely, Volkswagen supported the Commission’s draft, praising its pragmatic approach to CO₂ targets and special support for small electric cars. Experts like Colin Walker from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit believe that consistent government policies are crucial for fostering investment in necessary infrastructure, citing Nissan’s North East production line as an example. Fiona Howarth of Octopus Electric Vehicles warns that altering UK goals in line with Brussels’ changes could deter current and future investments from the automotive industry, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: EU shifts stance, allowing 10% of new cars to be non-zero-emission by 2035. Critics argue this change may slow the transition to electric vehicles. Consistent policy is deemed necessary to sustain industry investments. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-17

Picture courtesy of News AZ Singapore’s High Court has dismissed a significant legal challenge against the mandatory death penalty for certain drug offences, marking a setback for activists during a peak year for executions. The challenge, brought by human rights advocates and relatives of executed convicts, claimed the law violates constitutional rights. Judge Hoo Sheau Peng ruled the challengers lacked legal standing, but he acknowledged the merits were weak. The case was the first of its kind in 15 years, initiated during a year when executions reached a 22-year high. Amendments in 2012 introduced some sentencing discretion, yet the law remains stringent for specific drug trafficking quantities, such as 500 grams of cannabis or 15 grams of heroin. This year's 17 executions, primarily for drug-related offences, have highlighted the ongoing legal and moral debates surrounding capital punishment in Singapore. The petitioners expressed disappointment with the rapid dismissal and are considering an appeal. Despite fresh arguments, prior challenges, including a notable case in 2010, have similarly failed. Authorities argue that strict penalties contribute to Singapore's status as one of the world's safest cities, a sentiment echoed by public opinion in a 2023 survey supporting the death penalty for serious crimes. The latest executions occurred in November with three hangings, following two others in October. Looking forward, the decision reaffirms the legal framework supporting Singapore's hard line on drug offences. Activists continue to voice concerns over the 40 prisoners currently on death row for drug convictions, underscoring the contentious divide between human rights advocacy and governmental policy, reported AFP via Vietnam Express. Key Takeaways Singapore court dismissed the challenge to the mandatory death penalty. 17 executions this year, with a 22-year high in execution rates. Government cites public support, claiming the policy ensures safety. Related story: Singapore Executes 3 in Two Days as Death Penalty Debate Grows Adapted by ASEAN Now from AFP | Vietnam Express 2025-12-17

US Man Detained After Taking Photos Near Military Airport Picture courtesy of Thai Rat | via The Thaiger On December 16, officers in Surin detained an American man for taking photos near a military airport. Border Patrol Police Unit 21 raised the alarm due to his suspicious behaviour, which led to his detention by Mueang Surin Police Station officers. The man, who refused to have his mobile phone inspected, was wearing a military-style cap and sunglasses at the time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381985-us-man-detained-after-taking-photos-near-military-airport/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rat | via The Thaiger On December 16, officers in Surin detained an American man for taking photos near a military airport. Border Patrol Police Unit 21 raised an alarm due to his suspicious behaviour, which led to his detention by Mueang Surin Police Station officers. The man, who refused to have his mobile phone inspected, was wearing a military-style cap and sunglasses at the time. The 46-year-old, identified as hailing from New Jersey, entered Thailand alone and had only checked into a Surin city centre hotel on December 15. His actions drew concern as he attempted to leave the area upon noticing a police observation, further raising suspicions. After initially hiding in a public bathroom, he eventually agreed to communicate with officers. Amid tightened security, the incident follows a warning about a potential foreign spy linked to Cambodia. The incident in Surin mirrors previous tensions in Nakhon Ratchasima, where Russian nationals faced accusations of espionage. However,the Russian Embassy dismissed these claims, advocatingd for peace between Thailand and Cambodia. Police in Surin continue investigations and have not released any new details but stressed ongoing concerns about foreign surveillance activities. Officers emphasise increased vigilance and community awareness when monitoring unusual behaviour near sensitive military sites, according to The Thaiger. Picture courtesy of Thai Rat | via The Thaiger Key Takeaways An American man was detained for photographing near a military airport. The detention follows increased security due to espionage concerns. No new developments have been reported by Surin police. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-17

Hat Yai Faces 2-Month Rebuilding After Flood Impact Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post via The Thaiger Tourism in Hat Yai is expected to need 1-2 months for full recovery following severe flooding that has hit the area. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reported that the main source market, Malaysia, could see a reduction of up to 55% in December arrivals, leading to an overall annual decrease of 11%. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool noted December’s Malaysian arrivals are predicted to be 205,000, dropping 55% compared to last year, with a revenue dip of 54%, generating 4.4 billion Thai baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381983-hat-yai-tourism-faces-2-month-rebuilding-after-flood-impact/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post via The Thaiger Tourism in Hat Yai is expected to need 1-2 months for full recovery following severe flooding that has hit the area. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reported that the main source market, Malaysia, could see a reduction of up to 55% in December arrivals, leading to an overall annual decrease of 11%. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool noted December’s Malaysian arrivals are predicted to be 205,000, dropping 55% compared to last year, with a revenue dip of 54%, generating 4.4 billion Thai baht. Flooding in many southern provinces, particularly in Hat Yai, has significantly contributed to this slump. The TAT projects a decline in annual arrivals to 4.38 million, an 11% drop from the previous year. As a result of the flooding, foreign visitor numbers for the year could fall by 8% to 32.8 million, with potential revenue losses of 1.52 trillion Thai baht, a decrease of 5% year-on-year. The flooding also destroyed key economic zones, including Kim Yong Market in Hat Yai, necessitating urgent restoration efforts. Public health and waste removal are the primary focus of these restoration efforts, given the long-term impacts and crisis management concerns among locals. The relocation of sports events like the SEA Games to Bangkok and changes in tourism activities could damage the region's image and travel confidence. December is projected to see 3.2 million foreign tourism arrivals, according to TAT estimates, despite recent challenges. The flooding has led to a decrease in forward air ticket bookings by 3% year-on-year, with only five markets showing growth: the US (13%), Israel (11%), the UK (9%), and both Russia and Italy at 8%. The German market emerged as the leader in seat bookings, commanding 9.1%, followed by the UK, South Korea, the US, and Russia. An additional factor affecting international arrivals is the strong Thai baht, which can influence spending plans and destination choices unfavourably compared to others. For the domestic market in December, a slight contraction of 1% in local trips is expected, with revenue falling 2% to 109 billion baht. Bangkok is anticipated to generate the highest revenue during this period at 25 billion baht, a decline of 4.5%. The South is still feeling the effects of the flooding, with an expected revenue drop of 1.6% to 17.6 billion baht. Overall, the domestic market may see less revenue year-on-year due to cautious spending, international competition, and recent natural disasters. Key Takeaways Hat Yai requires 1-2 months to recover, with Malaysian arrivals dropping 55%. Flooding impacts are expected to lower foreign visitor numbers by 8% this year. Strong Thai baht affects international tourism, influencing spending and choice. Related Story: Anutin Sets 14-Day Deadline for Hat Yai Flood Recovery Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17

Trip.com Scraps Cambodia Partnership Over Privacy Fears AI-generated illustration | via The Thaiger Trip.com has abruptly ended its partnership with Cambodia's tourism authorities following privacy concerns voiced by users in China and Thailand. This move comes after Chinese users expressed fears that their personal information might be exposed to scam operations, triggering a significant backlash and a wave of account deletions on Trip.com's parent platform, Ctrip. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381979-tripcom-scraps-cambodia-partnership-over-privacy-fears/

AI-generated illustration | via The Thaiger Trip.com has abruptly ended its partnership with Cambodia's tourism authorities following privacy concerns voiced by users in China and Thailand. This move comes after Chinese users expressed fears that their personal information might be exposed to scam operations, triggering a significant backlash and a wave of account deletions on Trip.com's parent platform, Ctrip. On December 1, Trip.com had signed a tourism promotion agreement with Cambodia’s National Tourism Authority. However, shortly after, a surge of concern erupted among Chinese users. Many shared screenshots of their deleted Ctrip accounts online. One user stated, “I cancelled my Ctrip account last night after using the platform for eight years.” Past data leaks by Ctrip, particularly in 2014, appear to have compounded these fears. The apprehension has not been contained to China; it has spilt over into Thailand, where local media reported that users were deleting the Trip.com app. In response to the mounting anxiety, Trip.com announced it would cancel the cooperative initiative with Cambodia. Trip.com issued a statement clarifying that the agreement was purely for promoting tourism and maintains it did not involve any sharing or selling of personal data. The company emphasised its dedication to user trust and outlined its robust privacy and data protection policies. They stressed that similar partnerships exist with other countries, all designed to enhance tourism without compromising user security. This situation unfolds amidst wider concerns about fraud activities linked to Cambodia. Notably, South Korea has implemented travel restrictions for its citizens to certain Cambodian areas associated with scam operations. These include Bokor Mountain, Bravet Town, and Poipet City, whose impacts extend to neighbouring nations like Thailand and Vietnam, as reported by The Thaiger. Key Takeaways: Trip.com cancels its cooperation with Cambodia's NTA due to user privacy concerns. Chinese and Thai users deleted accounts, fearing data leaks to scam gangs. Trip.com affirms its commitment to privacy and cancels the agreement to reassure users. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-17

Phuket Booms: High Season Triumphs, Future Events Spark Optimism Picture via Wikipedia Phuket's tourism industry is celebrating its strongest high season in five years, surpassing pre-Covid figures. Thanet Tantipiriyakit, President of the Phuket Tourist Association, highlights a substantial increase in visitor numbers and spending. With six major global events planned for 2026, tourism revenue is expected to rise by 10%, reaching 605 billion Thai baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1381977-phuket-booms-high-season-triumphs-future-events-spark-optimism/

Picture via Wikipedia Phuket's tourism industry is celebrating its strongest high season in five years, surpassing pre-Covid figures. Thanet Tantipiriyakit, President of the Phuket Tourist Association, highlights a substantial increase in visitor numbers and spending. With six major global events planned for 2026, tourism revenue is expected to rise by 10%, reaching 605 billion Thai baht. The resurgence follows earlier challenges in 2025 due to international conflicts. Despite these setbacks, Thanet estimates daily visitors at 60,000 to 80,000, with a projected total revenue of 550 billion Thai baht for 2025. The focus remains on international visitors, with a significant portion expected from Russia, India, and China. Experts anticipate positive growth due to increased interest from European and long-haul markets. The Middle East and CIS regions are demonstrating significant potential, as markets such as Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan continue to expand. However, Chinese tourism is recovering slowly, with limited direct flights affecting numbers, though spending per trip has significantly increased. Relief for airlines and tourism operators is expected with new direct flights, such as those from Air France and Virgin Atlantic. Although concerns about Phuket Airport's capacity persist, these services could potentially boost tourist arrivals. The call for Thai Airways to resume direct flights to Phuket underscores the industry's desire to boost connectivity and reduce travel costs. Looking forward, the Phuket Tourist Association plans roadshows in emerging markets like the Middle East, India, and the US. These efforts aim to capitalise on rising trends and the anticipated success of the six major global events scheduled for 2026. Events like the Thailand Biennale and the Global Wellness Summit are expected to draw massive international attention, reported The Nation. Key Takeaways: Phuket experiences its best high season in five years, surpassing pre-Covid levels. Six major global events in 2026 are poised to boost tourism revenue by 10%. Increased direct flights and strategic roadshows aim to expand market reach. Related Stories: Phuket Aims for ‘Quality’ Tourists with Revenue Boost Phuket Luxury Homes: High Demand from Foreign Buyers Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-12-17