webfact

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

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/

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. On 3rd April 2025, rescue workers and volunteers detected signs of life and heard cries for help from beneath the debris. In response, a coordinated effort involving rescue units, volunteers, and heavy machinery aimed to breach into the suspected survival zones under the concrete wreckage, managing to lift three large slabs so far. Rescue operations also employed search and rescue dogs (K9 units) to boost the chances of locating any survivors still trapped in the ruins. All efforts are being urgently conducted to reach and safely rescue any remaining individuals as quickly as possible. As of 5:30 PM, a team using a backhoe has successfully opened a large cavity in Zone D of the site. It is currently being assessed for survivors. Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-04-04

UPDATE: Tragedy in Thailand: French Tourist Killed on Zebra Crossing Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A French tourist tragically lost his life after being hit by a car while crossing a zebra crossing in Kanchanaburi on Wednesday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356651-french-tourist-in-critical-condition-after-zebra-crossing-accident/page/2/#findComment-19707654

UPDATE: Tragedy in Thailand: French Tourist Killed on Zebra Crossing Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A French tourist tragically lost his life after being hit by a car while crossing a zebra crossing in Kanchanaburi on Wednesday night. The unfortunate event took place on Saengchutor Road near JJ Market in Muang district, as confirmed by Pol Capt Thammawat Sukheewat from the local police station, who received the alert around 10:45pm. The 40-year-old visitor was found severely injured on the roadside, with significant trauma to his face, limbs, and body. Emergency services treated the victim at the scene before he was rushed to Phaholpolpayuhasena Hospital. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after midnight, according to Pol Col Surayut Mekmangkol, the chief of Kanchanaburi police. The French embassy has been informed, and his body has been sent to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok for a detailed post-mortem examination. Krittaphat Kamrai, 24, the driver of the vehicle involved in the incident, stayed at the scene and was tested for alcohol consumption, with results showing no intoxication. Security footage recorded the moment the tourist was struck while using the zebra crossing. Reports indicate that Krittaphat failed to brake as he approached the crossing, resulting in the collision. Police have charged Krittaphat with reckless driving leading to death, and he is currently detained pending further investigation. The loss has resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of road safety, particularly in areas frequented by pedestrians and tourists. Authorities are continuing their inquiries into this devastating incident, aiming to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the tragic accident. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-04

French Tourist in Critical Condition After Zebra Crossing Accident Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV A French tourist is in critical condition after being struck by a car on a zebra crossing late at night in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The incident has sparked community calls for improved lighting and warning signs in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356651-french-tourist-in-critical-condition-after-zebra-crossing-accident/

Australian Woman Found Guilty of Modern Slavery in Thai Sex Trafficking Case Photo of Rungnapha (right) courtesy of AAP Image via Daily Mail UK In a harrowing case of modern slavery, 63-year-old Sydney resident Rungnapha Kanbut has been found guilty of enslaving two Thai women, forcing them into sex work under oppressive conditions. The verdict was delivered by a jury at the Downing Centre Court on 1st April, marking a significant moment for Australia’s Thai community and human rights advocates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356702-australian-woman-found-guilty-of-modern-slavery-in-thai-sex-trafficking-case/

American Man in Critical Condition After Self-Inflicted Knife Wounds in Pattaya Picture and video from responders. An American man is in critical condition after stabbing himself multiple times in the throat and chest in a dramatic incident that unfolded on a busy Pattaya road. Emergency responders managed to restrain the man and rush him to hospital, but he remains in a life-threatening condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356707-american-man-in-critical-condition-after-self-inflicted-knife-wounds-in-pattaya/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 4 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1356726-thailand-live-friday-4-april-2025/

Thailand Urged to Form ‘War Room’ in Response to US Tariffs File photo for reference only Thailand faces a major economic challenge as US President Donald Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Dr. Santitarn Sathienthai, a member of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee, suggests the urgent creation of a “war room” to tackle the potential economic fallout. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356677-t

French Tourist in Critical Condition After Zebra Crossing Accident Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV A French tourist is in critical condition after being struck by a car on a zebra crossing late at night in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The incident has sparked community calls for improved lighting and warning signs in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356651-french-tourist-in-critical-condition-after-zebra-crossing-accident/