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Heavy machineries are deployed to clear the rubble from an under construction high-rise building that collapsed after Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) The Chinese embassy implores against defaming Chinese firms following the collapse of an unfinished State Audit building during last week’s earthquake in Bangkok. The contractor, ITD-CREC, is a joint venture between Italian-Thai Development Plc and China’s Railway Number 10 Engineering Group, with the latter holding a 49% stake. The embassy highlights the substantial benefits of Sino-Thai infrastructure collaboration. The calamity spurred criticism of Chinese companies involved, especially after the incident claimed lives. The incident prompted a swift investigation by the Thai government to uncover the causes. The embassy assured the venture adhered to strict legal and engineering standards and is cooperating fully to ensure the investigation’s fairness and accuracy. Chinese companies have significantly bolstered Thailand's economy by generating employment and investing heavily in local industries. While advocating for legal accountability in corporate practices, the embassy opposes the unjust vilification of Chinese firms. The Chinese embassy commits to fostering beneficial relations and cooperation to advance prosperity for Thailand and China. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-05

File photo courtesy of Benar News Thailand is urged to boost its purchase of US military technology to cut down a hefty trade surplus. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) suggests this could ease the sting of new US tariffs that President Donald Trump has slapped on Thai exports. The move is considered a possible antidote to the looming 36% tariff scheduled to kick in on April 9. FTI chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul believes acquiring pricey US military goods will not only help reduce Thailand’s surplus but also meet essential needs for the Thai military. With the trade surplus being the 11th largest globally, exceeding 1.2 trillion baht, action is needed to remedy the situation. Another consideration is increasing purchases of US agricultural raw materials, though this needs careful examination to avoid negatively impacting Thai farmers. The FTI has promptly requested detailed reports from 47 sectors on the tariff effects, seeking strategies to navigate Washington's policies. In addition to military purchases, Trump has also implemented a 25% tariff on foreign car and auto parts, a move designed to nudge US companies back to domestic production. Thai auto parts, significantly cheaper than their US-manufactured counterparts, form a key export to Ford Motor’s operations in the US. Further, Nipatsin Yimyam, of the FTI’s Petroleum Exploration and Production Industry Club, suggests expanding imports of US fuel, particularly liquefied natural gas. They predict the new tariffs could dent Thailand’s GDP by a concerning 1%, or 1.7 trillion baht. These defensive strategies are in focus as Thailand braces for the economic impacts of the tariff imposition. The collective efforts aim to protect Thai industries while addressing the trade deficit with the US. As the situation evolves, Thai officials and businesses remain scrutinising avenues that might balance this financial tightrope. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-05

Photo courtesy of Asean Post Thailand's tourism industry faces an uphill battle despite a weakened baht, say experts. The national currency's recent drop, a result of US tariff announcements, isn’t attracting the hoped-for influx of tourists since similar economic trends affect other Asian currencies. Travellers' confidence in safety remains a bigger obstacle, with reports of scams and natural disasters looming larger than currency issues. President Trump’s tariffs affected the baht, reaching a three-month low before stabilising at around 34.15 per dollar (approx. 1,200 Baht). However, it seems a weaker baht won’t sway potential visitors, as the baht's competitive edge is lost amidst widespread regional currency depreciation. Adith Chairattananon of the Association of Thai Travel Agents highlighted that foreign tourists continued to choose destinations like Japan, largely due to its safety record, despite a weaker yen. Chinese tourists, a vital demographic for Thailand, remain wary post-earthquake and following reports of scams. Even unaffected areas like Phuket aren’t drawing expected numbers, with hotels reporting low bookings for the upcoming Songkran holiday starting April 11. Suksit Suvunditkul from the Thai Hotels Association noted scant long-haul reservations during this low season, despite some beachfront resorts maintaining high occupancy. Prospects appear clouded by global economic instability following US policies, though Phuket, having diversified its markets, may be less impacted. According to the Thai Hotels Association’s survey on April 3, major destinations like Bangkok and Chiang Mai recorded nearly a 25% drop in bookings year-on-year for the Songkran festival. Although the weakened baht offers potential for growth, restoring confidence in safety and reliable travel experiences seems crucial. Amidst global economic uncertainties, Thailand's tourism sector remains challenged, striving to regain its former allure. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-05

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A week after the collapse of a new government building in Chatuchak, authorities have announced that a definitive cause remains elusive, with investigations poised to extend for several months. At the centre of the ongoing probe is the structural engineering of the building, which requires comprehensive examination before any conclusions are drawn. Following a meeting at the Ministry of the Interior on 4 April, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that while preliminary assessments have begun, immediate conclusions are currently impossible due to the ongoing rescue operations. Engineers must further analyse the design structure, particularly concerning its unique elevator placement that deviates from conventional mid-building positioning. This unusual design could contribute to structural instability. Mr Anutin emphasised the need for a detailed probe into various engineering safety factors, including resistance to shear and torsion forces, all of which will necessitate meticulous calculations over the coming months. On another note, he addressed the need for fairer compensation for victims. Current legal frameworks prescribe inadequate compensation—29,000 baht for fatalities and 4,000 baht for injuries. Mr Anutin directed officials to identify more reasonable support mechanisms, given the severity of the incident. Associate Professor Dr Thanet Veerasiri, president of the Engineering Institute of Thailand, reinforced the complexity of the task ahead. He stressed that collecting intact material samples remains challenging amidst ongoing rescue efforts, further challenging the timeline for conclusive findings. Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-04-05

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath International relief teams have begun to withdraw following a successful week-long mission to locate victims after the collapse of an office building in Bangkok. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt assures that future operations will continue seamlessly. On 4th April, Israeli rescue specialists departed the site of the collapsed office of the Auditor General in Bangkok. According to Governor Chadchart, the withdrawal aligns with global operations schedules for international rescue teams, such as those from Israel, who joined from day one and worked for around a week. As per protocol, some teams need to attend to other rescue missions globally. Governor Chadchart clarified that the withdrawal of these international teams is by international standards and will not impact the ongoing mission. These teams, organised under the global USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) network and classified as "Heavy" for their capability to operate globally within 78 hours and work continuously for 24 hours, have provided crucial support to Thai teams. The initial seven-day mission primarily focussed on search and rescue, during which the international teams shared valuable information with their Thai counterparts. Governor Chadchart emphasised the opportunity to upgrade Thai rescue units to the Heavy classification in the future. The foreign rescue experts praised the Thai efforts and highlighted the need for the safe use of heavy machinery under expert supervision, to avoid further collapses and ensure the area is clear of survivors or casualties. Israeli teams showcased expertise in pinpointing crucial hazard locations immediately upon their arrival, identifying signs of life and other indicators through analysis of situational data. Despite the complexity of this rare, high-rise collapse, Thai rescue operations continue with full gear and resources. Ultimately, Governor Chadchart reiterated commitment to future missions using heavy machinery and skilled personnel without hindrance, determined to bring Thai operations to international standards. Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-04-05

Thaksin's Medical Treatment Case Postponed Due to Late Documentation Police General Hospital. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In an unexpected twist, the Medical Council has deferred its verdict on Thaksin Shinawatra's medical care at the Police General Hospital. The decision, originally slated for April 10, was postponed due to a tide of documentation pouring in at the final hour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356885-thaksins-medical-treatment-case-postponed-due-to-late-documentation/

Police General Hospital. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In an unexpected twist, the Medical Council has deferred its verdict on Thaksin Shinawatra's medical care at the Police General Hospital. The decision, originally slated for April 10, was postponed due to a tide of documentation pouring in at the final hour. Reports indicate crucial medical records from both the Corrections Department’s hospital and the Police General Hospital only landed on March 31 and April 1. The sheer volume of papers demands meticulous scrutiny, the council declared in a statement, rendering it impossible to meet the April deadline. Professionals are now dissecting these documents to assess potential ethical breaches by the doctors who tended to Thaksin. The ex-prime minister's lengthened stay at the hospital since his return to Thailand on August 22, 2023, has prompted widespread scepticism. Allegations swirl around Thaksin, accusing him of exaggerating serious health issues to steer clear of his eight-year jail term. Suspicions suggest possible collusion with medical professionals to remain within hospital walls rather than a prison cell. However, a royal pardon ultimately sliced the sentence down to one year, and Thaksin never actually donned prison garb. This case has riveted the nation, leaving citizens speculating about the real story behind Thaksin's hospital time. As the Medical Council continues its enquiry, eyes remain glued to further developments. The decision, whenever it arrives, could have significant repercussions for those involved and might just spark yet another chapter in the Thaksin saga. The future remains uncertain, with facts yet to unfold. Based on a story by Thai PBS World -- 2025-04-05

Thailand Accelerates Emergency Alert Overhaul Post-Earthquake Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English In response to the March 28 earthquake, Thailand's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has initiated a trial of a new Cell Broadcast alert system in Phuket. This move aims to upgrade the country's emergency alert infrastructure, addressing flaws exposed during the quake. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356847-thailand-accelerates-emergency-alert-overhaul-post-earthquake/

British Man's Urgent Plea to Save Dying Father in Thailand Picture courtesy of The Standard A distraught British man is fighting to bring his critically ill father back from Thailand to the UK for life-saving medical treatment. Reginald Leo, 77, once hoped to enjoy retirement in Pattaya, but a seemingly minor foot wound has escalated into a severe medical crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356822-british-mans-urgent-plea-to-save-dying-father-in-thailand/

Tour Bus Crashes Off Road in Surat Thani – Multiple Injuries, Including Foreign Tourists Pictured courtesy of Matichon. A road crash occurred in Surat Thani, on 4 April, after a tour bus veered off the road and crashed, leaving dozens injured, including several foreign tourists. Emergency services rushed to the scene and engaged in a large-scale rescue operation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356809-tour-bus-crashes-off-road-in-surat-thani-–-multiple-injuries-including-foreign-tourists/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 5 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1356829-thailand-live-saturday-5-april-2025/

Ghost Tower Defies Odds: Bangkok's Abandoned Icon Survives Quake File photo. The Sathorn Unique Tower, a 49-storey structure left in limbo for over thirty years, has become an unexpected symbol of resilience. Surviving a dramatic 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, it remains intact despite shockwaves striking regions as far as Bangkok, located over 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356817-ghost-tower-defies-odds-bangkoks-abandoned-icon-survives-quake/

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 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

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

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/