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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/

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. In the early hours of yesterday morning (2nd April 2068), a car collided with Mr. Clement Antoin, a 40-year-old French national, near JJ Market in Mueang District. Emergency services found him unconscious and severely injured, with significant cuts to his right arm and left shoulder, as well as abrasions across his body. After performing emergency CPR and initial first aid, he was rushed to Phahon Phonayothin Hospital. Police CCTV review revealed that Mr. Billy was crossing the relatively empty road but became distracted by something, failing to notice an oncoming vehicle. Despite his attempt to dodge it, he was struck and thrown onto the pavement. The vehicle involved was a black Mitsubishi driven by a young man with a female passenger in her 30s. They remained at the scene to provide statements to the police. Local residents have raised concerns about the poor lighting and faded zebra crossing markings at the accident site, making it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. The site lacks flashing lights or warning signs to alert drivers. Residents highlighted that the area is particularly quiet at night, often with vehicles travelling at high speeds. They urge drivers to be cautious and reduce speed around the crossing to prevent further accidents. This incident underlines the necessity for safety measures at zebra crossings, including installing adequate lighting, clear warning signs, and flashing signals to enhance pedestrian safety. Based on a story by Amarin TV -- 2025-04-03

US Nurse Suffers Devastating Facial Injuries in Krabi Moped Crash Picture courtesy of Boston 25 News A heart-stopping vacation horror in Krabi, Thailand, as an American ICU nurse sees her holiday flip into a nightmare moped crash, leaving her with catastrophic facial injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356636-us-nurse-suffers-devastating-facial-injuries-in-krabi-moped-crash/

Picture courtesy of Boston 25 News A heart-stopping vacation horror in Krabi, Thailand, as an American ICU nurse sees her holiday flip into a nightmare moped crash, leaving her with catastrophic facial injuries. Sierra Fairhurst, a 24-year-old from Massachusetts, was cruising with friends when darkness engulfed her journey, resulting in shattered facial bones and lost teeth. Struggling in a local hospital with unsatisfactory conditions, the situation grew worse when her passport vanished, stalling vital medical transfers. Despite the chaos, her mother, Zoe Rose, and brother rushed to her side, encountering hospital rooms with pigeons and inadequate facilities. "Physically, you can see that her nose is over to the side; physically, she doesn’t have any teeth; her chin was kind of removed, but it’s now back on, and her eyelid was gone, but that’s now on," Rose lamented about her daughter's condition. A GoFundMe page, aiming to ease the financial burden of medical expenses and recovery, has been established to help Sierra’s family during this challenging time. Compounded by lost identification, transferring Sierra to a better hospital in Bangkok for further treatment seemed impossible, yet the US Embassy hustled a new passport to re-ignite her recovery journey. Finally flown to Bangkok for urgent surgeries, Sierra returned safely to the US by March 27th. Boston Logan International Airport marked the start of her stateside healing journey, ushering in a series of appointments with specialists to address her severe injuries, with ongoing costs potentially reaching thousands of Thai Baht. Her mother remains thankful that Sierra is alive to tell the tale. As Sierra soldiers through recovery, her spirit shines brighter, pressing on through physical scars with hopes of returning to her everyday life and the healthcare field. This incident underscores the critical importance of careful travel planning and safety precautions on international adventures, highlighting the vital role of community support in times of crisis. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-03

Australian Teen Dies in Koh Samui Motorbike Collision Picture courtesy Daily Mail An Australian teenager's dream holiday in Thailand has ended in heartbreak. Carlos Guirguis from Melbourne lost his life in a motorbike accident on Koh Samui. The 19-year-old reportedly tried overtaking a vehicle without a helmet and lost control. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356629-australian-teen-dies-in-koh-samui-motorbike-collision/