Strong Baht and Safety Concerns Hit Thai Tourism

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand, presented by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand programme. Topics range from the impact of a strong Baht and safety concerns on tourism to Bangkok being named the world’s best city for Gen Z.

1. Strong Baht, Safety Concerns Hit Thai Tourism

Thai tourism faces a slump as a strong Baht and safety fears—especially among Chinese visitors—drive arrivals down by 900,000 in the first half of 2025.

2. Army’s Barbed Wire Donation Plea Sparks Outrage

Public backlash grows after Thailand’s Second Army asks for barbed wire donations, raising questions over military spending transparency.

3. Paetongtarn Verdict Due 29 August

Suspended PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra awaits a court ruling over a leaked Hun Sen call that could reshape Thailand’s political future.

4. Thai Woman Arrested in Surrogacy Crackdown

A Thai woman was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport for allegedly recruiting surrogate mothers for a cross-border illegal surrogacy network.

5. British E-Bike Rider Injures Woman in Pattaya

A British man performing wheelies crashed into a woman on a scooter, sparking a bystander assault before police intervened.

6. Russian Man Arrested in Phuket on Gun Charges

Police arrested a Russian man wanted in Bangkok for illegal firearm possession after tracking him to a Phuket hideout.

7. TAT Launches ‘Rhythm of Thailand’ Campaign

Twenty influencers will promote Thai culture, cuisine, and lifestyle across 10 provinces in a new TAT tourism initiative.

8. Bangkok Named Best City for Gen Z

Time Out ranks Bangkok the world’s top Gen Z city for affordability, nightlife, and social scene, boosting its global youth appeal.