Thailand is taking ambitious steps towards tourism recovery by 2024, aiming to attract as many as 40 million foreign visitors. This growth is being driven by the launch of nine new airlines, a sign of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. With relaxed travel restrictions and open borders, plus an expected increase in passengers at airports, Thailand is preparing for a vibrant and prosperous tourist season.
Thailand is on the eve of a major change in energy policy. Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga has unveiled an ambitious plan to restructure the energy pricing system. This initiative aims to reduce high energy costs and strengthen the country's energy security and sustainability. With this reform, Thailand strives for a balanced future with accessible energy for everyone.
Thailand's Ministry of Health is stepping up efforts to combat the alarming increase in sexually transmitted diseases among young people. With a significant increase in syphilis and gonorrhea infections, the country is implementing stricter prevention and control measures. This new approach involves working with the private sector and community groups, and focuses on improving access to treatment and reducing infection rates.
Thai condo market booming: Foreign buyers at the helm
Thailand's condo market is seeing remarkable growth, with foreign buyers investing in properties in droves. Demand has increased, especially in tourist hotspots such as Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. The first nine months of 2023 have seen a 38% increase in sales, led by Chinese and Russian investors, who strongly dominate the market.
Thailand is preparing for an increase in the minimum wage, a move that will come into effect from next week. With this change, which is supported by both the National Pay Panel and the Prime Minister, wages will vary across provinces. The initiative, a promise of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, signals a growing focus on economic equality and worker well-being.
In Bangkok, MRT Pink Line services have been temporarily suspended following an unexpected incident where a rail came loose and fell near Samakkhi station early this morning. This decision, taken by Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers after hitting power lines and causing damage in the vicinity of a local market
Thailand awarded by WHO for pioneering fight against trans fats
Thailand was recently recognized by the World Health Organization for its remarkable efforts to eliminate trans fats, joining the country's top five global leaders in this health issue. This recognition highlights Thailand's commitment to improving public health and reducing risk factors for non-communicable diseases, a milestone in their public health policy.
The Ministry of Health is committed to a safer New Year's holiday by reducing the number of traffic accidents by 5%. Minister Cholnan Srikaew emphasizes the importance of driving sober, especially in view of the longer opening hours of pubs. This initiative involves collaboration between public health volunteers, local authorities and police, aimed at prevention and control.
Thailand is taking new steps to improve the safety of foreign tourists with a comprehensive insurance plan. This initiative, proposed by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, provides significant accident coverage, up to 500.000 baht for injured people and 1 million baht in case of death. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered the development of a policy to cover all tourists, as part of a strategy to promote Thailand as a safe travel destination.
In a remarkable shift towards efficiency and modernization, Thailand's Ministry of Defense has announced an ambitious plan to restructure its armed forces. This initiative, which runs from 2025 to 2027, includes a budget proposal of 600 million baht for an early retirement program aimed at military personnel aged 50 and over.
From Suez and Panama Canal to Thailand Bypass?
King Narai the Great already dreamed of it in 1677; a canal straight through the isthmus of Kra, the isthmus where Thailand is at its narrowest, for shipping from India to China and Japan. Progressive, because the Suez and Panama Canals did not exist yet.
Thailand freezes fuel prices and increases electricity tariffs
In a recent economic measure, the Thai government has decided to freeze the prices of diesel and cooking gas for three months. At the same time, the electricity price is increased from January to April. This step, aimed at economic recovery, is supported by government subsidies for low-income households.
Recent research from Suan Dusit University shows that PM2.5 air pollution is a major concern for the Thai population. Nearly 90% of respondents expressed serious concerns, mainly focused on the consequences of agricultural waste burning and forest fires. This problem has led to increased attention to air pollution in urban areas such as Bangkok.
Thailand is taking an important step in regulating diesel fuels. The Department of Energy Affairs (DOEB) has announced that from May 1, only the diesel variants B7 and B20 will be available in the country. This measure, inspired by the Energy Policy Committee, aims to simplify the supply and prevent confusion at petrol stations.
A unique collaboration between government agencies and the private sector in Bangkok aims to reduce PM2,5 pollution, mainly caused by vehicle emissions. This campaign, supported by the Ministry of Energy and Environment and local authorities, includes measures such as improving fuel quality and encouraging vehicle maintenance, with the aim of improving air quality in the Thai capital.
Chinese and Russians dominate the Thai apartment market
In a recent development in the Thai real estate market, data from the Real Estate Information Center shows that Chinese and Russian buyers have a significant share of apartment purchases in Thailand. In the nine months to September, there has been a significant increase in apartment sales, with a total value of 52,3 billion baht.
Thailand is betting on record numbers of Chinese tourists in 2024
Thailand has big plans for tourism in 2024, with the ambition to welcome as many as 8,5 million Chinese visitors. Despite the current economic challenges in China, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is focusing on this important market, with strategies to boost tourist flows and relax visa regulations.