Author: Wadi
Protecting Local Industry Economic Risks of Imports Thai pig farmers, led by the Swine Raisers Association of Thailand, are urging the government to reject US pork imports as a trade concession to reduce the looming 36% tariff on Thai goods, effective August 1, 2025. Sittiphan Thanakiatpinyo, the association’s president, warns that such imports could devastate Thailand’s $3.5 billion pork industry, impacting 200,000 farmers. With pork integral to 80% of Thai street food, per 2024 culinary data, the move threatens economic stability for rural communities. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities Ripple Effects Across Sectors Allowing US pork, parts, or offal into Thailand would…
Social Media Post Sparks Raid Police Respond to Online Images A 47-year-old Chinese national, Liu Feng, was arrested in Pattaya on July 8, 2025, after posting a social media photo of himself posing with firearms, prompting swift police action. The image, widely shared across platforms like X, drew attention in Thailand’s tourist hub, where 35 million visitors annually expect strict safety measures. The incident highlights growing concerns over public displays of weapons in Thailand’s $50 billion tourism industry. Luxury Villa Search Executed Tourist Police Secure Warrant Pattaya’s Tourist Police Division obtained a court warrant to search Liu’s upscale residence on…
Protest Ends with Renewed Plans Demonstrators Demand Policy Review On July 8, 2025, cannabis advocates from the Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future network concluded their two-day protest outside the Public Health Ministry in Nonthaburi but pledged to return on July 16 to challenge new cannabis regulations. The rally, sparked by concerns over restrictive policies, drew hundreds, with 70% of Thailand’s 1.5 million cannabis users supporting reform, per 2025 polls. Social media platforms like X amplified their call for fair regulations. Push for Previous Regulations Restoring 2022 Standards Led by secretary-general Prasitchai Nunuan, the group demands the reinstatement of 2022 regulations established…
Strict New Regulations Enforced Medical-Only Focus Implemented Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is implementing stringent regulations to transform the country’s 18,000 cannabis dispensaries into medical clinics by the end of 2025, with only 2,000 expected to meet the new standards. Dr. Somlerk Jeungsmarn, head of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, predicts most shops will close due to rigorous requirements. With 1.5 million cannabis users since the 2022 decriminalization, per 2025 ministry data, these changes aim to curb recreational use and prioritize medical applications. Prescription-Based Access Mandated Standardized Medical Protocols The Controlled Herbs Announcement (Cannabis) BE 2568, effective…
Official UNESCO Submission Chud Thai’s Cultural Significance Thailand’s Ministry of Culture has formally nominated Chud Thai, the traditional Thai costume, for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, with a review set for 2026. The submission, titled “Chud Chai: The Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume,” aims to celebrate Thailand’s cultural identity. With 35 million annual tourists engaging with Thai culture, per 2024 data, this move enhances global recognition of the nation’s heritage. Addressing Misinformation Debunking Cambodian Claims The ministry, led by Permanent Secretary Prasop Riangngern, dismissed social media speculation that Cambodia’s upcoming Traditional Khmer Wedding nomination includes elements…
Facing Steep Tariff Challenges Economic Impact Looms Large Thailand’s export sector faces significant challenges as the United States plans to impose a 36% tariff on all Thai goods starting August 1, 2025, threatening a contraction in the second half of the year. With the US accounting for 18% of Thailand’s $54.96 billion export market, industry leaders warn of severe economic harm. The tariff, higher than those on competitors like Vietnam (20%) and Malaysia (25%), could erode Thailand’s competitiveness, per 2025 trade data. Competitive Disadvantage Emerges Losing Ground to Regional Rivals The disparity in tariff rates puts Thailand at a competitive…
Strengthening Cultural Ties UAE-Thailand Workshop Collaboration On July 7, 2025, the UAE Embassy in Bangkok partnered with Krirk University to host a cultural workshop promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The event, attended by educators and community leaders, aimed to deepen mutual understanding between the UAE and Thailand. With cultural diplomacy gaining traction, this initiative aligns with Thailand’s 2025 goal to enhance international partnerships, engaging 35 million visitors annually, per tourism data. Defining Tolerance Globally Emirati Values in Focus The workshop explored tolerance as a universal principle of respecting diverse beliefs, emphasizing its role in fostering peaceful societies. In the UAE,…
Urgent Weather Alert Issued DDPM Warns of Flood Risks On July 7, 2025, Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued a critical alert for 33 provinces, forecasting flash floods, landslides, and rising river levels from July 6 to 12. The warning, driven by heavy rainfall predictions, targets high-risk areas, particularly along the Mekong River. With 20% of Thailand’s population affected by floods annually, per 2024 data, authorities are intensifying preparations to protect 67 million residents. Heavy Rainfall Forecast National Water Resources Office Report The National Water Resources Office’s July 4 forecast predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across…
Public Criticism Sparks Response Kumthai Page Calls Out Errors On July 7, 2025, Thailand’s new Deputy Education Minister, Asst Prof Rinthipond Varinvatchararoj, publicly acknowledged spelling errors in a March social media post on X, following criticism from the popular “Kumthai” Facebook page. The page, known for promoting correct Thai usage, highlighted multiple mistakes, prompting a swift response. With 80% of Thais active on social media, per 2025 digital reports, such errors draw significant attention, especially from a senior education official. Admission of Mistakes Speech-to-Text Blamed Rinthipond admitted to the inaccuracies, attributing them to automated speech-to-text technology and a lack of…
Government Halts Casino Bill Public Opposition Forces Retreat Thailand’s government announced on July 7, 2025, that it will withdraw a contentious bill to legalize casinos, citing widespread public resistance and a fractured ruling coalition. The decision, confirmed by chief government whip Visuth Chainaroon, reverses plans to debate the Entertainment Complex Bill on July 9. With tourism driving 13% of Thailand’s GDP, per 2024 economic data, the move reflects a cautious response to concerns over gambling’s social impact, amplified by 60% of Thais opposing the bill on platforms like X. Coalition Crisis Deepens Bhumjaithai Exit Shakes Alliance The withdrawal follows the…