Thailand's National Energy Policy Committee has approved a 2.40 baht per liter reduction in diesel prices at refineries from July 24 to August 15, 2025, drawing on surplus refining profits to relieve living cost pressures on consumers and reduce strain on the oil fund. Energy Minister Eknath Phromphanthum announced that the decision covers high-speed diesel in all grades—B0, B7, and B20—and aims to ensure fair cost transfer to consumers while maintaining the country's energy stability. The committee assessed global oil prices and refining costs during early July 2025 and found continued refining surpluses despite ongoing market volatility. Using criteria established by the fuel price committee, officials calculated the surplus from refining between July 1–15 at approximately 3,892 million baht based on assumed daily fuel consumption of 91.03 million liters, which will now be applied as a price reduction at refineries for high-speed diesel.

The Thai Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting traditional Thai festivals and culture as a sustainable economic and tourism driver, leveraging the nation's unique cultural Soft Power. ...

The Thai Government, through the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, has joined forces with over 100 tourism industry partners to launch the "Amazing Thailand G...

At 11:40 a.m. on July 23 at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Chaovangitkul addressed the case of Yingluck Shinawatra and the iLaw project director, who had posted a request urging Bhumjaithai Party members and nine senators accused in a Senate selection controversy—including Anutin—not to file defamation suits or pursue cases in distant jurisdictions or report matters to police. Smiling, the PM responded that "they have no right; it is a matter for the accused." When asked about opposition calls for leniency toward those investigating the claims, Anutin smiled again and said, "My heart is more generous than anyone else's. Saiyai Noi's heart is already generous; everyone knows that." Anutin confirmed he will proceed with full legal action, calling it his personal right, noting that each accused party acts independently without coordination and that anyone wishing to protect themselves against false accusations has the law available to them.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called the situation in Thailand's southern border provinces "very serious" after an armed attack on a Narathiwat checkpoint resulted in five ranger deaths. Speaking at Government House on July 23, he ordered all security units—military, police, and local administration—to demonstrate greater operational effectiveness in prevention, suppression, and intelligence gathering. Anutin stated he has already discussed the matter with responsible officials and directed them to take action.

When asked if intelligence had predicted the attack, Anutin said such incidents are unpredictable, but the government must prevent further violence. He emphasized that peace negotiations must accelerate with clearer progress, and security forces require reinforcement and better preparedness. He noted the situation is serious and demands decisive action.

Anutin reiterated his orders to security officials to restore public confidence, establish stability, and prevent future incidents through all available means. He has already issued directives to the National Police Commander, Army Commander, and Interior Ministry Permanent Secretary. When asked what additional vigilance is needed, he stated all checkpoints must operate under strict orders due to frequent incidents in the area. The Defense Minister is visiting the area today to discuss the situation. Intelligence reports indicated the attackers were fully armed, with two teams involved, and they used pipe bombs against rangers equipped with M16 and AK-47 rifles.

The government is positioning Northeast Thailand as the economic center of the Mekong River region, unlocking regional potential and creating opportunities for young people to build careers in their hometowns. Deputy Finance Minister Santhithat Saethaiying attended The Secret Sauce Business Weekend 2026 Isaan, organized by THE STANDARD business news bureau on July 17–18, 2026, in Khon Kaen province, to share a vision of Thailand's economic direction and the Northeast region's prospects, and to meet and consult with local entrepreneurs and gather feedback on government policy.

The Secret Sauce Business Weekend 2026 Isaan, held under the theme "Beyond Isan: Growing Beyond the Northeast," aimed to promote business networks and elevate regional entrepreneurs to the global stage. The main event took place at Nakhonkhaiz Convention and Exhibition Center in Khon Kaen, featuring speakers from government, private sector, and experts from over 30 industries. The event drew more than 2,000 attendees from within and outside the region.

The deputy minister presented a vision that global economic shifts are creating new opportunities for Thailand and its regions if they leverage local strengths to align with global trends. The Northeast, in particular, has potential to become the economic center of the Mekong subregion. Key activities included:

1. Roundtable: Esan Entrepreneurs The deputy minister met with Northeast entrepreneurs from transport, food, textiles, mechanical components, and electronics sectors to exchange views on business opportunities and challenges, and to gather recommendations on government policy. Discussions revealed that the Northeast has many traditional industries that, while not classified as next-curve industries, have competitive potential at the global level and can create high value for the region. These industries typically emphasize quality, craftsmanship, care, and creativity—areas where the region's workforce is strong. However, entrepreneurs highlighted a critical challenge: high land transportation costs, which significantly hinder regional business competitiveness. These findings suggest future business support should focus on adding value to industries Thailand already excels in, using more flexible tools suited to Thai entrepreneurs, while accelerating energy transition and logistics infrastructure development to reduce business costs and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

2. The Secret Sauce Business Weekend 2026 Isaan The deputy minister shared his vision in an interview session titled "Thailand Comeback: Thai Economic Trends and Opportunities," moderated by Nakarin Vankitpaiboon, CEO and Managing Editor of THE STANDARD news bureau. He noted that although Thailand's economy faces pressure from energy crises, inflation, and slowing purchasing power, global economic changes are opening new opportunities for the country and its regions.