Thailand Publicly Burns Seized Drugs to Build Public Trust

Thailand publicly burned seized drugs in a July 2026 ceremony led by top health and police officials to demonstrate that confiscated narcotics are destroyed rather than resold, addressing public concerns about the fate of confiscated metham

1d ago Khaosod

High-ranking government and police officials witnessed the public burning of confiscated drugs on July 14, 2026, in a ceremony presided over by Health Minister Pipat Prom-Pattana and attended by Deputy Police Chief General Samran Nualma and the director of the National Drug Control Coordination Centre. Deputy Police Chief Samran stated that the operation aimed to build public confidence that all seized narcotics, especially methamphetamine and heroin, are systematically and transparently destroyed after being used as evidence in criminal proceedings. He acknowledged that some citizens have mistakenly believed that confiscated drugs might be returned to the system or sold again, and said that opening the drug destruction process to media witnesses affirms the transparency of Thailand's drug elimination procedures and corrects public misunderstanding.

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National

Thailand Revises Visa-Free Policy, Cuts Stay from 60 to 30 Days

Thailand cut visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days for most nationalities while adding six new countries to its exemption list, as authorities aim to boost security screening and prevent misuse of extended tourist visas.

1d ago Khaosod

On July 14, Deputy Prime Minister Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangjan announced that the cabinet has approved a review of Thailand's visa exemption and entry clearance procedures to align tourism facilitation with current conditions while strengthening security. The key change eliminates the 60-day visa exemption for tourism, short-term work, and business visits for 93 countries and territories, as the extended stays were seen as potential channels for illegal activity or purposes inconsistent with tourism. The new measures grant 59 countries a 30-day visa-free stay, including six nations newly added: India, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and Maldives, which ensures all 27 EU member states receive equal treatment and strengthens diplomatic and economic relations. Mauritius and Seychelles will receive a 15-day visa-free stay based on high visitor numbers and spending levels, while India's average stay of 7.17 days per visit was also a key consideration. Visa on Arrival will be available for Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia, with India's VoA cancelled due to the new 15-day exemption to avoid duplication. A total of 65 countries will receive visa benefits under the revised measures, with five related Ministry of Interior announcements taking effect 15 days after Royal Gazette publication. Foreigners who entered before the new rules take effect may complete their stay under the original privileges. Security agencies will enhance the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system to better screen travelers and link databases across agencies to assess risks and ensure privileges are used as intended. Officials stressed the review maintains tourism growth and international relations while preventing visa policies from becoming channels for illegal activity.

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National

Chao Phraya Express Cuts Fares by 1 Baht

Chao Phraya Express Boat cut fares by 1 baht across all routes starting July 17, passing savings from lower diesel costs to Bangkok commuters.

1d ago Khaosod

Commuters have reason to celebrate as Chao Phraya Express Boat reduces all ticket prices by an additional 1 baht in response to falling diesel costs. On July 14, Navaratri Charoen Prom, managing director of Chao Phraya Express Boat Co., Ltd., announced that because diesel prices have dropped to 34.99 baht per liter as of July 8, the company is cutting fares across all boat types by 1 baht from their previous rates, effective Friday, July 17. The new fares are: Orange Flag boats on the Nonthaburi–Wat Rajsingkram route drop from 18 to 17 baht throughout the line; Yellow Flag boats on the Nonthaburi–Sathorn route fall from 23 to 22 baht; Green-Yellow Flag boats see reductions across three routes (Pak Kret–Nonthaburi from 16 to 15 baht, Nonthaburi–Sathorn from 23 to 22 baht, and Pak Kret–Sathorn from 35 to 34 baht); and Red Flag air-conditioned boats on the Nonthaburi–Sathorn route decrease from 32 to 31 baht. The company stated that if diesel prices fall further, it will implement additional fare reductions. Passengers can stay updated on service information, schedules, and routes through the Chao Phraya Express Boat Facebook page or LINE: @cpxcare.

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National

PM Anuthon Vows Zero Tolerance for Local Exam Fraud

Prime Minister Anuthon vowed zero tolerance for those involved in a civil service exam cheating scandal, with three suspects already arrested and stricter vetting procedures announced for all future ministerial appointments.

1d ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthon Chanyungwong declared that anyone involved in the local civil service examination cheating scandal will face full legal consequences, regardless of their seniority or party affiliation. Speaking at Government House on July 14, 2569, Anuthon confirmed that police have arrested three suspects—Sergeant Phichit, Dr. Win Thanapochraphokhin, and Sataporn Thanapochraphokhin—in connection with a large-scale corruption scheme affecting local government civil service recruitment exams. Preliminary investigations are underway and prosecution proceedings will follow.

After discovering that one of the accused had previously served as part of a minister's staff, Anuthon announced stricter vetting procedures for all future appointments to principal, deputy, or advisory positions. He pledged that senior cabinet members will conduct comprehensive background checks, stating that no one currently flagged had problems at the time of their appointment.

When asked whether even party leaders would face consequences, Anuthon reaffirmed: "Absolutely. If anyone from the party is involved, no one is exempt. Whether it is me or anyone else, they must be handled according to the law and prosecuted."

Concerning the screening of ministerial advisors and staff, Anuthon noted that conduct checks are ongoing, but emphasized that past political allegiances and personal favors will not protect anyone. "This is not a place to repay debts of gratitude," he stated bluntly. "Anyone can become a minister because the people elected them. Past favors should be set aside. I will not be indebted to anyone, and no minister can appoint someone out of obligation or gratitude. It is absurd to reach the rank of minister and then staff a team with 20 to 30 advisors."

When asked if he is concerned the scandal might implicate him, Anuthon acknowledged his worry, questioning why ministers even need extensive advisory teams if such arrangements enable corruption.

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National

Thailand Launches Affordable Curry Rice Initiative With Vendors

Thailand's Internal Trade Department is launching talks with restaurant operators and market vendors to make curry rice meals more affordable through subsidies or direct farmer-to-restaurant sales. The initiative involves 5,000 Blue Flag bu

1d ago Khaosod

The Thai Internal Trade Department is convening talks with Blue Flag restaurant operators and fresh market associations to find solutions for affordable curry rice meals. Internal Trade Secretary-General Wityakorn Manirat announced that the department will meet with food vendors and market representatives on July 15 to hear their concerns and gather proposals for managing curry rice prices.

The discussions will focus on identifying specific challenges facing curry rice vendors and determining how the Commerce Ministry can assist, whether through subsidizing cooking gas and electricity costs or by connecting fresh ingredients directly from farmers to restaurants to eliminate middleman markups. The department is currently compiling feedback to develop suitable programs.

The department currently operates approximately 5,000 Blue Flag budget restaurants nationwide and maintains a network of about 200 fresh markets in Bangkok, surrounding areas, and major cities. Officials are considering whether to expand the Blue Flag restaurant program further. Regarding consumer product price reductions following recent oil price cuts, the department noted it already has price ceiling controls for regulated goods, with many items currently trading below set maximums. For other products under review, the department acknowledged prices may not drop immediately with oil reductions but expects major retailers to lower prices soon, having previously requested they review merchandising fees to reduce supplier costs.

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National

Bangkok Political Figure Defends Aide's Fire Rescue Role

A Bangkok political figure defended his candidate's actions at a warehouse fire after criticism that the aide impersonated an official while wearing military uniform and briefing media alongside the Prime Minister.

1d ago Khaosod

Mongkol Kitti, chairman of the Bangkok Flies group and founder of the Kaokham Party, posted a statement defending an individual against criticism that he impersonated an official while dressed in full military uniform, giving media interviews and following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during a beer warehouse fire in Lat Phrao, despite not being a government employee.

Kitti praised candidate Chitpong Kattapong, running for Bangkok district representative with his group, for helping disaster victims and responding to the Lat Phrao warehouse fire from 11:47 p.m. on July 12 to 4:15 a.m. on July 13, 2569.

Kitti explained that Kattapong kept him informed throughout the incident via his secretary, but because Kitti was ill and taking sleeping medication, he did not visit the scene that night, arriving the following morning instead. His secretary authorized Kattapong to provide full assistance on the ground. Kitti stated that Kattapong reported to him from start to finish, and he called on the public to recognize Kattapong as an exemplary citizen.

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National

Thailand Prepares to Host 2026 IMF and World Bank Meetings

Thailand will host the 2026 IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok from October 12-18, expecting over 15,000 participants from 191 countries to discuss global economic direction and sustainable development.

1d ago Khaosod

The Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand announced Thailand's readiness to host the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, dubbed the "Financial Olympics," scheduled for October 12-18, 2026 at the Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok. Over 15,000 participants from 191 countries—including policymakers, economists, government officials, private sector leaders, and media—will gather to exchange views on global economic direction, building on Thailand's successful hosting of the inaugural meeting in 1991.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphas emphasized that hosting this conference presents a significant opportunity to strengthen the nation economically, enhance Thailand's international image and credibility, showcase local communities globally, and advance sustainable development. Thailand's central theme, "New Horizons for Thailand: Empowering People and Building Readiness for Change," integrates the philosophy of sufficiency economy with balanced, sustainable, and people-centered global economic approaches.

The Thai government has aligned its financial policy vision with four strategic pillars addressing current global challenges: (1) digital and artificial intelligence transition for inclusive and resilient growth, positioning Thailand as a model through public infrastructure like digital payment systems and Cross-Border QR codes; (2) expanding Thailand's role as a regional connector and trusted hub for trade, finance, and investment in Asia, with flexible supply chains and new cooperation frameworks; (3) creating new financial architecture to support climate change adaptation and energy transition; and (4) turning demographic and economic changes from aging populations into opportunities for economic growth and financial preparedness.

Another key highlight is showcasing Thai identity and soft power through distinctive textiles selected from 21 provinces and 26 communities across 37 unique patterns, alongside premium Thai jasmine rice, to leave a lasting impression on international participants.

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National

PM Defends Record After Beer Bar Fire, Eyes Entertainment Zone Laws

Prime Minister Anutin rejected resignation calls over a deadly beer bar fire in Bangkok, instead pledging to overhaul entertainment zoning laws he says contain contradictory rules that operators exploit for profit.

1d ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul rejected calls to resign over the Lat Phrao beer bar fire during a 1 p.m. statement on July 14, 2025, at the Government House, instead announcing plans to review and revise entertainment zoning regulations. He acknowledged that enforcement has been strict but noted repeated violations occur because operators intentionally break rules to maximize profit, adding that the affected venue's license has been seized and cannot operate again.

Anutin said zoning rules in Bangkok are the responsibility of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and police, and that only two properly designated nightlife zones exist in the capital—one at Khao San and one at RCA. He expressed frustration with contradictions in current entertainment law, questioning why live music must stop at midnight while karaoke is permitted, or why dancing is forbidden but patrons can sit and listen to music. He also pointed out the illogic of distance-based restrictions from schools and temples, noting that nearly every location in Bangkok falls within two kilometers of a temple.

When asked whether he would resign given 30 deaths from the fire, Anutin dismissed the question as emotionally driven and unprofessional, saying officials must act with integrity. He emphasized that times have changed and the government must balance Thai traditions and culture with economic reality, as artists and entertainers depend on their work to earn a living. Anutin reiterated that recurring violations stem from operators' deliberate disregard for regulations, not lack of enforcement, and said relevant agencies must submit revised proposals to better align the law with modern circumstances.

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National

Po Teck Tung Foundation Signs Second Vocational Aid Agreement

The Po Teck Tung Foundation signed a second agreement with the Department of Women's Affairs to provide vocational training and equipment for unemployed women, men, and families in Thailand. The foundation has distributed over 6.2 million b

1d ago Khaosod

The Po Teck Tung Foundation signed its second Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Women's Affairs and Family Development on July 14, 2026, to support vocational equipment and training for women, men, and families in need. Led by foundation vice-chairman Sak Gor-siang-ruang and attended by department director Jatuporn Rojnpanich and other senior officials, the agreement aims to help single parents and caregivers build sustainable livelihoods and support their families.

Foundation vice-chairman Sak Gor-siang-ruang noted that rising unemployment in Thailand affects both women and men, creating broader economic and social challenges. Over the past three years, the foundation has distributed vocational equipment worth over 6.2 million baht to 326 individuals and families. In 2026 alone, equipment has been distributed to seven locations benefiting 130 people, with five more locations scheduled to receive assistance before year's end.

The foundation expressed hope that the "Career Promotion for Women and Families" program will create sustainable livelihoods and improve quality of life for individuals, families, communities, and society at large. For more information, the public can contact the foundation via Facebook at www.facebook.com/atpohtecktung or the Po Teck Tung hotline at 1418.

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Community

New Coach Wins Over Phlang Kanchana FC With $1,000 Personal Donation

Park Hang Seo, the new head coach of Phlang Kanchana FC, donated $1,000 from his own pocket to the team's common fund, earning widespread appreciation from players and club leadership for his leadership approach.

1d ago Khaosod

Park Hang Seo, the new head coach of Phlang Kanchana FC, has earned widespread appreciation from the team's players after contributing $1,000 of his own money to the team's common fund for shared expenses. The common fund typically accumulates through fines levied on players for lateness, unexcused training absences, tardiness, yellow cards, and red cards. These funds are traditionally used for activities that bring the team together, such as coffee breaks, monthly parties, birthday gifts, and similar social occasions. Club president Dr. Prawat Kitthammakoolnit announced the contribution on his personal Facebook page, expressing admiration for Coach Park's action. He noted that while the common fund normally relies on player fines, Park's personal contribution of $1,000—not 1,000 baht but 1,000 US dollars—exemplified genuine leadership.

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Regional

Thai Golfers Eye Macau Open With Million-Dollar Prize

Thai golfers Rattanon Wannasrichan and Pavit Tangkamolprasert will compete in the SJM Macau Open 2026, a $1 million tournament featuring world-class players including Sweden's Henrik Stenson at Macau Golf and Country Club in October.

1d ago Khaosod

The Macau Sports Bureau, alongside SJM Resort, IMG, the Asian Tour, and the Macau Golf Association, has unveiled the SJM Macau Open 2026 golf tournament, offering $1 million in total prize money at Macau Golf and Country Club from October 15–18, 2026. The field will include 144 golfers competing internationally, headlined by Henrik Stenson of Sweden, who won the 2016 Open Championship and the 2009 Players Championship, and is the first golfer in history to win both the FedEx Cup on the PGA Tour and the Race to Dubai on the European Tour in the same year (2013). South Korean star Im Sung-jae will also compete, along with Asian Tour champions and emerging Asian talent. Thai representatives Rattanon Wannasrichan and Pavit Tangkamolprasert, both former champions of this event, will lead the Thai professional contingent.

At the press conference, executives including Lei Si Leng, acting president of the Macau Sports Bureau, Dessy Ho, general manager of SJM Resort, Jasmine Lim, vice president of global partnerships at IMG Golf, Philip Chiang, and other key officials announced their readiness. Lei Si Leng stated that the SJM Macau Open is one of Asia's most prestigious and influential international golf tournaments, showcasing Macau's professional capabilities in hosting world-class sporting events while blending international sport with Macau's unique cultural heritage. This year, promotional efforts will expand to reach all age groups, with plans to integrate cultural elements, including a cultural and creative merchandise booth, enriching the tournament while driving Macau's tourism and social development through the fusion of sport and culture.

Dessy Ho remarked that the Macau Open serves not only as a competitive stage for leading world golfers but also as an important platform for SJM to advance an integrated approach to sports and tourism, helping to showcase Macau's diverse tourism appeal to a global audience while reinforcing its status as a vibrant 'sports city.'

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