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- Central Bank Chief Signals Interest Rates Likely to Remain Unchanged
The Bank of Thailand is expected to keep its policy interest rate unchanged at 1.00%, as economic growth this year is projected at between 1.3% and 1.7%, Governor Vitai Ratanakorn said on Thursday. He noted that the current rate remains appropriate while the central bank monitors inflation risks linked to the Middle East conflict. Authorities […]
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The Bank of Thailand is expected to keep its policy interest rate unchanged at 1.00%, as economic growth this year is projected at between 1.3% and 1.7%, Governor Vitai Ratanakorn said on Thursday.
He noted that the current rate remains appropriate while the central bank monitors inflation risks linked to the Middle East conflict. Authorities are assessing the situation based on its duration, intensity and impact on global supply chains.
Under the base-case scenario, the conflict is expected to end in the first half of the year, with Thailand’s GDP growth forecast at 1.3% to 1.7% for 2026. A quicker resolution before June could support growth closer to 1.7%, while a prolonged situation may keep it nearer 1.3%. These projections exclude any upcoming government stimulus measures.
Inflation will also play a key role in future rate decisions. The central bank expects inflation to range between 2.5% and 3.5%, broadly within its target band of 1% to 3%. However, if inflation remains elevated for longer than expected, a rate hike could be considered.
For now, the governor said there is no need to raise rates, as doing so could weaken consumer demand without delivering meaningful economic benefits.
The central bank’s outlook does not yet include government measures expected to be announced soon, such as loan guarantees to support the Oil Fuel Fund and other initiatives to offset rising energy costs.
Additional support is also being planned, including targeted soft loans for businesses, particularly in areas like solar rooftop installations and electric vehicle financing. Relaxed housing loan rules will also be extended for another year to support the property sector.
The Bank of Thailand previously surprised markets by cutting its key rate in February to support the sluggish economy, with the next policy meeting scheduled for April 29.
Meanwhile, inflation trends remain mixed. Headline CPI fell by 0.08% year-on-year in March, following a 0.88% drop in February, marking 12 consecutive months of declines. Overall, CPI dropped 0.54% in the first quarter.
However, the Commerce Ministry expects inflation to rise in the second quarter. If oil prices remain elevated for two months, inflation could average 3.7%, and may reach as high as 5.8% if high prices persist for three months.
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10 April 10 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211408 - Songkran 2026 in Bangkok: Where to Make Merit Before Getting Soaked
Songkran 2026 in Bangkok is best planned early: combine morning merit-making at temples with afternoon water celebrations. Start at temples like Wat Chana Songkhram Ratchaworamahawihan near Khao San Road or Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram, where you can make merit, pour water over Buddha images and experience traditional customs. For large-scale celebrations, the “Maha Songkran World Water Festival […]
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Songkran 2026 in Bangkok is best planned early: combine morning merit-making at temples with afternoon water celebrations.
Start at temples like Wat Chana Songkhram Ratchaworamahawihan near Khao San Road or Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram, where you can make merit, pour water over Buddha images and experience traditional customs.
For large-scale celebrations, the “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026” will take place from April 11–15 at Benchakitti Park, featuring parades, cultural shows, sand pagodas and water-play zones.
Art and culture events will also be held at Lumphini Park during the same period, offering exhibitions, markets and workshops.
For a more local and traditional experience, head to Phra Pradaeng from April 24–26, known for its Mon-style celebrations with parades, traditional dress and merit-making.
Alternatively, Muang Boran offers a quieter setting to enjoy Thai heritage during Songkran.
Plan ahead, expect crowds, and bring essentials like waterproof bags and spare clothes.
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10 April 10 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211405 - Pratunam Flyover to Shut for 10 Months for Orange Line Construction
Photo Credit:Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand The Pratunam flyover on Phetchaburi Road in Bangkok will be closed for around 10 months starting in late April, as tunnelling work for the MRT Orange Line enters a critical underground phase, according to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA). Kittikorn Tanpao, MRTA’s deputy governor, said […]
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Photo Credit:Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand
The Pratunam flyover on Phetchaburi Road in Bangkok will be closed for around 10 months starting in late April, as tunnelling work for the MRT Orange Line enters a critical underground phase, according to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA).
Kittikorn Tanpao, MRTA’s deputy governor, said the closure is required to allow the tunnel to pass beneath the Pratunam intersection as part of the Orange Line project linking Bang Khun Non and Thailand Cultural Centre in Huai Khwang.
The construction will involve dismantling key parts of the flyover, including sections of the deck, one pier span and foundation piles, before reinforcing and restoring the structure. The entire process is expected to take about 10 months.
The flyover will be shut continuously from 10pm on April 24 until February 11, 2027.
During the initial phase, traffic will be diverted, but vehicles will still be able to cross the Pratunam intersection at ground level under traffic signals. Two inbound lanes and three outbound lanes on Phetchaburi Road will remain open.
Given that the area is one of Bangkok’s busiest traffic corridors, the MRTA is coordinating closely with contractor CH Karnchang Plc, project partner Bangkok Expressway and Metro Plc (BEM), and multiple government agencies.
To help ease congestion, several alternative routes have been designated, including the Si Rat Expressway and major roads such as Si Ayutthaya, Ratchadamnoen Nok, Rama VI, Rama IX, Sukhumvit and Ploenchit.
Drivers heading towards eastern Bangkok are advised to avoid the Pratunam area and use expressways or parallel routes where possible.
The MRTA said traffic conditions will be continuously monitored and adjusted throughout the construction period, working with the Metropolitan Police Bureau and local stations to manage traffic flow, including optimising signal timings based on real-time conditions.
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10 April 10 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211402 - Airlines Adapt Operations Following Ceasefire
Despite a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, Thai airlines are continuing to adjust their summer flight strategies as travel demand remains subdued amid lingering concerns over the oil crisis. Nuntaporn Komonsittivate, head of commercial at Thai Lion Air, said the airline has revised schedules on several domestic and international routes following the Songkran […]
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Despite a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, Thai airlines are continuing to adjust their summer flight strategies as travel demand remains subdued amid lingering concerns over the oil crisis.
Nuntaporn Komonsittivate, head of commercial at Thai Lion Air, said the airline has revised schedules on several domestic and international routes following the Songkran holiday, largely due to rising operating costs.
The ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump and tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, has helped lift global markets and ease oil prices. However, uncertainty persists.
“Fuel prices may decline, but likely to a new baseline that remains higher than before. Airlines still need to align capacity with demand under these conditions,” she said.
Jet fuel prices have surged by 90–100% over the past month, significantly increasing airline costs and dampening travel demand. In response, Thai Lion Air has raised fuel surcharges by around 5–10%, depending on the route.
Thailand has so far avoided fuel shortages, allowing airlines to continue refuelling domestically. This contrasts with Vietnam, where heavy reliance on imports has led to supply constraints, forcing carriers such as Vietnam Airlines and VietJet to scale back operations.
Pinyot Pibulsonggram, vice-president of commercial and customer service at VietJet Thailand, said the airline has not faced similar fuel challenges, as it primarily refuels within Thailand.
He noted that VietJet Thailand has reduced flight capacity for the summer season in line with its usual low-season strategy, keeping overall capacity comparable to last year. The airline has also introduced new routes, including additional destinations in Vietnam.
However, higher fuel costs continue to squeeze margins, prompting fare increases of 10–15%. The airline is closely monitoring the Middle East situation and may adjust capacity further, particularly in June when demand typically softens, including potential reductions on routes such as India.
Thai carriers are also participating in a Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand initiative to offer promotional fares during the Songkran holiday to help stimulate travel.
Ms Nuntaporn said Thai Lion Air continues to see solid inbound bookings during the holiday period, while offering more competitive fares for post-Songkran travel.
Mr Pinyot added that bookings for April and May remain strong across both domestic and international routes, although demand for June is still uncertain.
Another airline executive, speaking anonymously, said bookings dropped by double digits following the escalation of tensions in the Middle East last month, prompting airlines to cut capacity.
The source added that while costs have risen sharply, airlines may not be able to increase fares at the same pace, leaving forward bookings for the rest of the year unclear. As a result, tourism is unlikely to return to 2025 levels in the near term.
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9 April 09 2026Aviationhttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211399 - Proposed Arrival Tax Sparks Mixed Reactions
Tourism operators have voiced mixed reactions to the new government’s proposal to introduce a 300-baht tourism tax, warning it could impact travel sentiment at a time when the sector is already under pressure from the Middle East crisis. Industry leaders are also calling for a reduction in visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days […]
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Tourism operators have voiced mixed reactions to the new government’s proposal to introduce a 300-baht tourism tax, warning it could impact travel sentiment at a time when the sector is already under pressure from the Middle East crisis.
Industry leaders are also calling for a reduction in visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days to help curb illegal activities by foreign visitors, alongside stronger enforcement against unlawful businesses.
Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said it remains uncertain whether the proposed fee would further weaken tourism during the current downturn, as airlines have reduced flights and airfares have risen sharply.
While he supports the principle of using the fee—collected from air arrivals—for tourism development, he suggested postponing its implementation until the geopolitical situation stabilises. Announcing the measure now, he said, could negatively affect Thailand’s travel appeal.
Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, took a more neutral stance, noting that the 300-baht charge is relatively minor compared to the current spike in airfare prices. He added that travellers who are still flying tend to have higher purchasing power and are unlikely to be deterred by the additional cost.
On the proposal to shorten visa-free stays, Mr Ratchaporn said the council supports the move, as most tourists stay fewer than 20 days. He believes the adjustment could help limit illegal employment among foreign visitors.
Thailand has seen a rise in long-stay travellers seeking refuge from global conflicts, some of whom have reportedly engaged in unauthorised work, particularly during the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts.
Mr Ratchaporn emphasised that the visa change should be communicated as a screening measure rather than a hostile policy toward foreigners.
However, Mr Thanet cautioned against applying a blanket visa policy across all markets, noting that visitors from regions such as the Middle East often stay longer for health and wellness purposes.
He stressed that improving entry screening and strengthening law enforcement would be more effective in addressing illegal activities. He cited a recent case involving a Russian tourist in Phuket who was arrested for operating illegal tour services, adding that many foreigners working unlawfully tend to stay in unlicensed accommodations.
Given the current slowdown in international arrivals, Mr Thanet urged the government to introduce stimulus measures such as domestic travel subsidies and tighter controls on goods pricing.
Mr Ratchaporn also recommended focusing on markets less affected by flight disruptions, including Russia, India and Southeast Asia, as arrivals from Europe and the Middle East continue to decline.
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9 April 09 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211396 - Thai Airways removes first class
Photo Credit: Thai Airways Thai Airways is phasing out first class in favour of a new, upgraded business class experience, as part of a broader fleet modernisation strategy. CEO Chai Eamsiri confirmed the move reflects a global trend, with many major airlines eliminating first class and focusing on premium business offerings instead. The airline’s revamped […]
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Photo Credit: Thai Airways
Thai Airways is phasing out first class in favour of a new, upgraded business class experience, as part of a broader fleet modernisation strategy.
CEO Chai Eamsiri confirmed the move reflects a global trend, with many major airlines eliminating first class and focusing on premium business offerings instead. The airline’s revamped cabins will feature a standardised layout of business, premium economy and economy across its Airbus A350, Boeing 787 and Boeing 777-300ER fleets.
At the front of the cabin, Thai will introduce “Business Plus” suites in Row 1 — offering extra space, longer beds, larger screens and the option for companion dining. These premium seats will be priced above standard business class.
The new Royal Silk business class suites will include sliding privacy doors, 24-inch entertainment screens, Bluetooth audio, wireless charging and USB-C ports, bringing a more modern and competitive onboard experience.
Premium economy will also become a permanent offering on widebody aircraft, targeting travellers seeking added comfort at a more accessible price point.
With this upgrade, Thai Airways aims to deliver a seamless, lie-flat business class experience across both regional and long-haul routes, strengthening its position in the premium travel market.
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8 April 08 2026Aviationhttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211393 - Oil prices tumble as stocks rally following Trump’s agreement on a two-week ceasefire
Photo Credit: Reuters Oil prices plunged, bonds rallied and global equities surged on Wednesday after a two-week ceasefire in the Middle East triggered a wave of relief across financial markets, with investors optimistic about the potential resumption of oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Donald Trump said he had agreed […]
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Photo Credit: Reuters
Oil prices plunged, bonds rallied and global equities surged on Wednesday after a two-week ceasefire in the Middle East triggered a wave of relief across financial markets, with investors optimistic about the potential resumption of oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. President Donald Trump said he had agreed to halt bombing and military operations against Iran for two weeks, adding that negotiations toward a longer-term peace agreement were underway.
Markets have been volatile since late February, when U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran prompted Tehran to effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz — a critical route for roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments.
Following news of the ceasefire, U.S. crude futures dropped about 16.5% to $94 per barrel, while S&P 500 futures jumped more than 2%. The U.S. dollar, which had served as a safe-haven asset during the conflict, weakened broadly.
“Markets had been anticipating that Trump was seeking an exit strategy in Iran,” said Jamie Cox, managing partner at Harris Financial Group. “Now he’s found one and acted on it.”
Asian stock markets were also set to rebound, with futures pointing to strong gains after weeks of pressure from rising energy costs and geopolitical uncertainty. Meanwhile, 10-year U.S. Treasury futures rose around 15 ticks, reflecting increased demand for bonds.
Currency markets saw a shift toward riskier assets, with the Australian dollar climbing 1.3% above $0.7070 and the euro advancing 0.76% to $1.1683. Cryptocurrencies also moved higher.
Trump had previously set a late Tuesday deadline for Iran to reach an agreement, warning of potential strikes on key infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz remained closed. Iran, in turn, had threatened retaliation against U.S. allies in the Gulf.
The six-week conflict has driven oil prices sharply higher, fuelling inflation concerns and disrupting global economic expectations as governments and businesses grapple with the energy shock.
In commodities, gold prices rose more than 2% to $4,812 per ounce.
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8 April 08 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211390 - Bangkok’s Songkran celebrations to be alcohol-free with 10pm curfew
Bangkok will enforce alcohol-free water-splashing activities across the city during this year’s Songkran festival, with all celebrations required to end by 10pm. Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej said on Tuesday that safety remains a top priority, with all operational systems monitored круглосуточно through the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) central command centre. Songkran will take place from […]
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Bangkok will enforce alcohol-free water-splashing activities across the city during this year’s Songkran festival, with all celebrations required to end by 10pm.
Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej said on Tuesday that safety remains a top priority, with all operational systems monitored круглосуточно through the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) central command centre.
Songkran will take place from April 11 to 15, with at least 88 designated event locations across the capital. These include alcohol-free water-splashing zones aimed at ensuring a safe and family-friendly environment.
Major celebration areas include Lan Khon Mueang at City Hall, Silom Road, Khao San Road, Siam Square and CentralWorld.
Event organisers have been instructed to strictly enforce safety measures, including a ban on large water cannons, indecent behaviour, and the use of powdered chalk or talcum powder. Authorities are also encouraging water conservation, limiting water-splashing activities to before 10pm.
To better manage the festivities, the BMA has divided Bangkok into three zones:
- Zone 1: Official festival venues with organised activities, safety plans and designated layouts
- Zone 2: Special monitoring areas where large crowds are expected despite no formal events
- Zone 3: No-celebration zones, including hospital entrances, fire and police stations, bridges, expressways, major intersections and key roads
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt warned that the heat index could reach as high as 60°C during the festival, prompting authorities to require organisers to prepare emergency response units and provide adequate drinking water.
Meanwhile, Bangkok police chief Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom said more people are expected to stay in the capital this year due to rising fuel and travel costs. Additional police officers will be deployed to maintain safety and order throughout the celebrations.
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7 April 07 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211385 - Asian airlines cut flight schedules and boost fuel reserves amid supply constraints
Airlines across Asia are cutting flights, carrying extra fuel and adding refuelling stops as the Middle East conflict disrupts jet fuel supplies, compounding already high fuel costs. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has affected a significant share of global fuel flows, creating both price spikes and physical shortages. Asia has been hit hardest […]
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Airlines across Asia are cutting flights, carrying extra fuel and adding refuelling stops as the Middle East conflict disrupts jet fuel supplies, compounding already high fuel costs.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has affected a significant share of global fuel flows, creating both price spikes and physical shortages. Asia has been hit hardest due to its reliance on imports, with some countries limiting fuel availability or exports.
Carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, AirAsia X and Batik Air Malaysia have reduced capacity or adjusted operations, while others are resorting to “tankering” fuel, despite higher costs. In more severe cases, temporary flight suspensions and route adjustments have been implemented.
Although airlines have raised fares and cut capacity, demand remains relatively resilient, meaning supply shortages may persist and could require further flight reductions if the crisis continues.
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7 April 07 2026Aviationhttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211382 - Government targets B40bn through infrastructure fund initiatives
Photo Credit: Bangkok Post Several state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are expected to raise a combined 40 billion baht through infrastructure funds, easing pressure on government finances as these liabilities are not counted as public debt, according to the State Enterprise Policy Office (Sepo). The initiative aligns with the finance minister’s policy to encourage SOEs to fund […]
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Photo Credit: Bangkok Post
Several state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are expected to raise a combined 40 billion baht through infrastructure funds, easing pressure on government finances as these liabilities are not counted as public debt, according to the State Enterprise Policy Office (Sepo).
The initiative aligns with the finance minister’s policy to encourage SOEs to fund investments via capital markets instead of relying on the state budget. Around nine SOEs are targeted to launch such funds, supported by strong interest following discussions with 15 major enterprises.
Sepo also proposes allocating 10–20% of fund units to employees and cooperatives to promote ownership, with expected returns of about 5%, making them attractive to investors.
While funding costs may rise compared with traditional borrowing, the approach offers immediate capital and greater financial flexibility. Projects must have stable, predictable cash flows to build investor confidence and manage risk effectively.
The move is expected to strengthen fiscal stability and boost capital market activity, building on existing funds such as EGATIF and the Thailand Future Fund.
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7 April 07 2026Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=211378