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- Trump Starts Global Tariff Wall, Thailand Hit with 36% Tax
Livestream screenshot via Youtube
Donald Trump has announced retaliatory tariffs on countries with which the U.S. has a trade deficit. The new tariffs, starting at 10%, affect a wide range of countries, with Thailand facing a 36% tariff.
On 2nd April 2025, President Trump held a press conference at the White House announcing the implementation of tariffs on nearly all imported goods into the US, beginning at 10%. However, certain countries, including Thailand, will face much harsher tariffs due to significant trade deficits with the US.
Under this new system, tariffs will vary across countries. While the UK, Brazil, and several others begin at 10%, Thailand faces a steep 36% tariff. Other nations are also heavily impacted, with Vietnam at 46% and Cambodia at 49%.
During his announcement in the White House Rose Garden, Trump boldly declared, "The US has been plundered and stolen from by many nations, both ally and adversary." He touted the measure as a liberation for American industry, stating, "This will be remembered as the day American industry was reborn and America’s destiny reclaimed."
Trump underscored this as a beginning of a new golden era for the US economy, also taking the opportunity to criticise previous trade relations with Canada and Mexico, both already subjected to a 25% tariff.
Highlighting his strategy, Trump added, "This tariff is a partial response. We haven’t hit back fully as it would be burdensome for many nations, a step we wish to avoid." Moreover, the tariffs will extend to foreign-manufactured cars imported into the US, enforcing a 25% rate from midnight on 2nd April.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 2, 2025
Based on a story by Thai Rath, BBC, CNN
-- 2025-04-03
2 April 02 20251356617 - Bangkok Developers Reassure Residents Following Earthquake Impact
File photo for reference only
Following the recent Myanmar earthquake which impacted high-rise buildings in Bangkok, major real estate developers have taken prompt action to ensure the safety and confidence of residents and potential buyers. The Thansettakij newspaper reports that 15 leading developers have implemented various measures to inspect and reassure the structural integrity of their projects.
L.P.N. Development Plc, in partnership with LPP Property, has conducted preliminary inspections and confirmed no structural damage. Similarly, Ananda Development Plc sent engineers and experts to ensure resident safety in all their buildings.
AP Thailand Plc formed a specialized team, encompassing designers and expert professors, dedicated to condo inspections. Sansiri Plc actively assists residents across their projects and established an insurance claim center for any unit damage.
Supalai Plc completed nationwide inspections of 90 projects, ensuring the safety of two Chiang Mai condominiums, as verified by authorities. Pruksa Real Estate Plc adopted proactive safety measures, with thorough engineer inspections underpinning their commitment to building integrity.
SC Asset Corporation Plc expedited inspections and repairs, enlisting teams of management, engineers, and property staff for continuous oversight. Ornsirin Group deployed experts to examine projects in the northern region and Phuket.
Sena Development Plc partnered with Hankyu Hanshin Properties from Japan to bolster resident support post-quake. Origin Property Plc focused on inspecting and maintaining the integrity of projects like Park Origin Thonglor despite bridge damage.
Singha Estate Plc organized a dedicated team of engineers for meticulous inspections of buildings’ conditions, confirming no major structural issues. Raimon Land Plc verified the structural soundness of its properties post-impact.
MQDC and Major Development Plc both carried out initial structural checks, declaring no significant damage, while detailed evaluations persist for added assurance. Siamese Asset Plc ensured thorough inspections, securing both completed and ongoing projects.
Overall, these comprehensive measures reflect the developers’ commitment to resident safety and market confidence amid earthquake concerns in Bangkok, reported The Nation.
-- 2025-04-02
2 April 02 20251356562 - Thai Restaurant Industry Faces Crisis as Purchases Plummet by 40%
Photo courtesy of Samurai Gourmet
Thailand's restaurant industry is grappling with a severe downturn, with consumer purchasing power plummeting by over 40% in early 2025, according to Thanivarn Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association. As economic recovery slows and incomes stagnate, consumers are prioritising savings over dining out, exacerbating financial strain on eateries.
This decline affects a wide range of establishments, from independent restaurants to food stalls in malls, all scrambling to stay competitive. With customer reluctance to purchase meals priced over 80 baht, many restaurants have resorted to slashing prices to 40-50 baht per dish.
Competition intensifies with the rise of Chinese-run "zero-dollar" restaurants offering cheap meals, putting additional pressure on local businesses. The industry, valued at 700 billion baht, is seeing frequent closures, underscoring the cutthroat market conditions.
A glimmer of hope lies in the upcoming Songkran festival, which traditionally boosts sales as families reunite to celebrate. Furthermore, the government plans to introduce a digital currency scheme, worth 10,000 baht, targeting young people. If successfully implemented, this could inject much-needed spending power into the economy.
However, the digital nature of the currency poses challenges, particularly in a market reliant on cash. Restaurants may hesitate to participate, potentially dampening the initiative's impact.
As restaurants await these potential lifelines, uncertainty remains. Whether Songkran festivities and digital currency can counteract the downturn is yet to be seen, as the industry continues to battle through challenging times, reported The Thaiger.
-- 2025-03-27
27 March 27 20251355975 - Thai Cabinet Gives Green Light to Electricity Cost Cut
File photo
In a move to ease financial strain, Thailand's cabinet has greenlit a reduction in electricity charges from 4.15 baht to 3.99 baht per kilowatt-hour. This decision, targeting the billing period from May 1 to August 31, aims to lessen the financial burden on households and businesses.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, announcing the decision, stressed that this cut reflects the cabinet's commitment to aiding consumers without the need for state subsidies.
A final nod, however, is pending from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The Pheu Thai Party, leading the coalition government, has been a staunch advocate for driving electricity costs below the critical threshold of 4 baht per unit.
Energy regulators, though, find their hands somewhat tied, as a segment of the tariff is earmarked for reimbursing the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) and other entities for past subsidies.
Earlier this year, ERC voiced its readiness to cut charges by 0.17 baht per unit, conditional on the government's reduction in spending for renewable energy investment programmes.
Power tariffs undergo a review every four months, factoring in fluctuating costs such as fuel prices and exchange rates. The ERC's projections for the upcoming period indicated possible rates ranging from 4.15 to 5.16 baht per unit, contingent on reimbursement allocations for Egat.
An interesting backdrop to the decision is an ambitious agenda set by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aimed at slashing the electricity tariff to approximately 2.70 baht per unit. Details on how this could be achieved remain unclear.
Notably, a considerable hurdle in reducing costs stems from Egat's binding long-term power-purchase agreements, leading to an electricity surplus of around 30%—a figure significantly higher than global norms.
Despite these challenges, the cabinet's current decision underscores a significant policy direction, oriented towards providing immediate consumer relief. The impending announcement from the ERC will solidify the lower rate, pending further strategic deliberations.
Based on a story by Bangkok Post
-- 2025-04-02
1 April 01 20251356477 - Thailand's Digital Card Chaos: Say Goodbye to TM6, Hello to Confusion!
Picture courtesy of Vietnam Investment Review
Thailand is scrapping its much-dreaded TM6 arrival form, replacing it with a new digital system—the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)—from May 1.
However, travellers should hold off on celebrating as the latest digital venture appears as perplexing as the form it replaces. The TDAC might ease entry formalities eventually, but the system launch is anything but smooth.
For years, non-Thai passport holders have filled out blue-and-white cards to enter the country, but the digital transition is meant to streamline this decade-old process.
The new system requires entrants to fill in personal, travel, and accommodation data online, promising a seamless experience with a QR code to present at immigration. But alas, the jargon-heavy user manual and an unreliable video tutorial only leave people scratching their heads.
As users grapple with a non-functioning tutorial and murky submission procedures, confusion reigns supreme. In fact, there's no word yet on whether travellers must continue carrying a paper form alongside their digital submission.
Screenshots from TDAC website
Further complicating matters, the authorities haven't confirmed if the TDAC will double as a customs declaration or whether an exit card is on the horizon.
Contrary to visa requirements, the TDAC is a separate consideration. No matter their visa status—whether visa-free for up to 60 days, extended duration, or work permits—foreign nationals must fill out the TDAC. The digital card is part of the grand plan to digitise Thailand's immigration, but right now, users are faced with a tangled web of uncertainty.
As the May 1 deadline looms, travellers are left wondering if the immigration process will be ready for prime time or if more chaos will ensue. Without clear instructions and user-friendly solutions for tech-challenged visitors, the initiative is in danger of reinforcing red tape, not removing it.
How the situation unfolds remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Thailand's digital promise is a work-in-progress. Stay tuned for more updates.
Based on a report by The Thaiger
-- 2025-03-29
29 March 29 20251356153 - Thailand Braces for Impact of Potential US Tariffs Amidst Tense Trade Talks
File photo for reference only
Thailand could face a significant economic setback, losing up to $8 billion if the US imposes reciprocal tariffs on Thai goods. Senior officials revealed this concern today, April 2, amidst looming trade tensions with the United States.
Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, a high-ranking commerce ministry official, indicated that Thai semiconductor exports could be subjected to a steep 25 percent tariff under new trade barriers expected from US President Donald Trump. Currently, Thailand imposes tariffs around 11 percent higher than the US on agricultural and industrial goods, and aligning these could result in substantial financial losses between $7 billion to $8 billion.
To offset potential US tariffs, Thailand is strategising to increase imports of commodities like corn, soybeans, crude oil, and ethane, aiming to decrease its trade surplus. Notably, exports are vital to Thailand's economy, the second-largest in Southeast Asia.
Commerce ministry statistics reveal Thailand's $35.4 billion trade surplus with the US last year. However, the US reports a larger deficit, pegging it at $45.6 billion.
Amid these developments, Sirilak Niyom from the foreign ministry affirmed Thailand's readiness for trade negotiations. Highlighting the country's significant investment in the US, Sirilak pointed out that Thai companies have infused $17 billion across various sectors, including food, real estate, and auto parts, generating employment for 11,000 Americans.
As the situation evolves, Thailand's focus remains on diplomatic strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of upcoming US trade measures, emphasising its economic contributions and cooperative spirit in international trade relations, reported Thai Newsroom.
-- 2025-04-02
2 April 02 20251356560 - Casino Complex Opponents Criticise Lack of Public Scrutiny and Feasibility Study
Photo courtesy of The Nation
Opposition is mounting against the Thai government's push to advance a casino-entertainment complex, amid accusations that the project is being hurried without thorough public examination or a proper feasibility study. The criticism follows remarks from Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun, who confirmed that the entertainment complex bill is slated for review by April 9, having already secured Cabinet approval on March 27.
Senator Veerasak Vijitsaengsri expressed concerns on Facebook, noting that the proposal remains contentious, with public opinion divided—approximately 60% in favour and 40% against. He argued that public consultations were superficial, and their feedback largely ignored.
Critics like Veerasak question the true benefits of the scheme. Proponents argue it will boost state revenue and curb illegal gambling, but Veerasak cautions that the primary beneficiaries will be investors focused on profits, potentially at the expense of social consequences. He also doubted the efficacy of proposed measures, such as the requirement for a 50 million baht bank account, which he believes will only attract wealthy gamblers already wagering abroad.
Former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn pointed out irregularities in a survey conducted by the Fiscal Policy Office, which showed improbably uniform support for the project. He questioned the credibility of the results, implying government credulity in accepting them.
People’s Party MP Parit Wacharasindhu has called for public scrutiny, urging citizens to monitor the government's efforts to prioritise the casino bill among competing urgent legislation, given the session's imminent conclusion. He also criticised the decision to conduct a feasibility study post-approval, questioning the rationale behind such timing and warning it may result in wasted resources if the study later suggests abandoning the project.
The pushback reflects a broader demand for transparency and accountability as the government navigates the legislative process for the controversial complex, reported The Thaiger.
-- 2025-04-01
1 April 01 20251356444 - Quake Jolts Thai Tourism: Rising Concerns Over Safety
Rescuers use a heavy duty machine to clear the rubble in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, March 29, 2025, as they search for victims at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after Friday's earthquake. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
The recent 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar has shaken up Thailand's tourism, already wobbling under safety concerns.
The quake, which rocked buildings in Bangkok and other hot spots, may cause a drastic 10%-15% drop in international tourist arrivals over the next fortnight, according to the Thai Hotels Association. Concerns over safety have already led 10% of foreign tourists to check out early, though some returned due to lack of alternatives.
The tourism sector, vital to Thailand's economy, is bracing for a short-term impact as Minister of Tourism Sorawong Thienthong assured tourists of their safety. Meanwhile, an audit of hotels and tourist attractions is underway to ease fears.
The economy, where tourism fuels employment for about 20% of the workforce and accounts for 13% of GDP, is already striving for a 3% growth amid trade export challenges.
While Bangkok faced structural damage, most notably the tragic collapse of a high-rise construction site leading to fatalities, the swift assurance from Thai authorities aims to bolster tourism confidence.
Although the bustling Songkran festival approaches, current bookings are below pre-pandemic levels, reflecting persistent safety concerns. Chinese tourists, a significant demographic, remain hesitant due to past regional safety issues.
Despite the tremors, the year-to-date figures show a slight increase in tourism numbers, reaching 8.9 million, yet challenges remain with falling numbers since February's Lunar New Year surge.
Experts predict a potential decline from the forecasted 38.1 million arrivals this year, highlighting the urgent need to address safety perceptions. For Thailand, known for its enchanting beaches and cultural sites, the quake is yet another bump on an already rocky road in tourism recovery.
Based on a story by Bangkok Post
-- 2025-03-31
31 March 31 20251356259 - Chinese Men Caught Removing Documents from Collapsed Building in Bangkok
Composite pictures courtesy of Amarin TV
In an eye-opening turn of events, four Chinese nationals were apprehended attempting to smuggle vital files from the wreckage of the collapsed State Audit Office building in Bangkok's Chatuchak district.
This edifice crumbled following a powerful earthquake originating from Mandalay, Myanmar, leaving its site restricted under the Disaster Prevention Act. The incident unfolded after alert reporters flagged the suspicious activity in this disaster zone to the authorities.
Bangkok Deputy Police Chief, Pol. Maj. Gen. Noppasin Poolsawat, reported that one of the culprits claimed to be the project director for the joint venture with Italian-Thai Development Plc.
Authorities quickly intervened, discovering these men taking documents related to contracts, electrical engineering, and inspection requests from the site's vicinity. After verification, police seized the files, questioned the quartet, and temporarily released them after confirming their credentials and work permits.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of the seismic event, the toll stands at 18 dead, 33 injured, and 78 missing. Bangkok's infrastructure battle continues, with train services largely resuming normalcy, barring the Pink Line, whilst the Expressway Authority of Thailand races to clear debris from the Din Daeng expressway for an early reopening.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat Service is rolling out additional trips to ease commuter woes amidst transportation chaos.
The ongoing search at the collapsed site is hampered by rubble, but hope lingers as rescue teams, bolstered by international aid, detect life signals. Eleven bodies have been uncovered, alongside 18 injured workers. Meanwhile, extensive safety checks are underway with Bangkok's authorities flooded by over 11,675 public reports concerning structural stability.
Humanitarian aid is en route for distressed residents in critically affected condominiums in Chatuchak and Phra Khanong districts, with local offices working tirelessly to offer support.
As rescue operations shift gears and additional resources align, officials stress the importance of property inspections, urging building owners towards swift compliance to ensure public safety. The situation remains under watch as Bangkok strives to restore normalcy amidst the tremors of calamity.
Based on a story by Thai Newsroom
-- 2025-03-31
31 March 31 20251356246 - Paetongtarn's asset woes: Scandal plagues PM with new allegations
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra finds herself embroiled in another scandal as allegations surface concerning her spouse’s reported failure to declare all assets.
The controversy centres on the failure to report a hefty 1.6 million baht cash profit from corporate shares sold by husband Pitaka Suksawat. This omission could lead to possible legal actions and has already sparked intense media scrutiny.
The potential fallout could be severe. A formal petition might soon be lodged with the Constitutional Court to impeach Paetongtarn if these allegations hold water.
This echoes the fate of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who was dethroned due to similar indiscretions. Being the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, her political ties invite additional attention to her administration and its moral standing.
Further complicating matters, Paetongtarn faces questioning over an eye-watering 218 million baht in allegedly evaded tax. This figure relates to 4.4 billion baht in corporate share profits supposedly linked to promissory transactions with her family.
People’s MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn has urged Thailand's Revenue Department to dive deeper, considering accusations of potential tax evasion strategies attributed to her leadership.
As the dust settles, the saga around Paetongtarn’s alleged asset concealments could have larger implications for her political career and public perception.
Whether these charges materialise into formal sanctions remains to be seen, yet the ripple effect has undeniably intensified scrutiny over her and her administration. How this impacts her premiership and future leadership credibility will be closely observed by political analysts and the public alike.
Based on a story by Thai Newsroom
-- 2025-04-01
1 April 01 20251356367
