Analyst calls for wider mix of Thai energy inputs
Analyst calls for wider mix of Thai energy inputsThe ongoing energy crisis has underscored the need for Thailand to accelerate the development of a broader mix of energy sources to strengthen its self-reliance, according to an analyst. China's energy consumption structure differs from that of the US. The US relies on crude oil and natural gas as its primary domestic energy sources, each accounting for about 39%. Beijing announced its daily crude oil consumption will not exceed current levels -- 15 million barrels -- with plans for a gradual decrease. Thailand's energy consumption structure is more similar to the US.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 30, 2026 02:58 UTC
Forty new migratory species win international protection: UN body
RIO DE JANEIRO - The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) on Sunday approved the listing of 40 new species for international protection, including the snowy owl featured in the Harry Potter saga. The decision came at the conclusion of the Cop15 summit on migratory species in Campo Verde, Brazil, which brought together representatives from 132 countries and the European Union. It is one of the world's most important global meetings for wildlife conservation. The new list featured land mammals like the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and other aquatic wildlife such as the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis). Habitat destruction, overfishing and water pollution from the Amazon to the Danube threaten the very survival of hundreds of species whose epic voyages along the world's great rivers go largely unnoticed.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 30, 2026 02:06 UTC
Profit with a purpose
The philosophy "profit with purpose" is steadily gaining ground, reflecting a growing recognition that long-term economic growth must pair with environmental responsibility and social inclusion. Capital Market RoleAt the centre of Thailand's sustainability transition is the SEC, which is gradually redefining its role beyond traditional market supervision. "Our goal is to position the capital market as a key engine of sustainable economic development," she said. In recent years, ESG-related bonds and investment funds have gained traction in the Thai capital market. "These achievements reflect cooperation across all sectors in driving sustainable development from grassroots to the national level," he said.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 30, 2026 00:33 UTC
New chopper pad for Koh Chang
New chopper pad for Koh ChangA new helicopter pad has been launched at tambon Koh Chang Tai, on Koh Chang, Trat, for rapid emergency medical services. JAKKRIT WAEWKLAYHONGA new helicopter pad for emergency patient transport has opened on Koh Chang in Trat, boosting the island's medical readiness and enhancing tourist safety. The facility, inaugurated at the Koh Chang Shooting Range in Ban Luk Chang, is part of the "The Essence of Trat Wellness: Trat, Metropolis of Happiness and Health" project, Deputy Governor Sakorn Nilrat said on Friday. The event was joined by Trat Provincial Public Health, Koh Chang district administration, the Mu Ko Chang National Park, local communities, and private sector partners. Deputy Director of Trat Provincial Public Health, Pattarapol Boonkhu, added the pad will support emergency care and reinforce Koh Chang as a wellness tourism destination.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:57 UTC
Customs rule change trims parcel imports
Customs rule change trims parcel importsImported parcels delivered directly to recipients in Thailand have decreased in volume, while their prices have increased as a result of Customs Department measures. Imported parcel goods valued more than one baht are now subject to both import duty and VAT. Protecting domestic entrepreneurs, especially SMEs, from low-priced imported goods is a priority, said Mr Phantong. He noted imposing import duties and VAT on goods valued less than 1,500 baht may be insufficient to help Thai SMEs compete against the influx of low-priced imports. Import duty rates for these goods have been reduced to relatively low levels.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:18 UTC
Business jet demand soars in Asia
The global business jet market is growing year‑on‑year, according to Astute Analytica, a market research consultancy, with a value of US$20.8 billion in 2024 and estimated to reach $29.8 billion in 2033. Astute Analytica suggested Asia-Pacific's business jet market remains underpenetrated, compared with other mature regions, with only 7% of the global installed base of business jets, highlighting long-term opportunities for the region. Many businesses are keen to expand internationally, leading to high potential for first-time buyers of business jets, he said. Astute Analytica attributed the surging demand for business jets to increasingly wealthy individuals. Private users accounted for roughly 45% of the total business jet market, while aircraft management operators held 55%, noted the report.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:18 UTC
Bangchak, OR resume B20 sales to reduce fuel costs
The relaunch comes as diesel prices climb sharply amid the Middle East conflict. B20 is cheaper than B5, the more widely used biodiesel containing 5% methyl ester, by 5 baht per litre. The Oil Fuel Fund, which subsidises fuel prices, reported a deficit of 28.1 billion baht as of March 22, underscoring the urgency of finding cheaper alternatives. The Oil Fuel Fund, which subsidises fuel prices, reported a deficit of 28.1 billion baht as of March 22, underscoring the urgency of finding cheaper alternatives. The company is piloting smart farming technology to improve palm oil yields and collaborating with Germany's International Cooperation Agency to encourage farmers to adopt sustainable palm oil standards.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:18 UTC
Energy wake-up call
The company continues to invest in this energy source as it helps manage costs effectively, especially when energy prices are volatile. To address the country's energy crisis, Mr Sanan suggested government subsidies and support to ensure energy prices remain appropriate and managed during this period, while alleviating shortages to strengthen confidence in energy security. This effort should include exploring both renewable energy such as solar and alternative energy sources such as biomass, said Mr Sanan. As the energy crisis weighs on the economy, it could spark growth in digital and clean energy industries, said Ms Naruechon. "In a way, the energy crisis will indicate in which direction Thai energy management should go," he said.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:06 UTC
Khon Kaen locals convert plastic waste into fuel
Local authorities in Khon Kaen have launched a pilot initiative to convert plastic waste into fuel, aiming to help communities reduce fuel expenses amid soaring petrol prices. The aim is to help reduce fuel cost and also help reduce waste in the communities, he said. "If all 15 villages participate, communities can turn plastic waste for fuel, generating additional income while reducing local waste. "The plastic waste we throw away every day in large quantities can be converted into fuel. Producing fuel from waste for our own use is especially useful during this period of high and scarce fuel prices," he said.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:06 UTC
DSI drops Phra Dhammajayo case
Phra Dhammajayo, the former abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, has not been seen publicly since he was charged by the Department of Special Investigation in 2016. TV SCREEN CAPTUREThe case against Phra Dhammajayo has been terminated after exceeding the 10-year statute of limitations, bringing an end to long-running proceedings without a trial. In 1970, with initial funds of only 3,200 baht, Wat Phra Dhammakaya was established on a 196-rai plot of land donated by a devotee. Although Supachai maintained the transfers were donations, the DSI pursued charges against Phra Dhammajayo, arguing the money originated from the embezzlement scheme. The termination of the Phra Dhammajayo case raises several systemic concerns.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:06 UTC
Push for electric bus upgrade by 2029
Passengers pile into Transport Co Ltd's inter-provincial bus from Bangkok to Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai. Bangkok Post file photoCaretaker transport minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is stepping up efforts to switch all diesel-powered interprovincial buses in Bangkok to electric buses during the Anutin Charnvirakul administration to save on oil expenses. "We aim to have electric interprovincial buses during the next four years," he said. According to the Transport Ministry, there are 3,465 buses in Group 2, which refers to interprovincial buses overseen by the state-run Transport Co Ltd. Officials said electric buses will also help Thailand reduce carbon dioxide emissions, supporting its campaign against global warming.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:01 UTC
Traders advise Bitcoin bounce may constitute a 'bull trap'
Traders advise Bitcoin bounce may constitute a 'bull trap'Amid macro risks, Merkle views that the current crypto rally may be driven more by short-term market dynamics than a sustainable shift in fundamentals. The move has sparked debate over whether Bitcoin is evolving into a safe-haven asset or entering a new bullish cycle. "Historically, major crypto bull cycles have been supported by clear drivers, such as regulatory progress, that attract new liquidity. MACRO RISKSBeyond short-term volatility, analysts warn that broader macroeconomic risks remain a key overhang for the crypto market. For now, the crypto market appears to be navigating a complex environment shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, tightening financial conditions and shifting investor sentiment, said Mr Thanalop.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 23:01 UTC
Pronskiy powers to Thailand Tour title
Pronskiy powers to Thailand Tour titleWinner Vadim Pronskiy of Kazakhstan celebrates on the podium. Kazakhstan's Vadim Pronskiy was crowned champion of the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Cup Tour of Thailand 2026 in Nong Khai on Sunday. The second place was taken by Terengganu Cycling Team in 52:49.48 and China Anta-Mentech Cycling Team took third place in 52.:51.50 hours. The Thailand national team took second place and Nusantara Cycling Team from Indonesia was third. The three-day Women's Tour of Thailand 2026 will start on Tuesday, covering a total distance of 297.10km.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 22:49 UTC
DSI clarifies stance on case of missing ex-abbot
DSI clarifies stance on case of missing ex-abbotThe Department of Special Investigation (DSI) clarified its handling of the case involving Phra Dhammajayo, former abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, following a decision by prosecutors to scrap it after the statute of limitations expired. The clarification came in response to reports on social media claiming prosecutors had instructed the DSI to drop legal proceedings against the former abbot. Subsequent investigations found Phra Dhammajayo and associated individuals had received transfers from the cooperative totalling about 1.458 billion baht. The DSI said it split the matter into a special case and, after completing its investigation, recommended the indictment of five suspects, including Phra Dhammajayo, before forwarding the case to prosecutors for proceedings. However, Phra Dhammajayo failed to turn himself in to face the charges and was deemed to have fled.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 22:41 UTC
Lawmakers to meet over House benefits
Lawmakers to meet over House benefitsDr Warong Dechgitvigrom, a Thai Pakdee party-list MP, eats lunch in parliament’s cafeteria on March 25. He has campaigned for the food allowance for lawmakers to be cancelled, arguing it a waste of taxpayers’ money. Chanat KatanyuLawmakers will meet on Monday to debate scrapping free meals for MPs following criticism over excessive taxpayer-funded benefits. House Speaker Sophon Zarum has called in parties to review parliamentary welfare, including meal provisions during House sittings. He said the proposals reflect public sentiment that lawmakers' benefits are excessive.
Source:Bangkok Post
March 29, 2026 22:35 UTC