National

China Blacklists 17 Thai Companies Over Smuggled Chicken Feet Exports; Hunt Underway for Smugglers Posing as Thai Producers

China has blacklisted 17 Thai chicken processing companies worth over 30 billion baht in lost exports after smugglers illegally shipped foreign chicken feet under false Thai credentials, exceeding the country's actual production capacity.

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On May 18, 2025, former Pheu Thai list MP Nikhom Bunyavises disclosed that multiple chicken processing companies have lodged complaints about being unable to export chicken feet to China due to smuggling operations impersonating legitimate Thai producers and illegally shipping chicken feet to China in their place.

China's authorities grew dissatisfied when an inspection revealed that chicken feet volumes sent from Thailand exceeded actual production capacity. This prompted swift action from China's food safety agencies, which blacklisted 17 out of 22 Thai companies, resulting in over 30 billion baht in lost export value.

Bunyavises stated that business operators have petitioned Agriculture Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit to help resolve the issue and urgently track down the smugglers shipping foreign chicken feet under false Thai credentials to China.

The General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC), a ministry-level agency overseeing all import-export controls, taxes, and safety standards, previously sent warning letters to relevant Thai agencies demanding investigation and correction, citing impacts on Chinese safety standards. However, these warnings were largely ignored.

GACC has now issued a fourth warning letter to the Department of Livestock at the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, cautioning that continued disregard of its concerns could damage bilateral relations and undermine Chinese confidence in other Thai exports.

The issue has persisted since July 2024 without apparent action from responsible agencies. Over the past ten months, across two administrations, business operators have appealed to government bodies and the Ministry of Agriculture without receiving adequate responses. "If this continues, all 17 affected companies could face closure or downsizing, impacting significant numbers of workers," Bunyavises warned.

As a former Pheu Thai MP and representative of a coalition government party, Bunyavises pledged to investigate the truth and resolve the crisis to preserve Thailand's exports and restore Chinese confidence before the situation deteriorates further.

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Police

Thai authorities seize 130 kg of ivory near Lao border

Thai authorities seized 130 kilograms of ivory and animal remains near the Mekong River in Nong Khai province, with suspects escaping under cover of darkness as officials expand a joint investigation with Laos into a suspected transnational

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NONG KHAI — 18 May 2026 — Thai authorities seized more than 150 kilograms of ivory and animal remains along the Mekong River in Nong Khai province and are cooperating with Laos to expand an investigation into a suspected transnational wildlife trafficking network, officials said on Sunday.

Sadudee Phanphakdee, Director of the Wildlife and Flora Protection Division under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), revealed that officials received a tip-off about an attempt to smuggle illegal goods across the border into Laos. Authorities then deployed officers to inspect a riverside stairway along the Mekong River in Ban Mueang Mi Yai, Mueang Mi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nong Khai Province.

Upon arriving at the scene, the suspects used the cover of darkness and their familiarity with the area to narrowly escape arrest. A search of the surrounding area uncovered abandoned suspicious items. Officials seized 22 cut sections of ivory weighing a combined 130.9 kilograms, along with two sacks containing unidentified animal remains resembling skeletal fragments, weighing a total of 29 kilograms.

Other animal remains seized at the scene were laid out for inspection but could not immediately be identified.

Authorities initially recorded and confiscated all evidence before transferring the case to local investigators for further legal proceedings. Officials are also working to trace and apprehend other members of the trafficking operation.

Meanwhile, the Wildlife and Flora Protection Division under CITES has already shared details of the seizure and related cases with representatives of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Thai and Lao authorities are now coordinating investigations, expanding intelligence-sharing efforts and strengthening joint law enforcement operations aimed at dismantling cross-border wildlife trafficking networks along the frontier.

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National

Khao Kheow Zoo Hatches Greater Adjutant Chick for First Time

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi achieved a historic first by successfully hatching a Greater Adjutant chick, marking the species' first breeding at a Thai zoo since it vanished from the country's wild habitats over four decades ago. The chi

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CHONBURI — Thailand's Khao Kheow Open Zoo has achieved a historic first by successfully hatching a Greater Adjutant chick, marking a major milestone in wildlife conservation after the species disappeared from Thailand's natural habitats more than 40 years ago, officials announced on May 17, 2026.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin praised the achievement as a testament to the expertise and dedication of Thai wildlife conservation staff, veterinarians, and animal keepers at the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand and Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

Zoo Director Narongwit Chotchoy revealed that the chick hatched from eggs laid by the facility's only remaining breeding pair. Due to the species' naturally low reproductive rate—typically producing just one or two eggs annually with low hatching success—zoo staff implemented an artificial incubation and hand-rearing program they described as a "life-saving operation" to maximize the chick's survival prospects.

This marks the first successful Greater Adjutant breeding at Khao Kheow under the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, and the first accomplished by a member zoo of both the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Southeast Asian Zoos and Aquariums Association.

Khao Kheow now ranks as the fourth facility worldwide officially recognized for successfully breeding the species in captivity, joining Bang Phra Waterbird Breeding Station in Thailand, Assam State Zoo in India, and Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity in Cambodia.

Minister Suchart emphasized that the breakthrough represents a crucial step forward in Thailand's commitment to endangered wildlife conservation and restoration of threatened species populations through sustained research and breeding initiatives.

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National

Supachai Unites Three Ministries to Overhaul Agricultural Product Dashboard Pilot in Ayutthaya

Deputy PM Supachai is piloting an agricultural dashboard in Ayutthaya that combines satellite data and farmer input to forecast rice production and enable data-driven supply management across Thailand's value chain.

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Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Panitchpakdi has unveiled a policy to elevate data analytics in managing agricultural supply and demand systematically across the entire value chain, from production through distribution. The initiative focuses on using a rice production forecasting dashboard to enable accurate monitoring of regional conditions and precise planning of production, marketing, and product absorption. "We must shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive, data-driven management, with the dashboard serving as the critical tool for linking our entire information system to enable accurate and timely decision-making," Supachai stated.

The Office of Trade Policy and Strategy, in collaboration with the Ayutthaya Provincial Commerce Office, conducted field verification on May 12, 2025 in two districts—Phachi and Uthai—to advance the dashboard pilot program using satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The initiative integrates data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the Office of Agricultural Economics, the Department of Agricultural Extension, and local farmers to create a unified information system supporting policy decisions.

The field assessment identified three key priorities: improving forecast accuracy by integrating rice variety data and field survey information; consolidating rice variety databases into a single system for production planning and targeted market positioning; and leveraging shared databases to enable agriculture officials to manage production and quality precisely while commerce officials can forecast market trends and prepare contingency measures in advance. Farmers confirmed that satellite data accurately reflects planting timelines, validating the dashboard's development potential.

The ministries aim to deliver concrete results within two months for operational field-level deployment. Future phases will incorporate AI technology and the Prism Model (Precision Rice Intelligence for Strategy & Market Model) to analyze global rice demand, assess market potential, identify trade barriers, and formulate proactive export strategies tailored to specific consumer groups.

The successful Ayutthaya pilot is planned to expand nationwide across all 76 provinces, transforming rice management through Big Data and AI technologies to enable real-time production monitoring and dynamic supply-demand management.

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Police

Relative Exposes Video of 'Amnuay Ruenrueng,' Former World Champion Boxer, Using Drugs at Home, Questions Whether He Deserves Another Chance

A relative of former world champion boxer Amnuay Ruenrueng posted video evidence of him using drugs at home, questioning why police remain ineffective despite his repeated arrests and violent behavior in Sri Racha.

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On May 18, 2025, it was reported that former international amateur Thai boxing champion Amnuay Ruenrueng has previously committed acts of drunken violence and has been arrested by police four times, causing distress to residents in the area. Most recently, a Facebook user named Methasit Raha, a relative of Amnuay Ruenrueng, posted a video of the former world champion using drugs at home with the caption: "Is this the person who deserves another chance? Is this the person Sri Racha police are helpless against? Is this a member of society? Given countless opportunities but never succeeded even once. He's becoming a burden to others and to society. This has gone too far." The relative further stated: "I called the police and told them he's using drugs at home, but they didn't come. What options are there to get rid of this? If we speak up, there will be problems. If something goes wrong, we still have responsibilities." The relative continued: "But facing a situation like this, it's unbearable. The disturbance never stops. We have to work to make a living, we need rest. Our neighbors also need peace and quiet. Do we have to wait until he goes crazy and kills someone first? Even with evidence this clear, the law seems powerless. I give up."

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National

Yok Thong Makes History as Thailand's First Influencer to Shine on the Cannes Red Carpet 2026

Thai influencer Yok Thong became the country's first to walk the Cannes Film Festival red carpet in May 2026, representing L'Oréal Paris at the prestigious event in France.

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Yok Thong, known as Yok Jitraprorn, has made history as Thailand's first influencer, rising from her humble beginnings as a street vendor to gracing the world's most prestigious red carpet at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival in France. The accomplished Thai influencer appeared as the sole Thai VIP influencer honored by global beauty giant L'Oréal Paris, creating massive excitement among her fanbase. The highlight came on May 16th when Yok Thong stepped onto the red carpet in a stunning custom-made white gown from haute couture brand Phatrawi Design, complemented by white pearl rings and earrings from Matarastudio and the iconic René Caovilla shoes from the "Bloom / Spring is About to Bloom" collection. She confidently shared the frame with world-class superstars, radiating beauty and poise as she commanded the global red carpet.

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Community

Get Ready for The Final Match: NBA Rising Stars Invitational Thailand Qualifiers presented by TOA

Thailand hosts its inaugural NBA Rising Stars Invitational qualifier on May 23-24, 2025, featuring NBA champion DeAndre Jordan and young Thai basketball players competing for a spot at the Singapore finals. The two-day event includes concer

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On May 23-24, 2025, basketball fans will experience an unforgettable event featuring NBA champion DeAndre Jordan, renowned as the alley-oop legend. The two-day celebration features mini concerts and exclusive performances by artists including MILLI, CIR*CRL, BENZ Khao Khwan, NEXT IDOL, and CU Performance that will ignite the basketball court.

The NBA Rising Stars Invitational Thailand Qualifiers presented by TOA marks the inaugural hosting of this prestigious national youth basketball championship in Thailand, a collaboration between TOA Paint (Thailand) Public Company Limited and The National Basketball Association. The competition provides a platform for talented Thai youth players to showcase their abilities and compete for the opportunity to represent Thailand at the NBA Rising Stars Invitational 2026 in Singapore.

On opening day, May 23, 2025, basketball enthusiasts will be part of a historic moment, cheering for young Thai athletes while enjoying special activities and the highly anticipated appearance of DeAndre Jordan, center for the New Orleans Pelicans and 2023 NBA champion. Beyond meeting the NBA star, fans can participate in exclusive activities including chances to win signed jerseys from DeAndre Jordan and limited-edition memorabilia. The first 50 fans to arrive on May 23 will receive a limited-edition NBA Rising Stars Invitational T-shirt, plus participate in contests with prizes totaling over 100,000 baht.

The opening day features elimination-style matches: Match 1 between Wat Noi Nopkhun School and Thepsirin School Samut Prakan, followed by a mini concert from BENZ Khao Khwan; Match 2 between Kanchanaphisek Witthayalai Chaiyaphum and Muang Ratchaburi Municipality Demonstration School; Match 3 between Assumption Thonburi School and Bualeung Withayakom School; and Match 4 between Nonthaburi Witthayalai and Tha Khram Phitak School in Chachoengsao, with performances from CU Performance interspersed throughout.

On May 24, 2025, the finals commence with the women's championship match featuring a mini concert by rising T-POP group CIR*CRL, followed by the men's championship featuring rapper MILLI. Every cheer from the crowd empowers these young athletes to pursue their dreams on the international stage, and organizers invite all supporters to join in celebrating the next generation of Thai basketball talent.

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Police

Police to Question Temple Monks About Gunshot Attack on Abbot Inside Monastery Cell with 16 Bullet Wounds

Police are investigating a shooting that left a Buddhist abbot with 16 bullet wounds inside his monastery cell in Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, and have summoned all monks for questioning as they search for suspects and possible motive

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Police investigators from Muang Kamphaeng Phet Station have summoned all monks from Wat Krajom Thong to the police station for detailed questioning in connection with the shooting attack on Abbot Phra Athikan Bunlersi Akpunyyo, 64, of Wat Krajom Thong in Mueang District, Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, 2025. The abbot was struck by multiple gunshots of unknown caliber while inside his cell, suffering serious injuries to his right ear, neck, shoulder, and hip. He was rushed to the hospital by fellow monks and villagers.

Police are focusing their investigation on finding clues about the shooter, who may still be hiding or frequenting the temple. They are also examining internal disputes or grievances that could have motivated the attack and reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. Investigators are particularly puzzled by the fact that the abbot's pitbull guard dog did not bark during the incident.

Chalor, 60, the caretaker who attends to the abbot daily, expressed shock upon learning of the attack. He noted that the abbot is well-liked by both monks and villagers, though he does lend money to some. Chalor mentioned that while the temple's security camera system once functioned, the memory card has been expired for a long time. Regarding the pitbull, Chalor explained that the dog remains calm and quiet when with the abbot but becomes aggressive and barks when separated from him.

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Weather

5.3-Magnitude Earthquake in Myanmar Felt in Bangkok High-Rises

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake centered near Myanmar's southern coast was felt across Bangkok's high-rises on May 18, though Thailand's Earthquake Monitoring Center reported no damage or impact to the country. The tremors were amplified by Bang

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Thailand's Earthquake Monitoring Center reported a 5.3-magnitude earthquake near Myanmar's southern coast at 9:05 AM on May 18, 2569 (Thai time), with its epicenter 10 kilometers deep and approximately 247 kilometers southwest of Mae Sot District in Tak Province. The agency stated the earthquake poses no impact to Thailand but will provide updates if needed.

Residents across Bangkok, particularly in high-rise buildings in areas such as Don Muang, Phaya Thai, Bang Rak, Huai Khwang, Pathum Wan, Khlong Toei, and Chatuchak districts, reported feeling the tremors via the Earthquake TMD Facebook page. Notable reports included:

- Strong shaking on the 19th floor of James Tower - Mild tremors felt on the 5th floor near Ramkhamhaeng-Lam Sali intersection - Perceptible shaking on the 6th floor in Chiang Mai - Shaking detected on the 10th floor in Asoke - Strong tremors at Phra Pradaeng, prompting evacuation from a building near Phra Chom Klao

Bangkok and its surrounding areas experienced noticeable vibrations, especially in high-rise buildings, with structures swaying and ceiling lights swinging. Officials at the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) building clearly felt the earthquake and promptly evacuated personnel as a safety precaution while inspecting the building's structure and internal systems.

Although the earthquake's epicenter was distant from Thailand, Bangkok's soft clay geological composition amplified the tremors, allowing residents across multiple areas to perceive the shaking.

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National

Chadchart Opens Up About Resignation, Works Until 5 PM Today; Hints at Future Focus on Urban Development

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphand resigned effective 5 PM today to run for reelection, emphasizing productivity and technology to boost the city's global competitiveness. He said his team will maintain operations during the transition a

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On May 18, 2569 at Wat Maha Rat Noi School in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphand gave an interview following his announcement of resignation to run for a second term as governor, effective at 5 PM today. He explained that he submitted his resignation letter this morning, with immediate effect at 5 PM, as he needs to travel abroad tonight for his son Saenpit Sittiphand's graduation ceremony. This allows him to avoid creating administrative gaps and eliminate the need for an acting governor. He confirmed his intention to run for Bangkok Governor in the next election.

For this election, he will emphasize a productivity policy because Bangkok must now compete with cities worldwide. He plans to maximize output while minimizing resource use and enhance city efficiency through technology, comprising three elements: happiness, opportunity, and hope. He noted that in recent years, residents have become happier with improved quality of life. Going forward, appropriate technology must be used to strengthen Bangkok's position as an economic center competing with global cities.

When asked about concerns during the interim period without a permanent governor, Chadchart said there would be no problems as the administrative work will continue through his team and staff. He noted this is normal in a democratic system where there is such a transition period for citizens to choose new leaders. His team has performed well, and he is confident they will continue to do so.

"I have to keep working because they pay me until the very last second. There are many concerns," Chadchart said.

He mentioned that this morning he will visit Don Mueang district, the area hit hardest by flooding since his early tenure, where road construction is now nearly complete. He also expressed concern about several projects, particularly a wastewater treatment pond on the Thonburi side that is progressing slowly. He asked the Permanent Secretary of Bangkok to oversee these matters and brief the incoming administration.

His campaign team will consist of both existing and new members. He thanked his team and civil servants for their excellent work over the past nearly four years.

When asked if he still gives himself a 5 out of 10 score, Chadchart said he maintains that rating because self-assessment is impossible. However, he gave his team an 8 out of 10 and prefers others to judge his performance.

What pleased him most over four years was the responsive service format changes for residents. Systems like Traffy Fondue made officials recognize the importance of the public and significantly improved efficiency. Previously, resolving citizen issues took approximately two months, but over these four years it has averaged just 1.9 days.

When citizens request action, it gets done faster. People feel that power has been decentralized more and trust in the administration has grown. When he first took office, residents distrusted Bangkok, which had been plagued by corruption and backroom dealings. Now that has changed through structural transformation that brings government closer to people without changing laws, using appropriate technology with minimal investment but maximum returns. He pledged to become more proactive in identifying problems rather than just waiting for citizen reports.

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National

Music News – Indie Rock Band AYLA's Launches New Journey with Single 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us'

Indie rock band AYLA debuts with melancholic single "From Now On, There Won't Be Us," a folk-influenced acoustic track exploring themes of separation and moving forward written by vocalist Per during a life transition.

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BRIDGE record label, under the Krungnuea Group umbrella, has unveiled its debut artist AYLA's (Ai-Las), an indie rock band composed of members: 'Per' Kampanart Seemuangphan (vocals), 'Ne' Veeravut Changsarn (guitar), 'Off' Komkrit Bunyueng (guitar), 'Oy' Akkhom Phuenraksa (bass), and 'Knight' Boriwan Sribotha (drums). The band has released their debut single 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us [Farewell],' a slow acoustic piece infused with melancholic atmosphere that permeates every lyric and melody. Written by vocalist Per during a transitional period of his life, the song explores a genre the band hasn't heavily pursued before—folk-influenced slow music. The lyrics tell the story of two people forced to part ways after exhausting all efforts to stay together. Using a journey metaphor, the song conveys that when two people have traveled life together but haven't reached their destination, they must accept goodbye and pursue their separate dreams, with the word 'we' no longer existing between them. The music video for 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us [Farewell]' is now available at https://youtu.be/zLy41Rucsbg

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