National

Deputy PM Piwat targets 2030 for Land Bridge groundbreaking, orders transport agency to expedite investment model study

Thailand's government targets 2030 to break ground on the Land Bridge, an economic corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, after conducting public consultations in Ranong and Chumphon provinces this May.

29 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Piwat Sarasin revealed details about the Land Bridge project—an economic corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea—stating that research by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTPP) confirms the project is worthwhile and represents an opportunity for Thailand. The government plans to conduct field visits to Ranong and Chumphon provinces on May 8, 2025, to gather public input from residents and stakeholders. The route will start in Chumphon's Lang Suan and Phathalung districts before moving to Ranong for discussions with community leaders and local representatives. Officials will emphasize the importance of public participation and explain the project's advantages, disadvantages, and employment opportunities—from maritime services to related businesses—while ensuring local residents benefit through reserved positions and local company participation.

Piwat stated he is unconcerned about opposition, viewing it as normal for major projects, and called on all parties to prioritize national interest over factional benefits. He clarified that concerns about the Land Bridge dividing the country are unfounded and noted that environmental impact assessments will minimize ecological damage. The government expects to submit the Southern Economic Corridor Act draft to the cabinet in the third quarter of 2025 and aims to begin the Land Bridge's first-phase construction in 2030.

OTTP director Jirojn Sukaratna said his agency will accelerate design and environmental impact assessments (EIA and EHIA) in coordination with the Department of Highways and State Railway of Thailand, targeting completion by 2030 to attract investors and begin construction. Additionally, the OTPP will request budget allocation in 2030 to study the waterway motorway project (MMR1) connecting northern Thailand to the Gulf of Thailand, with results expected before cabinet approval by 2030.

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National

Vietnam Naturalizes Brazilian Footballer, Names Him Nguyen Tai Loc

Vietnam has granted citizenship to Brazilian striker Cheo Vanni Makno, now known as Nguyen Tai Loc, to strengthen its national football team alongside other naturalized foreign players.

29 Apr Khaosod

Vietnam has decided to naturalize another Brazilian footballer to bolster the national team by granting citizenship to Cheo Vanni Makno, a striker from Ninh Binh FC. The 32-year-old Brazilian striker from Ninh Binh FC has completed the naturalization process. After the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism submitted his application to the Justice Ministry in September last year, Vietnam's national team head coach Kim Sang Sik had recommended Cheo Vanni Makno to the Vietnam Football Federation, citing his exceptional playing abilities. Vietnam has now formally granted Makno citizenship and given him the Vietnamese name Nguyen Tai Loc. With Nguyen Tai Loc's naturalization, Vietnam's national team can now immediately deploy him alongside other naturalized foreign players such as Hendrio (Do Hoang Hen) and Rafaelson (Nguyen Xuan Sern). Nguyen Tai Loc has been playing continuously in Vietnam's domestic league for six consecutive years with multiple clubs, recording 130 appearances and 42 goals.

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National

Pheu Thai Backs 'Land Bridge' Project After PM Orders Feasibility Study, Stressing Three Key Factors

The Thai government, with backing from Pheu Thai party, is moving forward with studying the Land Bridge project after Prime Minister Anusit Charnveerakul ordered a feasibility review. The study will assess three key factors: public opinion and participation, economic and social returns, and funding sources before a final decision is made.

29 Apr Khaosod

Pheu Thai party backs the 'Land Bridge' project after PM orders feasibility study, emphasizing three key factors: public input, economic viability, and budget sourcing.

Government sources revealed on April 29, 2025, that Prime Minister Anusit Charnveerakul has ordered a study on proceeding with the Land Bridge project. The PM has assigned Deputy PM Pipat Ratchakij, Minister of Transport, to assess feasibility. Previous study results exist but require updating, and the team will also gather public opinions and provide information to residents in affected areas about the project before submitting it to the Cabinet.

Multiple ruling coalition parties, including Pheu Thai, support the Land Bridge project but emphasize the need for thorough examination. When asked about next steps if the government approves the project, government sources stated they cannot provide details until study results are reviewed.

Government sources outlined three essential factors for any project implementation: 1) Results of public opinion studies and participation, 2) Economic and social returns and their value, and 3) Investment budget sources. Regarding whether the project will be presented at the traveling Cabinet meeting in Songkhla on June 8-9, sources indicated this should be confirmed with the Office of the Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council and the Cabinet Secretary's Office, as they determine project submissions to the traveling Cabinet.

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Tourism

Going Viral: 'Amazing Thailand Wellness' Launches Health Tourism in Sri Suphan Community, Establishing Thailand's Soft Power on the World Stage

Over 50 Chinese tourists participated in a viral wellness program at Sri Suphan in Chiang Mai, featuring traditional Lanna healing therapies and cultural experiences that position Thailand as a global wellness destination.

29 Apr Khaosod

Thailand is positioning itself as a major global wellness tourism destination following a viral Chinese tour phenomenon when over 50 Chinese tourists joined a Wellness & Cultural Experience program at the Sri Suphan Lifestyle Community in Chiang Mai, generating rapid interest in international markets, particularly on Chinese social media platforms.

The program's highlights include hands-on experiences with exclusive traditional Lanna healing sciences unavailable anywhere else in the world, such as: Tok Sen massage—releasing deep tension and stimulating energy circulation Lanna Fire Therapy—rejuvenating the body through herbal heat wisdom Meditation and integration of physical, mental, and spiritual health Combined with world-class cultural tourism experiences including reverence at Wat Sri Suphan, the world's first silver ubosot, silvercraft workshops in Wua Lai community, and authentic Lanna Wellness Cuisine.

Jittimaporn Nilmai, managing director of Srichaiyapura, explained that the 'Silver Wellness' model elevates Thai soft power by creating health experiences that connect Lanna culture, lifestyle, and spirituality. "This isn't just tourism," she stated, "it's designing experiences that link culture, lifestyle, and Lanna's spiritual essence. We're transforming Wua Lai community's potential to create new value through sustainable wellness tourism, positioning Thailand not merely as a destination but as a 'place for life restoration.'"

Silver Wellness by Srichaiyapura, located in Wua Lai near Wat Sri Suphan, collaborates on sustainable wellness tourism development, strategically integrating Thai soft power with wellness tourism through reverence at world-class silver ubosot, silvercraft workshops, meditation therapy, local wisdom, Tok Sen and Lanna Fire Therapy treatments—launching 'Lanna Soft Power' as a new market offering for the world.

Anornop Chantrabut, director of Hangdong Thai Massage School, emphasized this represents elevating Thai soft power to new dimensions, particularly 'Lanna Tok Sen massage,' an authentic Lanna soft power heritage with long transmission that creates market differentiation and appeals to quality tourists.

The shift from passive "viewing" to active "participation" reflects emerging global tourism trends. The project's success demonstrates the industry's transformation toward Experience-based Tourism emphasizing deep participation and meaningful encounters, reinforcing Thailand's potential as a global Wellness Hub and model Amazing Thailand Wellness Destination attracting quality tourists worldwide.

The positive Chinese market response signals strong growth potential for Thai Wellness Tourism, particularly among quality tourists seeking unique experiences and sustainable future prospects.

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National

Opposition Fears Parliament Speaker Will Close Session to Block Special Committee on Agricultural Prices; Criticizes Deputy PM Suthumpun's Durian Livestream Sales

Opposition lawmakers held a press conference demanding Parliament establish a special committee to address urgent agricultural pricing issues, expressing concern the speaker may close the session to prevent this. They criticized recent livestream sales initiatives by the Commerce Ministry, particularly Deputy PM Suthumpun's durian sales event, claiming it created market confusion and failed to deliver promised prices to farmers. The opposition argues a special committee is necessary because agricultural problems span multiple government agencies and require coordinated solutions involving government, parliament, civil society, academics, and farmers.

29 Apr Khaosod

At 2:05 p.m. on April 29, 2026, at Parliament, Prinya Wattrasinthad, a Pheu Thai list MP, joined by coalition opposition representatives including Radkhlao Intavongse Suvanakeeri and Loafung Bandittherdsakul, deputy leader of the Democrat Party, as well as Nathpong Sumnodharm and Piyavat Kittithanesworn, presented a joint statement urging the House of Representatives to establish a special committee to study solutions for agricultural product price problems.

Prinya stated that the motion had been explained since last week and believed the public recognized its importance. He confirmed the opposition's position that Parliament should form this special committee, though no indication yet exists whether the government side will agree. The opposition believes the committee should be established today to begin work immediately.

The opposition cited three urgent reasons: first, agricultural pricing is a critical and pressing issue affecting both product prices and farmer costs due to Middle East conflict impacts; second, government solutions have been misaligned, particularly citing the Commerce Ministry's durian livestream event that created market confusion by promising 100 baht per fruit but failing to deliver that price; and third, the special committee is necessary because the issue spans multiple ministries and should not be limited to a single standing committee.

Loafung emphasized that agricultural problems involve numerous government agencies, making a special committee essential to bring together government representatives, parliament members, civil service officials, the private sector, academics, and farmers to collaboratively develop solutions. He expressed concern that the parliament speaker might rush to close today's session.

Piyavat highlighted that farmer problems—including pricing, high agricultural costs, and the questionable effectiveness of livestream sales approach—are core issues for the Palang Dharma Party. He stressed that Parliament serves as a reflection of public concerns, and the special committee is important, urging its establishment.

Radkhlao noted that the current 27th Parliament has been blocking special committees, with only one special committee established despite months of work, ultimately resulting in regular committee referrals instead. She clarified that while committees can solve problems, some issues exceed the scope of regular committees and require special oversight.

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National

Bangkok Taxi Driver Fined for Refusing Passengers in Viral Video

A Bangkok traffic officer went viral after posting a video showing a taxi driver refusing passengers and violating traffic laws near Don Mueang Airport. The officer issued fines totaling 1,000 baht for refusing passengers, illegal parking, and improper dress, while discovering the driver had three unpaid outstanding violations. The video received widespread online praise for the officer's strict enforcement and its potential to improve taxi driver discipline.

29 Apr Khaosod

A Thai police officer has gone viral after posting a video showing a taxi driver allegedly refusing passengers and violating multiple traffic rules near Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok.

The clip was shared on Facebook by an officer known as "Jaa Auan Bolikhamsai," who works at the Vibhavadi Rangsit Traffic Control Centre under the Traffic Police Division.

In the post, the officer said the taxi was "parking and waiting for passengers, then refusing them after they got in," adding that the driver had three outstanding fines and was not properly dressed.

In the video, the officer is seen riding a motorcycle past a taxi parked along the roadside near the airport entrance, where two passengers were reportedly trying to get a ride. After the driver refused them, the officer stopped and questioned the situation.

He then admonished the driver for allegedly selecting passengers instead of providing service fairly, before speaking to the passengers and checking whether they needed assistance in finding another vehicle.

The officer later inspected the driver's documents and issued charges for refusing passengers and illegal stopping to wait for passengers, with fines of 500 baht each, totalling 1,000 baht.

According to the post, the driver initially attempted to negotiate for only one charge, but the officer added a third charge for improper attire.

The taxi driver was also found to have three previous unpaid fines, meaning this case became the fourth offence recorded.

After issuing the penalties, the officer instructed the driver to immediately move the vehicle and not remain parked in the area.

The video drew widespread attention online, with many netizens praising the officer for strict enforcement and saying such actions could improve discipline among taxi drivers and serve as a warning to others.

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Regional

The Pizza Company to exit Cambodia, local brand to replace outlets

The Pizza Company is shutting down its operations in Cambodia after Express Food Group Cambodia gained new ownership under Singapore-based Palms Food International. The local operator plans to launch its own Cambodian pizza brand in May and rebrand all existing outlets across the country with this new homegrown concept.

29 Apr Khaosod

The Pizza Company will cease operations in Cambodia as its local operator prepares to launch a new homegrown brand following a corporate restructuring.

Express Food Group Cambodia (EFG Cambodia), one of the country's long-established quick service restaurant operators, has shifted its ownership to Singapore-based Palms Food International Pte. Ltd. under a share transfer agreement involving Thailand-based EFG Holdings.

As a result, EFG Cambodia will introduce its own Cambodian pizza brand, expected to launch in May. Existing Pizza Company outlets across the country will be rebranded under the new concept.

The Pizza Company, a Thai multinational chain founded in Bangkok in 1980, expanded to Cambodia in 2006 and currently operates in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville and Kampong Cham.

The move marks a shift towards a locally developed brand, replacing the long-running international franchise in the Cambodian market.

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Breaking

100 Million Baht in Crystal Meth Seized on Mekong Border

Thai police seized 248 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine valued at nearly 100 million baht in a dramatic operation along the Mekong River border, after a cross-border drug gang fired shots while attempting to escape. The drugs, smuggled from a neighboring country and destined for distribution across Thailand's tourist areas, were recovered following an intelligence-led operation by Nong Khai provincial police.

29 Apr Khaosod

NONG KHAI — 29 April 2026, Police in northeastern Thailand seized 248 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine worth nearly 100 million baht after a cross-border drug gang opened fire while fleeing across the Mekong River, officials said.

At a press briefing held at 11:30 on 29 April 2026, provincial authorities said the drugs had been smuggled from a neighbouring country and were destined for distribution in inner provinces, particularly tourist areas.

The seizure followed an intelligence-led operation ordered by Maj. Gen. Atthachon Chuangngam, commander of Nong Khai provincial police. Investigators had received a tip-off on 24 April 2026 at around 18:00 that Lao nationals would transport methamphetamine by boat across the Mekong and deliver it near Wat Rat Chamnong in Mueang Mee subdistrict.

At about 0:30, officers observed a Toyota saloon car without visible registration plates arriving at the site. Several bags were seen placed nearby. Two men exited the vehicle to load the bags while a third remained in the driver's seat.

When officers identified themselves, the suspects fled into nearby woodland, firing shots to cover their escape. The driver sped off along a local road.

Police found five abandoned bags containing 178 packages of methamphetamine, each weighing 1 kilogram and wrapped in packaging printed with images of durian and tea. Officers later located two more bags along the escape route, containing an additional 70 packages.

In total, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized, with an estimated value of about 99.2 million baht.

Authorities believe the drugs were intended for distribution within Thailand, where traffickers sell methamphetamine for up to 400,000 baht per kilogram.

The seized narcotics have been handed over to investigators at Wiang Khuk Police Station for further legal proceedings.

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National

Philippines to Host 7th Asian Beach Games in Cebu City in 2028

The Philippines will host the 7th Asian Beach Games in Cebu City in 2028, marking the country's first OCA-sanctioned competition in years. The island's pristine beaches will showcase beach sports with most events held outdoors, including ad

29 Apr Khaosod

Abraham Tolentino, chairman of the Philippine Olympic Committee, has secured an agreement with Juan Bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), for the Philippines to host the 7th Asian Beach Games in Cebu City in 2028. Tolentino expressed considerable enthusiasm about the opportunity, acknowledging that the Philippines has not hosted an OCA-sanctioned competition for quite some time. However, he emphasized that the country has strong credentials in hosting international sporting events, having served as host for the Southeast Asian Games four times and numerous basketball and volleyball tournaments. The Philippines is also planning to host the inaugural "Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games" in late 2027.

Patrick Gregorio, representing the Philippine Sports Commission, outlined the event's concept, which will fully emphasize beach sports culture with Cebu City as a primary venue. The city's pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters will serve as a stunning backdrop for competitions. Most events are planned for outdoor settings, with even indoor sports like 3x3 basketball being moved to the beachfront to create a distinctive atmosphere.

Organizers are also considering scheduling the games for March, during the Philippines' summer season, to minimize risks from tropical storms and maximize favorable conditions for outdoor competitions.

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National

Department of Business Development Accelerates Franchise Sector Growth to Support 300 Billion Baht Market

Thailand's Department of Business Development is promoting franchise business development to capitalize on a 300 billion baht market growing at 15-20% annually. The department launched the DBD Franchise Standard program offering business training, financial support through SME D Bank with 200 million baht in credit, and special retail location benefits through Lotus to help franchises succeed. Currently, 571 businesses have achieved the quality management standard, with food and beverage franchises dominating at 65% of certified operations.

29 Apr Khaosod

The Department of Business Development is accelerating efforts to upgrade Thailand's franchise sector to support a growing 300 billion baht market. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce, stated that franchise business is a crucial mechanism for the nation's economy in creating employment, generating revenue, and distributing business opportunities to regional areas. Implementing systematic management standards in line with international benchmarks will build confidence between franchisors and franchisees and create a strong foundation for quality business growth.

The franchise sector is currently showing continuous growth with a combined market value exceeding 300 billion baht and an average annual expansion rate of 15-20%, reflecting the potential of a business model that expands systematically and generates income. On April 29, 2025, the department organized the "Elevating Business to DBD Franchise Standard" event under the concept of "Standard-Scale-Success" to upgrade Thai businesses through franchise systems as an efficient business expansion strategy. Expert franchisees were invited to share knowledge and development guidelines covering branch expansion and growth strategies, franchise model creation, franchise manual development, branding, finance and fee structures, online content creation, personnel development, and digital technology for franchises. A special panel discussion on "Standardize to Scale: Franchise Success Stories" was also held to inspire entrepreneurs to apply lessons to their own businesses.

The department also provided financial support through partnerships with financial institutions, including SME D Bank, which offered special credit privileges totaling 200 million baht to franchise businesses that passed the additional assessment from the DBD Franchise Standard program. An estimated 40 businesses are expected to pass the assessment this year. Additionally, the department partnered with Lotus to provide special commercial location privileges, with Lotus waiving initial fees for franchises selling products within their stores, enabling franchise businesses to start operations comprehensively.

Poonpong noted that franchise business plays an important role in the economy as a mechanism that creates jobs, generates income, and expands business opportunities. Franchising is therefore an investment option that reduces risk due to its proven management systems and business models. Elevating the potential of Thai franchise businesses to international standards will help them compete amid economic volatility. Combining business standards with access to capital will strengthen Thailand's franchise system and serve as a key driver for entrepreneurs to grow steadily in the long term.

Currently, 571 businesses have met the DBD Franchise Standard criteria, with food businesses comprising 257 establishments (45%), beverages 115 (20%), services 72 (13%), education 70 (12%), retail 33 (6%), and beauty and spa services 24 (4%).

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Police

Chadchart Orders Crackdown on Loopholes After Arrest of Thonburi District Official for Issuing Fake Birth Certificates

Bangkok Governor Chadchart has ordered a crackdown on document-issuance procedures after a Thonburi district official was arrested for issuing fake birth certificates to foreign nationals. An urgent audit of all districts is underway to ide

29 Apr Khaosod

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphan has ordered strict oversight and a comprehensive review of procedures and authority limits to close loopholes following the arrest of a Thonburi district official involved in issuing fake birth certificates to stateless persons. An urgent audit of document issuance across all districts is underway.

An Anti-Corruption Police operation, coordinated with the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Public Relations Department, and Special Cases Investigation Bureau, conducted raids on four locations and arrested one official from the Thonburi District Registry Office along with five others—six suspects total—for fraudulently issuing birth certificates to foreign nationals to falsely claim Thai citizenship.

On April 29, 2569, at the Asdang Development Building at City Hall 2 in Din Daeng, Governor Chadchart Sittiphan stated that the arrested registry officials were mid-level operational staff, not supervisors or district directors, and that the scheme involved multiple people colluding together.

Chadchart said procedures must be reviewed to identify vulnerabilities and assess whether excessive authority has been granted to individual officials in birth certificate verification processes.

Chadchart instructed Deputy Governor Chakraphan Phiwngam to investigate the volume of documents issued to foreign nationals and identify any districts with abnormally high numbers.

"We will also review procedures so that decisions are not made by a single person, but rather by a committee working together to prevent excessive power concentration in individual hands. I commend the police for their arrest. This is decisive action on the corruption that has surfaced," Chadchart said.

Four locations were raided, with six suspects arrested—state officials and accomplices—involved in the fake birth certificate scheme allowing foreigners to fraudulently claim Thai nationality.

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