National

Thailand rushes US trade deal ahead of possible Section 301 review

Thailand is accelerating negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States to reduce tariff risks before a potential Section 301 investigation. Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun reported that technical discussions have made progress on key issues including asset capacity and forced labor concerns. Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to maximizing trade benefits while Thailand seeks to clarify its trade surplus with the US.

12 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — May 12, 2026 — Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun announced that Thailand is fast-tracking negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States to minimize tariff exposure ahead of a Section 301 review.

Following her recent trip to the United States, Ms. Suphajee said technical discussions were held on May 4 with Jamieson Greer and Rick Switzer to advance the stalled ART negotiations. Thai officials remain in the United States for expert-level talks focusing on asset capacity and forced labor concerns.

Ms. Suphajee said her discussions aimed to clarify Thailand's position following the country's formal submission on April 15. She emphasized that all key issues have been thoroughly explained with no major stumbling blocks identified. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maximizing mutual trade benefits.

Thailand hopes to finalize the ART agreement before any Section 301 investigation—which examines unfair trade practices—moves forward. The discussions also touched on Thailand's trade surplus with the United States, which grew significantly last year. Ms. Suphajee clarified that at least 30 percent of the additional surplus stems from products manufactured by US-invested companies operating in Thailand, while over 20 percent comes from Thai companies.

Regarding concerns about transshipment and potential misuse of trade privileges, Ms. Suphajee stated that Thailand has prepared comprehensive documentation and data to address all relevant matters.

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National

Thai FM Says Koh Kood Sovereignty Not in Doubt

Thailand's foreign minister affirmed on Tuesday that Koh Kood island remains unquestionably Thai territory, dismissing Cambodia's reported secret registration of a 2001 memorandum as evidence in a maritime dispute. The foreign minister stated that any future maritime boundary negotiations will follow the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea framework, which both countries recognize. Thailand is also coordinating legal assistance for Thai nationals detained by Cambodian soldiers on border-crossing allegations.

12 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — May 12, 2026 — Thailand's deputy prime minister and foreign minister stated on Tuesday that Koh Kood island remains unquestionably Thai territory, dismissing reports that Cambodia had secretly registered a 2001 bilateral memorandum as evidence in a maritime boundary dispute.

Speaking at Government House at 8:45 a.m., Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also announced that Thai authorities were arranging legal assistance for Thai nationals detained by Cambodian soldiers for allegedly crossing the border illegally while gathering forest products.

"The process is under way," Sihasak said. "Coordination regarding legal assistance has already been completed, and we are monitoring the situation closely."

Sihasak was responding to reports that Cambodia had registered the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding between Thailand and Cambodia concerning overlapping continental shelf claims, known in Thailand as "MOU 2544," which Thailand later revoked.

He noted that Cambodia is a signatory to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which Thailand also recognizes as the framework for future negotiations.

"The MOU 2544 has already been cancelled," he said. "Negotiations under UNCLOS are a good approach and avoid wasting time, although it is still too early to conclude which mechanism will ultimately be used."

When asked about reports that Cambodia intended to use the memorandum as evidence relating to a maritime boundary line allegedly passing through Koh Kood in Trat province, Sihasak rejected the claim.

"That is not possible," he said. "Under UNCLOS, maritime boundaries must be considered according to internationally recognized legal principles."

"I do not know what Cambodia may have secretly registered," he added. "What I know is that discussions will take place under UNCLOS."

Asked whether the issue would affect Thailand's sovereignty over Koh Kood, Sihasak stated that any formal demarcation would clearly demonstrate that the island belongs to Thailand.

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Breaking

Bolt Tightens Safety After Thai Student Ride Incident

Bolt announced enhanced safety measures in Thailand following a violent incident in late April involving a female student whose motorcycle driver allegedly attempted to steal her phone and refused to stop. The 22-year-old driver was found to be using another person's account, prompting the platform to implement stricter facial recognition checks, AI-powered monitoring systems, and zero-tolerance policies for account misuse.

12 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — On May 11, 2026, the popular ride-hailing platform Bolt announced stricter safety measures in Thailand, including expanded AI technology and more frequent facial recognition checks to prevent driver identity fraud, following a violent incident involving a schoolgirl.

The incident occurred in late April 2026 when the student booked a motorcycle ride through the app to return home in Bangkok's Nong Khaem district.

According to reports, Arm, the 22-year-old driver whose motorcycle lacked a license plate, reportedly stopped to consume a substance suspected to be kratom water before bypassing the passenger's intended destination.

The student recorded a video pleading with the rider to stop. The rider allegedly attempted to seize her mobile phone and refused to stop the vehicle, prompting the student to jump off the motorcycle and suffer injuries. Bystanders later intervened and provided assistance.

Investigations revealed the rider had been using another person's account to accept jobs on the platform.

In a statement, Bolt Thailand said it had summoned the service provider involved to clarify the facts, suspended the driver account linked to the incident, and alerted other ride-hailing platforms to help prevent the individual from operating elsewhere. The company also said it had already suspended more than 40,000 riders for violating platform rules.

On May 11, Bolt Thailand issued a further statement confirming that its services in Thailand remain operational as usual while coordinating with relevant authorities regarding certification of its electronic systems.

The company said passenger safety and confidence remained its highest priorities and outlined several enhanced measures:

- Increase the frequency of random facial recognition checks for drivers to prevent account sharing and impersonation. - Reiterate a zero-tolerance policy on account misuse; accounts found to be shared or used by unauthorized individuals would be permanently banned. - Implement AI-powered monitoring systems capable of detecting irregularities during trips in real time, alongside rapid-response safety reporting systems. - Display pop-up reminders before each journey for passengers to verify the driver's face, vehicle registration, and trip details shown in the application before boarding.

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National

CKPower's First Quarter 2025 Net Profit Surges 82.9% Despite Dry Season, Prepares for El Niño

CKPower's first quarter 2025 net profit surged 82.9% to 1.159 billion baht, driven by strong hydroelectric plant performance and reduced financing costs, as the company prepares for potential El Niño conditions later this year.

12 May Khaosod

CKPower Managing Director Thanawat Triwiswvet announced the company's strong first quarter 2025 performance, with core net profit reaching 1.159 billion baht, up 525 million baht or 82.9% year-on-year. The growth stems from robust operations at both of the company's hydroelectric plants, including a 198.6 billion baht share of net profits from Xayaburi Power Company Limited (XPCL), up from 190.7 billion baht the previous year, thanks to increased water flow and higher electricity sales volumes combined with reduced financing costs from long-term debt repayment and declining global interest rates.

Perfirmance at Fak Kham 2 Power Company Limited (NN2) also improved with higher electricity sales compared to the previous year, driven by reservoir water levels at the beginning of 2025 that exceeded the prior year and increased water inflow during the first quarter. This sustained growth occurred despite operating during the dry season.

Thanawat explained that the company's production capacity structure, based primarily on renewable energy, insulates operations from Middle East instability and global energy price volatility. Energy price fluctuations affect only fuel costs for electricity sold to industrial customers through Bangpakong Cogeneration Company Limited (BIC), representing just 3% of total company output.

In preparation for potential El Niño conditions expected in the latter half of 2025, CKPower has developed a Hydrometeorological Monitoring and Forecasting System to enhance efficiency and accuracy in predicting hydroelectric power plant output capacity.

The Luang Prabang hydroelectric project is 72% complete as of March 2025, on schedule. The company's financial position remains solid, with a liquidity ratio of 1.78x and a net interest-bearing debt to equity ratio of just 0.47x, reflecting efficient cash management and debt repayment capabilities.

Management stated that further interest rate reductions in the U.S. and Thailand would reduce financing costs and support continued 2025 performance, with the company continuously monitoring interest rate adjustments and managing long-term debt appropriately.

Under its five-year plan (2025-2029), CKPower aims to expand production capacity through solar power projects, both via private PPAs and participation in government-sponsored renewable energy auctions, while selling renewable energy certificates (RECs). In 2024, the company's renewable energy plants supplied Thailand with over 10 million megawatt-hours.

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National

Hallodarah - Director Tor Phongpol Tankhamhaeng Guarantees 'Rose Playing with Fire' Drama Delivers Every Episode

Director Tor Phongpol Tankhamhaeng promises 7HD's drama "Rose Playing with Fire" will deliver emotional intensity every episode, with leads Namtaan Pijchakonee and Tee Bunyakirtti showcasing chemistry that transforms his character's journey

12 May Khaosod

Director Tor Phongpol Tankhamhaeng guarantees the 7HD channel drama 'Rose Playing with Fire' will be spicy every episode, with Poopae, Pingpholoy, and Gin delivering full emotional intensity. Actor Tee Bunyakirtti, who plays opposite lead actress Namtaan Pijchakonee (the striking goalkeeper of Uthai Thani FC), describes his 'Puppy Boy' character, explaining: "Honestly, it wasn't planned during the workshop, but when I met Namtaan on set, everyone agreed the chemistry felt like a puppy. My character is really supposed to be quiet, guarded, and doesn't trust anyone easily because he's been let down before. But when Namtaan arrived and helped my character reunite with his father, it made him feel he could trust this woman."

Every episode is engaging in this 7HD drama 'Rose Playing with Fire,' with Director Tor Phongpol Tankhamhaeng guaranteeing that this version isn't just about women competing for a man—every character has motivations for their actions. The three leading actresses (Poopae, Pingpholoy, and Gin) perform excellently with full emotional commitment. Thanwa in this version is charming, smart, and warm—not a ladies' man. He also performs well. This version demonstrates how family is a fundamental institution in raising individuals and shaping their role in society; each character comes from different family circumstances, which importantly contributes to conflicts among friends and the methods they use to achieve what they desire.

The sweet couple Ginny Natchanichaa and Jena Angelina, who share strong chemistry from the GL series 'Poisonous Love,' are releasing a photobook 'Every Moment with Ginny Jayna.' Photobook purchases include the chance to win entry to the 'Every Moment with GINNY JAYNA' fansign event on June 28, 2026. Pre-orders are open until March 3, 2026 via https://kazzmarket.com/ and https://worldwide.kazzmarket.com/ for international orders.

A poster has been released for 'KLEAR With You Always Fan Meet: Forever' taking place Sunday, May 24, 2026 at Ratch Hour shop. Fans of KLEAR should stay tuned for good news. Member Paeth invites everyone: 'We want to invite everyone to this fan meet. We have so many new things coming this year—come sing with us, catch up on life together, and we want to thank everyone through this event. Follow updates on klearband and genie records!'

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National

Thailand Showcases Vision for Sustainable, Climate-Resilient Agricultural Policy

Thailand presented its sustainable agriculture policy at the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026 in the Philippines, emphasizing smart agriculture, One Health approaches, and climate resilience. The Agricultural Economics Office deputy highlighted Thailand's integration of digital technology, data management, and proactive risk management to strengthen ASEAN food security. Thailand also called for deeper regional cooperation through data sharing and early warning systems to address transboundary agricultural risks.

12 May Khaosod

The Agricultural Economics Office (AEFO) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives supported Thailand's participation at the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026 regional cooperation forum. Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Kanjana Khwanmuang represented Thailand and the Ministry of Agriculture as a panelist at the discussion titled "Food Security, Animal Health, and Climate Resilience: A Sustainability Imperative for ASEAN" on May 7, 2026, at Tambuli Seaside Resort & Spa in Cebu, Philippines.

The summit, organized by the EU-ASEAN Business Council and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, brought together government officials, private sector representatives, international organizations, and partners from ASEAN and the European Union to discuss green growth, sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate change adaptation.

During the forum, the AEFO deputy presented Thailand's agricultural policy direction, integrating sustainability and climate resilience into agriculture and food systems through the BCG economic model, smart and precision agriculture, water management and proactive risk management, and digital technology and early warning systems to boost productivity and farmer resilience.

On animal health, Thailand presented a comprehensive policy overview through the Department of Livestock, emphasizing disease surveillance, prevention, control, and food safety standards. The ministry stressed that animal health is essential for food security, rural economies, and consumer confidence, particularly for smallholder farmers who depend on livestock as household assets.

Thailand promotes proactive disease prevention following the One Health approach through biosecurity systems, vaccination, disease surveillance, standardized farm management, and data-driven decision-making to reduce economic losses, prevent antimicrobial overuse, and support sustainable livestock production.

Regionally, Thailand advocates elevating ASEAN cooperation from addressing immediate problems to systematic, data-informed collaboration, including information and early warning system sharing and policy coordination to manage transboundary risks such as animal disease outbreaks, disasters, climate change, and supply chain disruptions.

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Breaking

Tragedy Strikes: 62-Year-Old Man Dies After Swarm of Bees Attacks Him in Forest

A 62-year-old man died after being attacked by a swarm of bees while foraging in a forest in Maha Sarakham province; authorities believe he suffered anaphylactic shock from the venom.

12 May Khaosod

Maha Sarakham — A tragic incident has claimed the life of a 62-year-old man who was foraging in the forest when he was attacked by a swarm of bees. The man is believed to have suffered a severe allergic reaction and anaphylactic shock from the bee venom, dying in the forest. His body was found with bee sting marks across multiple areas. An autopsy is being conducted to confirm the exact cause of death.

May 12, 2025 — Police from Ku Thong Station received a report of a person killed by bee stings in the forest near Ku Thong Phittayakom School. They coordinated with medical personnel from Chiang Yuen Hospital, Ku Thong Subdistrict Municipality, and Asok Chiang Yuen rescue workers, who dispatched an ambulance with staff and volunteers to investigate.

Upon arrival at the scene, rescuers discovered a male body identified as Noo Khanet Chaikij, 62 years old, lying dead in the forest. His body bore multiple bee sting marks. Initial findings suggest the victim had ventured into the forest alone to forage before being heavily attacked by a swarm of bees, leading to his death.

Medical staff from Chiang Yuen Hospital, along with investigators from Ku Thong Station and rescue officials, conducted a preliminary autopsy at the scene. The body was then wrapped and transported to his relatives for funeral rites.

The preliminary assessment indicates death resulted from multiple bee stings causing severe allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock from bee venom. However, a detailed autopsy will be performed to conclusively determine the exact cause of death.

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Breaking

Corrections Department Spokesman Reports Chinese Man Hospitalized for Seizures in Pattaya Prison

A 30-year-old Chinese detainee was rushed to Pattaya Hospital after suffering severe seizures during intake at Pattaya Special Prison on May 11. Authorities suspect the seizures resulted from medication overdose combined with extreme stress, as the suspect had refused food for three days since his arrest. The detainee is connected to a major arms cache discovery in Chon Buri involving M4 rifles and explosives, with five suspects arrested in the case.

12 May Khaosod

The Corrections Department spokesman reported that Chinese detainee Ming Chen Sun, 30, was transferred from Pattaya Special Prison to Pattaya Pathumkun Hospital after suffering severe seizures during the intake procedure on the evening of May 11. The suspect had been showing signs of stress and depression, refusing food for three days while consuming only water since his arrest.

Sun was arrested following a car accident in Sattahip, Chon Buri, during which police discovered firearms in his vehicle. Investigation expanded to uncover an arms cache at his residence, containing M4 assault rifles and explosives, leading to the arrest of five suspects total.

During custody, authorities noted the suspect displayed severe seizure symptoms and physical weakness. Medical teams administered IV fluids and relaxants, with doctors monitoring his condition around the clock. Police from Bang Lamung Station provided security with over 10 officers stationed at the hospital.

Medical assessment attributed the seizures to possible drug overdose combined with extreme stress, severe dehydration from three days of refusing food, and lack of family visits. Deputy Provincial Police Commander Wasurachai Chaithaipattana visited the hospital to oversee security procedures and ensure continuous close monitoring.

Corrections Department Deputy Director-General and Spokesman Yutthana Nakruangchai clarified that the suspect remains hospitalized at Pattaya Pathumkun Hospital and has not been transferred to Chon Buri Hospital. The initial cause is believed to be overdose of medication the suspect carried, likely consumed before detention. Officials noted that bringing medication into prison requires official authorization and inspection. Despite refusing food for three days, the suspect consumed some water, with high stress likely contributing to the seizures, compounded by having no family visits.

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Breaking

Abbot Khukritthi Acknowledges Charges Over Distributing Hundreds of Thousands in Temple Bonuses to Disciples Over Five Years

Abbot Khukritthi Sotthiphol of Wat Na Pa Pong in Pathum Thani appeared for questioning at Thailand's Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Center regarding charges that he misappropriated temple funds to distribute hundreds of thousands of baht in bonuses to his disciples between 2012 and 2016. His legal team requested media blackout, citing concerns about damage to his reputation, before he returned to the temple following the four-hour interrogation.

12 May Khaosod

On May 12, 2569 (2026) at 10:20 a.m. at the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Center (ACMS), Abbot Khukritthi Sotthiphol of Wat Na Pa Pong in Pathum Thani reported for questioning regarding charges of embezzlement and official misconduct. He is accused of misappropriating temple funds to distribute bonuses of hundreds of thousands of baht per disciple between 2555-2559 (2012-2016). The interrogation lasted over four hours before he was taken for fingerprinting as per legal procedures. His legal team requested that assembled media refrain from recording any footage, stating concerns that the publicity could damage Abbot Khukritthi's reputation and that images might be edited and inappropriately shared on social media. They indicated a press statement would be issued to clarify the facts. Police subsequently escorted Abbot Khukritthi via a separate elevator to the third floor of the Central Investigation Bureau building and out through a connecting passage to an alternative parking structure before he returned directly to the temple.

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National

13-Year-Old Nita Breaks 22-Year Record in 3,000m Run at Surat Thani Games

Thirteen-year-old Nita from Chanthaburi won the women's 3,000m race at Thailand's National Youth Sports Games, breaking a 22-year-old competition record with a time of 10:19.24.

12 May Khaosod

Nita, a 13-year-old running prodigy, turned in an exceptional performance in the women's 3,000-meter race by crossing the finish line first and breaking the competition record that had stood for 22 years.

At the 41st National Youth Sports Games, the Surat Thani Games, Nuttapas Sikhomkul—known as "Nita"—a 13-year-old runner from Mater Protectoris School, had previously won a bronze medal in taekwondo sparring in the under-37kg weight category.

On May 12, 2026, the 13-year-old from Mueang Chanthaburi returned to competition in the women's 3,000-meter athletics race, delivering an outstanding performance and taking first place with a time of 10:19.24 minutes, claiming the gold medal while breaking the competition record previously set by Ketumanee Samapan at 10:26.03 minutes during the competition in Sukhothai in March 2547 (2004), or 22 years ago.

Previously, Nita created a sensation as a young prodigy by winning the 10km championship at Amazing Thailand Marathon 2025 and Buriram Marathon 2026.

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National

Football Fans Face Shocking Hotel Price Gouging During UEFA Champions League Final in Budapest

Hotel prices in Budapest are skyrocketing ahead of the UEFA Champions League final on May 30th, with some accommodations charging over 10,000 euros per night as Arsenal and PSG fans scramble for lodging. Prices drop dramatically the day aft

12 May Khaosod

Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain fans face a headache with accommodation prices in Budapest surging ahead of the UEFA Champions League final on May 30th. The 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League final will be held at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary at 6:00 PM on May 30th, attracting thousands of supporters for this European showdown. Although travel is generally convenient within Europe, limited flight and train schedules force many fans to stay overnight in Budapest, creating an opportunity for hotels and landlords to dramatically inflate prices—some charging over 10,000 euros per night (approximately 360,000 baht).

Hotel and rental platform prices have skyrocketed. On Booking.com, luxury accommodations for two people exceed 10,000 euros for a night after the final, while even standard apartments and mid-range hotels command premium rates, with the cheapest remaining options around 2,000 euros per night. Airbnb shows similar pricing, though data reveals that just one night after the match, prices plummet back to normal levels of approximately 100 euros per night.

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