National

Thailand to revert visa-free list to 57 countries, scrap 60-day scheme for 93 nations

Thailand is scrapping its 60-day visa-free scheme for 93 countries and reverting to a list of 57 eligible nations to improve immigration screening and shift toward high-value tourism rather than visitor volume.

27 Apr Khaosod

BANGKOK — Thailand plans to roll back its visa-free policy to a list of 57 eligible countries and territories, replacing the expanded 60-day exemption for 93 countries introduced in 2024, as part of efforts to tighten visitor screening and shift toward quality tourism.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the ministry is proposing to cancel the 60-day visa-free scheme introduced during the previous government in July 2024 and return to the earlier framework.

Under the proposal, Thailand would reinstate the original list of 57 countries and territories eligible for visa exemption. Any future additions would be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on suitability and travel behaviour.

Surasak said the policy shift is aimed at improving immigration screening and addressing concerns over long-stay visitors using tourism privileges for non-tourism purposes.

He said the revised approach is part of a broader restructuring of Thailand's tourism sector, focusing on high-value, sustainable tourism rather than visitor volume, with an emphasis on safety, confidence and long-term sustainability.

The minister said the proposal has been coordinated with the Foreign Ministry and is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for approval soon.

He added that the policy review follows concerns over rising issues linked to foreign visitors after the 60-day visa-free scheme took effect, citing tourism police data.

Authorities also argue that most foreign tourists already stay in Thailand for less than 30 days, while those needing longer stays can apply under existing visa categories such as business, education or long-term residence schemes.

The ministry said the shift is also intended to ensure visa policy better reflects actual travel behaviour while reducing administrative and security risks associated with extended stays.

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Breaking

Min Pichaya and Sam Yuranun Post 3 Million Baht Bail Each, Shocked by Chain Recruitment Charges

Actors Min Pichaya and Sam Yuranun posted 3 million baht bail each after facing fraud charges in the D-Icon investment scheme case at Bangkok's Criminal Court, with their lawyer arguing the chain recruitment accusations don't meet legal cri

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2025, at the Criminal Court on Ratchadamri Road, the Special Cases Prosecution Division brought two renowned actors, Sam Yuranun Phommontri and Min Pichaya Wattanamontri, to face fraud charges related to the D-Icon case. Following this development, Witthoon Kaengngarn, lawyer for the D-Icon Group defendants, expressed surprise that both actors faced identical charges as other D-Icon suspects. The legal team learned of the charges on Thursday but remained unclear why they were being prosecuted. Witthoon stated that whether they can be acquitted depends on the court's judgment.

Witthoon suggested the court should re-examine the witnesses or question the prosecutor about the case details. He noted that while prosecutors typically don't undergo preliminary examination in such cases, the court may do so if there is sufficient cause. He emphasized he was not pressuring the court but wanted it to consider whether a preliminary hearing was warranted, pointing out that Min Pichaya served as a presenter in 2023 while Sam Yuranun became a presenter around October 2023.

Regarding the chain recruitment charges involving public borrowing, Witthoon explained that evidence had been submitted to the court. During Friday's witness examination, the Central Investigation Police testified. Witthoon revealed that the initial investigation began October 10, 2023, with arrest warrants issued October 16—a span of only 5-6 days.

Concerning the 'Dealer get Dealer' promotion scheme, Witthoon noted that the Office of Fiscal Economics initially believed participants received regular monthly payments. However, DSI investigation later confirmed payments were made only once, to those who referred new customers, not to the customers themselves. Witness testimonies consistently confirmed this single payment structure.

Witthoon highlighted a critical discrepancy: the fiscal office calculated 4 percent monthly returns (10,000 baht on 250,000 baht purchases), multiplied by 12 months equaling 48 percent annually, and with five lines of recruitment reaching 480 percent—leading them to classify it as chain recruitment. However, testimonies revealed only a single payment, which legally constitutes a commission or brokerage fee, not illegal chain recruitment.

When asked about the five charges against the actors, Witthoon stated that from a legal standpoint, they do not meet the criteria. However, once charges are filed, the court must determine which counts are valid. He noted that among the alleged 7,000+ victims, the court must determine when each became a presenter rather than simply prosecuting wholesale. Regarding the chain recruitment charge, Witthoon argued the court should reconsider whether such an indictment is appropriate, as the charges are serious.

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National

Jack Grealish Takes It Easy Off the Pitch – Spotted Napping at Rooftop Bar Despite Recent Foot Surgery

Jack Grealish was photographed napping at a Manchester rooftop bar in late April while recovering from foot surgery, just weeks after pledging commitment to his rehabilitation at Everton.

27 Apr Khaosod

Jack Grealish, the on-loan forward at Everton from Manchester City, was caught on camera napping at a rooftop bar while drinking and socializing with friends in the late afternoon, despite having just undergone foot surgery. Grealish, on loan from Manchester City to Everton, has appeared in 22 matches across all competitions this season. However, after suffering a foot injury that required surgery in early February, the latest images from The Sun show the 30-year-old striker dozing off at a rooftop bar in Manchester city center while socializing with friends on April 25th. According to reports, Grealish arrived at the venue at 4:30 PM but fell asleep within an hour. Following his surgery, the English striker posted that he wanted to make a comeback stronger than before, saying: "I didn't want to end the season this way, but that's football—it's incredibly frustrating. The surgery went well, and now I'm committed to my recovery. I know for certain that I'll return fitter, stronger, and better than before."

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National

Deputy PM Supachee Fires Back at Senator Sereni Over 'Unconstructive' Remarks on Palm Oil Stock Verification

Deputy PM Supachee defended the government's palm oil policies against Senator Sereni's criticism, denying export restrictions while acknowledging market-driven price declines and promising increased farmer representation on policy committe

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2569, during a Senate session presided over by Deputy Senate President General Kriengsak Sriraksa, Senator Sereni Anilobol raised urgent questions to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Suthammaphan regarding declining crude palm oil prices and export controls that have burdened farmers.

Supachee clarified that the government has no policy restricting exports. As of April 23, there were 140,000 tonnes of export requests, all of which were approved. The export ceiling stands at 200,000 tonnes, though approvals require consideration by relevant agencies, such as allocations for energy production. She noted that crude palm oil prices fluctuate based on market mechanisms, currently in a declining trend, with Malaysian prices at 37.48 baht per kilogram compared to domestic prices of 38 baht per kilogram.

Supachee explained that when export prices are lower than domestic prices, exporters naturally lack incentive to sell abroad. She emphasized the Commerce Ministry's holistic approach and confirmed there is no export ban policy, only an export licensing requirement.

Sereni further questioned whether officials were accurately verifying palm oil stock figures and suggested clear policies on B30, B40, and B50 biodiesel blends similar to Indonesia's approach. He also requested increased farmer representation on the National Palm Oil Policy Committee (KNOP) rather than solely private sector representation.

Supachee responded that she would consider all suggestions and conduct field visits. Regarding Sereni's 'sitting idle' comment, she asked for mutual respect, noting that such language was unconstructive for efficient work. On the biodiesel blending question, she explained that gradual adjustment is necessary while assessing system capacity and balancing impacts on affected parties with energy promotion policies. She agreed to include farmer representatives on KNOP, recognizing farmers as the primary beneficiaries.

Reporters noted that after Supachee's remarks, Senator Sereni requested to withdraw the phrase 'sitting idle' and replace it with 'help present accurate and complete information.'

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Breaking

Heartbroken British Mother Chooses Assisted Dying After Losing Her Only Son, Reveals Pain That Never Faded

A 56-year-old British woman, Wendy Duffy, has traveled to Switzerland to pursue legal assisted dying following the death of her only son four years ago. Despite being in good physical health, Duffy says her emotional pain from losing her son has never healed, and she has decided this is the only way to find peace. Her case has sparked broader international discussion about assisted dying laws and end-of-life choices.

27 Apr Khaosod

A 56-year-old British woman has decided to travel to Switzerland to end her life through a legal assisted dying process, despite being in good physical health. She made this decision following the devastating loss of her only son four years ago.

Wendy Duffy, a former caregiver from the West Midlands region, revealed to British media that she has submitted an application and received approval from a voluntary assisted dying organization in Switzerland. She has paid approximately $13,500 USD, or about 440,000 baht, to access legal end-of-life assistance.

She explained that ending her life is the only way to free her spirit, and she wanted everything to be orderly rather than attempting violent suicide methods in the past that could traumatize others who might discover her.

Previously, Duffy attempted suicide after her son Marcus died in a choking accident while sleeping at just 23 years old, four years ago. Despite receiving medical treatment and psychological therapy, she insists that nothing can heal the loss, and she has accepted that she no longer wants to continue living.

Duffy has also revealed that she has prepared details for her final moments, including the clothes she will wear and plans to play Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars's "Die With A Smile" during her passing. She also intends to donate all her belongings.

Regarding her family, she stated that her six siblings understand her decision, though saying goodbye will be difficult. She plans to call her family when she arrives in Switzerland to say her final farewell.

Duffy's case occurs amid intense debate about right-to-die legislation in the United Kingdom, which remains stalled in Parliament, forcing those seeking this option to travel abroad.

Meanwhile, assisted dying continues to attract international attention and sparks debate in many countries worldwide, particularly following the case of a 25-year-old Spanish woman who was a gang rape victim and decided to end her life through the same process, triggering widespread criticism regarding laws and victim care.

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Breaking

Florida Woman in Lifted Pickup Truck Runs Over Lamborghini, Claims She Couldn't See

A Florida woman in a lifted Chevrolet Silverado ran over a Lamborghini in a parking lot, claiming she couldn't see the low-slung supercar. The incident, captured on video, sparked debate about visibility issues with oversized vehicles and d

27 Apr Khaosod

A Florida woman driving a lifted Chevrolet Silverado ran over a Lamborghini Huracán in a fitness center parking lot, claiming she couldn't see it. The incident, which went viral on social media, occurred when the lifted truck drove at high speed across the parking lot without braking or swerving, climbing onto the front of the Lamborghini with full force—a sight that seemed surreal to viewers.

The accident was captured on video and shows the Lamborghini searching for a parking spot when the specially lifted Silverado entered the frame at considerable speed. Rather than a normal collision, the pickup truck "climbed" onto the supercar, making the luxury vehicle appear unexpectedly fragile. The dramatic height difference between the low-slung Lamborghini and the elevated truck was a key factor in the unusual nature of the impact.

Good news: No injuries were reported from the incident, and both drivers safely exited their vehicles. However, the substantial damage to the Lamborghini, which has high repair costs, raised significant questions about insurance, liability, and financial responsibility—especially with video evidence already circulating online.

Online reactions have been divided. Some view it as reckless driving in an area requiring low speeds, others point to visibility issues with large lifted vehicles in tight spaces, while truck enthusiasts argue that modified vehicles aren't the problem if used responsibly. The incident has reignited larger questions about the rising trend of lifted trucks and safety concerns like blind spots and braking distance.

What made this clip particularly memorable wasn't just the accident itself, but the surreal image of a pickup truck "climbing" onto a supercar in an unexpected location. Whether this represents a momentary lapse in judgment or signals a bigger problem regarding vehicle size and everyday use remains debated, but the incident has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.

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National

Hybrid vehicles surge with 31.57% market share, overtaking gasoline cars and boosting sales momentum

Hybrid vehicles captured 31.57% of Thailand's March vehicle registrations, surpassing gasoline cars as the country's most popular fuel type, while overall domestic sales climbed 7.29% year-over-year to 59,865 units.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) revealed that March 2025 vehicle production reached 133,413 units, up 2.69% year-over-year, boosted by increased export output from passenger car production rising 19.91% to 16,814 units and pickup trucks climbing 3.82% to 71,837 units. March export production totaled 88,651 units, up 6.53%, bringing the first-quarter total to 369,751 units, a 5.32% increase from 2024, with 249,343 units designated for export, up 5.78%. Despite March finished-vehicle exports declining 0.64% to 80,394 units due to the Strait of Hormuz closure affecting Middle East shipments down 15.96%, exports increased to Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Notably, hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) dominated March registrations with 16,111 units representing 31.57% of the 51,037 total vehicles registered across fuel types, surpassing traditional gasoline cars. Battery electric vehicles (BEV) recorded 10,075 units at 19.74%, marginally exceeding gasoline-only models at 10,025 units or 19.64%. Hybrid popularity partly reflects consumer concerns about charging station availability.

Domestic vehicle sales in March reached 59,865 units, up 7.29% year-over-year, with first-quarter sales totaling 182,083 units, up 18.86%. Suriya Paisitphattanapong, FTI spokesperson, attributed the growth to delivery of pre-ordered vehicles from the Bangkok International Motor Show in late March-early April, particularly electric vehicles representing over 50% of bookings, plus new modified pickup truck variants. Numerous EV models became price-competitive with internal combustion engines.

Domestic production in March declined 4.15% to 44,762 units as pickup truck sales fell 6.36% due to stricter credit policies from financial institutions amid slow economic growth, making buyer installment payments difficult. Paisitphattanapong urged the new government to quickly present fiscal policy and budget proposals to accelerate investment projects and build confidence among domestic and foreign investors. Thailand must stimulate industries with extensive supply chains, increase employment and production beyond previous years, achieving double-digit industrial output growth using over 70% production capacity. Strong domestic economic growth will attract foreign investment in a sustainable cycle, eventually lifting Thailand from middle-income country status.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Jubilo Iwata Officially Releases Pramestsai, Thai National Team Striker, After Loan Deal Expires

Thai national team striker Pramestsai Ajwilai has been officially released by Jubilo Iwata after his loan expired, returning to Thailand to undergo 8-10 months of rehabilitation for a torn ACL sustained during his brief stint with the Japan

27 Apr Khaosod

Jubilo Iwata has officially confirmed the release of Pramestsai Ajwilai, striker for the Thai national team, following the conclusion of his loan contract with Muangthong United. The club expressed gratitude for his dedication throughout his time with them. Pramestsai appeared in only one match for Jubilo, playing just 4 minutes in a J-League 2/3 special season fixture where the team lost 0-1 to Consadole Sapporo at home in March. He will now return to Thailand to receive treatment for a torn anterior cruciate ligament, requiring 8-10 months of rehabilitation. The Thai national team striker released a statement through Jubilo's official website, saying: "I am deeply grateful that Jubilo Iwata placed their trust in me." "To my teammates, coaches, staff, and everyone associated with the club, thank you so much for the warm welcome and constant support. My time at Jubilo Iwata is an invaluable and incomparable memory that I will never forget." "Most importantly, I sincerely thank all Jubilo supporters who have cheered us on in the stadium no matter what happens. I will never forget the warm encouragement you have shown me."

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

True 5G Partners with Miss World Thailand 2026 to Celebrate Meaningful Beauty

True 5G has partnered as the official primary sponsor of Miss World Thailand 2026, aiming to connect Thai stories to a global audience through technology and meaningful communication that celebrates inner beauty and positive social change.

27 Apr Khaosod

True 5G has partnered as the official primary sponsor of Miss World Thailand 2026, continuing its commitment to meaningful collaboration. Under the concept "The World is TRUE," True 5G reinforces its belief that true beauty lies in the power of heart, thought, and communication that connects people, sparks inspiration, and drives positive change in society.

As a Telecom-Tech Company, True Corporation leverages its capabilities in smart networks, AI technology, cybersecurity, and digital ecosystems to elevate the pageant beyond a competition into a powerful platform that amplifies voices and connects Thai stories to a global audience.

TPNGTERO, the organizer of Miss World Thailand 2026, officially unveiled all 23 contestants at Cloud 11 Bangkok. The pageant aims to find Thailand's representative to compete for the crown at Miss World 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on September 5th.

Oliver Kittipong Weerateecha, Brand and Media Executive Head at True Corporation, stated: "True 5G believes every act of courage, every dream, and every heart has the power to change the world. True beauty is not just what we see, but the power of communication that meaningfully connects people. Under 'The World is TRUE,' we view a world where everything is connected—where sincerity, belief, and human power can inspire millions."

The partnership pursues three key missions: Inspiring Hearts—giving meaning to every story and power to every voice; Empowering Possibilities—using True5G's smart networks, AI, and digital infrastructure to help Thai women's dreams flourish on the global stage; and Protecting the World—using technology responsibly to safely connect society, support environmental initiatives, and promote cybersecurity awareness through True CyberSafe, as well as enhance digital and AI literacy for Thai people.

Miss World Thailand 2026 seeks not just the most beautiful woman, but one with vision, courage, and a heart ready to create value for the world. This collaboration reflects a shared purpose between True5G and Miss World Thailand: technology and beauty converge as a force of inspiration, connecting people, emotions, opportunities, and hope to create lasting positive change for society.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Government Housing Bank Launches Major 4th Online Auction of Used Homes with Over 1,500 Properties Nationwide—Discounts Up to 40%

The Government Housing Bank is auctioning over 1,500 properties nationwide on May 5th with discounts up to 40% and zero-interest financing for the first two years.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Government Housing Bank (GHB) has announced its fourth online used home auction for 2025, taking place on Tuesday, May 5th from 12:00-12:30 PM via the GHB ALL HOME application. The auction will feature over 1,500 quality properties nationwide, including single-family homes, duplexes, townhouses, commercial buildings, and vacant land.

The bank is offering three tiered promotions: up to 40% discount off regular prices, an additional 10% discount when completing legal transfer within the specified timeframe, and special 0% annual interest rate financing fixed for the first two years. Interested buyers can view properties through the GHB ALL HOME app or www.ghbhomecenter.com and register with a deposit from now through April 29th at 10:00 PM. For more information, contact GH BANK Call Center at 0-2645-9000 ext. 5, or visit the Government Housing Bank Used Homes Facebook page.

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National

SAM Moves Forward with Auction of 53 NPA Properties Worth Over 154 Million Baht, Enlists 6 Banks for Special Financing

Sukhumvit Asset Management Company is auctioning 53 properties worth over 154 million baht nationwide, partnering with six banks to offer special financing for buyers.

27 Apr Khaosod

Sukhumvit Asset Management Company (SAM) announced on April 27 that it is opening an auction of 53 non-performing assets (NPA) with prime locations nationwide, totaling over 154 million baht, covering both residential and investment properties. The properties on offer include vacant land, townhouses, single-family homes, duplexes, commercial buildings, and office structures priced under 20 million baht, as well as factories and warehouses for business expansion valued above 20 million baht.

To support buyers with financing, SAM has partnered with six leading banks—Bangkok Bank, UOB, TMB Thanachart Bank, Kasikornbank, CIMB Thai Bank, and Government Housing Bank—to provide special credit terms exclusively for SAM customers. The company is also running a "SAM Second-Hand Properties Worth Sharing" campaign that rewards referrers with commissions up to 3 million baht per transaction when friends or acquaintances purchase SAM properties through auction or direct sale.

Featured investment properties include a four-story office building (Property 8Z4575) in Phayuha, Nakhon Sawan, spanning 5 rai and 389 square meters adjacent to Highway 1, starting at 43.6 million baht. A residential project in Roi Et comprises 30 homes including townhouses (16.7-34.5 square meters) priced from 665,000-807,000 baht and single-family homes (31.4 square meters) starting at 421,000 baht, located near temples, schools, and shopping centers.

Other highlighted properties include a two-story house in Bangkok's Khlong Samwa district (starting at 3.56 million baht), a three-story townhouse in Rat Burana (3 million baht), and 15 rai of land in Sa Kaew province near the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge (3.79 million baht). Interested buyers can register and submit bids at SAM's headquarters on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok, or contact the call center at 1443 extension 2 for more information and property details at www.sam.or.th.

No. 11 of ∞ Read at source → Next