Bank of Thailand to Publish Forex Intervention Reports from 2026

Thai Baht

BoT to Increase Transparency in Currency Operations

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has announced plans to start publicly reporting its foreign-exchange intervention activities beginning in 2026.

The move aims to increase transparency and trust in Thailand’s monetary and exchange-rate management policies, aligning with international best practices followed by other Asian economies.

How Often Will the Data Be Released?

Starting next year, the BoT will publish its forex intervention reports twice a year, with a one-quarter lag to protect sensitive market information.

In addition, the central bank will also release monthly data on Thailand’s foreign reserves, giving investors and analysts a clearer picture of the country’s financial position.

🤝 Agreement with the US Treasury

This new transparency measure is part of a joint agreement between the Bank of Thailand and the US Department of the Treasury.

The collaboration focuses on improving policy coordination, strengthening financial transparency, and ensuring fair currency practices between the two nations. Bangkok Post

Thailand’s decision reflects a broader regional trend. Other Asian countries — including Malaysia and South Korea — have already begun publishing data on foreign-exchange interventions to enhance global confidence and prevent currency manipulation concerns.

By adopting similar practices, Thailand joins its neighbors in promoting accountability and openness in financial governance.

BoT’s Clarification on Baht Management

The Bank of Thailand clarified that its exchange-rate policy is not aimed at competitive devaluation, but rather at maintaining market stability and avoiding excessive volatility in the Thai baht (THB).

The BoT emphasized that occasional interventions are necessary to smooth out sharp currency movements that could affect exporters, investors, and the broader economy.

Why It Matters

• Investor confidence: Transparency boosts market trust and attracts long-term investment.

• Policy credibility: Aligns Thailand with international standards set by IMF and G20 members.

• Economic impact: Stable exchange rates support trade, tourism, and foreign investment inflows.

   

Thailand Launches ‘Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast’ to Boost Border Tourism

 

An evening in Bangkok

Thailand’s New Tourism Push to Revive Border Economies

The Thai government has launched a new tourism campaign titled “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast”, designed to boost travel and economic activity in provinces located along the Thai–Cambodian border.

The programme focuses on attracting domestic and international visitors to explore the lesser-known eastern and northeastern regions of Thailand through registered group tours.

Target Provinces Under the Campaign

The initiative covers seven provinces known for their cultural heritage, temples, and natural beauty:

• Ubon Ratchathani

• Sisaket

• Surin

• Buriram

• Sa Kaeo

• Chanthaburi

• Trat

These provinces were specifically chosen as they have been economically affected by recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, leading to a drop in cross-border tourism.

Goal and Expected Economic Impact

The campaign aims to attract up to 10,000 travelers through organized tour packages managed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and registered tour operators.

Participants can enjoy subsidies for accommodation and travel, including a 300-baht discount per night on qualifying hotel stays.

The government expects this initiative to inject over 90 million baht into the local economy through spending on accommodation, transportation, food, and other services — creating more opportunities for local communities and small businesses.

Duration and Implementation

The “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast” programme will begin around 15 November 2025 and continue until the quota of 10,000 participants is filled.

It will encourage tourists to rediscover border destinations that offer rich traditions, cultural events, and authentic Thai hospitality.

Why This Initiative Matters

Thailand’s eastern and northeastern regions have long been overshadowed by popular destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

By promoting less-traveled provinces, this campaign seeks to:

• Revive border tourism impacted by geopolitical tensions.

• Encourage domestic travel among Thai citizens.

• Distribute tourism revenue more evenly across the country.

As of the latest updates, Thailand–Cambodia border crossings remain partially restricted or temporarily closed, making this domestic push especially timely.

Tourism Authority’s Role

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is managing the campaign in collaboration with approved local tour operators. It ensures that all participating businesses meet government standards for safety, hospitality, and travel quality.

Conclusion

The “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast” initiative highlights Thailand’s efforts to revitalize lesser-known destinations and strengthen local tourism economies.

By providing travel incentives and promoting community-based tourism, Thailand continues to position itself as a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable travel destination in Southeast Asia. Watch Here: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thailand May Review Its 60-Day Visa Exemption Rule for Tourists

 

Thailand 60-day visa exemption review 2025

🇹🇭 Thailand May Review Its 60-Day Visa Exemption Rule for Tourists

What if your next Thailand trip gets shorter — not by choice, but by immigration rules?
Thailand’s famous 60-day visa exemption, which millions of travelers depend on, is now under review. Authorities are reconsidering the rule after spotting misuse and potential security risks.

So, what’s happening — and how might this affect your 2025 travel plans? Let’s break it down.

🛬 What Is the 60-Day Visa Exemption?

Introduced in July 2024, the 60-day visa exemption allowed citizens from 93 countries to stay in Thailand twice as long as before — from 30 to 60 days.
It was part of Thailand’s post-pandemic strategy to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and support hotels and local businesses.

The results were immediate: more digital nomads stayed longer, bookings increased, and tourism revenue surged.
But with growth came new challenges.

⚠️ Why Authorities Are Reviewing the Policy

Officials noticed that not all visitors were behaving like tourists.
Some used the visa-free stay to work remotely, trade, or live long-term without the correct visa.
Others engaged in “border runs” — repeatedly exiting and re-entering Thailand to extend their stay indefinitely.

These patterns raised red flags for immigration officers, who also reported security concerns and border strain.
As a result, multiple government bodies — including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Tourism — are now reassessing the rule.

Their key challenge: how to balance tourism growth with immigration control.

🔍 Possible Changes Under Discussion

While no official decision has been made yet, here are the changes being discussed:

• Reducing visa-free stays from 60 days back to 30 days.

• Limiting re-entries for travelers who make multiple visa runs.

• Tighter airport screenings for repeat or long-stay visitors.

• Encouraging proper visa use, such as the Digital Nomad Visa, Retirement Visa, or Business Visa.

So far, nothing is confirmed — but the review is active, and updates may come soon.

🧳 What Travelers Should Expect Right Now

As of today, the 60-day visa exemption is still valid for all eligible nationalities.
Travelers can enter visa-free and stay up to 60 days.

However, policy changes in Thailand often roll out quickly — sometimes within weeks.
If you’re planning to visit soon or stay long-term, it’s safer to apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) rather than relying solely on the exemption.

✅ Current status: 60 days valid
⚠️ Ongoing review: Changes possible anytime

💡 Why a Complete Ban Is Unlikely

Many travelers fear the exemption might disappear altogether — but that’s highly unlikely.
Tourism contributes nearly 20% of Thailand’s GDP, and a full rollback would impact the economy.

Experts believe the government will fine-tune, not cancel, the policy — possibly shortening stays or tightening eligibility.
In short, expect modifications, not elimination.

🧭 How to Prepare Before Traveling

Here’s how you can stay ready and avoid issues at immigration:

1️⃣ Check official embassy updates before booking flights.
2️⃣ Carry your return ticket and accommodation proof — they’re often required at entry.
3️⃣ Avoid back-to-back visa runs to prevent scrutiny.
4️⃣ Consider the Digital Nomad or Long-Term Visa if you plan to stay or work remotely.
5️⃣ Follow official Thai government channels for the latest updates.

A little preparation today can save you from last-minute surprises tomorrow.

🧩 Final Take

To recap:

• The 60-day visa exemption began in July 2024 for citizens of 93 countries.

• Authorities are now reviewing the rule due to misuse and security concerns.

• Possible outcomes include shorter stays and stricter entry checks.

• The exemption remains active — but changes may come in 2025.

So, if you’re planning a Thailand trip soon, stay informed, travel smart, and always check official sources before flying. Watch Here:

 

 

 

Villa raid Koh Phangan tourist party early morning- Courtesy: Bangkok Post

Drug Raid on Koh Phangan: Israeli Soldiers Arrested at Cease-Fire Celebration

On October 14, 2025, four young Israeli men were arrested on the Thai island of Koh Phangan after a raid on a villa party in which drugs were found. The group told police they were “celebrating a cease-fire” when the disturbance drew a noise complaint and led to legal action. Khaosod English

What Happened

• Around 2:40 a.m., tourist police responded to a complaint about a loud party at a villa in Village No. 8 on Koh Phangan. A French tourist had called the 1155 hotline about the noise.

• Police found four Israeli men aged 26–27 identified as “Daniel, David, Kefer and Guy”. They claimed they were Israeli soldiers on leave.

• On a dining table they found 0.59 grams of cocaine and 1.37 grams of MDMA (ecstasy) in plastic bags.

• Urine tests showed two had methamphetamine plus cocaine, and the other two cocaine only.

• The men were charged with possession of Category 1 and Category 2 narcotics under Thai law, and illegal consumption.

  Why This Incident Is Significant

• Koh Phangan is known internationally for its all-night beach parties and large influx of foreign visitors; incidents like this reinforce concerns about drug use and safety in tourist-heavy zones.

• Thai authorities reiterated the message that no one is above Thai law, regardless of nationality or traveller status. Thai Examiner

• It may affect perceptions of Thailand’s tourism image, prompting increased scrutiny, tighter law enforcement and possibly stricter regulations for party-zones. The Jerusalem Post

Travel Tips for Visitors to Thailand & Party Islands

• Always be aware of your legal obligations: Thailand has strict drug laws, and even small amounts of substances such as cocaine or MDMA can result in severe penalties.

• If visiting islands known for nightlife (such as Koh Phangan), respect local rules: noise regulations, curfews, and conduct standards apply even if the setting is relaxed.

• Keep documentation with you: passport, visa status, accommodation details, and know your rights.

• Choose accommodations and parties responsibly: verify credibility of the venue and ensure you have a safe way back, especially if you’re staying overnight in remote or party-zones.

• Avoid mixing travel, alcohol, and any illicit substances: the risk is high, enforcement is real, and the consequences (legal, financial, personal) can ruin a trip.

   

   

 

Phuket, Thailand

Tour Guide Told Chinese Group: “Buy Here or Don’t Get Back on the Bus”

A troubling video has emerged from Thailand where a tour guide is seen telling a group of Chinese tourists that if they don’t purchase something at a tax-free shop, they will not be allowed back on the bus.

The clip, shared online, shows the guide speaking in standard Chinese: he informs the group they will stop at a tax-free store and warns that those who do not make a purchase “might not be able to return home to China.”

 When some tourists questioned this condition, the guide reiterated the threat, raising serious concerns about potential exploitation.

 Legal & Tourism Implications

• Registered Thai tourist guides and authorities responded swiftly, asking for an investigation into whether the guide was operating illegally. Bangkok Post

• Under Thailand’s Tourism Business and Tour Guide Act, an unlicensed guide may face up to one year in prison or a fine of 100,000 baht.

• The tour company could also be held accountable for unfairly exploiting tourists, with fines of up to 50,000 baht and possible license suspension for up to six months.

• Thai officials emphasised the need to protect tourism confidence, especially as the high-season approaches. Phuket News

Why This is Important for the Travel Industry

When tourists feel exploited, it undermines trust in a destination’s tourism infrastructure. As one Thai official noted, with Thailand entering its high-season, ensuring fair and transparent treatment of visitors is crucial for sustaining tourism growth and reputation.

Such incidents also highlight the broader issue of forced shopping stops in some tour-packages — which can distort visitor experience, inflate costs, and affect local communities and the reputation of tour operators.

Tips for Travellers: Protect Yourself

Here are practical steps travellers can take to avoid being coerced into shopping stops or unfair conditions:

• Book with licensed guides and tour operators only — check for registration and credentials.

• Read the itinerary carefully: make sure shopping stops are optional, not mandatory.

• Retain your autonomy: no legitimate tour should force you to buy goods in order to continue your journey.

• Keep records: Photos, videos, or voice recordings of the guide’s instructions may help if you need to report an incident.

• Report misconduct: In Thailand, if you feel pressured or treated unfairly, you can contact the local tourist police or relevant tourism authority.

• Know your rights: Being coerced into purchases is a red flag of potentially illegal tour operations.

• Stay aware: Especially when travelling on ‘cheap tour packages’, extra caution is needed — such packages sometimes rely on forced shopping stops as revenue.

Unlock Thailand's Best Deals: Amazing Passport Privileges 2025 Explained

 

Digital vouchers for Thailand Passport Privileges 2025 campaign

What Is the Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges 2025 Campaign?

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges 2025 campaign to boost international tourism during the high season. Running from November 1 to December 15, 2025, the initiative offers foreign visitors exclusive discounts, curated souvenirs, and a chance to win significant rewards. TAT Newsroom

 How to Participate in the Campaign  
Step 1: Register Online
Visit the official: Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges website

Step 2: Claim Your Privileges
Upon arrival in Thailand, present your passport and the QR code at participating airports—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, or Phuket—to receive a WOW Thailand Must Do Souvenir Bag filled with Thai-made products. 

Step 3: Redeem Digital Vouchers
Scan the QR code on your boarding pass to access the WOW Deals section. Here, you can redeem exclusive digital vouchers for discounts on accommodations, tours, shopping, and more.

Step 4: Enter the Lucky Draw
Every 10,000th tourist will receive a Lucky Number Package worth up to 35,000 THB. Additionally, the campaign aims to generate at least 400 million Baht in tourism revenue, enhancing Thailand's position as a leading tourism hub in Asia. 

Tips to Maximize Your Rewards

• Register Early: Ensure you register online before your trip to receive your QR code promptly.

• Visit Participating Airports: Claim your souvenir bag at the designated airports to enjoy the full benefits.

• Explore WOW Deals: Utilize the digital vouchers to save on various services and experiences throughout Thailand.

Why This Campaign Matters

The Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges 2025 campaign is part of TAT's strategy to stimulate international tourism spending and enhance high-season arrivals. By offering tangible benefits to tourists, Thailand aims to attract more visitors and encourage higher travel expenditure during the year-end period. TravelDailyNews Asia & Pacific. Watch Here:

 

Thailand Destination Visa (DTV) 2025: Full Guide for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers

 

Thailand Destination Visa (DTV) 2025

Thailand Destination Visa (DTV) 2025: Complete Guide for Digital Nomads, Freelancers & Entrepreneurs

Thailand’s new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers long-term flexibility for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads who dream of living in the Land of Smiles. This non-immigrant multiple-entry visa is valid for five years and lets you stay up to 180 days per visit, with an option to extend for another 180 days.

It’s perfect for remote professionals and anyone interested in Thai culture, wellness, or education, including:

• Muay Thai training

• Thai cooking classes

• Sports and wellness programs

• Medical treatments

• Short-term courses and seminars

• Art, music, and cultural festivals

Important: If you accept a job with a Thai company, you must apply for a different visa and a work permit. Doing so cancels your DTV status.

Benefits of the DTV Visa

• Multiple entries for five years

• Stay up to 180 days at a time, extendable once per visit

• Great for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and wellness travelers

• Option to include spouse and dependent children

Eligibility Requirements

• Age: Minimum 20 years old

• Funds: At least 500,000 THB (approx. USD 14,600 / INR 1,288,760) in a bank account maintained for at least 3 months

• Employment: Proof of remote work for a non-Thai company or a professional freelance portfolio

How to Apply

1. Apply Outside Thailand: Applications must be filed at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate.

2. Start Online: Begin at the Thailand e-Visa portal.

3. Check Local Requirements: Each embassy may have specific forms or fees—confirm before applying.

4. Arrange Documents: Prepare all paperwork before scheduling an appointment

Required Documents

• Passport biodata page (6-month validity minimum)

• Recent passport photo (within 6 months)

• Proof of current location

• Bank statements or sponsorship letter showing 500,000 THB for 3 months

• Employment contract or professional portfolio

• Optional: travel history if requested by the embassy

Fees & Payments

• Visa fee: Ranges from 9,866 to 38,428 THB (around INR 25,000 for Indian applicants).

• Payment methods:

  • Submit a demand draft and Payment Info Summary at the embassy, or

  • Make a cash deposit at any DBS Bank branch and email the deposit slip with your Payment Info Summary to consular.del@mfa.go.th.

• Another person can pay on your behalf if they submit the bank slip and Payment Info Summary.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is recommended for long-term stays, even though it’s not mandatory. Nomad-focused plans like SafetyWing Nomad Insurance offer affordable, flexible coverage for medical expenses and emergencies while living in Thailand.

Traveling with Your Spouse or Children

Your spouse and children under 20 can be included if you provide:

• Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate)

• Financial documents showing 500,000 THB for the last 3 months

• Your DTV approval and passport details

• Evidence of a long-term residence in Thailand (e.g., rental contract)

Note: Only legal spouses qualify—girlfriends/boyfriends cannot apply jointly.

Can Stock Investors Apply?

Simply being a personal investor does not qualify as remote digital work.

• If you run a registered company or a sole proprietorship and can provide contracts, you may apply.

• Freelance “investment advice” without registration is likely to be rejected.

Applying From Another Country

You must apply in your home country or country of legal residence.
For example, applicants in the UAE must have UAE residency, a local bank account, and a contract with a local company.

Building a Professional Portfolio

When applying as a freelancer, include:

1. Clear, well-formatted layout

2. Expertise and key skills

3. Work samples with links

4. Proof of financial stability

5. Client testimonials

6. Details tailored to visa requirements

7. Up-to-date achievements

Also See, Bali Digital Nomad Visa:Vietnam Travel cost in 2025

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Thailand Travel Costs in 2025: Why Prices Keep Rising for Tourists

 

Thailand- Cost of Living 2025

Thailand in 2025: A Changing Budget Landscape

Thailand has long been a paradise for budget travelers. Cheap street food, affordable hotels, and low-cost transport made it one of the world’s top backpacker hubs. But in 2025, things are shifting fast. Prices are rising across the board, and tourists are beginning to feel the pinch. https://www.tourismthailand.org/home

On paper, Thailand’s economy looks strong. It’s driven by:

• Manufacturing: 24.9% of GDP

• Wholesale & Retail Trade: 15.7%

• Financial & Insurance Services: 9.2%

Bangkok remains the main financial hub, while the Eastern Economic Corridor is attracting high-tech and industrial investment. Growth sounds healthy—but for tourists, that doesn’t tell the full story.

Inflation Down, Prices Still Up

After COVID-19, inflation surged worldwide. Thailand peaked at 6.1% in 2022, before cooling to 2.3% in 2024. Forecasts for 2025 suggest inflation could be as low as 0.3%–1.3%.

So why do prices for food, hotels, and activities keep climbing?

Economists call this sticky inflation—once prices go up, they rarely come back down. Key reasons include:

• High rents for homes and businesses in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

• Rising wages and utilities, which restaurants and hotels pass on to customers.

• Transportation costs that remain inflated from past fuel spikes.

• Profit buffers, where businesses keep higher prices to cover past losses.

• Strong Thai Baht, which makes everything feel pricier for foreign tourists.

Accommodation: Hotels and Rent Getting Pricier

• Hotels: Rates have risen 15–30% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

• Bangkok apartments: ฿9,000–25,000 for a one-bedroom.

• City-center condos: Up to ฿25,000 per month.

• Phuket & Koh Samui: Rents average around ฿44,000/month, far higher than non-tourist regions.

Average household housing costs in 2023: ฿23,695/month.

Food & Drinks: Still Cheap, But Not Everywhere

Street food is still affordable but creeping up in price:

• A dish that cost 40–50 THB in 2012 now averages 70–100 THB ($2.50–3.00).

• Household food spending in 2023 averaged ฿8,472/month.

Tourist hotspots like Phuket and central Bangkok see higher prices, while local neighborhoods remain cheaper.

Transportation: The Real Price of Getting Around

• Grab and taxis: More expensive due to earlier fuel hikes.

• Motorbike rentals: Up 20–25% on islands like Koh Samui & Phuket.

• Public transport: Still affordable—฿10–50 per ride on BTS/MRT, with monthly passes at ฿600–2,000.

• Owning a car: Fuel + insurance runs ฿7,000–10,000/month.

Activities & Entertainment: Tourist Hotspots Cost More

• Tours & excursions in Phuket and Koh Samui: 25–50% more expensive than before.

• Movie tickets: ฿140–600.

• National park fees, boat tours, and diving: Increasingly pricey for budget travelers.

💡 Travel tip: Balance your itinerary with free attractions like temples, public parks, festivals, and night market.

Why Tourists Feel the Squeeze

Even with inflation cooling, tourists face rising costs due to:

• High demand from foreign expats and digital nomads.

• Strong Thai Baht reducing value for foreign currencies like the Euro, Yen, and Indian Rupee.

• Government policies targeting wealthier long-term residents.

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra has even floated a Golden Visa scheme for wealthy investors. While this may boost the economy, it could push up prices for property and luxury services—leaving budget travelers with fewer affordable options.

Personal Take: Budget Travelers Must Adjust

As someone who has traveled to Thailand for years, the change is real. Meals that once cost 40 Baht now cost double. Accommodations and transport have also become noticeably more expensive.

Thailand is still worth visiting, but travelers need to adjust their budgets and plan smarter to avoid overspending.

Read Here:  Destionation Thailand Visa for Indians

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