Category: The Bangkok Post

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered its Thai GDP growth estimates for this year and next, citing export deceleration, a slow recovery of foreign tourist arrivals, as well as weakened private consumption and investments.

In its latest Asian Development Outlook (ADO) report, the Manila-based bank projects Thai GDP to expand 2% this year, down from 2.9% forecast in April, with the economy slowing in the second half as front-loaded shipments to the US end.

Economic growth is expected to slow further to 1.6% in 2026, down from the bank’s previous forecast of 2.9%.

“The 19% US tariff on exports will slow shipments, particularly of electrical equipment, machinery, metals, processed food and vehicles. Small businesses may find it difficult to adjust to the tariffs compared with their US counterparts, which often benefit from larger operations and lower production costs,” noted the report.

Meanwhile, a sluggish recovery of tourist arrivals together with a weakened global economy is dampening the tourism sector. The forecast for foreign tourist arrivals was downgraded from 39.5 million in April to 34 million, primarily due to fewer inbound tourists from China.

“Increased competition from other regional destinations is also contributing to the projected slowdown. Many countries in the region are spending heavily to attract international visitors by developing tourism infrastructure and offering competitive costs. Weakened currencies in some countries also makes them more affordable to foreign tourists,” ADB noted.

The bank downgraded Thailand’s private consumption growth from the ADO April 2025 forecast due to declining income, weak consumer confidence, and a drop in farm incomes based on lower agricultural prices.

“The impact of US tariff hikes and sluggish tourism will likely affect employment and income,” noted the report.

“Persistently high household debt will continue to limit household purchasing power.”

In the latter half of 2025, private consumption may benefit from government domestic tourism stimulus programmes, though the impact could be limited due to registration issues, according to ADB.

Fiscal stimulus measures, particularly for infrastructure, could encourage private investment. However, private investment will be hurt by the US tariff hikes, concerns over domestic political stability, and a weakness in services stemming from the slow tourism recovery, noted the report.

ADB added risks to the outlook “remain on the downside”.

“Domestic economic fragility, including political uncertainties and high household debt, heightened the risk of a slowdown in domestic demand,” noted the report.

“A larger impact from US tariffs, a slower recovery in tourism, and increased geopolitical tensions could slow economic growth to fall short of the forecast.”

Admirers of celebrity duo LingOrm have until Oct 7 to complete a shopping mission and have a chance to join the “Heart Together Exclusive Gala Dinner and Special Auction With LingOrm”, which will take place at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, Charoen Krung Road, on Oct 19.

Presented by Smooth E, a medical skincare brand, this charity campaign is open to everyone wishing to get up close and personal with Sirilak “Lingling” Kwong and Kornnaphat “Orm” Sethratanapong, two rising stars from the Girl’s Love series The Secret Of Us and Only You.

They are required to purchase Smooth E products from any of the four participating categories at Watsons stores nationwide, through Line Shopping or via smooth-e.com and register their receipts via Smooth E’s Line account by Oct 7.

Only the 40 top spenders will be picked and their names will be announced via Facebook on Smooth E Thailand on Oct 15. All will be eligible to attend the gala dinner featuring Michelin-starred Western cuisine along the Chao Phraya River, with dishes curated by celebrity hosts.

The top 10 fans will enjoy an exclusive dining experience at the same table as LingOrm, while the top three fans will have the chance to exchange personal letters. Only the top fan will get a private IG story photo session with the duo.

All 40 top fans are also invited to join a charity auction which will present seven rare items from LingOrm, including personal belongings, original artwork and limited-edition collectables.

Smooth E will donate all proceeds from the auction and 5 baht per participating products sold from this campaign to the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women under the patronage of HRH Princess Soamsawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha (Emergency Home Don Muang).

JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok invites you to step into a world of calm on the 6th floor where the newly transformed Spa by JW awaits. A sanctuary of soft, natural tones, gentle curves, and warm wood textures, the spa offers an environment that feels effortlessly inviting. Subtle aromas of lemongrass linger in the air as sunlight filters through serene spaces, setting the stage for an experience that nurtures both body and mind.

Following an extensive renovation, the all-new Spa by JW at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok introduces the brand’s signature spa concept, making it the first of its kind in Thailand. More than a spa, this thoughtfully reimagined space is a destination for their discerning guests to pause, restore, and reconnect through treatments and experiences that feel intuitive and personal.

‘At JW Marriott, we believe that well-being is the sum of your whole life,’ said Peter Caprez, General Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok. ‘Our newly introduced Spa by JW reflects this philosophy by offering an experience that prioritises both mental and physical balance. We are proud to be the first in Thailand to bring this globally recognised concept to life.’

The Spa by JW philosophy is guided by four wellness pillars – Invigorate, Renew, Calm, and Indulge – each designed to support a guest’s state of mind. Every element of the spa has been created to inspire connection and comfort. A welcoming Curator’s Desk provides personalised guidance, while open seating areas encourage guests to relax before treatments or enjoy time with friends. Natural materials and soothing colour palettes bring harmony to the space, creating a true sanctuary in the heart of Bangkok.

Treatments include signature experiences such as Hot Stone Harmony, a deeply soothing massage using warm volcanic stones to relieve tension; the Pink Himalayan Salt and Lemongrass Body Scrub, a mineral-rich exfoliation that refreshes and energises; and the JW Blissful Relaxation Massage, a signature ritual combining herbal compress therapy with Swedish techniques for profound tranquillity. For advanced skincare, ELEMIS Expert Touch Facials deliver clinically proven results, while the indulgent Rose Body Scrub pampers the skin and uplifts the senses.

This transformation extends beyond the spa to the entire sixth floor, which now offers a comprehensive wellness destination. Guests can enjoy a fully upgraded fitness centre featuring the latest TechnoGym® equipment, a revitalised outdoor pool, and the lush JW Garden. Adding to the experience is the Serene Space, a dedicated area designed for quiet moments of reflection, and a Juice Bar offering nutrient-rich smoothies, protein shakes, and wholesome snacks to nourish well-being from within.

‘Spa by JW is designed to make well-being approachable and effortless,’ said Natcha Jitjumnong, Spa by JW Manager. ‘Whether you want to restore energy, find calm, or simply indulge, our team ensures that every experience feels thoughtful and personal.’

JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok continues to redefine luxury hospitality, offering guests unparalleled experiences that nurture body, mind, and spirit.

Spa by JW at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok opens at 6.00 am – 11.00 pm (fitness and swimming pool) and 10.00 am – 10.00 pm (spa). For reservations or more information please call +662.656.7700.

The recurring failure to maintain a quorum during the debate on the Clean Air Bill highlights a fundamental lapse in the primary duty of members of parliament.

The long-awaited legislation, initiated by citizen groups demanding action against the worsening PM2.5 pollution back in 2022, was stalled yet again last week.

The House session, which was debating the bill’s content article by article during its second reading, collapsed due to an insufficient number of members being present, resulting in a lack of quorum.

The following blame game reveals an unusual political situation. The arrangement has deepened the political feud between the former coalition leader, the Pheu Thai Party, and the swing vote, the People’s Party.

The government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul from the Bhumjaithai Party, is operating as a minority coalition, commanding only 146 MPs. It only managed to secure the premiership through an agreement with the main opposition People’s Party, with conditions including demands for Mr Anutin to pave the way for a constitutional rewrite and dissolve parliament in four months.

Consequently, the Bhumjaithai-led minority government finds itself in a difficult position to reliably summon the required quorum to pass legislation.

The recent collapse of the Clean Air Bill deliberation attests to the precarious political situation and how partisan manoeuvring can supersede the public interest.

Pheu Thai has taken a heavy beating following the failure. After all, the party’s Chiang Mai MP Jakraphol Tangsuthitham chairs the bill’s drafting committee. More importantly, the party’s core base in the North is composed of people who have suffered most from the seasonal haze and PM2.5 pollution over the past many years.

Sadly, only a few Pheu Thai MPs were present during the Clean Air Bill debate. News reports indicated that only 27% of its total 140 MPs attended the session — a stark contrast to the 90% attendance from the People’s Party and 80% from the Bhumjaithai Party.

Mr Jakraphol has publicly urged all parties to cease blame-shifting and join forces to ensure the law is enacted, establishing a basic human right, holding polluters responsible, and providing funds to provide medical treatment and compensate those affected.

However, other Pheu Thai figures and supporters have adopted a more belligerent stance. Pheu Thai continues to argue that maintaining the quorum is the government’s duty. It also holds a somewhat simplistic position that if Mr Anutin could command 331 votes to secure the premiership, he should be able to control the same number of MPs when it comes to passing essential legislation.

However, these arguments fail to hold against the gravity of the PM2.5 problem, which is set to return this winter. Air pollution is a non-partisan issue that affects every citizen and must be addressed with urgent and sincere action.

This is no time for politicking. The duty to attend parliamentary sessions and facilitate the legislative process is shared by all MPs, regardless of their political party affiliation or whether they are in the government or the opposition. Any MPs who neglect this duty and fail to defend the public interest have fundamentally failed in their role and deserve to be publicly called to account.

HONG KONG – Visa-free travel abroad and free toll roads at home are expected to fuel a surge in travel by Chinese citizens during an extra-long holiday starting this week, in what analysts call a boon for the service economy.

Total trips outside mainland China are forecast to reach between 8 million and 8.4 million – more than double the 3.8 million recorded for the holiday in 2024 – according to travel marketing and technology company China Trading Desk on Monday.

Demand is “surging” for visa-free destinations such as Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, the firm said. Long popular with Chinese tourists, all three have scrapped visa requirements since the coronavirus (Covid) pandemic.

Russia has also seen a rise in bookings by Chinese citizens following the introduction of a visa exemption rule in September, according to Fliggy, Alibaba Group Holding’s travel platform. Alibaba owns the South China Morning Post.

South Korea, a perennially popular spot for Chinese travellers, rolled out visa-free entry for tour group members on Sept 29 – a move that could have an “impact”, business consultancy Dragon Trail International said in a Sept 23 travel sentiment report.

The annual holiday, dubbed “golden week”, will last longer than usual this year. Coinciding with both the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, it runs from Oct 1 to 8.

The extended break will give travellers a head start and the chance to “cleverly” combine annual leave with the holiday, Fliggy said.

Airlines, hotels, car rentals and packaged tours are attracting more business as a result, Fliggy said. China’s US$41.1 billion hospitality market is expected to continue growing through 2030, according to market research firm Mordor Intelligence.

A growing number of overseas travellers can also enter China visa-free under measures aimed at stimulating the economy. But many may delay visiting the country until after Oct 8 to avoid crowds and higher prices, said Steven Zhao, chief executive of China Highlights, an online travel agency.

Still, free toll roads and expanded train services, especially during the holiday, should attract more domestic tourists than last year, Zhao said.

China has waived road tolls during public holidays since 2012 to spur travel and consumption. Self-driving trips, including those with rented cars, are expected to hit 1.87 billion this year – nearly 80% of the total, according to domestic media outlets.

Meanwhile, railway authorities are adding extra capacity through high-speed lines and night trains. More than 90 million tickets had been sold on the official online booking platform as of Sunday.

Long-distance tours within China are up 53% while car rentals have increased 93% over 2024 levels, according to Fliggy. Hybrid trips, which combine tourism and family visits, are also expected to increase.

“Notably, multi-destination travel is thriving, particularly among high-speed trains and a combination of flights and trains,” the firm said in a statement, noting that domestic tourists have a preference for theme parks, sporting events and cultural experiences this year.

Chinese spenders are “under-consuming big time” amid economic uncertainty but are making exceptions for travel – especially older generations eager to learn about other countries, according to independent economist Andy Xie.

“That’s life – before you die, you’re supposed to do these things,” Xie added.

Despite the near-term outlook for China’s tourism industry looking promising, the world’s second-largest economy remains burdened by a lingering property crisis, unemployment and trade tensions with the United States.

Rabbit Life Insurance, a subsidiary of BTS Group Holdings, is targeting 2.6 billion baht in premiums this year amid robust demand for whole life, health and annuity insurance products.

Total premiums surged by 22% year-on-year to 1.92 billion baht in the first eight months of 2025, supported across agency, broker and online channels, said managing director Korn Chinsawananon.

First-year premiums tallied 1.5 billion baht, up 21%, while profits totalled 356 million baht, reflecting the strong product portfolio and financial stability, as evidenced by a capital adequacy ratio of 213%, he said.

Whole life insurance was the top-selling category this year, with sales surging tenfold to 495 million baht, reflecting rising consumer interest in long-term life planning and sustainable family security.

Health insurance also skyrocketed, increasing by 144% to 26.4 million baht, led by the popular Health Smile plan, which offers flexible coverage that can be combined with existing welfare benefits to maximise value.

Annuity insurance, designed to support retirement planning amid Thailand’s ageing society, grew 115% to 60.2 million baht, as such products are gaining strong traction among customers seeking financial stability in their later years.

Mr Korn said the company aims to finish 2025 with total premiums exceeding 2.6 billion baht, driven by tax-saving insurance products and an omni-channel approach.

For 2026, he said Rabbit Life plans to leverage data-driven insurance strategies to offer more personalised, flexible solutions that meet the needs of all life stages. The company has set a target of 3 billion baht in premiums, a 15% increase from 2025, while continuing to strengthen its network of quality agents.

By combining product innovation, multi-channel distribution, and data-driven insights, Rabbit Life remains focused on building long-term relationships with its customers, delivering solutions for every life stage, and establishing itself as a modern, competitive life insurance provider prepared for sustainable growth, said Mr Korn.

A new waste collection fee for unsorted trash goes into effect on Wednesday, with discounts offered for households that properly separate their garbage.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will, from Wednesday, enforce a revised waste collection fee, increasing the monthly rate from 20 baht to 60 baht. However, households that participate in the city’s waste separation initiative, “This House Doesn’t Mix”, will continue to pay the original 20-baht flat fee.

Deputy Bangkok governor Chakkaphan Phewngam announced the change, citing the need to align fees with current operational costs. The initiative is part of the 2025 Bangkok Ordinance on waste management services under the Public Health Act.

To qualify for the discounted rate, residents must register and submit evidence of sorting waste into four categories via the BKK WASTE PAY platform. The system will issue reminders for documentation at scheduled intervals.

Failure to submit correct or complete evidence after three warnings will result in the suspension of the discount, and households will be required to pay the full fee for six months before reapplying.

For those who register through district officials and receive approval, the BMA will conduct on-site inspections. If waste sorting does not meet the required standards, the same warning and suspension process will apply.

On Sept 29, Mr Chakkaphan visited Pomprap Sattruphai district, inspecting the Mahanak Mosque Community, a model for waste separation. The community, spanning 23 rai, with 933 residents and 353 households, has been actively sorting waste since early this year, resulting in reduced waste volume and qualifying for the discounted fee.

As of Sept 26, over 710,000 households had registered to take part. They live in 278,178 single-family homes and 432,608 units across 3,049 group registrations (condominiums, housing estates, communities, flats).

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Wednesday his Bhumjaithai Party will always welcome new members willing to work in the national interest, after veteran politician Santi Prompat and his son joined the party on Tuesday.

‘The Bhumjaithai Party is a political party. If anyone interested in serving the nation thinks the Bhumjaithai Party can do good for the nation and wants to participate, we will welcome them,’ the Bhumjaithai leader said at Government House.

Asked if it was his intention that Bhumjaithai win the general election after his government’s promised four-month-long tenure, Mr Anutin said all political parties had such a goal, including Bhumjaithai.

The prime minister’s comments follow Santi Prompat’s decision to resign as secretary-general of the Palang Pracharath Party on Monday and join Bhumjaithai on Tuesday, along with his son Pattana.

Mr Anutin was voted in as prime minister on Sept 5 by the parliament, succeeding Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra who was removed from the prime minister’s seat for her controversial phone call with Cambodian strong man Hun Sen in June.

Bangkok police arrested a British man with about nine kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine, also known as ‘ice’, in his hotel room on Tuesday.

Bangkok police chief Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom said that an informant tipped police who then arrested Wilson Allaway, 23, in a room on the fourth floor of Le Fenix Sukhumvit Hotel on Sukhumvit 11 Road in Watthana district on Tuesday.

Police found a total of 9.15kg of crystal meth in 10 tea bags in the room.

According to Pol Lt Gen Sayam, the suspect said he received the drug from another Briton known only as ‘Snoopy’. The latter paid him 20,000 baht to deliver the drug to buyers.

About 500,000 vehicles in Thailand still have defective Takata airbags, which could explode and hurl metal fragments at drivers and passengers, the The Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA) has warned.

The warning follows a fatal accident in Singapore on Sept 29, when a driver was killed by shrapnel from a ruptured Takata airbag. It was the first such death reported in the city-state, more than a decade after global recalls began.

The TAIA said in July that despite years of recall campaigns by major carmakers, many vehicle owners in Thailand have yet to have their airbags checked or replaced.

The defective airbags have been linked to numerous injuries and deaths worldwide, including cases in Thailand. A total of 14 car brands have recalled affected models in Thailand:

Chevrolet (2007-15)

BMW (1998-2018)

Ford (1998-2014)

Honda (1998-2014)

Mazda (1996-2014)

Mitsubishi (2005-15)

Nissan (2000-15)

Toyota (2001-14)

Lexus (2006-16)

Jaguar XE (2015-17) and XF (2009-15)

Land Rover Discovery (2015-16) and Land Rover (2011-12)

Audi (1997-2017)

Mercedes-Benz (2004-16)

Subaru (2004-12)

Owners of affected vehicles are urged to contact authorised service centres or call centres of their respective brands to book a free replacement. The repair is carried out at no cost. More information is available from the TAIA at its dedicated website www.checkairbag.com.