F FEICELL News全球新闻 · 本地动态 · 实时更新
← 返回新闻首页
泰国主流

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 20, 2026

Latest Thailand English Online News Thai Enquirer News Summary - October 20, 2026 Current Affairs - Thai Enquirer %

thaienquirerThai Enquirer Summary查看原文 ↗
《泰国询问报》新闻摘要 – 2026年10月20日

Thailand set to Raise Import Duties on EV by January 1, 2027

Thailand’s Finance Ministry is preparing to seek Cabinet approval within two weeks to raise the excise tax on fully imported electric vehicles (EVs) without local components from 10% to at least 30%, effective January 1, 2027.

The measure aims to protect domestic automakers and incentivize foreign companies to build local factories, with estimates suggesting the hike could add over 200,000 baht to the price of a 1-million baht imported vehicle.

The proposed three-tier tax system assigns the lowest rates to manufacturers with high local content, intermediate rates to factories assembling locally with imported parts, and the highest rates to fully imported vehicles. Additionally, future vehicle excise taxes will be based on carbon dioxide emissions rather than powertrain technology, while updated local-content rules will emphasize high-tech domestic components to maintain Thailand’s status as a regional automotive hub.

Suwat Supakandechakul, Chairman of the Automotive Industry Club under the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), expressed concern over the proposed import excise tax hike on EVs exceeding 30%. He emphasized that tax restructuring unrelated to product changes should not include a grace period, as it creates a “golden minute” that encourages panic buying, distorts market dynamics, and severely reduces future purchasing power for 2027, ultimately harming domestic automotive assemblers.

Furthermore, he warned that rising prices could force unsuccessful imported EV brands to exit the Thai market, leaving long-term burdens on consumers, and recommended purchasing from stable brands with domestic production facilities.

Addressing local supply chain support, Suwat noted that while the EV Board’s framework includes four steps to promote local content, the government’s decision to enforce only the first step (tax adjustment) while delaying steps 2 through 4 fails to directly strengthen domestic supply chains.

Additionally, he highlighted that current government measures primarily stimulate EV sales among high-income buyers rather than boosting pickup truck sales, which are crucial for driving the grassroots economy. As a result of advance buying before the tax hike, EV bookings are expected to surge significantly at the upcoming Motor Expo.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the Thailand Board of Investment (BoI), revealed that the BOI has approved a 1.49-billion-baht investment expansion by Toyota Motor Thailand to manufacture hydrogen fuel cell electric pickup trucks (FCEVs)—marking the first production of its kind in the country. Scheduled to begin production at the Ban Pho plant in Chachoengsao by December 2027, the project will produce 3,000 units annually, initially targeting export markets in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

The initiative highlights Thailand’s growing role as a global hub for advanced automotive technologies, leveraging its robust supply chain and skilled workforce. The project will incorporate local parts valued at approximately 640 million baht annually, supporting domestic suppliers and advancing the nation’s multi-pathway strategy toward carbon neutrality.

Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported that cumulative foreign arrivals reached 24.42 million between January 1 and October 17, 2026, marking a 4.12% year-on-year decline. Tourism revenue generated from foreign visitors totaled 1,189,555 million baht, down 2.49% year-on-year. The top 5 sources of cumulative tourist arrivals are:

China 4,143,403 tourists

Weekly performance remained relatively stable, with foreign arrivals edging up 0.83% compared to the previous week. This slight growth was primarily driven by long-haul markets entering peak season alongside short-term school breaks in Europe and the Americas. In contrast, short-haul arrivals dropped by 4.04%, largely weighed down by a 16.62% decline in Chinese visitors following the conclusion of the Golden Week holiday.

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand issued a safety warning on its WeChat account on October 16, advising citizens to beware of fraudulent job offers and human trafficking risks following high-profile incidents involving Chinese victims. The notice cited recent arrests, including a Thai man in Tak accused of luring Chinese nationals with fake employment into Myanmar scam compounds, as well as an August incident in which a Chinese student was abducted from a Bangkok hotel before escaping in Kamphaeng Phet.

The embassy specifically urged entertainers, livestreamers, and job seekers to carefully scrutinize high-paying recruitment offers, media shoots, and performance invitations. It further advised travelers to use licensed transportation, reject unexpected route changes, remain cautious of free rides, and keep family members continuously informed of their location while in Thailand.

The government has launched the “Amazing Thailand: Explore Thailand with a Tour” campaign alongside nine tourism partners, offering transport subsidies for domestic group travel from October 15, 2026, to January 31, 2027. The program is expected to generate at least 208.8 million baht in tourism revenue.

The initiative provides daily subsidies of 10,000 baht for buses with at least 30 passengers (capped at 40,000 baht per trip) and 2,500 baht for vans with at least six passengers (capped at 10,000 baht per trip). Eligible itineraries must span across provincial borders, last at least two days and one night, and meet designated activity criteria.

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has initiated a major government operation to suppress illegal foreign land-holding nominees and protect national resources. Speaking at Government House, Anutin stated that the crackdown aims to ensure fair land use and national security, ordering relevant agencies to complete investigations into high-risk groups by December 2029.

Thai authorities have identified 1,397 cases of suspected nominee landholding across 2,360 plots valued at approximately 14.01 billion baht. Covering 5,467 rai, the investigations target foreign nationals using Thai individuals or shell companies as fronts to unlawfully acquire land. Properties determined to be held illegally will face compulsory sale, alongside civil and criminal proceedings against those involved.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed the Department of Lands and provincial governors to complete high-risk investigations by December 2026, ordering officials to trace beneficial owners, financial trails, and broader networks. To prevent holdings from transferring to replacement nominees, authorities are instructed to scrutinize land buyers and monitor corporate shareholding changes, with the Prime Minister emphasizing that success will be measured by legal enforcement and resolved cases rather than mere findings.

The SET Index closed yesterday at 1,571.72 points, down 1.29 points or 0.08%, with a trading value of 63,186.57 million baht. The index moved sideways, as there were no new catalysts to drive investment. Meanwhile, the market faced pressure from rising crude oil prices, which fueled concerns among investors regarding a potential acceleration in inflation and the risk of future interest rate hikes should inflationary pressures continue to mount.

Nevertheless, the market found support from speculative buying in the commercial banking sector—led by KBANK and KTB—ahead of the third-quarter 2023 earnings announcements expected later this week. Speculative interest was also seen in the finance sector, driven by similar expectations regarding their third-quarter financial results.

For today, the index is expected to continue moving sideways, with investors closely monitoring the third-quarter 2023 earnings reports from commercial banks as a key factor. The projected trading range is between a support level of 1,560 points and a resistance level of 1,580 points.

Jomkwan Kongsakul, Deputy Secretary-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), clarified that the inclusion of digital tokens such as SHFL, RLB, and FUN in its Net Capital (NC) list is solely intended for calculating the capital adequacy of digital asset operators holding these assets. The SEC emphasized that this list does not constitute an official approval or endorsement for operators to offer these tokens to retail clients, noting that none of these three tokens are currently provided by any licensed operators.

Furthermore, the SEC explained that the NC list compiles tokens from coinmarketcap.com following a predetermined semi-annual review schedule rather than targeting specific assets. To legally offer any digital token to customers, operators must first obtain an Asset ID from the SEC by submitting verified token details. Meanwhile, the SEC is investigating related operators linked to the shuffle.com website and preparing to enforce strict legal measures alongside upcoming Travel Rule regulations to enhance monitoring against suspicious transactions.

CGS International has lowered its 2026 total presales forecast for nine covered property developers by 3.4% to 192.1 billion baht, include AP, LH, LPN, PSH, QH, SPALI, SIRI, ORI, and SC. This revision follows lower-than-expected third-quarter performance, driven by domestic flooding in late September that dampened purchasing power and project visits, alongside sluggish foreign demand. Consequently, total presales for the third quarter are projected to drop 0.7% quarter-on-quarter and 12.2% year-on-year to 46.2 billion baht.

Despite maintaining a “Neutral” rating on the property sector due to ongoing macroeconomic headwinds, CGSI highlights AP, SIRI, and SPALI as top picks. These developers offer robust backlogs and attractive dividend yields ranging from 7.0% to 7.6%. While fourth-quarter presales are expected to rebound strongly through aggressive year-end marketing campaigns, the sector continues to trade at an appealing valuation of 7.7x 2027 P/E, which is one standard deviation below its 5-year historical average.

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is set to implement eight newly revised trading measures, including an adjustment to the minimum price increment (Tick Size) for stocks priced between 5-and 50-baht, effective November 16, 2026. Approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), these changes aim to enhance market quality, reduce unusual price volatility, and align trading rules with international practices. Specifically, the new tick sizes will narrow bid-ask spreads, improve order matching opportunities, lower transaction costs for investors, and boost overall market liquidity.

In preparation for the new trading framework, the SET and mai will cancel all existing overnight orders, including Good Till Cancelled (GTC) and Good Till Date (GTD) orders, prior to the market opening on November 16. Investors are advised to review and resubmit their orders to comply with the updated tick size criteria. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen investor confidence and improve price mechanism efficiency in the Thai capital market.

Electricity Generating (EGCO) President ThawatChai Samranwanich announced that the company signed an agreement to acquire an additional 12% stake in the 980-MW Linden Cogen natural gas cogeneration power plant in New Jersey, USA, through its subsidiary EGCO Linden II, LLC. This acquisition increases EGCO’s total ownership stake to 50%. The facility grants EGCO access to two high-demand electricity markets: NYISO Zone J in New York City and PJM PSEG.

The transaction highlights EGCO’s asset recycling strategy, reinvesting capital into high-quality assets with proven operational track records. Supported by long-term power and steam purchase agreements with investment-grade counterparties, the acquisition will immediately contribute to EGCO’s net profit share and cash flow while bolstering its portfolio in the US, the company’s second-largest strategic market.

CP Axtra and The Minor Food Group have partnered for the first time under a “Corporate Franchisee” model to expand five popular food and beverage brands—Dairy Queen, Swensen’s, GAGA, Bonchon, and Steak & More—across Makro and Lotus’s locations nationwide. This collaboration combines CP Axtra’s expansive network of over 2,650 branches and diverse customer base with Minor Food’s strong franchise systems and management expertise across 3,000 global stores. Under the agreement, CP Axtra acts as the investor and franchisee, while Minor Food handles day-to-day store operations and maintains brand standards.

This partnership aligns with CP Axtra’s “Happy & Healthy Mall” strategy, which aims to transform its shopping centers into premier food and lifestyle destinations. By adding widely recognized food and beverage options to its existing branches, the initiative serves as a major traffic anchor designed to increase customer visit frequency and overall engagement. Both companies plan to roll out this model to high-potential Makro and Lotus’s outlets across Thailand as part of CP Axtra’s long-term retail and shopping center development goals.

PTT Public Company Limited has officially announced the recruitment process for a new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the country’s premier energy enterprise. Applications will be open from October 27 to November 18, 2026, with Piyasiri Wattanawarangkun serving as the chairman of the recruitment committee.

Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and possess extensive vision and experience in the energy, petroleum, or petrochemical sectors. Private sector and state enterprise applicants must have served at least as a “deputy to the highest executive” in an organization generating an annual revenue of no less than 50 billion baht, while government applicants must hold a position equivalent to deputy head of a department or higher, alongside strict general qualifications such as being of Thai nationality and under 58 years of age.

Born Operation Co., Ltd., a long-standing television production company owned by veteran host Traiphop Limpapath known for popular shows like Krua Khun Toei and Today Show, has announced its closure after more than 40 years of operation.

The decision comes as a result of severe economic downturns and persistent accumulated losses that heavily impacted the company’s financial stability. The company’s board of directors and shareholders unanimously resolved to officially cease all business operations effective November 30, 2026, leading to the termination of all employees across every department.

To mitigate the impact on affected staff, the company assured that all legal severance packages, unused annual leave compensation, and entitled benefits will be fully paid and transferred to employees’ accounts by November 28, 2026. Additionally, human resources will assist with work certificates and Social Security unemployment claims.

Data from the Department of Business Development indicates that, over the five-year period from 2021 to 2025, both revenue and profit have shown a downward trend each year. In 2025, the company reported a net profit of only 1.5 million baht—a 52.26% decrease from the previous year.

On October 19, Ms. Kanjana Poolkaew, Director-General of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare under the Ministry of Labour, announced that the Safety, Occupational Health and Environment Fund is providing low-interest loans to help business establishments affected by floods. The financial assistance is intended for restoring, improving, and resolving safety conditions at work, as well as preventing workplace accidents and occupational diseases in disaster-hit areas.

The loan carries an interest rate of 2 percent per year, with a credit limit of up to 2 million baht per applicant or as approved by the Fund Committee and must be repaid within 5 years. Total funding exceeds 15 million baht. Borrowers can use the funds to improve or install fire prevention and suppression systems, upgrade electrical systems, and enhance machinery safety.

Interested business establishments can submit loan applications at the Bureau of Occupational Safety, provincial labour protection and welfare offices, or regional safety centers. Application forms and additional details are available on the Safety Fund website, with inquiries handled via phone or LINE.

Anutin Reportedly Asked Kla Tham to Dissolve and Merge with Bhumjai Thai party

Reports are emerging that the ‘Indian Dinner’ that took place last week reportedly was more about dissolving Kla Tham party and merging the party with Bhumjai Thai party.

Kla Tham party was set up by convicted drug dealer – Thammanat Prompao and reportedly spent 10 billion Baht during 2026 general elections to get 58 MPs.

Thammanat reportedly told Anutin to wait for the outcome of the no-confidence debate before knowing which way Kla Tham will go.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul deflected questions regarding whether the Kla Tham Party would join the government coalition or support it in the upcoming no-confidence debate after photos surfaced of him dining at an Indian restaurant with the party’s de facto leader, Thamanat Prompow.

When pressed by reporters at Government House on October 19 about the meeting, Anutin simply smiled and quipped, “Hungry, hungry,” while declining to state whether he had actively sought Kla Tham’s backing.

Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Paradorn Prissananantakul said that the upcoming no-confidence debate approaching, Paradorn noted that scheduling remains a key priority due to time constraints, including a special Cabinet meeting on October 26 and the Prime Minister’s overseas trip scheduled for October 30–31.

Consequently, the debate is expected to take place between October 27 and 29, followed by a vote on October 30.

Regarding potential Cabinet reshuffles, he emphasized that it is ultimately the Prime Minister’s decision, though any changes within Bhumjai Thai would first require internal executive board discussions.

Government whips, opposition whips, and Cabinet representatives are scheduled to meet on October 21 to determine the timetable for the upcoming no-confidence debate. Chief government whip Korrawee Prissananantakul encouraged both sides to base the schedule on the specific issues and necessary time required rather than strictly pushing for a three-day or five-day timeframe.

He noted that the opposition’s allegations against 18 ministers are likely to cover six or seven main topics—with some topics involving multiple ministers—and assured that all target ministers are preparing their defenses and are ready to address the claims.

Korrawee addressed political speculation regarding Kla Tham’s stance, stating it is too early to predict whether the party will vote with the government or merge with the Bhumjai Thai Party. A recent meal between party leaders does not indicate Kla Tham’s voting direction and advised that any discussion of a merger should wait until after the no-confidence debate concludes.

People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut rejected the government’s proposed three-day timetable for the upcoming no-confidence debate, demanding five days instead as House Speaker Sophon Sarum prepares to convene parliamentary whips to finalize the schedule. Natthaphong criticized the government for unilaterally setting the dates for October 27–29 with a vote on October 30, noting that accounting for cabinet responses would leave only two days to question 18 target ministers.

He argued that previous debates granted four full days for fewer ministers and stated that the prime minister’s overseas schedule should not justify shortening the debate.

Natthaphong confirmed the opposition’s preparations are nearly complete, with allegations spanning general administration failures, irregularities in Senate selection, budget spending, and official appointments. Addressing calls for evidence-based arguments, he assured that the opposition will synthesize facts and circumstantial evidence to systematically expose government failings, even when direct proof is unavailable.

A new communications chief has been appointed by Defence Minister Gen Adul Boonthamcharoen ahead of the censure debate expected in late October 2026. Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjaidee will oversee communications and lead the minister’s new working group. Prapas will also continue directing the Joint Information Centre on the Thailand–Cambodia border situation. The nine-member working group will advise the minister, coordinate with defence agencies and prepare responses for the debate.

The appointments took effect on October 1. Adul is among 18 Bhumjaithai Party ministers named in the censure motion.

Adisorn Piengkes, a party-list MP from the Pheu Thai Party, posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) criticizing the Ministry of Interior’s decision to change motorcycle taxi vests in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, from orange to blue. He composed a poem expressing strong disapproval, arguing that the change was made solely to flatter high-ranking officials at the ministry.

Adisorn stressed that bright orange offers far better visibility for riders from a distance, whereas dark blue is dim and looks almost black from afar, potentially posing significant safety hazards for motorcycle taxi drivers on the road.

A House committee inquiry into alleged online gambling links concerning the husband of Bhumjai Thai MP Suchada “Idea” Zhang Thaensap will proceed on October 22 despite pushback from government MPs, according to committee chair Rangsiman Rome. The committee has invited Suchada and her husband, Taiyang Zhang—who reportedly holds a 1% stake in an online gambling platform—to clarify the allegations, alongside representatives from the Cyber Police, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Ministry of Justice.

Emphasizing that Suchada and her husband remain presumed innocent until proven guilty, Rome vowed that the inquiry will adhere to established procedures and maintain fairness. However, he urged state agencies to trace financial transactions and execute potential asset seizures, while calling on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob to ensure accountability and guard against selective law enforcement to protect political allies.

Most recently, Suchada revealed to the media that her husband, Taiyang Zhang, had sold his shares in the company that owns the gambling website—doing so even before she entered politics. She has expressed her readiness to clarify all relevant facts before both the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the House Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights.

The DSI is investigating alleged links between Taiyang Zhang and online gambling and scam networks. DSI is coordinating with police and anti-money laundering authorities to examine financial trails under inquiry No. 148/2569.

On October 19, she posted photographs of herself and Zhang attending funeral prayers for Summit Group founder Dr. Sunsurn Jurangkool, elder brother of Agriculture Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit.

Srisuwan Janya, leader of the “Love the Nation, Love the Land” organization, has filed a petition with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) requesting an investigation into whether the assets and liabilities declaration submitted by Suchada Zang-Thaensap—a Bhumjaithai Party MP for Chaiyaphum Constituency 4—is false. The declaration, which lists assets and liabilities for herself and her spouse totaling 1.974 billion baht, is now under scrutiny.

He has questioned whether her admission—that her spouse is not the owner of an online gambling website but merely holds a 1% stake—constitutes evidence of unusual wealth, malfeasance in office, an intentional exercise of power in violation of the Constitution or the law, or a serious breach of ethical standards.

An unnamed group has prepared an ethics complaint against People’s Party MP Parit Wacharasindhu over Facebook posts and videos about the Senate collusion case. The unsigned petition alleges that he disclosed personal data and Election Commission investigation material and pressured the commission while the case was pending. It seeks referral to the House if serious ethical violations are found, or lesser disciplinary action otherwise.

The complainants also demand that Parit, an ethics committee member through his position as opposition chief whip, take no part in considering the case. The petition includes 168 pages of supporting material, but the document has blank signature spaces for six complainants and no apparent official receipt number.

The Criminal Court on October 19 referred an amnesty petition by 32 People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) defendants to the Court of Appeal because their case is pending there. The defendants, including Maj. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang, sought dismissal of the case under a 2026 peace promotion law. Prosecutors did not oppose the petition, filed on September 4.

The Criminal Court previously acquitted the defendants of rebellion and terrorism charges over the blockade of Don Mueang Airport from November 24 to December 3, 2008. The Court of Appeal will decide on the amnesty request.

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed on confidence-building measures to foster trust, enhance communication, and facilitate maritime boundary negotiations following PCA-facilitated talks in The Hague from October 14–18. Both Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn welcomed the agreement, which Commission Chair Katrina Cooper highlighted as a significant milestone, with key measures focusing on constructive public communication, mutual restraint, and maintaining open dialogue.

The conciliation process, initiated by Cambodia in June 2026 under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, has not yet yielded a final maritime boundary agreement. While Cambodia emphasized its right to defend its interests publicly and noted concerns over unfulfilled past commitments, both nations remain committed to advancing the negotiations, with the next round of discussions set for November 24–27 in Kuala Lumpur.

Two major dams in Kanchanaburi province are nearing maximum capacity, prompting urgent warnings for residents along the Khai Yai and Mae Klong rivers to elevate their belongings and monitor water levels closely.

According to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) on October 19, 2026, the Srinagarind Dam holds 17,586.08 million cubic meters of water, or 99.10 percent of its capacity, leaving less than one percent of storage space remaining. Meanwhile, the Vajiralongkorn Dam is at 97.39 percent capacity, with only 2.61 percent left to absorb incoming water.

In addition to the dam conditions, the Thai Meteorological Department reported moderate to heavy rain moving into areas including Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, and Samut Songkhram, prompting authorities to advise vulnerable communities to prepare for potential water level changes.

The DDPM came out to warn residents of possible rise of water by up to 1 meter if and when the water is released.

Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa ordered nationwide inspections of nearly 3,000 waste and recycling factories following an October 19 visit to two Prachin Buri plants facing complaints of oil slicks and industrial pollution. Responding to a 1,300-signature petition from local residents fearing flood-related contamination, Varawut ordered operators to compensate affected communities and clean up oil spills, warning that severe violations will lead to factory shutdowns and asset seizures.

Concurrently, Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin told the Senate he rejected a settlement offer from a factory owner facing pollution charges. He proposed expanding inspection powers for the Pollution Control Department, imposing tougher penalties, and amending laws to enable asset seizures against environmental offenders.

Flooding continued to affect 604,265 households, or 1,830,946 people, across 22 provinces and parts of Bangkok as of October 19, 2026, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Since September 16, floods have affected more than 5.8 million people and killed 80.

PM’s Office Minister Paradorn Prissananantakul assured that the government has sufficient funds to compensate flood victims, noting that while the initial late-September allocation has been exhausted, approximately 9.9 billion baht remains available in the fiscal year 2027 central budget. He explained that provincial administrations have already disbursed over 90% of aid in regional areas, and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) will soon finalize remaining household counts—estimated to require around 10 billion baht—for Cabinet approval.

Paradorn also emphasized that the government is committed to equitable compensation and highlighted a proactive household disaster insurance policy implemented to protect households nationwide. Furthermore, he noted that remaining central funds can be deployed for urgent infrastructure and water management projects under strict criteria requiring necessity, emergency, and the absence of pre-allocated regular budget provisions.

Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), disclosed the progress of flood relief payments transferred to affected citizens via Government Savings Bank. To date, financial aid totaling 5,225.249 million baht has been successfully disbursed to 683,286 households across 46 provinces nationwide.

Most recently, on October 19, an additional 65.641 million baht was transferred to 8,377 households across 16 affected provinces, including Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Sing Buri, Saraburi, Chonburi, Chanthaburi, Chachoengsao, Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani, Chaiyaphum, Tak, Phetchabun, Suphan Buri, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has extended the deadline for flood-affected residents to apply for financial assistance until November 30, 2026. This extension aims to provide citizens with more time to gather supporting documents and recover from the disaster, as many are still busy cleaning and repairing their homes. Applications can be submitted in person at local district offices, through additional community service points, or via digital channels including the “Thang Rath” app and the official BMA website.

To reduce long queues and speed up processing times, the BMA has expanded services in the five districts experiencing the highest demand: Sai Mai, Khlong Sam Wa, Lat Krabang, Min Buri, and Bang Kapi. Furthermore, authorities have addressed repayment issues for ineligible residents living in government-provided housing who mistakenly received funds, allowing them to apply for structured instalment repayment plans if they cannot afford a lump-sum return.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued Weather Advisory No. 6, warning of heavy to very heavy rain and strong gusts across Thailand through October 25, 2026. The intense rainfall poses severe risks of flash floods, sudden run-offs, overflowing waterways, and landslides, particularly in low-lying areas and near foothill slopes.

Southern and eastern Thailand will face persistent downpours from October 19–20, with rain expanding to the lower Northeast, Central region (including Bangkok), East, and upper South between October 21–25. Authorities advise residents in affected areas to remain vigilant against severe weather conditions.

The Yannawa Police Station has issued a traffic advisory recommending that motorists avoid four roads in Bangkok due to the upcoming Hindu temple festival. The closures are scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2026, for the annual Sri Maha Mariamman Temple festival, widely known as the Wat Khaek Silom event.

Traffic restrictions will affect four major routes with varying closure times. Silom Road from Nararom Intersection to Surasak Intersection will be closed from 16:00 to 04:00 hours. Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road inbound from Narinthorn Intersection to Nararom Intersection will close from 17:00 to 02:00 hours. North Sathorn Road from Sathorn Intersection to Narinthorn Intersection will close from 19:00 to 04:00 hours, and Surasak Road will be closed from 16:00 to 04:00 hours.

Attendees are advised to use the BTS Skytrain, getting off at Saint Louis Station, Surasak Station, or Chong Nonsi Station, as there is no parking available in the event area. The BTS will operate until midnight, though passengers should plan ahead as the final trains will depart from origin stations shortly before midnight.

PM’s Office Minister Paradorn Prissananantakul said the government will use Bangkok’s Khao San Road as a pilot “Khao San Sandbox” area to tackle official bribery following an October 10 raid on OK Bar. The raid uncovered unlicensed operations, drug use, underage patrons, and records of suspected monthly payoffs totaling nearly 180,000 baht to officials. In response, five senior Chana Songkhram police officers were transferred, while Phra Nakhon district officials revealed they had previously issued four notices regarding the venue’s violations. Minister Paradorn directed the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) to complete its investigation into neglect of duty and bribery within 30 days to pursue disciplinary and criminal charges against implicated officials.

The “Khao San Sandbox” initiative brings together anti-corruption officials, police, and local authorities to review licensing barriers and eliminate legal loopholes. By addressing these structural issues, the project aims to propose regulatory reforms that allow nightspots to operate legally while systematically preventing official extortion.

Students from Uthen Thawai staged a protest outside their Bangkok campus and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) following an order to suspend on-campus classes for 90 days due to safety concerns. Under the mandate, both Uthenthawai and Pathumwan Institute of Technology must shift to online learning to prevent inter-school violence, while Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok was directed to prepare a new location for Uthenthawai’s engineering faculty. The students strongly opposed both the suspension and the relocation, arguing that online instruction cannot replace essential practical training required for engineering courses.

During the rally at the ministry, student representatives met with Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the MHESI, to voice their demands and oppose leaving their current site. They urged the ministry to hold multi-stakeholder talks and insisted that if relocation is unavoidable, a new campus with fully completed academic buildings must be secured prior to any move. The representatives demanded an official response within three days, warning of escalated protests if no progress is made.

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has signed an integrity pact to lease 800 additional clean-energy air-conditioned electric buses, aiming to bring its total fleet to over 3,000 vehicles. This initiative follows a previous lease of 1,520 EV buses to replace aging diesel buses that have been in service for about 30 years and incur high maintenance costs. Combined with existing NGV buses, the new electric fleet is projected to meet operational demands for the next seven to 10 years.

BMTA Director Kittikant Jamduang Charuwaraphanul stated that the project requires approval from the board of directors, the Ministry of Transport, and the Cabinet. The agency is currently awaiting the appointment of a new board expected by November 2026, with contract signings targeted between January and March 2027 and a local content requirement set at approximately 40 percent.

Despite the transition to electric vehicles, the agency plans to keep some red diesel buses in reserve to navigate deep floodwater during natural disasters. BMTA noted that EV systems carry high risks of damage when exposed to deep water, requiring early warning systems and evacuation plans alongside the retained diesel vehicles for emergency public support.

The Royal Thai Embassy in Rome has issued an advisory urging Thai nationals residing in or traveling through Italy to closely monitor ongoing news following student protests in major Italian cities over the past one to two days.

Although the situation has reportedly decreased in severity, the embassy has instructed individuals to strictly follow guidance and recommendations issued by Italian authorities. Thai citizens facing emergencies or requiring assistance can contact the Royal Thai Embassy in Rome directly at the designated emergency telephone number.

TDRI Warns Thailand Over Populist Policies Following Protests in France

The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has warned that Thailand is at risk of facing similar civil unrest to France if the government fails to strictly control populist policies. Dr. Nonarit Bisonyabut, senior research scholar at TDRI, noted that France’s recent mass protests highlight the strict fiscal limits of a welfare state when government finances can no longer sustain broad public demands and require budget cuts.

Dr. Nonarit explained that while France features high taxation to fund extensive welfare for children, workers, and the elderly, mounting debt and fiscal reality forced the government to trim budgets and adjust benefits, triggering severe public resistance and protests centered around education, wages, and public services. He cautioned that Thailand faces a similar trap if citizens become overly accustomed to continuous populist handouts, making policy rollbacks difficult.

Despite these warnings, TDRI assesses that Thailand still has an opportunity to recover its fiscal standing if it takes serious action now. The government must prioritize cutting unnecessary expenditures, rely on academic principles, invest in human capital and technology to generate future revenue, and clearly and fairly communicate policy adjustments to the public.

Political News Headlines in Thai Media

New Cold War tests Thai choices

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3340043/new-cold-war-tests-thai-choices

NSC steps up southern safeguards

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3340038/nsc-steps-up-southern-safeguards

Govt ‘committed’ to protecting territory

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3339888/govt-committed-to-protecting-territory

House re-invites MP Suchada to explain gambling claims

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/3339948/house-reinvites-mp-suchada-to-explain-gambling-claims

Deadlock over debate time persists

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/3340033/deadlock-over-debate-time-persists

Group calls for halt to social security advisers’ selection

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/3340053/group-calls-for-halt-to-social-security-advisers-selection

Thailand’s foreign minister warns on October 19 over protests in four European nations

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40072470

Economic News Headlines in Thai Media

Thailand targets wider EU access for 3 food exports in 2026 deal bid

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/business/trade/40072482

Bangkok’s Orange Line and Purple extension due to open by 2030

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40072481

Thai Credit Bank Showcases Micro-SME Strategy at IMF-World Bank Meetings

Link- https://www.kaohooninternational.com/markets/592876

BTG Tops Up Stake in HORECA Business to Expand Online Sales Channel

Link- https://www.kaohooninternational.com/markets/592901

Yuanta Sees MINT Upside in CPAXT Franchise Deal

Link- https://www.kaohooninternational.com/markets/592845

EXAT to waive tolls at 63 expressway plazas on October 23

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40072476

Nene Royal trademark case ends after earlier applicant withdraws

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40072474

_____________________________________________________________________________

Issues to be watched out for

October, 2026 – The Ministry of Commerce will announce Thailand’s export figures for September

October 28, 2026 – Monetary Policy Committee holds its meeting

October 30, 2026 – The Bank of Thailand (BOT) reports on the Thai economic and financial conditions

November 5, 2026 – October 2026 Consumer Confidence Inflation Data

November 16, 2026 – The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reports on the state of the Thai economy and GDP for the third quarter of 2026, as well as outlook for 2026-2027

November , 2026 – The Ministry of Commerce will announce Thailand’s export figures for October

December 4, 2026 – November 2026 Consumer Confidence Inflation Data

December 23, 2026 – Monetary Policy Committee holds its meeting

SET Index 1,571.72 -1.29

Link – https://www.set.or.th/en/company/ipo/upcoming_ipo_set.html

Metal -Link http://www.bloomberg.com/markets/commodities/futures/metals/

Energy -Link – http://www.bloomberg.com/energy/

Baltic Dry Index (BDI)-Link – http://www.bloomberg.com/quote/BDIY:IND

Global Equity Market’s Movements

Link – http://www.bloomberg.com/markets/stocks/world-indexes/asia-pacific/

Asian Equity Markets Movement

Link – http://www.bloomberg.com/markets/stocks/world-indexes/

Information on 19 October 2026

Buying, Selling or Transfer of shares by Owners/Management

XD, XE or XM or other notifications

For list of Companies that have dividend payment and AGM meeting schedules click on https://www.set.or.th/set/xcalendar.do

Trading Breakdown on the Stock Exchange of Thailand

Total Trading Value 63,186.57 Million Baht

Background Information

According to the report by the Election Commission of Thailand as of May 8, 2019, the strength of each party in the Thai Parliament following the elections on March 24, 2019.

List of MPs – https://www.ect.go.th/ect_th/download/article/article_20190508184334.pdf

Information provided here is copyright of ThaiNews Corp and no part maybe reproduced in any form without the prior written permission. The opinions expressed are only those of the writer’s and is analysed based on the situation.

Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook

Share on X (Opens in new window) X

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 19, 2026

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 15, 2026

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 14, 2026

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 12, 2026

Opinion: Thailand’s proposed travel charges overlook people who call it home

Thai Enquirer News Summary – October 9, 2026

手机左右滑动，电脑按 ← → 键，也能切换新闻