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Thai Enquirer News Summary – September 16, 2026

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《泰国询问报》新闻摘要 – 2026年9月16日

Sitthichot Intharawiset, Election Commissioner Spills the Beans against Politicians

Election Commissioner Sitthichot Intharawiset said he voted to prosecute senior political figures in the Senate election collusion case because witness testimony was corroborated by 12 coordinated voting lists, telephone records, financial links and subsequent events. The lists, tied to gatherings in six provinces, featured candidates ranked first to seventh, with those involved in preparing them linked to the same political party and already referred to for prosecution. He said the evidence pointed to an organised operation and should be assessed collectively rather than as isolated pieces.

Sitthichot, who is one of the 2 out of the 7 EC members who was not selected by the current senate which is in the middle of the issues being raised, also said testimony from former Bhumjai Thai MP Ekkarat Changlao and former senator Direk Thungfang matched alleged party meetings and a later Bangkok hotel gathering to select Senate leaders, while questioning Ekkarat’s subsequent retraction and noting that the EC majority blocked further investigation into one financial trail.

Election Commission Discloses 21 Resolutions Deciding Not to Prosecute Bhumjaithai Figures

The Office of the Election Commission (EC) of Thailand has released its investigative resolutions regarding the selection of senators, addressing two specific allegations from inquiries concluded on September 14, 2026. Under the first allegation concerning Section 76, paragraph one, of the Organic Act on the Acquisition of Senators B.E. 2561, the EC voted not to submit a petition to the Supreme Court or pursue criminal proceedings against 21 individuals associated with the Bhumjai Thai Party and related roles.

The 21 non-prosecution resolutions included unanimous decisions for seven individuals, votes of 6 to 1 for two individuals, and votes of 5 to 2 for another 12 individuals, which notably covered party leader Anutin Charnvirakul and key figure Newin Chิดชอบ. Additionally, for the second allegation under Section 76, paragraph two, the EC voted 5 to 2 not to take legal action against 137 incumbent senators, one reserve senator, and two eligible voters, bringing the total number of individuals not prosecuted under the second allegation to 140.

iLaw Reveals Testimony from Senate Collusion Witness Asadang Saewangkarn Detailing Meeting with Newin Chidchob

The Internet Law Reform Dialogue (iLaw) published further testimony from witness Asadang Saewangkarn, identified as witness code 21/26, regarding the Senate election collusion case under Special Case No. 24/2568 concerning money laundering and related offenses.

Asadang stated that he formed a group with Ekarat Changlao and Khajornsak Srivilai, participating in a meeting to draft a candidate list sheet at Rajamangala University of Technology Suvarnabhumi on June 24, 2027. He noted that a team member of House Representative Suksomruay Wantaniyakul delivered a briefing, and that his own candidate number, 150, appeared on the list while Ekarat had him sign a pre-signed resignation letter.

Following the national Senate election, Asadang reported being directed to gather at the Pullman King Power Hotel, where he encountered Newin Chidchob in the main meeting room. According to the testimony, this room was used to discuss candidate selections for Senate president and vice president, and Ekarat distributed financial compensation to applicants who voted for Asadang.

The Election Commission on Tuesday released its official vote breakdown showing that it voted 5–2 against referring Prime Minister and Bhumjai Thai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, party co-founder Newin Chidchob and 10 others to the Supreme Court over alleged interference in the 2024 Senate election.

The allegation concerned Section 76, paragraph one, of the Senate election law, which prohibits party executives, political officeholders and MPs from helping Senate candidates win or preventing their election. The votes for all 21 respondents were:

Cleared unanimously:

Surasak Phancharoenworakul

Siripong Angkasakulkiat

Pattarapong Pattaraprasit

Traisuree Taisaranakul

Cleared by a 6–1 vote:

Pimruedee Tanjaroenrak

Cleared by a 5–2 vote:

Korrawee Prissananantakul

Chalat Ratchakitprakarn

Napintorn Srisunpang

Suksomrauy Wantaneeyakul

Paradorn Prissananantakul

The EC declined to file Supreme Court petitions or pursue criminal proceedings against all 21 respondents. Under a second allegation, the EC released a 5–2 decision against prosecuting 137 serving senators, one reserve senator and two Senate voters accused of accepting political assistance.

Legal rights group iLaw has published original testimony from Senator Atsadang Sawaengkan, who claimed he saw Bhumjai Thai Party co-founder Newin Chidchob at a post-election meeting at the Pullman King Power Hotel held to select Senate leadership posts.

Atsadang—a 2024 Senate elect from the education group—stated that his campaign was organized by former Bhumjai Thai MP Ekkarat Changlao, who reportedly paid candidates to vote for him and required an advance resignation letter. Although Atsadang, Ekkarat, and another senator later withdrew their statements, leading the Election Commission (EC) to clear Newin and party figures due to “inconsistent” evidence, the leaked original testimony provides detailed corroboration that raises renewed questions over the EC’s decision.

Scholar Says Senate Collusion Ruling Lowers Public Trust But Unlikely to Spark Street Protests

Following the Election Commission’s decision to prosecute 77 individuals out of 427 respondents in the 2027 Senate election collusion case, including 26 senators, political science academic Prof. Dr. Panitchada Siriluckbumrung noted that public confidence in the political system and independent regulatory bodies has declined. However, she believes the situation has not reached the threshold of provoking street protests, as opponents are instead expected to pursue legal avenues such as filing Section 157 charges.

Dr. Panitchada pointed out clear links between the prosecuted individuals and the Bhumjai Thai Party, whose popularity has already been on a continuous decline. While the party has attempted to maintain public favor through policy extensions like the Thai Chuay Thai Plus initiative to stimulate the economy, questions remain regarding how these developments will impact future political stability and investor confidence.

Scholar Criticizes Election Commission Over Senate Selection Case, Demanding Open Rulings

Atthakij Satyanurak, a former history professor at Chiang Mai University, has strongly criticized the Election Commission (EC) over its resolution to submit 77 names to the Election Division of the Supreme Court and pursue criminal proceedings regarding the Senate election inquiry.

Atthakij stated that the EC has transformed from a powerful protector meant to ensure a fair electoral system into a cowardly entity that submits to outside authority. He urged the commission to openly and swiftly disclose the reasons behind its rulings rather than relying merely on brief press releases to stall for time and ease public pressure.

Warning that failing to answer public questions and yielding to improper authority will result in severe condemnation and future curses, the academic emphasized that the EC must establish accountability and rely on the public and society as its true backing.

PM Anutin Files Case Against iLaw

Yesterday, at the Criminal Court, Supachai Jaismut—a Bhumjai Thai Party list MP and the party’s head of legal affairs—acting under the authorization of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in his capacity as Bhumjai Thai Party leader , assigned lawyer Sitthichok Singhaseni to file a lawsuit against Yingcheep Atchanont, also known as “Pao iLaw.”

The suit alleges defamation by publication stemming from an interview Yingcheep gave at Parliament on July 21, 2026, in which he alluded to the Prime Minister’s involvement in the collusion surrounding the Senate selection process.

The case was filed on behalf of the Prime Minister—not the Bhumjai Thai Party—on charges of defamation by publication. The court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for December 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM.

Sitthichok clarified that the action is not intended as a SLAPP suit nor linked to the Election Commission’s recent decision to forward Senate fraud cases to the Supreme Court, while declining to comment on Yingcheep’s defense strategy.

“I am not Smart Enough to Execute such a plan” says Bhumjai Thai Minister

Bhumjai Thai Minister Paradorn Prissananantakul denied designing the alleged July 2024 Senate election collusion scheme, saying he was “not clever enough” to devise such a system.

Addressing retracted testimony from former party MP Ekkarat Changlao that initially implicated him, Paradorn alleged that Ekkarat was pressured by political opponents in an attempt to dissolve the Bhumjai Thai Party. With the Election Commission finding no supporting evidence and excluding Bhumjai Thai executives from the 77 respondents referred to the Supreme Court, Paradorn confirmed the party is consulting its legal team regarding potential legal action.

Former Bhumjai Thai MP Ekkarat Changlao faces potential legal investigation for making false statements after retracting his testimony regarding alleged collusion during the 2024 Senate election. He initially implicated top Bhumjai Thai figures—including Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and senior politician Newin Chidchob—in organizing candidate voting lists and holding planning meetings.

He later withdrew his statements, claiming he was coerced under threat. Concluding that Ekkarat was unreliable, the Election Commission (EC) chose not to refer any of the 21 accused Bhumjai Thai politicians to the Supreme Court.

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will seek the EC’s full ruling on the 77 respondents referred to the Supreme Court as it expands its criminal association and money-laundering investigation beyond the original eight suspects. Six of the eight are among the 77, while prosecutors said the alleged operation involved a large network seeking control of the Senate and required further investigation of financial records and links among participants.

Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has denied any involvement by the Bhumjai Thai Party or his political network in alleged 2024 Senate election collusion, asserting that personal acquaintances do not equal political assistance or interference. His statement follows the Election Commission’s decision to prosecute 77 individuals, including Athiwat Montri—Phiphat’s nephew-in-law—and Somkiat Liangprasit, the father of Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasit.

Unfazed by opposition plans to raise the scandal during an upcoming no-confidence debate, Phiphat welcomed the scrutiny as standard parliamentary right and expressed confidence in addressing the facts.

Meanwhile Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasit stated that his father, Somkiat Liangprasit, is prepared to present evidence to clear his name against Senate election collusion charges. Somkiat is among 15 alleged organizers referred by the Election Commission following claims from a former candidate that he led a closed-door briefing in Satun to coordinate voting slates. Worasit denied that the scheme was ever discussed by Bhumjai Thai’s executive committee and emphasized that his personal connection to the case is strictly familial, asserting that any attempts to implicate him directly require actual proof.

Business as Usual at Senate Meeting

Yesterday, during the Senate meeting, some of the 26 senators named in the Election Commission’s (EC) resolution to pursue legal action attended the session as usual. Meanwhile, a large number of media personnel had gathered at the Parliament complex since the morning—stationing themselves from the front hall to the entrance of the Chantra Meeting Room—to wait for and interview the 26 senators. This situation caused alarm among most of the senators, who alerted one another via telephone about the media presence.

Senators referred to the Supreme Court over alleged collusion in the 2024 Senate election said they would let the judicial process run its course and mount separate legal defences rather than coordinate as a group.

Atcharaphan Homros said the 26 senators had not discussed their next steps and would fight their cases individually. Alongkot Worakee also denied reports that they had created a Line group, saying he accepted the Election Commission’s decision and would comply with any court order, including suspension from duty.

Meanwhile Viwat Kraipisitkul accused an EC inquiry panel of relying on a single witness who alleged that he and his brother paid other candidates for support. Viwat said the EC had never summoned him to respond and that he would challenge the allegation before the Supreme Court.

Former senior Supreme Court judge Wat Tingsamit warned that Election Commission (EC) commissioners could face malfeasance charges under Criminal Code Section 157 after referring only 77 of 229 suspects—excluding all 21 accused Bhumjai Thai politicians—in the Senate selection collusion case.

Wat argued the EC misapplied the strict criminal standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt rather than Section 62’s lower threshold, which requires only reasonable grounds to suspect dishonesty or unfairness to seek the revocation of political rights. Pointing to prior court precedents accepting circumstantial and digital evidence like chat logs and phone records, he asserted that omitting most suspects, including alleged organizers and political supporters, exposes the commissioners to legal action.

At the opening of the UNCLOS conciliation meeting with Cambodia in Singapore, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow affirmed that Thailand will firmly defend its sovereignty and maritime rights in the Gulf of Thailand while adhering strictly to international law.

Criticizing Cambodia for playing the victim and making unfounded allegations that undermine bilateral trust—including past military tensions and the leak of a private leaders’ call—Sihasak clarified that the conciliation process applies solely to maritime boundary delimitation and does not affect land territory or Thai sovereignty over Koh Kood. Rejecting Cambodia’s 1972 continental shelf claim and its narrative regarding the termination of the 2001 MOU, Sihasak reiterated that Thailand participates in good faith, hoping the process will narrow legal differences and lead to a sustainable, peaceful solution for both nations.

‘Thai Chuay Thai +’ plan to be extended by 2-months

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun disclosed at Government House that the Prime Minister has instructed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanpraphas to consider extending the ‘Thai Chuay Thai Plus’ project for another two months. The decision comes in response to geopolitical risks, notably the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and rising oil prices, amidst concerns that Thailand has yet to recover from previous economic and energy crises.

Regarding financial backing for the two-month extension, Supachai stated that the Ministry of Finance will explore all potential funding sources, including loans and annual budget allocations, to determine how to support the public. She confirmed that Ekniti will oversee the implementation details and clarify whether the subsidy will maintain the previous rate of 1,000 Baht per month.

Additionally, Supachai noted that broader stimulus measures will accompany the project extension to address the comprehensive economic situation. Following discussions with Ekniti, Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapan, and the Ministry of Energy, the government plans to roll out these intervention measures immediately rather than waiting until the end of the year.

Team Thailand to visit US and Meet Trump

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun revealed that on the night of September 15, “Team Thailand” held discussions with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to finalize details regarding the proposed Thai-US reciprocal trade agreement. These talks took place ahead of a scheduled phone call between the Prime Minister and US President Donald Trump.

The US is currently considering scheduling this call for either September 17 or 18 to agree upon the content framework before the Prime Minister and his delegation travel to the US for a scheduled meeting with the President during the United Nations General Assembly session on September 24.

Regarding specific figures and tariff rates, there is anticipation of positive news, though details remain undisclosed; the intention is for the Prime Minister himself to negotiate special proposals with President Trump. Elevating trade discussions to the level of the two nations’ leaders marks a significant step toward boosting Thai exports to the US, a high-value primary market.

She said Thailand successfully addressed U.S. transshipment concerns across three investigated sectors by providing evidence of high domestic production capacity (75%–100%), reinforcing a positive U.S. outlook.

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will lead a Thai delegation to Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom from September 20–27, 2026. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Digital Economy Minister Chaichanok Chidchob, and key capital market executives from Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO) and the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), the official visit combines participation in the 81st UN General Assembly with an investment roadshow.

The trip aims to boost investor confidence, showcase Thailand’s financial markets, and expand international cooperation across trade, digital technology, and foreign affairs.

During the US visit, Chaichanok will use a dinner jointly hosted by the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) and the US Chamber of Commerce (USCC) to meet executives from leading American technology companies, including Apple, Google and Microsoft. The discussions will seek to strengthen international technology partnerships and present Thailand’s potential as a base for digital and technology investment and business development. They will also explore practical cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, digital skills and emerging technologies.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported that from January 1 to September 12, 2026, Thailand welcomed a cumulative total of 21.72 million foreign tourists, a decrease of 3.38% compared to the same period last year. Cumulative revenue generated from foreign tourists stood at 1,061,277 million Baht.

The top 5 source markets were:

China 3,662,434 visitors

Last week, 439,069 foreign tourists arrived in Thailand, a 7.15% decrease from the previous week. Numbers are expected to rise slightly in the coming week; the Malaysian market is likely to benefit from the mid-week “Malaysia Day” (Hari Malaysia) holiday, while other markets are expected to remain stable.

A survey by the Thai Hotels Association (THA) and the Bank of Thailand revealed that August 2026 hotel occupancy reached 64%, though September occupancy is expected to drop to 52%. Citing low Q4 advance bookings—particularly from Chinese travelers—52% of hoteliers expect 2026 foreign arrivals to fall below 32 million. In response, hoteliers urge the government to provide energy cost relief, tax incentives, soft loans, and targeted marketing campaigns.

The industry hopes upcoming initiatives, including the “Thai Thiew Thai Plus 2026” stimulus scheme and international Q4 events by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), will boost travel and spending ahead of the high season.

4 Baht reduction at Refinery but no impact on Retail Prices of Diesel

On September 15, 2026, Royal Gazette published an announcement from the Energy Policy Administration Committee approving a 4.00 Baht per liter reduction in refinery prices for high-speed diesel (B0, regular B, and B20), effective from September 16 through October 31, 2026.

Enacted under the Fuel Shortage Prevention and Mitigation Act and signed by Energy Policy and Planning Office Director Wattanapong Kurovat, the measure aims to prevent domestic fuel shortages and stabilize prices amid severe global oil market volatility triggered by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

Most recently, the Oil Fuel Fund’s total deficit stood at 87,072 million Baht, comprising a 47,176 million Baht deficit in the oil account and a 39,896 million Baht deficit in the LPG account.

ThaiBMA Reports Polarized Corporate Bond Recovery as High-Grade Issues Outpace Smaller Firms

The Thai Bond Market Association (ThaiBMA) reported that the private corporate bond market is showing signs of recovery, with cumulative new issuances reaching approximately 550,000 million Baht by September 11, 2026. However, reaching the full-year target of 880,000 to 900,000 million Baht remains a challenge, requiring around 330,000 to 350,000 million Baht in new issues during the remainder of the year.

The market is experiencing a polarized recovery driven primarily by large corporations, with the energy, finance, and real estate sectors leading issuance volumes at 113,000 million Baht, 98,000 million Baht, and 88,000 million Baht respectively. Investment grade bonds with AA ratings or higher continue to sell rapidly due to high domestic liquidity, while smaller or lower-rated companies face persistent financing challenges.

Meanwhile, foreign investors recorded three consecutive months of net selling in Thai bonds, totaling outflows of approximately 10,000 million Baht in July, 6,700 million Baht in August, and 13,000 million Baht in September up to the report date. This trend was driven by widening yield gaps between Thai and US government bonds as the US 10-year bond yield approached nearly 5 percent.

Cabinet Approves 25 th Round Onshore Petroleum Bidding with PTT and Pan Orient as Concessionaires

On September 15, 2026, Warakorn Phrommole, Director-General of the Mineral Fuels Department, announced that the Thai Cabinet approved concessionaires for onshore petroleum exploration blocks in the northeastern and central regions of Thailand under the 25th bidding round.

PTT Exploration and Production International Company Limited was awarded concession rights for onshore exploration blocks L1/66 and L3/66, while Pan Orient Energy (Siam) Limited in partnership with CanAsia Energy Corp. secured the rights for block L8/66.

The Department of Mineral Fuels stated that these exploration and production activities aim to enhance domestic petroleum self-reliance, reduce foreign energy imports, and support power generation at the Nam Phong power plant in northeastern Thailand, with the concession signing ceremony to be scheduled by the Ministry of Energy.

Sathien Sets 2029 IPO Target for CJ MORE with Potential Overseas Listings and 100 billion Baht Sales Goal

Sathien Sathientham, Chairman of CJ Express Group, announced plans to list the retail business CJ MORE on the stock market by 2029. The company is considering options between the Thai stock market and international exchanges after receiving approaches from Hong Kong, Singapore, and NASDAQ.

CJ MORE aims to reach 80 billion Baht in sales in 2026 and push sales to 100 billion Baht by 2027. This growth will be driven by expanding the store network, with 500 new branches planned for 2026 to reach roughly 2,500 total branches, followed by another 700 branches in 2027.

To support regional expansion, the company plans to open its first store in Phuket by the end of the year and may consider additional warehouses in the north or south by 2027. Meanwhile, operational impacts from rising oil costs remain manageable at approximately 0.5%.

MEA Announces Reduction in Residential Electricity Rates Effective September 2026 Billing Cycle

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority has announced a reduction in electricity rates for progressive residential users following the resolution of the Energy Regulatory Commission passed on August 5, 2026. The new rates take effect starting with the September 2026 billing cycle, with the first electricity bills under this cycle issued on September 14, 2026.

The adjustment removes public electricity burdens in accordance with the National Energy Policy Council resolution, establishing a special rate of no more than 3 Baht per unit for the first 200 units of electricity consumption. For consumption starting from the 201st unit onward, the energy rate is reduced by 0.0634 Baht per unit from the previous rate.

The progressive residential rate structure is divided into Rate 1.1 for users consuming up to 150 units per month and Rate 1.2 for those consuming over 150 units per month. These calculated energy rates exclude service charges, the fuel adjustment charge, and value-added tax, with total monthly bills depending on consumption and billing cycle components.

The MEA has completed system updates and testing for calculation, meter reading, and billing notifications to align with the new structural rates. Users seeking additional details can contact the MEA Call Center at 1130 available 24 hours a day.

Royal Gazette Announces 4 Baht Reduction in Refinery Diesel Prices

The Royal Gazette published an announcement from the Energy Policy Management Committee regarding the reduction of refinery prices for high-speed diesel by 4.00 Baht per liter, effective from September 16 through October 31, 2026.

The committee’s decision follows ongoing conflicts in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which continue to affect global oil supplies and cause high domestic fuel price volatility. The measure aims to prevent and address domestic fuel shortages.

Specifically, the price reductions apply to high-speed diesel B0, standard high-speed diesel B, and high-speed diesel B20, all reduced by 4.00 Baht per liter at the refinery level as signed by Wattanapong Kurovat, Director of the Energy Policy and Planning Office.

According to a Transport Ministry announcement in the Royal Gazette, four-wheel vehicle tolls on the Prachim Ratthaya Expressway (Si Rat–Outer Ring Road) will increase from 65 Baht to 80 Baht starting December 15, 2026, following approval by the EXAT board on July 14. Ahead of this scheduled five-year adjustment under BEM’s 100% funded concession contract, which permits increases of 15–35 Baht, EXAT and BEM are currently discussing relief measures to ease the financial burden on commuters.

All eyes are on today’s meeting of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to see if it will collapse once again. The previous meeting on September 10 failed for the tenth time due to a lack of a quorum, leaving a backlog of approximately 193 agenda items awaiting consideration.

Reports indicate that as of the evening of September 15, it remained unclear whether the conflicting views between the two factions of commissioners would be resolved before the scheduled meeting on September 16. Some commissioners have maintained that they are ready to attend, provided the meeting is convened and conducted in accordance with the law. Meanwhile, the faction led by NBTC Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck continues to assert its authority to perform its duties, holding a differing stance regarding the status of their positions.

Three major Thai mobile operators—AIS, True Corporation, and National Telecom (NT)—have backed the government’s TH-AI Passport programme to lower internet costs for AI usage.

According to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, True is finalizing a basic 29-Baht monthly internet package for its AiPASS application alongside potential added benefits, matching the entry-level pricing of other participating carriers. Following pioneer AIS, NT plans to officially launch and market its own AiPASS service starting October 1, 2026.

On September 15, 2026, the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), the National Innovation Agency (NIA), and key public-private partners announced the establishment of an initial 1-billion-Baht Private Equity Trust (PE Trust) to invest in New Economy sectors. Simultaneously, 15 higher education institutions, along with their respective holding companies and partners, signed an agreement to launch the University Holding Consortium, aimed at pooling academic resources to commercialize deep-tech research and spin-off enterprises.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yodchanan Wongsawat emphasized that this dual initiative bridges the funding and capability gap for Thai innovations—particularly in biotech, services, and alternative energy—which could drive long-term economic impact and potentially push the SET Index toward the 2,000-point mark within two to three years.

Yesterday, the SET Index closed at 1,578.66 points, down 12.41 points or 0.78%, with a trading value of 75,788.08 million Baht. The index remained in negative territory throughout the day, primarily pressured by DELTA shares; heavy selling was triggered after its parent company announced plans to raise funds via convertible bonds. However, other sectors showed signs of recovery; excluding the impact of DELTA, the SET Index would have traded in positive territory, indicating that the selling pressure was not widespread across the market.

Notably, DELTA recorded five “Big Lot” transactions totaling 2.65 million shares at an average price of 245.77 Baht per share, amounting to a total value of 652.10 million Baht.

Sectors helping to support the market included energy and petrochemicals, bolstered by rising crude oil prices. However, the overall market upside remained limited as investors held back to await the outcome of the Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting and assess the future direction of interest rates. The index is expected to fluctuate within a stable range today, with support levels at 1,570–1,575 points and resistance at 1,585 points.

Alongkorn Prathanrasnikorn, Chief Executive Officer – Real Estate and Trusts, One Asset Management said the board of ONE Asset Management (ONEAM), as the REIT manager for GROREIT, approved resolutions regarding the sale of the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers and scheduled a unitholders’ meeting for October 28, 2026. After Royal Orchid Hotel (Thailand) Public Company Limited (ROH) initially failed to execute its buy-back option upon the lease expiration on July 14, ROH subsequently confirmed its intent on August 14 to repurchase the property for 4,873 million Baht. Unitholders will vote to approve either selling the asset to ROH for 4,873 million Baht, selling to Orchid Hospitality Co., Ltd. for an alternative offer of 5,300 million Baht should ROH fail to meet conditions, or authorizing ONEAM to proceed with a competitive bidding process.

An official report from the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) revealed updates on the case against Dr. Boon Vanasin and his associates concerning public fraud, fraudulent borrowing, and money laundering tied to fake hospital investment schemes offering unnaturally high returns. The transaction committee has ordered two separate asset seizures: an initial 370 items worth over 404 million Baht on August 5, 2025, and an additional 286 items worth 1.799 billion Baht on September 7, 2026, bringing total seized assets to over 2.203 billion Baht.

As the 90-day victim claim registration window has closed, officials are verifying damage claims to request that the Civil Court return or compensate victims proportionally from seized assets rather than forfeiting them to the state. Dr. Boon and his network face ongoing prosecution for fraudulent investment schemes—including a fake multi-billion-Baht Pinklao cancer center project—which resulted in estimated total damages between 7.5 billion and 16 billion Baht.

Who says there is no money in the system, Bangkok’s most expensive Penthouse goes for 600 million Baht

Ultra-luxury condominium project SCOPE Thonglor has successfully sold its 765-square-meter penthouse for 600 million Baht, setting a new record as the highest penthouse sale for the brand. The 32-story project features a total project value of 3,650 million Baht and consists of only 18 residential units.

Originally listed at 615 million Baht, the penthouse was negotiated down to 600 million Baht and purchased by a foreign buyer. Spanning floors 26 to 28, the three-story unit includes 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, and approximately 45 million Baht in imported custom furnishings and decor.

The ultra-luxury property is situated near the BTS Thonglor station and provides five-star hotel-level services, including a Penthouse Assistant, housekeeping, and valet services. Following this sale, six units remain available in the building, with complete sell-out expected by the end of the year.

Thai Cabinet Approves National Disaster Insurance Scheme Covering 30 Million Households Starting October 1

The Thai Cabinet has approved a national disaster insurance scheme proposed by the Ministry of Interior, shifting government disaster management from post-event relief to proactive risk transfer. The program, which begins implementation on October 1, is designed to provide residents with faster compensation and reduce budget uncertainty amid increasingly frequent and severe climate-related events.

The initiative covers approximately 30 million residential households based on Department of Provincial Administration data as of September 10, protecting against floods, windstorms, and earthquakes. Property damage coverage includes up to 100,000 Baht per household per disaster event, alongside a 2 million Baht per person coverage limit in the case of death resulting from these covered disasters.

Under the implementation framework, the Bureau of the Budget will allocate the necessary funds, while the Office of the Insurance Commission and the Thai General Insurance Association will secure reliable and fair insurers. Additionally, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has been designated to receive the budget and disburse payments to the authorized insurers.

Revised Universal Coverage for Emergency Patients (UCEP) rules passed by the Cabinet mandate that hospitals treat critically ill emergency patients without upfront payment until they are stable, for up to 72 hours. After triage, hospitals can transfer stable patients if capacity is lacking or upon request. Patients can appeal UCEP eligibility rejections to the National Institute for Emergency Medicine within 90 days, with successful appeals requiring hospital refunds within 30 days. While the National Health Security Office covers initial 72-hour expenses, post-stabilization costs transition to the patient’s primary healthcare scheme; however, patients who refuse transfers or choose external facilities must pay out-of-pocket.

The Cabinet also has approved a $211.9 million (6.87 billion Baht) loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to upgrade five regional public hospitals from 2026 to 2030. Covering 76% of the total 9.04 billion Baht budget—with the remainder funded by the Public Health Ministry—the investment will enhance medical services at Nakornping, Sawanpracharak, Makarak, Prapokklao, and Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima hospitals.

The Meteorological Department’s 24-hour forecast indicates that isolated heavy rain will persist across upper Thailand, potentially triggering flash floods, forest runoff, and landslides. This is due to a monsoon trough shifting to lie across the Northern and Northeastern regions, combined with a moderate southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.

Bangkok and its vicinity will continue to experience thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, following yesterday’s heavy rainfall—described as a “rain bomb”—which lasted from afternoon through evening and caused flooding in several locations.

Bangkok City Council Rejects 6 Billion Baht EV Garbage Truck Rental Project Amid Concerns Over Specifications

The Bangkok Metropolitan Council voted to reject three electric garbage truck rental projects totaling 6.03 billion Baht during a meeting on September 15, 2026. Chaired by Council President Ms. Phatraporn Kengrungruangchai, the assembly saw a majority vote of 27 to 19 to cut the budget items after members raised concerns regarding potential spec-locking to benefit specific capital groups and a lack of clear details in the procurement process.

The rejected initiative involved leasing 1,347 electric waste collection vehicles over a five-year period between 2070 and 2077. While Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt defended the project by stating it would save approximately 4.74 billion Baht in energy costs compared to diesel alternatives and reduce environmental pollution, council members pointed out that the proposal had faced ongoing procurement issues and previously attracted the attention of the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

As a result of the council’s decision, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will be forced to continue renting traditional diesel vehicles for another one to two years, which will maintain existing pollution and noise issues. Council members recommended that the executive branch thoroughly re-study project risks, weights, distances, and charging systems, and conduct a pilot project before submitting the proposal again.

The government will require state agencies to verify 58 commonly used documents through the Government Data Exchange (GDX) instead of asking people to submit copies. The documents include ID cards, household registrations, birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, land ownership records, company certificates and driving licences. Thirty-one document types are already available through GDX, while the remaining 27 are expected to be added within one year.

Agencies that continue requesting documents already available digitally will be given 15 days to comply. Continued non-compliance could affect agency heads’ performance evaluations or lead to disciplinary action.

Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration has reclassified injectable GLP-1 drugs, commonly called “weight-loss pens,” as specially controlled medicines. The measure took effect on Tuesday, placing them under restrictions similar to sildenafil, or Viagra.

The drugs may now be dispensed by hospitals, clinics and pharmacies only with a doctor’s prescription. The FDA said patients must be assessed by a doctor to determine whether the medicine is suitable and what dosage should be used. The FDA will track the imported drugs from entry into the country through storage, distribution and sale. Three companies currently import the products and are developing a verification system with the regulator to prevent illicit sales, supply-chain leakage and counterfeit drugs.

Political News Headlines in Thai Media

Opinion: Anger Without a Common Front

Link- https://www.thaienquirer.com/74217/opinion-anger-without-a-common-front/

Thailand and Cambodia have begun a UN-backed conciliation process aimed at resolving their decades-old maritime dispute in the Gulf of Thailand, where their competing claims cover an area believed to contain substantial oil and natural gas reserves.

Link- https://www.thaienquirer.com/74211/cambodia-proposes-interim-joint-resource-development-in-maritime-dispute/

AC condensation, undersized screws caused parliament ceiling collapse

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3319998/ac-condensation-undersized-screws-caused-parliament-ceiling-collapse

Remains exhumed, moved from unlicensed Jewish cemetery

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3319970/remains-exhumed-moved-from-unlicensed-jewish-cemetery

Thai Cabinet endorses pilot to reduce corruption risks in 24 agencies

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/politics/40071068

Suranaree Task Force monitors Cambodian trenches near Si Sa Ket border

Link- https://www.thaipbsworld.com/Thailand-cambodia-standoff/557958

The United Nations has thanked Thailand for its contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, with nearly 300 Thai military and police personnel currently serving in three missions around the world.

Link- https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2026/09/15/un-thanks-thailand-for-peacekeeping-service-and-sacrifice/

Economic News Headlines in Thai Media

EIC downplays political risk for the local economy

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3320333/eic-downplays-political-risk-for-the-local-economy

Revived Mice sector valued at B200bn

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3320373/revived-mice-sector-valued-at-b200bn

Udon Thani counting down to international horticultural expo

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3320078/udon-thani-counting-down-to-international-horticultural-expo

Banpu mulls move into LNG market

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3320258/banpu-mulls-move-into-lng-market

CJ More maps out 2029 IPO, nationwide store expansion

Link- https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3320213/cj-more-maps-out-2029-ipo-nationwide-store-expansion

Anutin combines UNGA81 visit with US and UK investment push

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/news/politics/40071066

Occupancy to Hit 98% as One Bangkok Retail Eyes Next Phase

Link- https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40071053

Commerce minister defends reshuffle, cites continuity in trade missions

Link- https://www.thaipbsworld.com/politics/557973

Record 72-tonne laughing gas operation busted in Bangkok

Link- https://www.thaipbsworld.com/around-thailand/557978

DELTA Free Float to Rise 1.4% as Delta Taiwan Fixes $1.5bn Exchangeable Bond Terms

Link- https://www.kaohooninternational.com/markets/590690

_____________________________________________________________________________

Issues to be watched out for

September 14-16, 2026 – PM Anutin accompanies HM the King on his state visit to Vietnam

September 17, 2026 – The committee responsible for screening loan-funded expenditures—under the 400-billion-Baht budget—will meet to consider details regarding the extension of the “Thai Chuay Thai Plus” Phase 2

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

September , 2026 – FTI announces production and export figures for automobiles, motorcycles, and auto parts

September , 2026 – The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reports on the analysis of the poverty and inequality situation in Thailand in 2025

September , 2026 – The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) announces the overall stock market situation summary

September , 2026 – Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) reports fiscal economic conditions, regional economic conditions, and the Regional Economic Sentiment Index.

September 20-27, 2026 – Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will lead a Thai delegation to Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom from September 20–27, 2026.

September 28, 2026 – The Constitutional Court makes a decision on the ‘barcode’ on the February 8, 2026, General Elections that has been blamed as being infringement of secrecy of the ballot papers.

September 30, 2026 – Bank of Thailand (BOT) reports Thai economic and financial conditions

October 5, 2026 – September 2026 Consumer Confidence Inflation Data

October 12-18, 2026 – IMF and World Bank meeting in Bangkok

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

October 28, 2026 – Monetary Policy Committee holds its meeting

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 1,578.66 -12.41

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 15 September 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 75,788.08 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.

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Thai Enquirer News Summary – September 15, 2026

Cambodia proposes interim joint resource development in maritime dispute

Bhumjaithai Figures Avoid Action as EC Proceeds Against 77

Thai Enquirer News Summary – September 14, 2026

Police trace over 700 million baht in former Ayutthaya abbot case

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