Policy viability under scrutiny
Analysts have expressed caution over the feasibility of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's "Five Pillars" policy roadmap, unveiled under the slogan "Promises Delivered," citing a lack of clearly differentiated initiatives, the absence of a "signature" policy, and the lack of an explicit commitment to constitutional amendments.

New rules to boost data centre power
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has finished drafting requirements for investors in data centres and other electricity-intensive businesses, mandating bank guarantees or collateral to secure power purchases.

Tourism sector seeking clear policies
Tourism operators have criticised the government for lacking clear policies to address the debt burden and improve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized operators.

U-Tapao plan eyes 3m travellers a year
The launch of the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Airport City (EECa) development plan aims to transform U-Tapao into a new aviation hub capable of handling three million passengers annually.

Drugs link to rising youth mental illness
Methamphetamine, cannabis and kratom remain key drivers of drug abuse among youth, with mental health complaints linked to drug use rising to 77.44%, according to research released this week.

Eastern border crossings to stay shut for now: PM
Border crossings in Trat and Chanthaburi will remain closed, with no diplomatic talks or timeline set for reopening, says Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Huge turnout battles rash of wildfires
Wildfires intensified across northern and western Thailand, with 2,165 hotspots detected, as officials and an army of 25,000 fire-fighters escalated aerial and ground operations to contain spreading blazes.

Fuel crisis upends state's fiscal plans
The energy crisis may pose a challenge for the government in pursuing its fiscal plan, which aims to reduce the fiscal deficit to no more than 3% of GDP, increase revenue through a higher value-added tax (VAT), and keep public debt below 70% of GDP, according to the Finance Ministry.

New push to keep fares low
The government has approved a 2.06 billion baht support package for the transport sector, aiming to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices, stabilise fares and ease pressure on household living costs.

Calls mount for energy pricing rejig
A coalition of civic groups has called on Energy Minister Akanat Promphan to reform the energy pricing structure, enact laws to reclaim excess refinery profits, and liberalise rooftop solar installation for households.