{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"News Room","home_page_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/index\/id\/52","items":[{"id":"8a892bf800fb76912332e46efcde3474","title":"IMF Chief Welcomes Thailand\u2019s Hosting of Annual Meetings","content_text":"

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has welcomed Thailand’s hosting of the upcoming IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings, citing the Asia-Pacific region’s growing importance in the global economy. Speaking at the Forbes Global CEO Conference on October 7, she described the timing as opportune given the region’s rising economic influence.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana reported that the Asia-Pacific region’s share of global gross domestic product (GDP) has increased from approximately 25% in 1991, when Thailand last hosted the meetings, to 43%. Trade, investment, manufacturing, and greater integration into global supply chains have driven this expansion.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Scheduled for October 12–18 in Bangkok, the IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings will provide a forum for international economic and financial discussions. Thailand’s return as host after 35 years comes amid a major shift in global economic activity toward the Asia-Pacific region.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Thai government views the event as an opportunity to showcase the country’s capabilities, boost international confidence, and develop economic partnerships. Lalida added that discussions with global financial leaders could open new avenues for cooperation and support Thailand’s long-term economic growth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/549708","date_published":"2026-10-09T17:27:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202610093e15afae06069332db444effcd2a29fa172853.jpg"},{"id":"d79985fcf3afeafd9c7dd2e4adeed5f1","title":"Royal Thai Navy Continues Preparations for Royal Barge Procession","content_text":"

The Royal Thai Navy is preparing 2,200 personnel and 52 royal ceremonial barges for the Royal Barge Procession on November 6. The procession will accompany the royal journey to present Royal Kathin robes on the occasion of Her Majesty the Queen's fourth cycle, or 48th birthday anniversary.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Adm. Nares Wongtrakul inspected participating personnel on October 5 near Rama VIII Bridge before visiting royal barge oarsmen at the Thonburi Naval Dockyard. He called on all crews to prepare thoroughly and carry out their duties with discipline and precision during the royal ceremony.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The procession will stretch about 1,280 meters along the Chao Phraya River and span approximately 90 meters. The central formation will feature the Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban HM Rama IX, Anekkachatphuchong, and Anantanakkharat royal barges, accompanied by ceremonial, escort, and other vessels in a five-column formation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Preparations include 10 sub-rehearsals and two full-dress rehearsals on October 21 and 28 ahead of the November 6 procession. The public can watch the rehearsals from both banks of the Chao Phraya River between Krung Thon Bridge and Wat Arun Ratchawararam.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/548572","date_published":"2026-10-06T16:16:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20261006cf6884a18e48ea5671b1af9b41dabfc1161807.jpg"},{"id":"e9586d0279a344a05bcff953e52b39cb","title":"Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2026 Expected to Generate Over 1.4 Billion Baht ","content_text":"

Phuket is preparing to host the 2026 Vegetarian Festival from October 9–18, with more than 140,000 visitors expected and at least 1.4 billion baht in local economic activity.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksmeesangchan stated that the annual festival, locally known as Jia Chai, is a significant cultural tradition that reflects the religious faith and heritage of Phuket's Thai-Chinese community and other participants.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The festival will open with the Go Teng pole-raising ceremony on October 9 at 5:09 p.m., followed by nine days of vegetarian observance from October 10 to 18 at over 40 Chinese shrines throughout the province. \u200bTraditional shrine processions will occur throughout the city from October 11 to 18, with a special nighttime procession on October 11.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The spokesperson noted the festival is expected to attract over 140,000 visitors, primarily domestic tourists, as well as international travelers from China, Singapore, and Malaysia.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Hotel bookings in Mueang Phuket District, the main festival area, have risen by about 10% compared to last year. Average occupancy is projected to reach 80%, while bookings in Kathu and Thalang districts remain steady.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The government expects the festival to generate at least 1.4 billion baht in economic activity across Phuket, supporting local tourism and related businesses and promoting the province's cultural traditions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/548194","date_published":"2026-10-05T16:29:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/2026100519a72f1a183a2f66cbc1ea7c500e463b163019.jpg"},{"id":"e2acea56c35ab0a81d38ec0bd747b7f4","title":"Hua Hin and Cha Am Join Thailand\u2019s MICE Network","content_text":"

Hua Hin and Cha Am have officially joined the country’s growing network of MICE destinations, as the provinces of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan partner with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) to attract international meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions while supporting local economies. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The official launch of Hua Hin–Cha Am MICE City took place on September 29, 2026, at Dusit Thani Hua Hin in Phetchaburi province. The destination is one of six new areas certified as MICE cities this year, bringing Thailand’s total to 16. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Under the concept “5 Senses. One Destination,” the two provinces plan to combine their distinctive attractions to create a unique experience for business travelers. The five key elements are wellness, royal heritage, gastronomy, seaside experiences, and sustainability. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Wanpen Mangsri, deputy governor of Phetchaburi, highlighted the province’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, offering distinctive culinary experiences alongside historical attractions, including its three royal palaces, and nature-based activities in Kaeng Krachan National Park. She noted that the MICE designation would help generate income for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, farmers, and communities by connecting them with the broader tourism economy. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Sittichai Sawatsaen said Hua Hin is well equipped with hotels, golf courses, and wellness services. The province plans to build on its reputation as a leisure destination and develop Hua Hin into a wellness-focused MICE hub. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Meanwhile, TCEB has outlined five development strategies covering marketing, products, workforce development, infrastructure, and management to enhance the destination’s international appeal.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/547557","date_published":"2026-10-02T16:32:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20261002cd8006f84623ce005d7fea0e66b09389163441.jpg"},{"id":"1468633bdc71b5448cdcc769045dc476","title":"Thaialnd Pushes Stronger Cultural Partnership With Russia","content_text":"

Culture Minister Sabeeda Thaised met Russian Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova in Moscow this week to discuss expanded cultural cooperation and preparations for the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Russia in 2027. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The two sides discussed cooperation under their existing memorandum on culture, covering personnel exchanges, performing arts, music, museums, and cultural activities. Thailand also proposed greater exchanges of expertise in arts and culture and offered support for special Russian exhibitions in Thailand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The cooperation is expected to create more international opportunities for Thai artists, craftspeople, cultural professionals, and creative businesses through exhibitions, professional exchanges, and related activities. Thailand also plans to use its cultural heritage and creative economy to generate employment, income, and wider international exposure.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Cultural tourism was another area discussed, with Thailand seeking to introduce more Russian travelers to its arts, traditions, craftsmanship, and cultural destinations. Activities surrounding the 2027 diplomatic anniversary are expected to expand cultural exchanges, tourism opportunities, and creative-industry connections between the two countries.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/544625","date_published":"2026-09-24T16:05:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/2026092484f998a26189d4fc2d8260dc3e85214e161806.jpg"},{"id":"a6732169ed8ac551b85ada7380b52a84","title":"Thai FM and ICRC Chief Discuss Humanitarian Assistance for Myanmar","content_text":"

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow met International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger in New York on September 23 to discuss humanitarian needs in Myanmar, Thailand’s relief efforts, and continued cooperation with the ICRC. The meeting took place at United Nations Headquarters during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Sihasak provided an update on Thailand’s humanitarian assistance in Myanmar, while the ICRC stressed the importance of continued support for affected communities, including access to public health services, clean water, and essential infrastructure. The two sides also exchanged views on ongoing humanitarian needs and relief efforts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Discussions also involved cooperation between Thailand and the ICRC on international humanitarian law, including training programs provided by the organization for the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The programs help military personnel develop a better understanding of humanitarian protections and obligations during armed conflict.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Spoljaric also invited Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Sihasak to attend the High-Level Conference on Humanity in War in Amman, Jordan, on December 7. The gathering will be jointly organized by the ICRC and the Jordanian government.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/544610","date_published":"2026-09-24T16:00:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260924cba2d087a05fba36baff442d32700e14160208.jpg"},{"id":"e63e13ad659f48b2c7efae30bb76cc12","title":"Thailand Leads Talks to Expand ASEAN-Hong Kong Investment","content_text":"

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has announced the conclusion of negotiations on expanded investment market access under the ASEAN–Hong Kong, China Investment Agreement (AHKIA). Thailand coordinated the negotiations, leading to the signing of the agreement’s First Protocol during the 10th ASEAN Economic Ministers–Hong Kong, China Consultation in Manila on September 20.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The protocol adds market-access commitments intended to create more investment opportunities and provide clearer conditions for businesses. Thailand expects greater investment in industries such as automobiles, automotive components, and printed circuit boards, while developing closer supply-chain connections between Hong Kong investors and Thai companies.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Thai businesses will also gain broader opportunities to invest in Hong Kong, with potential access to the Chinese market through the Belt and Road Initiative. Thailand’s commitments are consistent with existing domestic laws and preserve the government’s authority to regulate and determine public policy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

AHKIA originally covered investment protection, promotion, and facilitation, while negotiations on market access began in 2021. Following legal review and verification completed in March 2026, the protocol expands the framework to provide greater transparency and predictability for investors while supporting technology, advanced industries, and regional supply chains.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/543903","date_published":"2026-09-22T16:17:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260922199eab283b3edbc841f94ea25c865d7d161836.jpg"},{"id":"2b847913de87a2ae318b2e84204c988c","title":"Thailand Says No Final Agreement Reached on UPOV 1991 in EU FTA Talks","content_text":"

The Thai government has confirmed that negotiations for the Thailand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are ongoing and has dismissed rumors that Thailand has already agreed to the UPOV 1991 convention, which some claim would remove farmers' rights to save seeds.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana stated on September 21, 2026, that the Ministry of Commerce, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun, is closely monitoring the intellectual property and plant protection aspects of the negotiations. She emphasized that the EU's proposal regarding the 1991 International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV 1991) is only a starting point for discussions and does not reflect any agreement by Thailand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Under current domestic law, specifically Section 33 of the Plant Varieties Protection Act B.E. 2542 (1999), farmers have the legal right to save and replant propagating materials they produce, subject to certain conditions. The law also exempts activities for education, research, and non-commercial plant breeding. The spokesperson clarified that while unauthorized commercial sale of protected plant varieties is illegal, it is incorrect to claim that current laws prevent farmers from saving seeds for personal use.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Addressing concerns about UPOV 1991, the spokesperson explained that while the convention strengthens breeders' rights, Article 15(2) allows member states to create domestic exemptions so farmers can reuse seeds on their own land. Therefore, claims that the convention completely bans seed saving are inaccurate. The government emphasized that the final impact on farmers' rights will depend on the outcome of negotiations and future domestic legislation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Deputy Prime Minister has instructed negotiators to balance international trade and agricultural innovation with protecting farmers' rights, biodiversity, and national food security. The Ministry of Commerce is working with the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Intellectual Property, and health agencies to thoroughly assess all potential impacts. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The spokesperson added that any finalized FTA will not automatically change Thai law, as agreements under Section 178 of the Constitution require formal parliamentary review and the standard legislative process before amending any domestic regulations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/543418","date_published":"2026-09-21T14:49:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260921845b1cb12fe67cba9afee2788747c10f150003.jpg"},{"id":"9446a7f06645cde558359f2dbba2df15","title":"SUPPORT Foundation Brings Khon Sida to Thailand Cultural Center","content_text":"

The SUPPORT Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother is set to present “Sida,” an episode from the Ramakien, for its 2026 Khon masked dance-drama production at the Main Hall of the Thailand Cultural Center from November 5 to December 10. The production traces the life of Sida, one of the epic’s central characters, from her mysterious birth through her eventual reunion with Phra Ram.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Born as the daughter of Thotsakan, King of Lanka, Sida is cast into the water after her cries are interpreted as an omen of his destruction. King Janaka rescues and raises her, and she later marries Phra Ram after he wins her hand by lifting the Moli Bow. Sida then accompanies Phra Ram and his younger brother, Phra Lak, into 14 years of exile.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Thotsakan later abducts Sida and takes her to Lanka, prompting Phra Ram to set out to rescue her with support from the monkey armies and Phiphek. After returning to Ayodhya, Sida undergoes a trial by fire to prove her fidelity, but is later banished due to a misunderstanding. Her sons, Phra Mongkut and Phra Lop, grow up in the forest, and a later encounter with Phra Ram reveals their relationship and eventually leads to Sida’s reconciliation with him.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Tickets are available through Thai Ticket Major branches or by calling 02-262-3456. Regular tickets range from 600 to 2,000 baht, while designated student performances are priced at 200 baht.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/542728","date_published":"2026-09-18T15:36:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202609181b611f1f302a921ba23f67968622dcf5153838.jpg"},{"id":"b0240408bcdcfef18ea6dc5d21343ca3","title":"Thai PM Leads Overseas Mission to Expand Trade and Investment","content_text":"

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is scheduled to visit Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom from September 20 to 27 for diplomatic, economic, and investment engagements, including the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob will also join the mission. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

According to Government Spokesperson Ekkapob Pianpises, the prime minister will begin the trip in Japan, meeting Thai athletes competing in the 20th Asian Games and chairing a Team Thailand meeting on September 21. In New York, he will attend the UNGA81 opening and General Debate and deliver Thailand’s statement on September 24, alongside meetings with the UN Secretary-General and leaders from several countries.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Economic engagements in the United States will include an investor roundtable with Bank of America and Jefferies, talks with PIMCO and a dinner hosted by the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council and U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Anutin will also meet senior Google executives, while Chaichanok will discuss cooperation on AI, digital infrastructure, workforce skills, and technology investment with major technology companies.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The delegation will then travel to London, where Anutin and Thai capital-market executives will meet with institutional investors, in cooperation with UBS, to present Thailand’s economy and investment opportunities. Meetings with Virgin Atlantic and Rolls-Royce are also scheduled before the delegation returns to Thailand on September 27.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/542434","date_published":"2026-09-17T16:48:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260917ca068e6f485eedf4dab33c7ca23a8c6d165022.jpg"}]}