Thailand faces a major economic challenge as US President Donald Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Dr. Santitarn Sathienthai, a member of Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee, suggests the urgent creation of a "war room" to tackle the potential economic fallout.
Posting on Facebook, Dr. Santitarn, an adviser to the Thailand Development Research Institute, described the tariffs as an economic "earthquake" with severe global aftershocks. Many countries could erect tariff barriers, leading to deteriorating global trade.
The American market has become restrictive, making exports difficult. Consequently, countries, including Thailand, are keen to shift focus to other markets, intensifying competition. Goods from other regions might flood Thailand, complicating the economic landscape.
Although Vietnam faces a steeper 46% tariff, the Thai economy might see delayed investment from Chinese firms avoiding the US-China trade conflict. Negotiations could alter tariff levels, but the uncertainty is causing worldwide business hesitation, impacting investment immediately.
Dr. Santitarn warns that Trump's tariffs may impact Thailand's economy more than anticipated. He called for an urgent "war room" involving public and private sectors to strategize and mitigate risks. Businesses must adapt their strategies to identify opportunities amidst the crisis, as the economic impact might extend over the long term, reported Thai News Room.
The government wishes to inform the public that Thailand has signaled its readiness to engage in discussions with the U.S. government at the earliest opportunity to rebalance trade fairly for both sides, minimizing the impact on relevant sectors. A U.S. Trade Policy Task Force, established on January 6, 2025—prior to President Trump's official inauguration—has been tasked with working alongside government and private sectors. Over the past three months, this task force has closely and comprehensively monitored and assessed developments to prepare a "proposal to rebalance trade with the U.S." that is substantive enough to incentivize the U.S. to enter negotiations with Thailand. This proposal aims to minimize the impact on farmers, consumers, and businesses in related sectors. Simultaneously, Thailand may seize this opportunity to restructure production, reduce costs, and enhance long-term competitiveness in certain industries.
Mr Vuttikrai, middle, says the US might impose additional tariffs on Thai imports in 2-3 categories, notably semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, wood and forest products.
Thailand is keen to engage in constructive discussions with the US to foster mutual benefits amid trade tensions.
Higher US tariffs on Thai products could result in losses of US$7-8 billion, according to the Commerce Ministry.
Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, the permanent commerce secretary, said Thailand is prepared to navigate any trade policies from US President Donald Trump, including reciprocal tariffs expected to be announced on April 2.
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The US has proposed four types of tariff measures: country-specific tariffs; product-specific tariffs; tariffs on goods tied to issues such as drug trafficking, immigration and security; and reciprocal tariffs.
Mr Vuttikrai said the implications of these tariffs are notable, given that the US market makes up 20% of global trade and serves as a major partner for Thai exports.
The initial round of US tariffs has already affected Thai exports, particularly for steel and aluminium, where tariffs surged from rates of 0-12.5% to 25% for steel, and from 0-6.25% to 25% for aluminium, effective March 12.
For automobiles and auto parts, this sector is slated for tariff increases from 0-4.9% to 25%, beginning on Thursday.
He said the US might impose additional tariffs on Thai imports in 2-3 categories, notably semiconductors, which could see a 25% tariff, along with pharmaceuticals, wood and forest products.
Moreover, Thailand may face reciprocal tariffs that mirror the higher rates applied to US goods.
Thailand imposes tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products that are 11% higher than the US rate. If the US were to reciprocate with matching tariffs, the estimated loss could tally $7-8 billion, noted the ministry.
To address these challenges, Thailand is engaging with the US Trade Representative (USTR), members of Congress and other stakeholders. Although a formal meeting with the USTR has yet to be scheduled, Thailand is seeking an opportunity to discuss these issues further, said Mr Vuttikrai.
He said Thailand may consider proposing a reduction in import tariffs and increasing the volume of imports to help address the trade deficit. Potential imports could include animal feed, soybeans, beef, alcohol and aircraft.
Thai Airways is considering leasing or purchasing aircraft from the US, while the Energy Ministry has been in talks about importing crude oil, petrochemicals, natural gas and liquefied natural gas.
Meanwhile, the Thai private sector is eager to ramp up investments in the US, which would generate job opportunities in key states that strongly support Trump, said Mr Vuttikrai.
Addressing concerns regarding potential trade rule circumvention due to production shifts to Thailand, he said the Commerce Ministry is managing the situation, as the Department of Foreign Trade pinpointed 49 products at risk, with a particular focus on steel and items sourced from China.
To shield Thai businesses from negative impacts, the private sector proposed to the government two strategies.
The first is a short-term relief plan for small and medium-sized enterprises, which includes lowering interest rates and enhancing access to funding.
The second is a long-term strategy aimed at finalising free trade pacts with several markets, including the EU, to counteract the effects of US tariff retaliation.
Kriengkrai Thiennukul, president of the Federation of Thai Industries, said the private sector needs to prepare comprehensive plans and data for US tariff hikes on exports, particularly in the auto and steel industries.
Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said Thailand should consider increasing imports from the US, particularly for agricultural goods such as maize, soybeans, seafood and animal offal, as well as whisky, wine and energy products.
He said the government needs to work to ensure fair and equitable negotiations on tariff quotas.
Thirty-four buildings in Thailand, including three in Bangkok, have been declared uninhabitable by the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning after Friday's earthquake.
The Earthquake-Damaged Buildings Inspection and Assessment Center under the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, in collaboration with engineering organizations and 110 private-sector volunteer engineers, has been assessing buildings reported damaged by the recent earthquake.
Inspections have been categorized into three groups: government buildings, high-rises and commercial buildings, and residential structures.
Government Buildings:
This category includes hospitals, schools, and government offices in Bangkok.
Since March 28, inspectors have assessed 367 government buildings, with the following results:
- 334 buildings are safe for use (green).
- 30 buildings have moderate damage but remain usable (yellow).
- 3 buildings have been deemed unsafe and closed (red).
Additionally, one skybridge has been closed due to structural concerns.
High-Rises and Commercial Buildings:
This category includes hotels, condominiums, dormitories, and shopping malls, which are already subject to routine safety inspections. Owners have been advised to conduct post-earthquake assessments following official guidelines.
Since March 31, city officials have ordered 11,000 private buildings to undergo inspections, with 112 completed so far.
Residential and General Buildings:
This category covers houses, townhouses, and commercial shophouses in Bangkok. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is managing inspections and assistance requests via the Traffy Fondue platform. As of April 1, residents have reported 15,514 cases, with 13,612 resolved.
For earthquake-damaged buildings outside Bangkok, the Department of Public Works has instructed provincial offices to conduct inspections in coordination with local engineers and volunteers. Special attention has been given to hospitals and government offices.
In 76 provinces, 3,008 buildings have been inspected:
- 2,796 buildings are safe for use (green).
- 181 buildings have moderate damage but remain usable (yellow).
- 31 buildings have been deemed unsafe and closed (red).
Total Buildings Inspected (March 28 – April 1): 3,375
- 3,130 buildings are safe for use (green).
- 211 buildings have moderate damage but remain usable (yellow).
- 34 buildings have been declared unsafe and closed (red).
In Bangkok, high-rise buildings are feeling the aftershock of a recent earthquake, with condo buyers' confidence shaken to its core.
Damages found in many condos have homeowners worried, causing experts to predict a slump in condo sales and transfers to levels not seen since 2010. Industry professionals are bracing for the worst quarter for condo activity in over a decade.
Phattarachai Taweewong from Colliers Thailand reports that potential buyers and existing condo owners are hesitant, impacting sales for high-rise units.
Buyers with pending transfers are expected to delay as they assess the post-earthquake safety of buildings. New condo sales in April-June 2025 could hit a new low, following the previous low of 19 billion baht in mid-2024.
Looking at supply, 31.4 billion baht worth of condos in Greater Bangkok are scheduled for transfer by mid-2025. This compares to a 33 billion baht transfer scheduled in early 2025, with both numbers well below the peak of 85.9 billion baht seen in late 2024.
With a substantial unsold inventory of 458.4 billion baht, the market is flooded with options for wary buyers.
However, the silver lining lies in the low-rise housing market. These homes, seen as safer investments, are predicted to see stable or increased sales.
Surachet Kongcheep from Cushman & Wakefield notes that confidence in condos will take time to rebuild, and developers are urged to focus on safety reassurances. Comprehensive safety inspections and certifications are critical to restoring trust.
Developers may face a wave of cancellations, especially for new transfers. Many are delaying new project launches and marketing efforts until the market stabilises.
As the property market navigates these uncertain times, the emphasis remains on building safety and consumer confidence.
As Thailand prepares to roll out its Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) on May 1, 2025, replacing the paper-based TM6 form, the initiative is meeting with a wave of criticism online.
Intended to modernize immigration and streamline tourist entry, the TDAC requires all foreign travelers to submit personal and travel details digitally before arrival as we detailed here in depth at TPN Media. However, instead of enthusiasm, the response from netizens has been largely negative, with frustration and confusion dominating the conversation.
Travelers have taken to platforms like X and Facebook to voice their concerns. Many argue that the shift to a digital system adds unnecessary complexity to an already straightforward process. One user lamented that scrapping the TM6 was a smart move, only for this "hot mess" of a replacement to undo that progress, calling it an annoyance that fails to enhance security or efficiency.
Others have pointed out practical issues, such as the lack of clarity around the application process, with reports of a glitchy website and an unhelpful video tutorial fueling the discontent. For those less tech-savvy, like elderly travelers or those with potential language barriers, the absence of a clear backup plan has sparked worries about accessibility.
Foreign residents of Thailand have added their own grievances to the mix, particularly over a glaring apparent oversight in the TDAC application: It currently doesn't allow users to select Thailand as their place of residence. Expats and long-term visa holders have flooded online forums and social media with complaints, arguing that the system seems designed solely for tourists, leaving them in a bureaucratic limbo. One X user, a retiree living in Chiang Mai, vented that after years of calling Thailand home, they're now forced to misrepresent their status or risk rejection at the border. This flaw has intensified perceptions that the rollout was poorly thought out, alienating a key group of Thailand's international community.
Social media posts also highlight fears of delays and technical hiccups. Commenters have questioned what happens if a QR code—meant to be presented at immigration—fails to generate, leaving travelers stranded after expensive flights. The integration with systems like e-Visa and tourist fee collection has some wondering if this is less about convenience and more about data harvesting or future fees, further souring perceptions.
While Thai officials tout the TDAC as a step toward efficiency and safety, the online reaction suggests a rocky road ahead, despite officials also saying there will be ample backup options to help people through Immigration who struggled with the form. With the launch date looming, the chorus of skepticism could pressure authorities to address these concerns—or risk alienating the very tourists and residents they aim to accommodate.
Thailand sees a rise in early hotel check-outs after the recent earthquake.
Thai Hotels Association (THA) President Mr. Thienprasith Chaipattaranan revealed that following the earthquake in Myanmar, which was felt in Thailand, hotel members reported that 8-10% of tourists nationwide opted for early check-outs. The most affected areas include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Ayutthaya, while some travelers have chosen to change their destination to Pattaya or Phuket instead.
The association expected the earthquake to cause a short-term decline in foreign tourists' confidence over the next two weeks. This includes those who had already booked trips but decided not to come and those still considering their travel plans who may now postpone their visits. As a result, the hotel and tourism industry is projected to lose at least 10-15% in revenue.
"The collapse of a building in Chatuchak has gone viral globally. It is now important to restore tourist confidence ahead of this year's Songkran festival," Mr. Thienprasith stated.
Rescuers use a heavy duty machine to clear the rubble in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, March 29, 2025, as they search for victims at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after Friday's earthquake. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
The recent 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar has shaken up Thailand's tourism, already wobbling under safety concerns.
The quake, which rocked buildings in Bangkok and other hot spots, may cause a drastic 10%-15% drop in international tourist arrivals over the next fortnight, according to the Thai Hotels Association. Concerns over safety have already led 10% of foreign tourists to check out early, though some returned due to lack of alternatives.
The tourism sector, vital to Thailand's economy, is bracing for a short-term impact as Minister of Tourism Sorawong Thienthong assured tourists of their safety. Meanwhile, an audit of hotels and tourist attractions is underway to ease fears.
The economy, where tourism fuels employment for about 20% of the workforce and accounts for 13% of GDP, is already striving for a 3% growth amid trade export challenges.
While Bangkok faced structural damage, most notably the tragic collapse of a high-rise construction site leading to fatalities, the swift assurance from Thai authorities aims to bolster tourism confidence.
Although the bustling Songkran festival approaches, current bookings are below pre-pandemic levels, reflecting persistent safety concerns. Chinese tourists, a significant demographic, remain hesitant due to past regional safety issues.
Despite the tremors, the year-to-date figures show a slight increase in tourism numbers, reaching 8.9 million, yet challenges remain with falling numbers since February's Lunar New Year surge.
Experts predict a potential decline from the forecasted 38.1 million arrivals this year, highlighting the urgent need to address safety perceptions. For Thailand, known for its enchanting beaches and cultural sites, the quake is yet another bump on an already rocky road in tourism recovery.
People are evacuated from buildings at the Government Complex in Laksi district, Bangkok. (Photo: Government Complex)
Several buildings in Bangkok were evacuated late Monday morning amid reports of vibrations and cracks appearing in the buildings.
The evacuations occurred about 10am. Affected premises included Building A of the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Rd, the Ministry of Labour in Din Daeng district and court buildings on Ratchadaphisek Road.
People were also cleared from the headquarters of Government Housing Bank in Huai Khwang district, the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek and the Social Security Office in Din Daeng.
At the Government Complex and the Ministry of Labour there were reports of vibrations and cracks appearing.
Thailand's new digital entry system, set to replace TM6 forms from May 2025, is raising concerns among travellers. Testing reveals glitches and fears about accessibility, while a tourist levy linked to the system could impact foreign tourism targets.
Thailand is testing a new digital traveller entry system, which is being operated by the Immigration Bureau of the Royal Thai Police. At length, in January, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that such a system would come into force on May 1st, 2025. Indeed, it would replace the old TM6 cards, which were abolished the previous year on April 30th, 2024. However, there are fears that the new system being tested will cause problems. On the one hand, the new requirement for travellers is another imposition on them, while on the other, it is seen as improving security and paving the way for a foreign tourism levy. In turn, this will help provide automatic insurance coverage to visitors to the kingdom.
There is mounting concern about would-be travellers to Thailand over the coming months over the new Electronic Travel Authorisation system set to be mandatory for all incoming passengers from May 1st, 2025.
Certainly, last year the cabinet ordered the Immigration Bureau to do away with the old pale blue and white TM6 form.
That was on April 30, 2024. At length, this came after it was discovered that forms collected at Immigration Bureau checkpoints were stored in massive warehouses.
Government audit led to the decision to abolish the TM6 form and streamline entry procedures for visitors
Indeed, this move came years after a government audit set up to cut red tape recommended its abolition. Presently, travellers entering Thailand can walk straight through except for receiving an entry stamp.
In the meantime, hotel operators file a TM30 with the Immigration Bureau for new guests. In short, this takes place as they register to stay at their hotel.
Certainly, the new emphasis on the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is all about security. Thailand has certainly lost ground in China over the country's perceived lack of security control. Particularly, the debate over the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xang in January. In turn, that saw a high-level Chinese security delegation visit the kingdom. After that, the Chinese authorities at the highest level ordered a crackdown.
This eventually led to the crackdown in February 2025. At length, electricity was turned off to five areas of Myanmar. Later, thousands of scam centre slaves were released and transported home, in particular to China.
In brief, the story has shaken confidence in Thailand.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is currently testing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in May 2025
At length, the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is presently being tested by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Indeed, they are working in tandem with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In summary, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Mongkon Wimonrat, earlier acknowledged the potential for problems.
On one hand, he clarified that the new system will be mandatory for all incoming travellers. However, on the other hand, he made it clear that the system would need tweaking and testing.
Certainly, that is what we are witnessing right now. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system means all travellers without a Thai passport must be cleared to travel to Thailand.
In particular, and this worries many regular foreign tourists to the kingdom, we were told in January the government has resurrected technology from the COVID-19 era.
Undoubtedly, that period was a disaster for Thailand's foreign tourism industry. For instance, insecurity and a lack of confidence in the process itself put off and deterred visitors to the kingdom.
Government's push towards the ETA system raises questions about its effectiveness and its potential impact
Nevertheless, the Thai government is moving forward towards this at this time. In brief, any passenger with a visa requires a barcode confirmed by the system to enter Thailand.
The system online presently is called the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system. At length, it is causing panic as users find it difficult to navigate. At the same time, they report glitches in trying to use it. Nevertheless, on Saturday, our reporters had little difficulty with it. Indeed, it appeared stable and straightforward.
In particular, older travellers are asking what the option is for tourists or travellers who do not have a smartphone. Indeed, for those without access to the internet at all.
Furthermore, users have reported trouble accessing a video tutorial explaining the system.
"Am I surprised? Nope. What happens if you don't have a smartphone?" exclaimed one frustrated user this week.
Users report difficulties with the TDAC system, raising concerns over accessibility and usability
However, the system online presently appears easy enough to use. Basically, users are asked to file their passport details.
After that, they are asked for their name, date of birth, occupation, country and city of residence and phone number. Indeed, these are all mandatory. In addition, they may optionally provide visa references.
Step two asks them to provide details on their trip or accommodation in Thailand. Finally, step three involves a health declaration for the travellers.
Afterwards, the system issues a barcode clearance which is, in effect, the green card for entering Thailand. Of course, this is in addition to a valid passport and other visa requirements.
Significantly, this process must be submitted within 72 hours prior to the scheduled arrival date. After that, the QR code is issued. Certainly, this system is also linked to the Thailand Pass application used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new regime is indeed similar to systems in use in other countries, particularly the United Kingdom. Afterwards, it is seen as a possible first step to eventually collecting a tourist charge or tax levy.
At length, this has consistently been postponed by the government.
Tourist levy linked to the new ETA system could provide automatic insurance cover for foreign visitors
Significantly, this tourist levy is planned to come with automatic insurance coverage of up to ฿500,000. Therefore, it has been broadly supported by the Thai foreign tourism industry. This comes despite fears it may act as an impediment to the country reaching its foreign tourist target this year.
Certainly, this Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, now known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, would in particular be seen as a success for the government.
Additionally, while the TDAC is not a visa application, some travellers have mistakenly conflated the two. Those entering visa-free, as well as those with visas and work permits, must still complete the process.
Concerns have also emerged over whether the TDAC could evolve into a broader data collection tool or even a precursor to an exit card requirement, although no official confirmation has been given.
Concerns grow over potential future complications and lack of clarity surrounding the TDAC system
As Thailand pushes towards digitalisation in its immigration systems, clarity is still lacking. It comes as a scandal has blown up over the lack of faith in biometric screening system installed in 2019 at a price of ฿2.1 billion. In short, this is linked to prohibitively expensive licensing fees, according to a parliamentary panel.
Questions remain on how offline travellers will deal with the system. For instance, whether paper backups will still be needed. Indeed, how the collected information will be processed at entry points.
With the deadline fast approaching, it is unclear whether the authorities will be fully prepared. Meanwhile, there is always the possibility that last-minute changes will add to the confusion. Finally, whether the new system will be postponed yet again.
Notably, it is coming into operation at a time when there are fears about foreign tourism arrival numbers. However, this is normal for the off-peak season. At the same time, Thailand has never been so dependent economically on foreign tourism income.
The following is a widely shared reader submission and not original content from TPN Media but as we thought it was good advice have shared it to our readers, but note the opinions expressed are their own.
To all Thai residents,
EARTHQUAKE SAFETY UPDATE: Why Bangkok Shakes More – And What Expats & Tourists Need to Know
Following the recent earthquake from Myanmar felt across parts of Thailand, including Bangkok, many residents and visitors are concerned about aftershocks, building safety, and where to go if they feel unsafe. Here's what you need to know—and why Bangkok experiences stronger tremors compared to other parts of the country.
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Why Did Bangkok Shake So Much?
Even when an earthquake happens far away—in northern Thailand, Laos, or Myanmar—Bangkok often feels the tremors more than closer cities like Chiang Mai. The reason? Soft soil.
Bangkok sits on a thick layer of soft clay, part of what geologists call the Bangkok Basin. This type of soil acts like jelly: when seismic waves pass through it, the ground amplifies the shaking instead of absorbing it. As a result, even distant earthquakes can cause buildings in Bangkok to sway, especially high-rise condos and offices.
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Why Other Cities Feel Less Shaking
Chiang Mai may be closer to fault lines, but it's built on rocky, stable ground. The soil there doesn't amplify tremors like Bangkok's does.
Pattaya and Hua Hin also sit on firmer terrain, making them far less sensitive to regional seismic activity.
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Should You Leave Bangkok If You Feel Unsafe?
If you are staying in an older building, on a high floor, or simply feel anxious after the recent tremor, it is okay to temporarily relocate. Many expats and tourists have already chosen to head to:
Pattaya – about 2 hours from Bangkok
Hua Hin – about 3 hours from Bangkok
Both cities are built on firmer ground, are not known for major seismic activity, and offer plenty of accommodation, beach access, and tourist services.
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What to Look for in Your Building
If you're staying in Bangkok:
Inspect your room or unit for cracks in walls or ceilings
Check that doors and windows open and close normally
Look for visible tilting or damage in the hallway or structure
If something seems off, notify your building manager or landlord immediately.
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Will the Thai Government Inspect Damaged Buildings?
Yes. You can report suspected building damage to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). They may send engineers or officials to inspect the property.
Hotlines to Contact:
BMA Hotline: 1555
Tourist Police: 1155
Emergency Services: 191
Medical Help: 1669
If you're a renter, your building owner or management should file a report on your behalf.
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What to Do If You Feel Another Earthquake
Inside a building? Drop, cover, and hold on. Stay away from windows and don't use the elevator.
Outside? Move to an open area, away from buildings and signs.
Driving? Stop the car in a clear spot and stay inside until the shaking ends.
After any quake, watch for aftershocks and check your surroundings before re-entering a building.
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Travel Smart – Stay Calm – Stay Informed
Whether you're a long-term resident or just visiting Thailand, knowing what to do—and where to go—makes all the difference. Bangkok may not be in a high-risk earthquake zone, but due to its soil, it feels tremors more than other places.
If you're not comfortable staying in the capital right now, there's no harm in heading to safer, more stable destinations like Pattaya or Hua Hin. Both have solid infrastructure, beach access, and lower seismic sensitivity.🙏
