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Thailand's government has moved to tighten regulations on cannabis following decriminalization in 2022, which led to rapid industry growth and public backlash. New rules restrict sales, reclassify cannabis as a controlled herb, and limit medical use, amid concerns over underregulation and social issues.
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Anutin Charnvirakul received royal endorsement to become Thailand's prime minister, marking a shift in the country's political landscape amid ongoing instability. He promises to dissolve parliament within four months and hold new elections, with support from opposition parties. The appointment comes during a period of economic and political uncertainty.
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Anutin, leader of Bhumjaithai, is set to become Thailand's next prime minister after Parliament elected him last month. His government, formed with coalition partners, promises to dissolve Parliament and draft a new constitution, amid ongoing political instability and recent electoral shifts.
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President Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan during the Apec summit, amid tense US-China relations over trade, fentanyl, and regional stability. The meeting aims to address key issues including trade disputes and border conflicts, with low expectations for significant breakthroughs.
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Heavy rains caused severe flooding across 12 southern provinces of Thailand, affecting over 3 million people and resulting in at least 82 deaths. The government acknowledged shortcomings in flood management, announced relief measures, and received royal support, including a donation from King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
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Thailand expects 33.4 million visitors in 2025, a 6% drop from last year, despite peak season arrivals. Concerns over safety, currency gains, and alternative destinations have impacted Chinese tourist numbers. The government is implementing measures to boost domestic and regional tourism, aiming for a recovery in 2026.
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On October 26, 2025, at the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, US President Donald Trump co-signed a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia to end deadly border clashes. The deal includes military de-escalation, removal of heavy weapons, prisoner release, and ASEAN observer deployment. Despite the truce, core territorial disputes remain unresolved, and tensions persist amid trade negotiations and regional diplomacy.
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Myanmar's military launched operations against KK Park, a major cybercrime compound near the Thai border, detaining over 2,000 people and seizing Starlink equipment. Thousands of scam workers fled into Thailand amid ongoing civil conflict and regional pressure to curb cross-border cybercrime. The operation highlights Myanmar's role in transnational online scams.
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On October 24, 2025, Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit, widow of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and mother of King Vajiralongkorn, died at 93 after a prolonged illness. The government declared a year-long mourning period with official guidelines for attire and public conduct. Despite the somber mood, tourism and public services continue, with cultural events proceeding in a subdued manner.
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On November 10, 2025, Thailand suspended a U.S.-brokered ceasefire with Cambodia after a landmine explosion injured Thai soldiers along their disputed border. Thailand accuses Cambodia of laying new mines, a charge Cambodia denies. The suspension halts prisoner releases and arms removal, casting doubt on the fragile peace brokered last month amid ongoing border tensions.
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Former President Trump announced he stopped a five-day border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, crediting tariffs and diplomatic efforts. The dispute, rooted in territorial disagreements dating back over a century, remains unresolved despite a ceasefire reaffirmed last month. Recent clashes threaten to reignite tensions in the region.
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Thailand has suspended its ceasefire with Cambodia after accusing Phnom Penh of laying landmines that injured Thai soldiers. The move follows recent border clashes and diplomatic tensions, with Thailand demanding an apology from Cambodia. The US has been involved in mediating, but trade negotiations remain suspended amid ongoing disputes.
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As of November 29, 2025, severe flooding in southern Thailand has affected over 1.4 million households and 3.8 million people across 12 provinces. The death toll has risen to 162, with Songkhla province, especially Hat Yai city, hardest hit. Floodwaters are receding, enabling rescue and relief efforts, while the government faces criticism over flood management and plans compensation and aid.
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Thai billionaire Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, owner of Miss Universe, faces arrest warrant over fraud allegations amid her company's financial collapse and recent scandals at the pageant. She failed to appear in court and remains missing as legal proceedings continue.
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Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka last week, causing the worst floods in a decade, with at least 56 deaths and thousands displaced. Heavy rains also affected India and Southeast Asia, leading to fatalities and widespread damage. Recovery efforts are ongoing.
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Severe flooding and landslides in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia have resulted in over 400 deaths, with thousands displaced. Indonesia reports over 300 fatalities, Thailand 162, and Malaysia two. Heavy rains, exacerbated by climate change, continue to impact the region amid ongoing rescue efforts.
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Flooding and landslides across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have killed more than 1,160 people, displaced hundreds of thousands, and caused widespread infrastructure damage. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by rare tropical cyclones, are linked to climate change. Aid efforts are ongoing amid inaccessible areas and rising food prices. Today's date: Fri, 05 Dec 2025.