Thailand rises to 26th in IMD competitiveness ranking, but Vietnam closes gap
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026
Thailand climbed four places in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2026, but TMA warns that weak productivity, AI readiness, education and governance remain major risks as Vietnam debuts just one place behind.
Assistant district chief arrested in illegal migrant registration crackdown
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026
Five agencies have launched a crackdown on an alleged Chiang Rai network accused of fraudulently using “G” student records to obtain ID cards for foreign nationals.
What are risks to Thailand after US-Iran deal signed | The Next Move EP17
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026
Dr. Areeporn Asawinpongphan of the Thailand Development Research Institute warns that Thailand should not be overly optimistic about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran, as any renewed conflict could pose risks to the Thai economy.
Bang Na-Trat rises as Bangkok’s new eastern CBD as city plan and mega-projects reshape corridor
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026
Bang Na-Trat Road is emerging as Bangkok’s next major business and lifestyle district, backed by the draft city plan, future Silver Line, rising land prices and major mixed-use investments.
US, Iran sign 14-point MoU to halt West Asia war, reopen Strait of Hormuz
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026
Donald Trump and Masoud Pezeshkian have signed a 14-point interim MoU to halt the 15-week West Asia war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ease sanctions pressure on Iran and begin 60 days of negotiations on a final settlement.