APEC Summit Wraps Up After Trump-Xi Agreement on Trade Truce

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1 November 2025, 12:14

South Korea APEC — Chinese President Xi Jinping, center left, and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, center right, shake hands after a group photo at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (Yonhap via AP)

GYEONGJU, South Korea (AP) — Leaders of 21 Asia-Pacific Rim nations wrapped up their annual summit Saturday with a statement underscoring regional economic cooperation, just days after the presidents of the United States and China agreed to dial down their trade war.

After two days of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the South Korean city of Gyeongju, APEC leaders issued a joint statement pledging greater cooperation to overcome shared challenges in a global economy hit hard by trade tensions between the U.S. and China, the world’s two largest economies.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump and China’s Xi Jinping — who met on the sidelines of the APEC summit — dialed back earlier steps and agreed to de-escalate trade tensions. Trump, known for his dismissal of multilateralism, quickly left South Korea after the agreement with Xi, allowing the Chinese president to steal the limelight at the summit.

APEC leaders call for greater cooperation

The joint statement declared that the APEC leaders “acknowledge the global trading system continues to face significant challenge.”

“We reaffirm our shared recognition that robust trade and investment are vital to the growth and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region,” it says.

Jeonghun Min, a professor at South Korea’s National Diplomatic Academy, said the statement avoided direct language supporting “free and open trade,” but still managed to endorse economic cooperation and multilateralism, which embody “the very purpose of free trade

“It wasn’t possible to leave that out entirely,” said Min.

The joint declaration also said that APEC members remain committed to the Putrajaya Vision 2040, a new 20-year growth vision adopted in 2020 that calls for a trade environment that’s “free, open, fair, non-discriminatory, transparent and predictable.”

AP25305149055897 — Front row from left to right, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Chile’s President Gabriel Boric, Chinese President Xi Jinping, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and back row from left to right, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Vietnam’s President Luong Cuong, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Peru’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism Teresa Mera, Mexico’s Economy Yonhap Marcelo Ebrard, Taiwan’s envoy to the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting Lin Hsin-i pose for a group photo at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (Yonhap via AP)

Xi takes center stage

On Friday, Xi told the summit that China would support global free trade and supply chain stability — an apparent effort to position his country as an alternative to Trump’s protectionist policies. In written remarks sent to a CEO summit held in conjunction with APEC, Xi said that “investing in China is investing in the future.”

Xi also met with his Japanese, Canadian and Thai counterparts bilaterally on Friday. He met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday for one-on-one talks that Seoul officials said would touch on efforts to achieve denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

That agenda has apparently angered North Korea, a non-APEC member. North Korea’s Vice Foreign Minister Pak Myong Ho on Saturday slammed South Korea for talking about “its daydream” of realizing North Korea’s denuclearization.

AP25303079084948 — President Donald Trump, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands before their meeting at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

He said North Korea will show how such a push is “a pipedream” that can never be realized. Park’s statement was seen as applying pressure ahead of the Xi-Lee meeting.

Lee, an advocate of reconciliation with North Korea, said Saturday he would take “more active preemptive steps” to lower military tensions with the North, stressing that peace on the Korean Peninsula is essential to prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Trump earlier repeatedly expressed his desire to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to South Korea, but North Korea did not respond. Trump and Kim met three times in 2018-19, but their nuclear diplomacy eventually collapsed.

North Korea has since vowed not to place its advancing nuclear program on a negotiating table, but experts say the North would aim for winning extensive sanctions relief in return for a partial surrender of its advancing nuclear program.

AP25305298151093 — A caricature of President Donald Trump as protesters march against the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and Trump in Gyeongju, South Korea, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

APEC meeting also talks AI and demographic issues

While the summit’s opening session on Friday focused on ways to boost trade and investment, Saturday’s meeting had cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence, demographic challenges and cultural industries on its agenda.

APEC leaders also issued two separate statements on Saturday. One called for a coordinated approach to the changes brought by AI, which they described as a potential economic catalyst that also poses challenges in rapidly evolving digital environments. The other urged cooperation to address declining birth rates, aging populations and accelerated urbanization.

Established in 1989, APEC champions free and open trade and investment to promote regional economic integration. But the region now faces challenges such as the U.S.-China rivalry, supply chain disruptions, aging populations and the impact of AI on jobs.

The U.S. strategy recently shifted to economic competition with China rather than cooperation, with Trump’s tariff hikes and “America first” agenda shaking markets and threatening decades of globalization and multinationalism.

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Hong Thai Inhaler Boss Vows to Rebuild After Tainted Batch Recall

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1 November 2025, 10:11

BANGKOK — The founder of Hong Thai Herbal Co., Ltd., the maker of Thailand’s best-known inhaler brand, said he feels “discouraged but determined to fight on” after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered a major product recall and police raided several of the company’s factories this week.

The crisis began when the FDA announced on October 29 that microbial contamination was found in batch No. 332 of the company’s “Herbal Inhaler Formula 2,” prompting a recall of 200,000 items nationwide.

A day later, police and FDA officials raided several production sites, declaring three of them illegal factories. The company’s founder, Theerapong Rabueathum, said the events destroyed a business he had spent two decades building in just two days.

Theerapong said, he personally brought the affected batch to the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT) for radiation sterilization. Test results showed zero microbial counts, indicating the products posed no health risk to consumers, he said.

hong thai factory2 — Theerapong Rabueathum, founder of Hong Thai Herbal Co., Ltd., speaks at a press conference on Oct. 31, 2025, seeking a chance to fix issues after the FDA reported tainted products.

“From now on, every single Hong Thai product will be sterilized at TINT to ensure 100% safety and to meet international standards,” he added.

However, he said the labeling and packaging site in the Phutthamonthon Sai 3 area was classified as an illegal factory because the company had not yet completed its licensing process.

According to Theerapong, the company had rented additional space and purchased new labeling machines to handle a sudden surge in orders. Meanwhile, it was building a new factory in Phutthamonthon Sai 4, constructed according to FDA-approved blueprints. But before it could obtain the license, the company had to wait for approval from the Samut Sakhon Provincial Public Health Office, which reportedly advised them to finish installing machinery first, causing delays.

hong thai raid2 — Police and FDA officials raid one of four Hong Thai herbal inhaler factories in Bangkok and Samut Sakhon on October 30, 2025.

“This situation has spiraled out of control and caused immeasurable damage,” Theerapong said. “We’ve been trying to solve the problems step by step. The business we built over 20 years has been ruined in just two days. It’s not just our reputation that’s been damaged, but also Thailand’s.”

He said that running a business involves more than having a license — it’s about maintaining quality that benefits consumers.

“Thai people have supported Hong Thai for years. Now it’s our duty to give back,” he said.

Theerapong insisted the allegations were premature, claiming officials had not yet verified whether the seized items were truly illegal.

“The products are not counterfeit,” he said. “The formula and quality are ours. The only issue is that labeling and bulk packaging were done at another clean, but not yet licensed, facility.”

He said the company would wait to see whether authorities would “give us a second chance or crush us completely,” adding that only 10% of their customers still trust the brand.

“I never intended to do anything wrong, but circumstances forced us,” he said. “We’re not being defiant. We’re trying to fix the problem and take responsibility.”

Theerapong said the experience has left him exhausted and heartbroken.

“I feel truly discouraged,” he said. “Why not just warn us and let us correct our mistakes instead of destroying us completely?”

Still, he vowed to keep going.

“Do I want to quit? I admit I feel tired and stressed,” he said. “But every morning, I wake up and feel a bit lighter. My mind tells me to keep working. I’ve never taken a day off. It’s hard, but I’m happy — so I don’t feel like stopping.”

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Police Raid Drug Lab in Chonburi as Suspect Flushes Evidence

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1 November 2025, 00:17

drugs townhome2 — Police arrest four suspects and seize drugs and chemical manufacturing equipment from two luxury town homes in a residential compound on Huay Yai Road, Chonburi Province, on Oct. 31, 2025.

CHONBURI — Thai police raided two adjacent luxury town homes in a residential compound on Huay Yai Road on Friday afternoon, arresting five foreign nationals and seizing large quantities of drugs and chemical manufacturing equipment.

More than 40 officers from Pattaya, Nong Prue, and Huay Yai police stations, along with tourist and immigration police and Bang Lamung district officials, joined the 1:30 p.m. operation. The raid followed intelligence from the arrest of Chinese suspects two days earlier for producing ketamine vape products.

Authorities said they had received information that a major drug operation was being run in the upscale neighborhood and that its alleged ringleader was preparing to flee Thailand.

Drugs Found in Rice Bowls

In the first town home, officers found two Chinese men and a Vietnamese woman sitting at the dining table. Ketamine was discovered in their rice dishes, plastic bags, and containers, with additional drug paraphernalia scattered across the living room.

drugs townhome1 — Police raid two adjacent luxury town homes in a residential development on Huay Yai Road on October 31, 2025.

drugs hometown4 — Police seize drugs and chemical manufacturing equipment from two luxury town homes in a residential compound on Huay Yai Road, Chonburi Province, on Oct. 31, 2025.

Police also seized about 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine, two ketamine vape devices, and various tools for drug use.

One of the suspects, identified as Kai Yu-Lin, 38, a Chinese national, reportedly admitted ownership of the drugs, claiming they were for personal use purchased from a Pattaya escort service. His companions, Chan Hsun-Shing, 40, of China, and Nguyen Thi Truc Ly, 32, of Vietnam, told police they had used the drugs but were not involved in sales.

Suspect Tries to Destroy Evidence

At the second town home, officers encountered Jian Shuangxi, 46, a Chinese-Malaysian national, who reportedly ran to an upstairs bathroom and poured chemical substances from two brown glass bottles down the toilet as police entered. He was apprehended moments later.

Investigators found chemical manufacturing equipment labeled in Chinese, including sodium, methanol, and other unidentified compounds, as well as large quantities of unused zip-lock bags.

drugs townhome3 — Police discover ketamine in the suspects’ rice dish and containers, along with additional drug paraphernalia on the dining table at a townhouse on Huay Yai Road in Chonburi province on Oct. 31, 2025.

Jian told police he had been taking care of the property for about a year for a Taiwanese employer who claimed to be setting up a chemical production company. He said his employer frequently traveled and instructed him to dispose of any chemicals if authorities arrived.

Crackdown on Foreign Criminal Networks

The raid was ordered by Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetphong, commander of Provincial Police Region 2, as part of an ongoing crackdown on foreign nationals, particularly Chinese suspects, involved in drug and criminal networks in the Bang Lamung area.

Police said the detainees have provided limited information so far, and investigators are working to identify and arrest the alleged ringleaders behind the operation.

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Pattaya to Proceed with Fireworks Festival, Adjusts Tone to Honor Queen Sirikit

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31 October 2025, 22:15

firework pattaya — Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2025 will take place as scheduled on November 28–29, 2025 along Pattaya Beach Road in Chonburi Province.

PATTAYA — Pattaya City will go ahead with its annual International Fireworks Festival next month, but the celebration will take on a more solemn tone to honor the late Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, officials said Monday.

Mayor Poramet Ngampichet said the festival will take place as planned on November 28–29 along Pattaya Beach Road in Chonburi Province. However, the program has been modified to reflect national mourning.

The event will open with a special performance titled “The Light of Eternal Royalty,” symbolizing light, love, loyalty and gratitude for Her Majesty’s lifelong devotion. It will also feature Khon, Thailand’s traditional masked dance drama that Queen Sirikit helped preserve as a cherished cultural heritage.

khon pattaya1 — Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2025 will feature Khon, Thailand’s traditional masked dance drama that Queen Sirikit helped preserve as a cherished cultural heritage.

Poramet urged visitors to dress respectfully, wearing either one of the eight styles of royal Thai dress adorned with a black ribbon or simple, modest attire.

“Pattaya is a tourism city. This festival must balance the economy and people’s emotions,” Poramet said. “Thais are loyal and deeply love Her Majesty. We will make this year’s festival dignified and beautiful, worthy of her memory.”

The announcement followed controversy over the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) decision to postpone “Vijit Chao Phraya 2025,” a 15-location fireworks event along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River originally scheduled for November 1 to December 15. TAT later rescheduled the event to begin on December 1 after public criticism.

One widely shared post came from celebrity and Chao Phraya Cruises owner Aun Phuwanat Kunpalin, who wrote:

“If I were the government, I would not cancel national events. I would make them even grander — as celebrations of the Queen’s glorious reign, so Thais can remember and the world can better know Thailand.”

Tourism and Sports Minister Attakorn Sirilattayakorn said upcoming events like Loy Krathong, New Year’s countdowns and Songkran 2026 may proceed but should tone down overly festive elements.

“Fireworks can still be used, just with softer tones and moderation,” he said. “If they are used to honor the Queen, that would be most welcome.”

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Thai Police Uncover 24 Scammers in Luxury Villa, Including 21 Filipinos

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31 October 2025, 20:49

filipino scam2 — Thai authorities raid a luxury pool villa in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok, uncovering 22 suspected scammers — 21 Filipinos and one Singaporean — who had escaped from Myanmar.

SAMUT PRAKAN — Thai police arrested 24 suspected members of an international scam network who were hiding in a luxury villa near Bangkok, officials said Thursday. Most of the suspects were Filipino nationals who had fled Myanmar following a major crackdown on scam centers there earlier this month.

Police Lt. Gen. Natsak Chaowana, commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, said the operation stemmed from data analysis showing scam networks relocating from Myanmar into Thailand. The suspects were detained during an October 29 raid on a villa in Samut Prakan province, just south of Bangkok.

Authorities found 22 foreigners — mostly Filipinos aged 23 to 38 — living at the property. Immigration checks revealed that two were in Thailand illegally and 17 had overstayed their visas. Three others — a Singaporean man and two Filipinos — had valid visas but face revocation due to their alleged involvement in the group.

filipino scam3 — Thai police officers raid a luxury pool villa in Samut Prakan province where 22 international scammers were hiding after fleeing Myanmar operations.

All suspects admitted during questioning that they had worked as scammers in Myawaddy, a border town in Myanmar notorious for criminal syndicates. They told police they fled the area after fighting broke out around October 21. Their manager arranged for their escape to Thailand and rented the villa for about 200,000 baht ($5,400) from October 27–31 while they prepared to move on to Cambodia to resume their operations.

A follow-up raid in Bangkok led to two more arrests — a 37-year-old Malaysian man and a 33-year-old Chinese woman — at a hotel. Police said five others, all Malaysian men aged 29 to 55, escaped and remain at large.

filipino scam1 — Thai authorities question a Singaporean man during a raid at a luxury pool villa in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok on Oct. 29, where 21 Filipino scammers who had escaped from Myanmar were uncovered.

Investigators identified the network’s alleged leader as a Chinese national known as “Mr. Lin,” who runs three scam companies — DBL1, DBL2, and DRS — in Myawaddy. The groups are believed to target victims using Singapore phone numbers in investment scams.

Thai authorities said they are coordinating with Singaporean officials to expand the investigation.

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Thailand Proceeds with Loy Krathong 2025 to Honor Late Queen Sirikit

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31 October 2025, 19:18

loykratong2025- sukhothai3 — FILE - Nang Noppamas and “Plaka,” the mascot of the Loy Krathong Festival 2025 in Sukhothai, are unveiled during a press conference held in front of Wat Mahathat at Sukhothai Historical Park on October 10, 2025.

BANGKOK — The Thai government confirmed that the Loy Krathong Festival 2025 will proceed nationwide as planned, emphasizing the preservation of Thai traditions while honoring the memory of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who passed away on October 24.

The Ministry of Interior announced that the annual Loy Krathong Festival will not be canceled, urging the public to “preserve this invaluable tradition while paying tribute to the royal grace of the late Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.”

After the Queen’s passing, the government declared a one-year mourning period for civil servants and initially suspended public festivities. Officials later clarified that events could continue if held in an appropriately respectful manner — a decision that sparked debate nationwide.

loykratong2025 sukhothai — A Thai couple in traditional dress poses for a picture at the 2025 Loy Krathong and Candle Lighting Festival in Sukhothai Historical Park on October 27, 2025.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as interior minister, confirmed that celebrations may proceed under clear guidelines.

“We ask everyone to observe proper decorum during this mourning period,” Anutin said. “The cooperation has been excellent, as seen during last week’s BLACKPINK concert, which proceeded beautifully and respectfully.”

The Interior Ministry said the festival will also pay tribute to Queen Sirikit’s role as “the Supreme Patron of the Arts, who safeguarded and preserved Thai arts and culture.”

Economic Impact Concerns

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting released survey results showing significant economic implications of the mourning period on festival activities.

According to its survey, 66.2% of respondents plan to participate in Loy Krathong celebrations, while 33.2% will not. Among those opting out, nearly half cited mourning and sadness as the main reasons.

news83171 — Thai and foreign tourists join the 2025 Loy Krathong and Candle Lighting Festival in Sukhothai, held from October 27 to November 5 for ten days and nights at Sukhothai Historical Park in Mueang Kao subdistrict, Sukhothai province.

CEBF President Thanavath Phonvichai said this year’s celebrations are expected to be more subdued, with average spending per person projected at 2,212 baht, down from 2,449 baht last year.

“We estimate total spending at about 9.68 billion baht, a 6.5% contraction from last year — the first negative growth in four years and the lowest level in a decade,” Thanavath said.

Provincial Preparations and Adjustments

Sukhothai province, the birthplace of the Loy Krathong tradition, confirmed it would host its 10-day festival from October 27 to November 5, with a nightly candle-lighting ceremony at 9:21 p.m. to honor the late Queen.

Uncertainty lingered in other provinces until October 29, when the Interior Ministry sent letters authorizing local celebrations held in remembrance of Queen Sirikit.

loykratong2025 sukhothai2 — Sukhothai Province hosts its 10-day Loy Krathong Festival from October 27 to November 5, featuring a nightly candle-lighting ceremony at 9:21 p.m. to honor Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

Chiang Mai Decoration Controversy

In Chiang Mai, preparations for the Yi Peng Festival (northern version of Loy Krathong) drew controversy after organizers painted over colorful floral decorations on Nawarat Bridge with black and gray following the Queen’s passing.

The move sparked online criticism, prompting the city to remove the decorations entirely on October 28. Mayor Asnee Booranupakorn said new, suitably designed decorations will be reinstalled closer to the festival dates of November 4–6.

“We want the decorations to reflect beauty and respect,” Asnee said. “The design will be appropriate and serene for this period of mourning.”

black flower chiangmai — Workers remove black-painted floral decorations from Nawarat Bridge in downtown Chiang Mai on the evening of October 28, following heavy criticism on social media.

Education Sector Reversal

The Ministry of Education faced backlash after initially ordering all schools to suspend festive activities for one year. Parents and students argued the measure was too restrictive, especially for annual cultural and academic events.

In response, the ministry issued a revised directive on October 28, revoking the earlier ban for private schools and advising all institutions to exercise discretion.

“Schools may continue activities such as sports days, scouting, and skill-building events, provided they are conducted with restraint and respect,” said Permanent Secretary Suthep Kaengsanthia.

As the November 5 Loy Krathong date nears, the government continues to balance national mourning with cultural continuity and economic concerns — seeking to honor Queen Sirikit’s legacy while allowing traditions to carry on.

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Thai PM Anutin Vows No Casino Push to China’s Xi Jinping

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31 October 2025, 18:48

anutin xi — Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

GYEONGJU — Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed to Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday that his government has no policy to use casinos as a key economic driver, aiming to provide assurance that the current Thai administration will not pursue casino-related policies.

Speaking after a bilateral meeting during the APEC Economic Leaders’ gathering in South Korea on October 31, Government Spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat quoted Anutin as stating that Thailand is confident it can boost its economy through its people’s talents, products, and existing technology. The Prime Minister added that the majority of the Thai public opposes the legalization of gambling.

Therefore, the presentation of all types of gambling laws has been halted, and Chinese tourists are invited to return to visit again, with the government assuring their safety and security.

anutin xi 2 — Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

President Xi reportedly praised Thailand’s stance. While stressing that China does not interfere in the domestic policies of any country, he affirmed that Beijing will use its own internal measures to discourage Chinese tourists from traveling solely for casino gambling, citing the significant negative impact the industry has on people’s way of life.

Context: The Casino Conflict

The Prime Minister’s assurance comes after a heated domestic political conflict. In July, when Anutin and his Bhumjaithai Party withdrew from the coalition led by then-Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, he publicly attacked her for stubbornly pushing the casino complex policy.

Anutin had claimed the Chinese leadership raised objections three times during a bilateral meeting in February. The former Interior Minister alleged that Thailand’s persistence with the legislation, despite Chinese concerns, had led to a sharp deterioration in relations, causing a reported 90% plunge in Chinese tourist arrivals and “unprecedented damage” to the entire tourism sector.

AP25037090662096 — In this photo released by the Thailand’s Government Spokesman Office, Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Beijing, China, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Thailand’s Government Spokesman Office via AP)

Paetongtarn’s Rebuttal

Paetongtarn responded to these allegations by accusing Anutin of misrepresenting the situation, arguing that the drop in Chinese tourist numbers was primarily due to safety concerns—an issue she suggested Mr. Anutin should have managed while he was Interior Minister.

“Actually, Mr. Xi Jinping would have various recommendations, and we listen to him. He spoke about casinos out of concern and gave advice,” Ms. Paetongtarn said at the time. “We explained that Thailand’s policy is to create entertainment complexes like Singapore and Macau. It helps generate income for the country and increases employment. Importantly, casinos make up only 10 percent [of the overall complex].”

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Princess Sirivannavari Hails Queen Sirikit as Thailand’s First Fashion Designer

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31 October 2025, 17:44

princess sirivan collection6 — A composite photograph shows Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya during the SIRIVANNAVARI show (L), alongside a large screen displaying a message in honor of the late Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother (R), at the Fürst Henry Arena in Bangkok on October 30, 2025.

BANGKOK — Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother during the SIRIVANNAVARI fashion show, calling her “the most beautiful woman in the world” and “the first fashion designer in Thailand’s history.”

In an interview with the media at the launch of the SIRIVANNAVARI Autumn–Winter 2025/26 Collection at Fürst Henry Arena, where she served as creative director, Princess Sirivannavari reflected on the loss of Her Majesty The Queen Mother, saying it was an extremely difficult time for the entire royal family, as the Queen Mother was like the elder of the family who raised her since she was little.

princess sirivan collection2 — Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya walks out at the close of her fashion show, the SIRIVANNAVARI Autumn–Winter 2025/26 Collection, at the Fürst Henry Arena in Bangkok on October 30, 2025.

“I told myself that this work – fashion – is what I love and what I do for a living. I had to move on. At first, I was heartbroken, but my father and my aunt told me that Her Majesty is at peace now, that she is all right.”

Her Royal Highness continued, “I want everyone to see her as the best, the iconic woman – the most beautiful woman in the world. She loved beauty and elegance. That is why I told myself I had to keep working; nothing should come to a stop. It is time to get back to work and carry on as usual. Today, everyone will see pictures of Her Majesty that have never been seen before – she was, indeed, the first fashion designer in Thailand’s history.”

princess sirivan collection4 — A tribute to the late Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother is displayed on a large screen at the Fürst Henry Arena just prior to the SIRIVANNAVARI Autumn–Winter 2025/26 Collection show in Bangkok, October 30, 2025.

For this latest SIRIVANNAVARI collection, Princess Sirivannavari drew inspiration from her passion for equestrian sports, transforming it into a line of contemporary, elegant designs that embody courage, confidence, and femininity.

Highlights include the IRIS Jacket, which echoes Gothic Romanticism with armor-like silhouettes, and flowing cape tops crafted from premium fabrics such as wool, silk, and cotton. The collection features rich, equestrian-inspired tones, ranging from off-white, grey, mauve-brown, and black to deep burgundy, chocolate brown, navy blue, and olive khaki.

princess sirivan collection3 — A model displays the SIRIVANNAVARI Autumn–Winter 2025/26 Collection during the fashion show in Bangkok, October 30, 2025.

princess sirivan collection5 — A line-up of models displays the SIRIVANNAVARI Autumn–Winter 2025/26 Collection during the fashion show in Bangkok, October 30, 2025.

“For me, equestrianism is about challenge, speed, and precision in decision-making. At the same time, every movement in horse riding is filled with grace and dignity, endless sources of inspiration for creating designs, from clothing to leather goods, accessories, and jewelry.”

She added, “Beyond the horse’s elegance, I am inspired by the distinct sophistication of equestrian attire, the bridles, bits, horseshoes, saddles, and stirrups. Every detail has been reimagined and incorporated into the Autumn–Winter 2025–26 Collection with meticulous craftsmanship to celebrate artistry, heritage, and the timeless charm of modernity.”

The next day, Princess Sirivannavari presided over the national finals of the Royal Bestowed Fabric Pattern Competition “Siriraj Phatsaraphon Pattern Fabric” and Handicraft Contest for 2025. She spoke about Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, saying that she was the one who created careers for the Thai textile handicraft industry, including the handicraft centers, handicraft groups, and art communities across the land.

“She loves them, and she doesn’t want to abandon them. Therefore, we—the new generation, the old generation, and the middle generation—must continue this work. And we must ensure it doesn’t stagnate but continues to develop and evolve. Please help me in developing everything further, because I cannot do this alone without all of you. See you again next year,” said the princess.

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Phuket Beach Masseuses Petition Governor Over Use of Public Areas

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31 October 2025, 17:34

massage beach3 — A combination photo shows, at left, the area where beach masseuses once laid mats to serve tourists on Karon Beach, and at right, the same beach where such setups are now prohibited.

PHUKET — A group of beach masseuses from Karon Subdistrict has petitioned the Phuket governor on Friday to reconsider restrictions on the use of public beach areas after the local municipality barred them from placing massage equipment on the sand.

The petition was submitted during a meeting on Oct. 31, chaired by Deputy Governor Somawit Supanpai and attended by members of the Karon Beach Massage Community Enterprise. The group said they have been struggling to earn a living since the Karon Municipality banned temporary massage setups along the beach.

massage beach4 — A representative of beach masseuses from Karon Subdistrict submits a petition to the Phuket governor, urging reconsideration of restrictions on the use of public beach areas, on October 31, 2025.

Somawit said the province acknowledged the grievances and would take 15 days to review the matter. A working group made up of district, municipal, and service center officials will be formed to assess the impact and propose remedies.

He said current rules allow temporary use of beach areas but prohibit permanent structures, and all massage equipment must be removed after working hours. The province also plans to discuss possible relief measures with the municipality.

massage beach2 — The area where beach masseuses once laid mats to serve tourists on Karon Beach

Monchai Saelao, director of the Damrongtham Center, said any occupation of public space must comply with the law and administrative procedures. Local authorities are required to set clear guidelines for such activities, he said, warning that failure to enforce them could lead to legal consequences under Section 157 of the Criminal Code.

Monchai added that public spaces belong to everyone and must remain accessible. He suggested allowing the masseuses to set up temporary tents and use portable equipment, provided no permanent fixtures are installed.

Provincial officials said the issue followed complaints about the unauthorized use of public land along Karon Beach. The governor’s office has requested 15 days to consult with relevant agencies before making a final decision.

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Did Thailand Misstep in Controversial Rare Earth Deal With the U.S.?

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31 October 2025, 16:46

US rare earth1 — The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok posted a statement, complete with graphics, defending the critical minerals MOU on October 30, 2025.

BANGKOK — A new memorandum of understanding on critical and rare earth minerals signed between Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and U.S. President Donald Trump at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia has sparked debate in Thailand, with critics warning of geopolitical risks, environmental harm, and unequal terms favoring Washington.

U.S. Embassy Defends Deal

The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok on October 30 released a statement titled “Decoding the Critical Minerals MOU: Why U.S.-Thailand Cooperation on Critical Minerals Matters,” defending the agreement. It said the MOU is designed to strengthen supply chains and investment, not to impose legal obligations or infringe on national sovereignty.

According to the embassy, the pact will allow the two countries to share technical expertise, promote responsible mineral development, and enhance Thailand’s competitiveness in mineral processing. The statement added that the MOU builds on the U.S.-Thai alliance and expands trade, investment, and future commercial opportunities.

AP25299192053261 — President Donald Trump and Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul exchange a document during a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Opposition Lawmakers Demand Answers

Meanwhile, opposition lawmakers from the Pheu Thai Party and People’s Party filed an urgent motion to debate the agreement. Sarasnant Arnannopporn, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Prime Minister Anutin and the foreign minister must clarify the deal’s terms, calling it a “major issue with long-term impacts.”

Pheu Thai MP Jittipoj Viriyaroj criticized the government for signing the MOU without public or parliamentary consultation. He warned that the deal grants the U.S. preferential access to future mineral exploration and could strain ties with China, which dominates 70% of global rare earth mining and 90% of refining.

Phatthrapong Lilaphat, a People’s Party MP, said the government lacked understanding of rare earth issues, noting the MOU omits key environmental safeguards while allowing U.S. “analysis to expand areas and coordinates of mineral sources in Thailand.” He said such clauses could disadvantage Thailand and allow Washington greater control over minerals transiting through the country.

“We’ve stumbled badly,” Phatthrapong said. “Other countries negotiated better terms, but our government accepted disadvantageous ones from the start.”

US rare earth2 — The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok posted a statement, complete with graphics, defending the critical minerals agreement on October 30, 2025. The statement was titled “Decoding the Critical Minerals MOU: Why U.S.-Thailand Cooperation on Critical Minerals Matters.

Thailand’s Mineral Landscape

Thailand’s Department of Mineral Resources reports more than 40 mineral types nationwide, with rock salt making up about 60% of total deposits, concentrated in the northeast. Roughly 19% of the country’s land contains mineral resources, and ongoing surveys aim to identify additional critical mineral reserves.

Thailand became one of the world’s top rare earth producers in 2024, with output reaching nearly 13,000 metric tons — a 261% increase from 2023 and 13 times more than in 2018, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Despite this surge, the domestic rare earth industry remains largely opaque. Thailand continues to import most of its rare earth materials from China for use in magnetic components for electric vehicles and electronics.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental expert Sonthi Kotchawat of the Environmental Academics Association warned that rare earth mining carries serious ecological risks. He said extracting these elements, though vital for modern technology, requires vast amounts of energy, water, and chemicals, producing hazardous waste that may include radioactive thorium and uranium.

Sonthi cautioned that rare earth mining could contaminate soil and water, release toxic dust, destroy forests, and create long-term radioactive waste — echoing environmental problems seen in neighboring Myanmar.

rare earth myanmar2 — Rare-earth mining in Myanmar’s Kachin region

Geopolitics Context

Dr. Supavud Saicheua, chairman of the National Economic and Social Development Council, said China controls 44 million tons of the world’s 90 million tons of rare earth reserves and processes about 90% of global output.

He noted that Trump’s recent Asia tour sought similar agreements with Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia as Washington tries to counter China’s dominance in the sector.

“Rare earths underpin technologies from AI to electric vehicles, but they also consume massive energy and water,” Supavud said. “While this ‘technology of hope’ drives innovation, it risks deepening inequality and creating new environmental and labor challenges.

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