From local value to global vision: THINK THAILAND: NEXT LEVEL

By

-

21 April 2026, 13:12

THINK THAILAND : NEXT LEVEL, initiated by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), is positioned as a strategic engine to elevate Thai entrepreneurs onto the global stage by redefining export as a process of value creation rather than mere product distribution The initiative, driven by the concept “Thai to Global — From Local Value to Global Vision,” aims to modernize the image of Thai products and strengthen their competitiveness in international markets, aligning closely with global megatrends such as sustainability, wellness, and aging societies DITP continues to build the capabilities of Thai entrepreneurs through knowledge-driven programs under the New Economy Academy (NEA), while simultaneously expanding market access through more than 680 planned activities in 2026, including trade fairs, business matching, and trade missions worldwide

The campaign also sharpens the positioning of Thai products by categorizing them into three key sectors—Food & Fruit, Fashion, and Wellness—highlighting Thailand’s strengths in quality, creativity, and innovation Notable examples of Thai brands demonstrate how local wisdom and resources are being transformed into globally competitive offerings, from alternative protein innovations and circular economy products to modern herbal wellness solutions These developments not only reflect the adaptability of Thai businesses but also underline their ability to respond to rapidly evolving global consumer demands with relevance and originality Ultimately, THINK THAILAND : NEXT LEVEL reflects a long-term strategic framework that empowers Thai businesses to evolve from local producers into value-driven global brands, reinforcing Thailand’s role as a competitive and distinctive player in the global trade landscape while strengthening its position as a key contributor to future global trade growth

DITP launches “THINK THAILAND: NEXT LEVEL” to boost global exports

By

Mc Marketing

-

21 April 2026, 13:11

Bangkok – DITP has launched “THINK THAILAND: NEXT LEVEL” as a strategic initiative to elevate Thai exporters and strengthen the country’s positioning in global markets, aiming to connect Thai entrepreneurs with international opportunities while enhancing competitiveness across the entire export journey The campaign supports businesses from capacity building and product development to partner matching and closing overseas deals, with a strong focus on innovation, design, branding, and the integration of Thailand’s cultural identity to create added value and unlock new trade potential Driven by the concept “Thai to Global: From Local Value to Global Vision,” the initiative also seeks to modernize the image of Thai products and present a more contemporary, creative, and globally relevant narrative Under this framework,

DITP organizes Thai products and services into three key sectors—Food & Fruit, Art & Fashion, and Lifestyle—highlighting strengths in high-quality agricultural products, craftsmanship, and design-driven offerings, as well as lifestyle and wellness experiences that meet modern consumer demands The campaign is further reinforced by key mechanisms such as the Thai Food Thai Farm program, Thai SELECT certification, and a range of capability-building initiatives designed to strengthen entrepreneurs and expand global market access At the same time, the strategy aligns with major global megatrends, including sustainability, wellness, and aging societies, encouraging Thai businesses to develop innovative products and remain competitive in the evolving global landscape Ultimately, THINK THAILAND: NEXT LEVEL serves as a comprehensive framework that not only enhances the value of Thai products but also empowers entrepreneurs to grow sustainably and position Thailand as a distinctive and competitive player in international trade

Thai defence chief urges probe into missing border flag

By

Khaosod English

-

21 April 2026, 11:26

Thai defence chief urges probe into missing border flag

BANGKOK — 21 April 2026, Thailand’s defence minister said authorities must investigate the disappearance of a Thai national flag near the Cambodian border, despite assurances from Cambodian military officials that their troops were not involved.

Speaking at 8:00 at the City Pillar Shrine in Bangkok, Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen referred to an incident in which Cambodian soldiers were alleged to have crossed into Thai territory at Noen U area in Ban Phakkat, Chanthaburi province, and removed the flag.

He said local Thai forces had already held talks with Cambodia’s Regional Military Commander 3, who “firmly confirmed” that Cambodian troops were not responsible.

Asked about possible causes, Adul said the Cambodian side insisted there had been no violation of Thai sovereignty, noting the flagpole stands on Thai soil. He added that the commander of the Chanthaburi Marine Task Force had also discussed the matter with Cambodian forward command, while Thai authorities had been instructed to determine who was responsible.

“If the investigation finds Cambodian soldiers did it, what would happen?” he was asked. Adul replied that Cambodia has denied involvement, but stressed that Thailand would verify the facts independently.

“We are not taking their word for it. We must investigate,” he said, adding that troops have been deployed to monitor the area while dialogue continues.

He said it remained unclear whether the incident was caused by an individual or possibly strong winds, but initial statements from the Cambodian commander would be considered before verification.

Adul reaffirmed that the area is under Thai sovereignty and described the situation as a routine border issue that requires gradual resolution.

On reports of Cambodian troop movements closer to other sections of the border, he said the situation would be handled according to circumstances, urging public support for soldiers on the ground.

“We should give encouragement to our personnel and continue talks. These issues should be resolved step by step,” he said.

Young tigress found dead after territorial fight

By

Khaosod English

-

21 April 2026, 10:36

Young tigress found dead after territorial fight

TAK — 21 April 2026, A young female tiger has been found dead in the eastern section of Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary, with officials believing it was killed in a territorial fight with a stronger resident tiger.

Phanaschakorn Bhodhibundit, director of Protected Areas Regional Office 14, said the carcass was discovered on 19 April by patrol teams from Huai Nam Khiao ranger unit and the Khao Nang Ram Wildlife Research Station while retrieving camera traps in the Huai Laga Beng Lek forest area.

The animal had multiple bite wounds across its body, consistent with an attack by another large carnivore.

Officials said the tiger was a subadult female, not yet fully grown. Measurements of its front paw were approximately 8.5 centimetres wide and 10.5 centimetres long, with a paw pad length of 7 centimetres.

Initial examination found severe wounds, particularly around the neck, chest and right hind leg, believed to have been inflicted during a territorial clash with a stronger tiger. Such conflicts are common among wild cats as they reach maturity and begin establishing their own territories.

The carcass was destroyed by burning at the site in line with Department of National Parks regulations to prevent the spread of disease and deter illegal trafficking of animal parts.

Piyapong Suebsen, head of the eastern section of the sanctuary, said the loss, while distressing, reflects natural selection in the wild, where stronger individuals survive.

He added that signs of territorial competition indicate a healthy and dense tiger population in the forest, which remains a key habitat for globally endangered species.

Deadly hailstorm batters homes in Loei, residents flee

By

Khaosod English

-

21 April 2026, 09:38

Deadly hailstorm batters homes in Loei, residents flee

LOEI — 19 April 2026, Residents in Phu Kradueng district narrowly escaped death after a violent hailstorm tore through homes, punching hundreds of holes in roofs and forcing a bedridden woman and her husband to repeatedly move for safety.

The storm struck at about 15:30 on Saturday in Moo 3, Ban Saphan Yao, Huai Som subdistrict, where 4 to 5 houses were hit directly by large hailstones during a fast-moving summer storm.

Sophon Chinsopha, the village headman and homeowner who recorded the incident, said he and his bedridden wife were inside when the hail began smashing through their roof “like a barrage of bullets”.

“We had to carry my wife to safer spots several times to avoid being hit,” he said. “The hail pounded the house for nearly an hour.”

Authorities said the storm was localised to a single area of Phu Kradueng district but brought intense thunderstorms, strong winds and unusually large hailstones, some the size of eggs or fists.

The impact left zinc roofs riddled with holes resembling scenes from a war film. Power poles were toppled and agricultural areas sustained damage.

Local officials from Huai Som Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and the district office are now working urgently to provide assistance and repairs.

Woman gets out of car, walks into highway during argument

By

Khaosod English

-

20 April 2026, 19:28

CHACHOENGSAO — Motorists on Highway 331 in Chachoengsao province were left startled late at night on 19 April after a woman was seen walking in the middle of the road, forcing vehicles to brake suddenly and causing a brief traffic slowdown.

The incident took place near Khao Hin Son before the Na Noi intersection in Phanom Sarakham district. A dashcam video of the scene later went viral online.

At first, the driver who recorded the footage said the woman appeared to be acting erratically, raising concerns she might be disoriented. However, the situation became clearer moments later when a young man was seen walking behind her at a distance, while a white car was parked on the roadside.

It later appeared the woman had stepped out of the vehicle in frustration during an argument, with the man following her in an attempt to reconcile.

The unusual roadside dispute quickly drew widespread attention on social media, with many users expressing confusion over the behaviour and warning that such actions posed serious risks to both the individuals involved and other road users.

Some commenters said personal disagreements should be resolved away from traffic, not in the middle of a busy highway at night.

Thai border forces arrest 16 Cambodian migrants in Sakaeo illegal crossing attempt

By

Khaosod English

-

20 April 2026, 18:35

SAKAEO — Thai security forces have arrested 16 Cambodian nationals for illegally entering Thailand through natural border routes in Sakaeo province, after paying brokers 7,500 baht per person in hopes of finding work in the country.

The operation took place on 20 April, 2026, when the Burapha Task Force, together with immigration officers from Sakaeo, were patrolling the Thai-Cambodian border near Ban Phu Nam Kliang in Aranyaprathet district. Troops spotted a group of people walking through a natural channel and moved in to intercept them.

A total of 16 suspects — nine men and seven women — were detained. Some were found carrying passports, while others had no identification documents and had not passed legal immigration procedures.

During questioning, the group said most had previously worked in construction jobs in Thailand, including in Bangkok’s Min Buri area and Chon Buri province, earning daily wages of around 300–700 baht before returning to Cambodia.

However, they claimed they were unable to find work and were facing difficult living conditions in Cambodia, prompting them to attempt re-entry into Thailand for employment.

They said they contacted a Cambodian broker identified only as “Muy” via Messenger app, agreeing to pay 7,500 baht each for illegal border crossing arrangements, with payment to be made upon arrival in Thailand.

The group said that on the evening of 19 April, they were transported by taxi to a border area in Cambodia before being guided by two Cambodian facilitators on foot through natural routes into Thailand. They were then instructed to cross Highway 3446 (Sri Pen Road), where they were eventually intercepted by Thai patrol units. The facilitators reportedly escaped.

Authorities have handed over all 16 suspects to investigators for prosecution on charges of illegal entry into the country. Police are also expanding the investigation to identify the smuggling network and others involved.

Security agencies said border patrols in Sakaeo will remain intensified to prevent illegal crossings and suppress transnational human smuggling operations.

Cambodian king recovering after successful prostate surgery in Beijing

By

Khaosod English

-

20 April 2026, 17:07

Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has said that King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia successfully underwent prostate cancer surgery in Beijing on 20 April 2026, according to a social media post.

The announcement came after the Cambodian monarch previously revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was advised by doctors in China to receive treatment at a hospital in Beijing.

Hun Sen said he was currently at the hospital in the Chinese capital and confirmed that the surgical procedure carried out by a Chinese medical team had been completed successfully in the morning of 20 April.

He added that the King had regained consciousness after the effects of anaesthesia wore off and was being closely monitored by medical staff for post-operation recovery.

Hun Sen also relayed that the King and the Queen Mother had expressed gratitude to members of the public who had sent well-wishes and messages of support.

He thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese government for their care and attention to the Cambodian monarch, as well as the medical team involved in the operation.

In his statement, Hun Sen said he had travelled to Beijing on 17 April together with his two sons, Hun Manet and Hun Many, with the sole purpose of accompanying and supporting the King and Queen Mother during what he described as a difficult period.

He added that if the King’s condition continues to improve, he plans to return to Cambodia on 22 April.

“The health of the King is the health of the entire nation,” Hun Sen said in the post.

AIS joins MHESI, Chula for AI literacy and cyber awareness course

By

Mc Marketing

-

20 April 2026, 16:28

AIS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and Chulalongkorn University, has launched “Aunjai Cyber: AI Literacy,” a digital learning course designed to enhance AI knowledge and skills among Thai people. Developed by AI experts and faculty members from diverse fields, the course covers AI fundamentals, everyday applications, and the safe, creative, and ethical use of AI, with content certified by MHESI. In addition, the course is being further developed to allow university students to accumulate learning hours that may be transferred into academic credits in the future.

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, said, “Amid the rapid transformation of digital technology and AI, people must learn how to live with, work with, and use technology with critical judgment. At the same time, educational institutions must step into the role of shaping people who are truly prepared for the modern world. Chulalongkorn University is committed to advancing and sharing AI knowledge under the concept of ‘Responsible AI’ to enhance student learning, develop graduates with strong digital expertise, and enable them to apply AI effectively in the future. Recognizing the importance of AI to the development of both people and the nation, and with Chulalongkorn University’s strong academic foundation, we have brought together AI experts and faculty members from diverse disciplines to support this collaboration in curriculum development, content design, and knowledge transfer. This is to ensure that learning is comprehensive, in-depth, and aligned with practical application, while also expanding access to learning opportunities for all sectors of society.

This collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop digital learning media under the ‘Aunjai Cyber AI Literacy’ program marks an important step in promoting AI learning and digital citizenship in a flexible and accessible format. Our goal is to ensure that AI learning is not just an opportunity for some, but an opportunity for everyone to help strengthen the nation’s workforce and build a truly sustainable future together.”

Dr. Punpermsak Aruni Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), said, “MHESI is committed to developing the nation’s workforce through a Lifelong Learning system aligned with the AI-driven world. We emphasize enhancing AI literacy alongside critical thinking and ethical use of technology to build quality ‘digital citizens.’

The collaboration to develop the ‘Aunjai CYBER: AI Literacy’ course among the public sector, private sector, and higher education institutions expands learning opportunities for students nationwide, preparing over 1.8 million individuals to keep pace with future changes. This initiative reflects MHESI’s goal of advancing a lifelong learning ecosystem and sustainably equipping Thai people for the evolving world.”

Saichon Submakudom Chief Corporate Communication of AIS, said, “As a leader in intelligent network and digital technology, AIS is not only advancing toward an Autonomous Network and integrating AI at the core of our operations, but also actively driving the AI ecosystem in a holistic manner. This includes developing AI-driven services that meet customer needs, such as AISpace—our AI service hub—promoting digital skills for all Thais through the LearnDi for Thais platform, and upskilling our workforce through AI programs led by AIS Academy.

Most recently, we are elevating from Digital Literacy to AI Literacy to strengthen cybersecurity resilience and make AI knowledge more tangible through the ‘Aunjai CYBER: AI Literacy : My AI Buddy’ course. This builds upon the ‘Aunjai CYBER’ initiative, which has been continuously developed since 2019 and has already reached over 1.05 million learners. We believe this course will empower Thai people to use AI safely and creatively, enjoy AI as a ‘buddy’ or thinking partner, and confidently and responsibly embrace a sustainable digital future together.”

Those interested can study “Aunjai Cyber: AI Literacy” free of charge, anytime and anywhere, via Thai MOOC https://thaimooc.ac.th/instructor/ais/ , LearnDi for Thais on the Aunjai Cyber website, and the Aunjai CYBER application. The “Aunjai Cyber: AI Literacy” course can also be broadly applied as a learning framework for higher education institutions, helping strengthen AI skills and digital resilience among Thai youth in a sustainable way.

Border village evacuated after cross-border blast

By

Khaosod English

-

20 April 2026, 16:22

Border village evacuated after cross-border blast

MAE HONG SON — 20 April 2026, Thai authorities evacuated villagers to safety after a bomb from Myanmar landed near a border community in Mae Hong Son province, officials said.

Local officials in Sob Moei districtalong with Mae Sam Laep subdistrict authorities and ranger units from Company 3608, at 12:00, rushed to move residents from Ban Mae Sam Laep following the incident.

District chief Khamphan Mokthaisong visited the area to monitor the situation and ordered village leaders to warn residents to evacuate. Women and children, totalling 15 people, were moved to a child development centre in Ban Huai Kong Kad, where local authorities are providing food and drinking water.

Around 10 other residents remained in nearby bunkers close to their homes, uncertain whether further air strikes might occur. Some villagers have refused to leave, citing concerns over their property, including shops.

Ranger units, local police and subdistrict officials are stationed in the area to assess the situation and prepare for further evacuations if necessary, authorities said.

Hot News

LATEST NEWS