AWOL

CHON BURI – An oil tanker that was earlier stranded in the Strait of Hormuz has successfully completed its journey to Chon Buri, delivering its cargo of crude oil to Bangchak Corporation.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has pushed up the Treasury Department’s coin production costs, raising the possibility that 1-baht coins may eventually need to be minted overseas, where production costs are lower.

Thailand’s equity market is expected to come under pressure as surging diesel prices raise concerns over economic growth and corporate earnings, although easing geopolitical tensions may help cushion downside risks, analysts say.

Tourism operators have expressed mixed views on the new government’s plan to levy a 300‑baht tourism tax, as it may affect travel sentiment amid sluggish tourism caused by the Middle East crisis.

Energy Minister Akanat Promphan, in his capacity as chairman of the Energy Policy Administration Committee (Epac), has ordered a reduction in diesel refining margins aimed at lowering retail fuel prices by about 2.14 baht per litre, with the measure expected to take effect on Thursday.

CHON BURI – An ostrich was seen running free on the Pattaya–Rayong highway on Tuesday,  covering 10 kilometres before it was safely recaptured and returned to the cafe where it is a star attraction. 

Thailand’s largest annual book show attracted more than 1.3 million visitors over 12 days  and generated total sales of 534 million baht, meeting organisers’ targets despite global economic headwinds.  

Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services Plc (BAFS), Thailand’s sole jet refuelling provider, has called on the government to exempt jet fuel from the excise tax of 4.72 baht per litre, warning the levy undermines the country’s aviation competitiveness.