“Test and Go” program suspension among measures to curb new COVID wave, no lockdown imposed

13 Sept 11:19 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand has suspended new applications for its minimal quarantine “Test and Go” program indefinitely, effective immediately, though existing passes remain valid until January 15th, as a measure to control a new surge in COVID-19 infections.
The entry ban for travelers from 8 African countries has been lifted, and the 'sandbox' program, which allows quarantine-free entry to specific areas, will expand to include Surat Thani (Koh Samui, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao), Krabi, and Phang-nga, aiming to disperse tourist arrivals from Phuket.
Domestically, pubs and bars in most regions will remain closed beyond January 16th, while those in eight designated 'sandbox' provinces can operate as restaurants with special permission; 69 provinces are now classified as 'orange' (controlled) zones, permitting most business activities without restrictions.
Despite a sharp rise in daily COVID-19 cases, the government has opted against a full lockdown, instead advising against non-essential inter-provincial travel and strongly recommending work-from-home arrangements for both public and private sectors until the end of January.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Yesterday 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.