Thai Prime Minister Promotes Local Refreshments to Tourists
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was filmed serving longan juice to tourists at a Bangkok market, highlighting local beverages as a must-try experience.
On October 17, 2026, Thai Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul engaged in a public promotion of local Thai culture while visiting a Bangkok market. According to a report by Khaosod Online, the Prime Minister shared a video on his personal Facebook page showing him assisting a local vendor in serving 'longan juice' to customers and international tourists late at night.
In his social media post, the Prime Minister encouraged visitors to explore Thai flavors beyond the well-known 'O-Liang' (iced black coffee), specifically recommending longan juice as a refreshing option for those exploring the city's markets. The interaction was presented as a gesture to support local small-scale vendors and showcase authentic Thai culinary experiences to travelers.
For tourists and residents, this event highlights the government's ongoing efforts to promote local street food and traditional markets as key components of the Thai tourism experience. While the Prime Minister’s endorsement serves as a spotlight on local vendors, it remains to be seen if this will lead to specific policy initiatives aimed at supporting street food tourism or if it will remain a symbolic gesture of cultural promotion. Travelers are encouraged to explore local markets to discover similar traditional beverages during their stay.
