BangkokPost-Mar 27
Thailand’s population fell to 65.8 million in 2025, according to the Department of Provincial Administration, which also revealed that Bangkok remains by far the country’s most populous area. In an announcement issued by the Central Registration Office on Wednesday, the total population as of Dec 31, 2025 stood at 65.80 million. Of this, 64,820,708 are Thai nationals, while 988,620 are non-Thai residents. The figures show a decline from 2024, when the population was recorded at 65.95 million, marking a decrease of about 142,199 year-on-year. Bangkok continues to rank as the most densely populated province, with a population roughly double that of second-placed Nakhon Ratchasima. Most of the top 10 most populous provinces are located in the Northeast. Separately, Labor Minister Treenuch Thienthong raised concerns over rising unemployment among older people as Thailand becomes a fully aged society. She said more than 20% of the population, or around 15 million people, are now aged 60 and over. Of these, over 30% — roughly one in three — are still working, often due to a lack of savings or family support. The proportion of elderly people is expected to rise significantly in the coming years, potentially affecting the labor structure and overall economic growth, said the minister. Income data highlights the challenge, she said, adding that nearly half of all elderly people earn insufficient income, with 31.6% making just 83–167 baht per day, while 19.9% earn less than 83 baht daily. About two-thirds, or 66.7%, have no savings, forcing many to continue working, she said. Currently, 5.26 million elderly people — or 37.2% — remain employed, mainly because they are still healthy and need income, she added. To address the issue, the Labor Ministry has instructed the Department of Skill Development to upskill and reskill older workers, particularly in digital skills. Read more at:
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3225098/population-shrinks-to-658m?tbref=hp.
