National —
On November 21st, 2024, Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra joined a one-on-one session with Moira Forbes, Vice Chair of Forbes Media, at the 22nd Forbes Global CEO Conference.
Paetongtarn highlighted Thailand’s push for investment-driven growth, political stability, and long-term policy continuity to build confidence among local and foreign investors.
Paetongtarn noted that since assuming office, she has focused on attracting global tech giants like Google and Microsoft to invest in Thailand. She reassured business leaders that the government remains committed to pro-investment policies while working on several undisclosed business deals to further strengthen the economy.
Furthermore, she emphasized Thailand’s advantages as a food exporter and its strategic location as the gateway to Southeast Asia.
Regarding domestic policy, she detailed support for SMEs, including soft loan programs and the distribution of a 10,000-baht scheme to stimulate spending. The upcoming second phase of the scheme will target senior citizens aged 60 and above.
Paetongtarn also underscored the importance of education reforms to equip Thai citizens with second-language skills, essential for future industries like electronics.
Looking ahead, she expressed confidence in Thailand’s political stability and long-term development plans, such as ensuring foundational policies like universal healthcare remain intact across future administrations.
She also highlighted Thailand’s role on the global stage, presenting itself as a “diplomat of peace and prosperity” during talks with representatives from the U.S., China, and other nations, noting that recently she spoke with US president-elect Donald Trump and met with Chinese leader Xi Jinpeng.
