Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met former British prime minister Sir Tony Blair at Government House in Bangkok on 14 September, discussing data centres, artificial intelligence, clean energy and Thailand's ambition to join the OECD by 2028.
Blair, executive chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), was in Thailand to attend Gastech Bangkok 2026. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and Deputy Interior Minister Polphir Suwanchawee also attended the private meeting.
Government spokesman Ekapol Pearnperse said Anutin sought Blair's views on improving Thailand's competitiveness and developing future industries, particularly digital technology, AI, advanced industry and clean energy.
Data rules and local opportunities
Thailand is reviewing regulations and criteria governing data-centre investment, Anutin said, with the aim of securing the greatest possible economic benefit while managing environmental effects.
Blair told the meeting that Thailand should be able to participate in owning data generated through data-centre investment and use it to develop applications suited to local conditions. He said this could support Thai start-ups and businesses.
Anutin referred to his visit to Australia and a meeting with design platform Canva, which employs many Thai staff, as evidence of Thai workers' potential. Both sides agreed that technology and the capabilities of Thai personnel offered significant scope for further development.
AI, government reform and OECD plans
Anutin said Thailand was undergoing a major economic transition and wanted to build new economic engines, moving towards high-value sectors. The government is also pursuing public-sector reform, including e-government and AI governance, to make state services more efficient and responsive.
The prime minister asked how TBI could work with Thailand in practice, including attracting investment in AI, semiconductors and advanced industries, using AI to raise productivity, and creating new skills and income opportunities.
TBI is a non-profit organisation that works with governments and national leaders on strategy and policy delivery, including technological change and governance in the AI era.
Thailand has made full membership of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development a national priority, with a target of joining by 2028. Anutin proposed discussions between Thailand's OECD membership coordinators and TBI officials to identify areas where the institute could help accelerate progress, especially on green, AI and digital transitions.
Energy transition also on agenda
Blair also discussed Thailand's energy challenges and transition, backing approaches already under way, including solar roofs. He said energy technology could be used not only to meet power needs but also as a factor in international trade negotiations.
According to the government, Blair said Thailand could position itself appropriately as a friendly country and part of global supply chains amid international conflict and uncertainty.
Anutin said further talks with Blair would continue, supported by teams providing advice and information. Blair agreed to offer the Thai government information and guidance as cooperation plans are developed.
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15 September 2026
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