Report New Bank of Thailand Governor Selection Begins Amid Economic Challenges

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Photo of Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput courtesy of BNN Bloomberg

 

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) is in the process of appointing a new governor as Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput prepares to end his term on September 30. This selection is critical, as the incoming governor will play a key role in tackling economic challenges and shaping the country's monetary policy.

 

Seven candidates are in contention, with applications closing on June 4:

 

1. Roong Mallikamas: 56, Deputy Governor for Financial Institutions Stability at the BoT.
2. Vitai Ratanakorn: 54, President of the Government Savings Bank.
3. Kobsak Pootrakool: 57, Senior Executive VP of Bangkok Bank and chairman of the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organisations.
4. Sutapa Amornvivat: 51, former CEO of Abacus Digital under SCB X.
5. Anusorn Thamjai: 59, economist and former Monetary Policy Committee member and university dean.
6. Somprawin Manprasert: 50, former Chief Economist at SCB EIC.
7. Wikran Supamongkol: 50, Chairman of Two Capital.

 

The selection committee, led by Satit Limpongpan, former finance secretary, will review candidates on June 20. A vision presentation session on June 24 will lead to two candidates being recommended to the finance minister by July 2. The final appointment requires Cabinet approval and royal endorsement.

 

Roong Mallikamas emphasised the importance of collaboration between the central bank, government, and financial institutions to tackle sector-specific challenges and foster economic growth while maintaining stability. She aims to enhance public communication on policy decisions to ensure transparency.

 

Somprawin Manprasert is focused on addressing both immediate and long-term economic issues, particularly those arising from global uncertainties. He advocates for measures to support economic recovery and resolve structural issues, while promoting wider access to financial services and ensuring institutional stability.

 

The new governor will play a crucial role in steering Thailand through its current economic climate, making these considerations vital in the selection process.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-17