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Thailand is participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos to boost investor confidence and promote its economic policies, with a focus on digital economy investments. The event in Switzerland from January 19–23 sees around 3,000 participants, including 64 heads of state. Leading the Thai delegation, Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas aims to strengthen ties with international organizations and tech companies.

In meetings starting January 19, Ekniti discussed Thailand’s economic outlook with Ajay Banga of the World Bank and strategized for the IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings Thailand will host in 2026. Further talks with WEF’s Mirek Dušek and John Dutton centered on fostering innovation and sustainability. Strategies to enhance digital skills and investments were also discussed with major tech firms.

Discussions with Amazon Web Services (AWS) highlighted a 150 billion baht investment plan over 15 years, focusing on data centres and cloud initiatives with Thai universities. Microsoft plans further investments in data services and cooperation with Thai firms. TikTok’s ongoing investment of 270 billion baht aims to bolster online safety and SME capabilities. HCL Technologies discussed trends in digital transformation and strengthening Thailand’s IT ecosystem.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi of Thailand’s Board of Investment emphasized the nation’s strategic position as a stable, long-term business hub and gateway to Asia. Notable Thai CEOs attending include Soopakij Chearavanont and Thammasak Sethaudom, indicating strong interest in global economic trends.

Additionally, Bitkub hosted a networking session for Thai leaders to engage with global counterparts. Meanwhile, geopolitical discussions at the event are marked by US President Donald Trump's attendance, scheduled speech, and anticipated talks on Greenland, highlighting tension with Europe. A proposed “peace committee” for Gaza may see Thailand as a participant, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand promotes digital economy investments at WEF 2026.

• Talks with global tech firms aim to expand Thailand's digital capabilities.

• US President Trump's participation highlights geopolitical issues.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2026-01-21

 

 

In bed with the Devil

21 hours ago, teacherofwoe said:

In bed with the Devil

I just keep thinking of this chap ...

Fetching my coat!

One of the most current and numerous investors in Thailand are the retirees from the west who have bought property.

Yet no incentives to make their visa issues less a hassle.

You want to boost western trust to invest ?

Start by giving any property owner in Thailand a full time multiple entry visa valid for l10 year with no hassles like with the LTR handling process that asks for far to many document. Submission should only ask for proof of ownership in leasehold or freehold, a certificate of monthly pension, medical certificate showing no presence of drugs in the organism and proof of residence in home country. That's it. No other document needed. And the entire process to be submitted online only and visa need to be handed over within 1 month. Nothing else.

Thailand visa handlers seem to forget that all europeans have compulsory first class insurance in their homelands that is compulsory by law. So no need to keep on asking for absurd invented medical insurance statements with clauses and mentions that they just invent day by day.

Unless there is trust to at least be able to get a simple longstay visa with no absurd paperwork, investors will not give any money to Thailand.

1 hour ago, Sigmund said:

medical certificate showing no presence of drugs in the organism

By dismissing all daily drinkers very few would qualify under your conditions.

On 1/22/2026 at 11:26 AM, Sigmund said:

You want to boost western trust to invest ?

Start by giving any property owner in Thailand a full time multiple entry visa valid for l10 year with no hassles like with the LTR handling process that asks for far to many document.

How about start by letting foreigners actually own their property in their name. 😂

On 1/22/2026 at 6:26 PM, Sigmund said:

One of the most current and numerous investors in Thailand are the retirees from the west who have bought property.

Yet no incentives to make their visa issues less a hassle.

You want to boost western trust to invest ?

Start by giving any property owner in Thailand a full time multiple entry visa valid for l10 year with no hassles like with the LTR handling process that asks for far to many document. Submission should only ask for proof of ownership in leasehold or freehold, a certificate of monthly pension, medical certificate showing no presence of drugs in the organism and proof of residence in home country. That's it. No other document needed. And the entire process to be submitted online only and visa need to be handed over within 1 month. Nothing else.

Thailand visa handlers seem to forget that all europeans have compulsory first class insurance in their homelands that is compulsory by law. So no need to keep on asking for absurd invented medical insurance statements with clauses and mentions that they just invent day by day.

Unless there is trust to at least be able to get a simple longstay visa with no absurd paperwork, investors will not give any money to Thailand.

An additional factor for retirees/expats is the current taxation on post 1 January 2024 earned income when remitted to Thailand. Having remitted funds taxed at 30% is certainly a disincentive to most retirees remitting funds for expensive purchases.

On 1/26/2026 at 2:11 AM, JimHuaHin said:

An additional factor for retirees/expats is the current taxation on post 1 January 2024 earned income when remitted to Thailand. Having remitted funds taxed at 30% is certainly a disincentive to most retirees remitting funds for expensive purchases.

Very true. Vietnam and other countries in the region will get all the foreigner retirees and their money for sure.