On 4 September 2025, Thailand hosted the 31^st Indonesia–Malaysia–Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) Ministerial Meeting in Trang Province. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, with participation from senior representatives of Malaysia, Indonesia, ASEAN, the Asian Development Bank, and over 300 delegates from government, private sector, and academia.

The ministers reviewed progress on key initiatives, including:

·         Development of cross-border infrastructure and logistics

·         Upgrading ports, transport routes, and customs checkpoints to facilitate trade and travel

·         The success of the IMT-GT Tourism Year 2023–2025, which boosted regional tourism beyond pre-pandemic levels

Looking ahead, discussions focused on the upcoming Five-Year Implementation Plan (2027–2031), with priorities in:

1.      Enhancing cross-border connectivity and logistics

2.      Promoting sustainable cities and tourism

3.      Advancing green and innovative agriculture

4.      Strengthening the digital economy

5.      Upgrading workforce skills to meet global challenges

The meeting also highlighted cooperation on clean energy and power connectivity, including renewable energy, smart grids, and cross-border electricity networks, with support from ADB and the ASEAN Secretariat.

The ministers adopted the 31^st Joint Ministerial Statement, reaffirming their commitment to an integrated subregion driven by innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability under the IMT-GT Vision 2036. This includes green agriculture, strengthening the halal industry, enhancing transport connectivity, and building resilience to climate change.

Source and Photo Credit: PRD Thailand