The Cabinet, during its meeting on 7 July 2026, approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to be signed between the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Under the MOU, OECD will support the formulation of the upcoming 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2028-2032) and accelerate Thailand's overarching goal to achieve formal OECD membership by 2028.

The MOU collaboration is divided into two phases. Phase 1 (Strategic Foresight) focuses on using OECD data and analytic tools to map global trends, uncertainties, and economic impacts that affect Thailand's strategic direction. Phase 2 (Design and Implementation) focuses on co-designing policy innovations and governance mechanisms using best practices from OECD member countries to implement the national plan.

The Cabinet assigned the Secretary-General of NESDC, or his representative, to sign the MOU. Previously. it approved the establishment of the National Steering Committee for OECD Accession, chaired by the Prime Minister. The 17-member committee is tasked with setting policy direction and accelerating reforms to align Thailand's economy, laws, and governance with OECD standards. 

Thailand’s OECD accession had been designated a national priority. Thailand views the accession process as an important mechanism to drive national reform, raise standards in the areas of the economy, investment, good governance, transparency, and competitiveness, as well as generating long-term concrete benefits for the Thai people and society.

A delegation of 23 representatives from Thai government agencies and the private sector attended the Mekong-Australia Partnership 2nd Advanced Workshop on OECD Accession, running from 7 to 20 June 2026 in Australia.

The program aimed to provide participants with firsthand insights into Australia’s OECD accession experience, build networks with Australian experts on OECD related issues, and enhance understanding of OECD standards and best practices. The goal was to get Thailand ready for full OECD membership by 2028.

Ambassador of Thailand to Australia Arjaree Sriratanaban hosted a dinner for the delegation on 15 June and welcomed the enthusiasm of the participants. The Ambassador encouraged them to apply the knowledge and experience gained from the Masterclass on Thailand’s OECD Accession to make progress in advancing national development in their respective areas of work.