Thai cultural capital and identity have been integrated into various activities to be showcased at the upcoming 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, hosted by Thailand from 12 to 18 October 2026 in Bangkok.

According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana, promotion for hosting the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings is being carried out under the concept “Thai Smile, Ready to Host with Heart.” Unique local textiles – such as Tai Lue tin chok woven fabric, elephant-patterned loincloths (pha khao ma), and “Buppha Borommarachininat” printed batik fabric – are being used to decorate the meeting venue, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Thailand’s cultural diversity and local wisdom will also be highlighted through Thai cuisine and indigenous ingredients. Food and beverage offerings at the event will focus on Geographical Indication (GI) products, with a unique story created for each menu item.

For instance, the local rice showcase features a selection of prominent GI rice from various regions, including Phayao Jasmine Rice, Thung Kula Rong Hai Jasmine Rice, and Sangyot Phatthalung Rice. A highlighted dish, khao yam (rice salad), specially combines jasmine rice from Phayao Province with Sangyot rice from Phatthalung Province. Another signature item, flame-seared dry-aged tilapia with Khao Yai miso sauce, features tilapia from Ban Pho District, Chachoengsao Province, paired with miso fermented in the Khao Yai area of Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

In addition, international participants will enjoy snacks and dishes crafted from regional ingredients, such as a Betong grilled chicken sandwich, Sakon Nakhon Wagyu beef tartare, a Nakhon Si Thammarat chocolate tart with macadamia nuts, mango sticky rice, and a seasonal fresh fruit cart – allowing guests to experience the rich variety of local Thai produce and culinary heritage.

The Thai government will host a gala dinner for 400 VVIPs, including global financial leaders and central bankers, at Santi Maitri Building, Government House. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has invited 16-year-old rock star Nene Royal, fresh off her historic triumph on America's Got Talent, to perform at Government House to warmly welcome and leave a lasting impression on the world's financial leaders.