{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"Inside Thailand","home_page_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/index\/id\/48","items":[{"id":"f59b4278c23edb9b615933dabfe51068","title":"Cabinet Approves Four Quick Win Priority Issues","content_text":"<p><strong>The Cabinet, during its mobile meeting in Songkhla Province on 1 September 2026, approved four &ldquo;quick win&rdquo; priority issues to be carried out immediately by relevant agencies.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said that the four issues involve the economy, social development and the people&rsquo;s quality of life, security, and disaster management, as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>1. Concerning the economy, the Government aims to drive the economy in the five southern border provinces for further growth, based on their potential, especially in agriculture, trade, investment, industry, and tourism sectors. Obstacles to business operations will be eased and financial assistance, particularly soft loans, will be extended. Navigation channels in Songkhla and Pattani will be dredged to provide greater opportunities for local people;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>2. Regarding social development and the people&rsquo;s quality of life, the Government will accelerate the construction of the second Hat Yai hospital and hold discussions with Malaysia on the protection of Thai labor;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>3. On security, the Government will enhance the efficiency of local safety networks, develop security infrastructure, and adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technology for safety maintenance and border management;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>4. Concerning disaster prevention and management, the Government will allocate 142 million baht to urgently increase the efficiency of disaster reduction and mitigation, the construction of temporary shelters in Parrani, and the improvement of drainage systems in Hat Yai and Khuan Lang municipalities, as well as the Khlong Rian flood-retention reservoir.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Cabinet also approved a nationwide disaster insurance system covering 30 million households, offering faster and higher compensation than the existing system for those affected by floods, storms, and earthquakes.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/537678","date_published":"2026-09-01T22:28:00"},{"id":"c915751cf694b818d59013b5aae471cd","title":"Government Backs Two Southern Bridge Projects, Enhancing ASEAN Connectivity ","content_text":"<p><strong>Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul on 31 August 2026 witnessed the signing of construction contracts for two major bridge projects in southern Thailand, which will help strengthen logistics, trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The signing ceremony took place in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, and was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and Mr. Stephen N Ndegwa, incoming World Bank country director for Thailand and Myanmar. The contracts were signed by Mr. Phichit Hunsiri, Director-General of the Department of Rural Roads, and representatives of the CMC Joint Venture and Malaysian company CHEC Construction (M) Sdn Bhd.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The first project, Songkhla Lake Bridge, will connect Krasae Sin District in Songkhla with Khao Chaison District in Phatthalung. The second project, Ko Lanta Bridge, will connect Ko Klang - Ko Lanta Noi subdistricts in Ko Lanta District, Krabi Province, with the mainland.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Anutin cited the two projects as &quot;Bridges of Opportunity,&rdquo; which will improve the people&rsquo;s quality of life, reduce travel distance and time, promote tourism, and distribute income to local communities.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>He stated that these projects will advance alongside sustainable environmental conservation, as both project sites are highly sensitive and ecologically valuable. In particular, Songkhla Lake is a crucial habitat for the protected Irrawaddy dolphin, making it one of the country&#39;s most vital natural resources.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Prime Minister also said that the two projects would play a vital role in developing southern transport networks, under the concept of &ldquo;Green Transport,&rdquo; focusing on balanced and sustainable development. The Government is ready to support these projects&nbsp;that will develop Thailand as a central hub of ASEAN, strengthening regional stability and cooperation, as well.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/537335","date_published":"2026-08-31T21:55:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260901c3b3e125cba41ec7aa07124b7cf103a5092606.jpg"},{"id":"fbc325b07167d8ffc256e76877d33339","title":"Relevant Agencies Link Data to Manage Deportation of Law-Breaking Foreigners ","content_text":"<p><strong>Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek has clarified the announcement of the Prime Minister&#39;s Office Regulation on Deportation B.E. 2569 (2026), which took effect on 28 August 2026, the day after it was published in the Royal Gazette.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>She said that the regulation sets clear procedures that&nbsp;relevant agencies will be able to carry out more quickly and efficiently. Although the deportation law is already in place, there is still a need for detailed procedures and clear coordination between&nbsp;the responsible agencies.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The regulation covers foreign nationals involved in six categories of offenses:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>1. Entering or remaining in Thailand unlawfully under immigration law;<br \/>\r\n2. Working unlawfully under the law governing the employment of foreign nationals;<br \/>\r\n3. Operating a business unlawfully under the Foreign Business Act;<br \/>\r\n4. Forging or using fraudulent official documents;<br \/>\r\n5. Committing offenses carrying a prison sentence of at least five years;<br \/>\r\n6. Acting as a principal offender, instigator, or supporter in any of the first five categories.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>According to the Government Spokesperson, relevant agencies, namely the Ministry of Interior, the Royal Thai Police, the Immigration Bureau, and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, are preparing to integrate their data and are working closely to manage the deportation of foreigners who violate Thai law, including foreign tourists who engage in improper conduct and disturb the public or other tourists. Their joint operations range from investigating misconduct to legal prosecution, sentencing, and preparation for deportation.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>For foreign nationals who have committed offenses and served their legal sentences, relevant agencies will coordinate information in advance before their release, in order to prepare for the deportation process and reduce detention time. Once a deportation order is issued, if the deportee lacks the financial means to return to their home country, the state may use a repatriation budget in accordance with the regulations prescribed by the Ministry of Interior, with the approval of the Ministry of Finance. This process must be completed within 30 days of the issuance of the deportation order.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Ms. Rachada added that the regulation would enable the Government to continuously manage foreign nationals, bridge procedural gaps, and ensure clearer and faster law enforcement, considering public order and safety and efficient state resource management.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/536677","date_published":"2026-08-29T16:31:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260829fbd98424fa45ca86f50b8930cf6962ee165223.jpeg"},{"id":"f089b17314674280232ce640c4afbb07","title":"Prime Minister Congratulates Nene Royal on Reaching AGT 2026 Finale ","content_text":"<p><strong>Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has praised Nene Royal, or Miss Rattikarn Amloy, and congratulated her on winning the Golden Buzzer to advance to the America&#39;s Got Talent 2026 finale.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan said that the Prime Minister expressed his admiration for Nene Royal, a 16-year-old contestant from Phuket, who brought honor to Thailand and her home province on the global stage of America&rsquo;s Got Talent 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Nene impressed the audience with her powerful singing and guitar performance of &quot;Black Hole Sun,&quot; earning the Golden Buzzer from judge Mel B, which secured her direct advancement to the America&#39;s Got Talent finale.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Moreover, the Deputy Government Spokesperson stated that Nene incorporated a Yok Bloe woven fabric from the Andaman region by wrapping it around her waist over her pants, presenting a contemporary Thai aesthetic during her world-class rock performance. This achievement demonstrated Thailand&#39;s cultural capital and captivated a global audience.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>She said that the Government invited all Thai people to support and cheer for Nene in America&rsquo;s Got Talent (Season 21). The finale is scheduled for Tuesday, 22 September&nbsp;2026, and the winner will be announced on Wednesday, 23 September, U.S. time.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Nene&rsquo;s success, she said, is a source of pride for her family, Phuket residents, and all Thai people. It also serves as an inspiration for Thai youth to pursue their dreams.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/536250","date_published":"2026-08-27T19:43:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260827fee375f76f715f684e06f5e792f4fba3212231.jpeg"},{"id":"2a671a84e19db400032c7265cc68f61b","title":"Cabinet Backs Stronger Domestic Violence Bill ","content_text":"<p><strong>The Cabinet, during its meeting on 25 August 2026, approved a draft bill to provide greater protection for victims of domestic violence, updating the existing law in force since 2007.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The draft bill was proposed by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, seeking to amend the Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act B.E. 2550 (2007). It expands the definition of domestic violence beyond physical harm to include threats, intimidation, and economic abuse, while legal protection also covers former spouses and other individuals living under the same roof.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The legislation will make domestic violence a non-compoundable offence. Offenders will face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both, with harsher punishments for repeat offenders within three years, and for violence against children under 18 years.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Another important measure is to stop violence quickly before the situation escalates by empowering officials to immediately issue temporary relief orders to protect the safety of the victim. For instance, the offender will be prohibited from approaching the victim or consuming intoxicants, before the case is submitted to the Juvenile and Family Court for review within 48 hours. Whistleblowers who act in good faith will also be protected from legal liability.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The move to amend this law comes as the domestic violence situation remains an urgent issue needing to be addressed. Statistics from 2025 show that more than 2,000 cases were reported. Out of these, about 20 percent resulted from emotional outbursts and anger leading to physical assault, while another 20 percent were related to drug use. This reflects the fact that domestic violence is not merely an internal household issue but is also connected to various social factors.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>This draft bill also seeks to establish a long-term prevention system by requiring relevant agencies to set up a central database and an electronic data linkage system to monitor and prevent domestic violence. An assessment will be conducted every five years to ensure the law adapts to changing circumstances, making &ldquo;home&rdquo; a safe space for every family member.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/535875","date_published":"2026-08-26T23:54:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/2026082786525a318260de4f8407a931a34a182b045008.jpeg"},{"id":"21ca5c8b1c4bbc7f5d10ae95b4ce179f","title":"Briefing on Progress of Thailand\u2019s OECD Accession","content_text":"<p><strong>Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan attended a meeting with the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs to provide an update on Thailand&rsquo;s accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Held on 19 August 2026 in Bangkok, the meeting was chaired by Mr. Chavaphon Wattanavekin, First Vice-Chair of the Committee. The Vice Minister, together with a representative of the Office of the Council of State, as the principal coordinating agency for the accession process, briefed the Committee on the latest developments. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Thailand is currently undergoing technical reviews by 25 OECD committees, which assess the alignment of Thailand&rsquo;s laws, policies, and practices with OECD standards.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Vice Minister also underscored the important role of the Senate and the legislative branch in supporting necessary legal reforms, promoting public understanding, and strengthening engagement with parliamentarians from OECD member countries through the OECD Global Parliamentary Network.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its support for Thailand&rsquo;s OECD accession process. It has established a Sub-Committee on Consideration and Monitoring of Thailand&rsquo;s OECD Accession to closely study and follow relevant issues, while also placing emphasis on public outreach and raising awareness of the benefits and implications of OECD membership.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Thailand&rsquo;s OECD accession is a national agenda, with the Government aiming to achieve membership by 2028. The accession process also provides an important opportunity to raise national standards and advance domestic reforms, with a view to strengthening Thailand&rsquo;s competitiveness, governance, business environment, and long-term confidence in the country.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/535215","date_published":"2026-08-25T11:53:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202608256e97e0e268f97823760abbb37dc87472121702.jpg"},{"id":"e064ebed813b1d4f3e18e92d37412a96","title":"Elevating Thailand to Asia\u2019s No. 1 High-Value Destination","content_text":"<p><strong>Minister of Tourism and Sports Surasak Phancharoenworakul has announced a new strategic direction for Thailand&rsquo;s tourism, shifting the focus from mass volume to value creation. The initiative aims to elevate Thailand as Asia&#39;s No. 1 high-value destination, offering 365 days of travel experiences year-round.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Mr. Surasak on 24 August 2026 presided over the opening ceremony unveiling the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)&rsquo;s 2027 marketing action plan under the theme &ldquo;The Year of Transformation&rdquo; at Rajadamnern Stadium in Bangkok.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>He stated that the next phase of Thailand&rsquo;s tourism aims to measure success no longer by the number of tourists, but by emphasizing quality, economic value, wealth distribution, and sustainability. Through this approach, Thailand&rsquo;s strengths in health, wellness, culture, gastronomy, sports, and local ways of life will be leveraged to create diverse tourism products and experiences tailored for quality travelers worldwide.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Mr. Surasak also gave policy directives to TAT to upgrade itself into a data-driven organization, using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to analyze tourist behavior and demands and to develop effective marketing plans.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>He stressed the need for &ldquo;Team Thailand&rdquo; cooperation between&nbsp;the public and private sectors, entrepreneurs, communities, and all partners to create a strong tourism ecosystem, enabling Thailand to achieve its goal of becoming an all-season destination for travelers.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Meanwhile, TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said that TAT has set the &ldquo;2027 winning goal&rdquo; by targeting tourism revenue growth of at least 5 percent, a 60:40 distribution of visitors between major and lesser-known destinations, and a tourist loyalty index ranking among the top three in Asia.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>To achieve this, Thailand will rebalance its market portfolio and expand its tourism base into emerging markets, such as Eastern Europe and Latin America. At the same time, the Amazing Thailand campaign will transition into a &ldquo;Meaningful Destination&rdquo; under the theme &ldquo;Healing is the New Luxury.&rdquo;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Thailand will also build a new growth engine, connecting tourism with the well-being economy and pushing forward wellness tourism and a festival economy, including world-class events. A tourism leadership institute is set to be established in 2028 to develop personnel and the new generation to move&nbsp;with changes in the global tourism industry.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/535072","date_published":"2026-08-24T21:48:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260825d9244bdaddb41c902cc85273549d4fed093329.jpg"},{"id":"9e6f7915f490ee86b542e11804e7ad2e","title":"Thailand and Brunei Strengthen Media Cooperation, Advancing Digital Content for New Era","content_text":"<p><strong>Thailand and Brunei Darussalam have deepened their cooperation in media and information in response to the changing audience behavior in the digital era.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Mrs. Sudruetai Lertkasem, Director-General of Thailand&rsquo;s Government Public Relations Department (PRD), co-chaired the 17th Thailand&ndash;Brunei Darussalam Joint Technical Committee (JTC) Meeting with Mr. Awang Ajman bin Haji Meludin, Permanent Secretary (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office of Brunei Darussalam, at the PRD Auditorium in Bangkok on 20 August 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Participants from PRD were Mr. Supaphong Chaolan, Deputy Director-General, Mrs. Nutthanun Rajanakorn, Executive Director of the Foreign Affairs Office, and other relevant officials. Brunei Darussalam was represented by officials from Radio Televisyen Brunei, or Radio Television Brunei (RTB).&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The meeting reviewed and assessed the progress of ongoing cooperative programs under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in the Field of Information and Broadcasting. It also discussed ways to further advance media and information collaboration between the two countries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Both sides also agreed on directions to build upon existing cooperation in television, radio, news exchange, and media personnel development. They will enhance program production for distribution across multiple platforms, with the aim of promoting tourism, culture, and economic opportunities while reaching target audiences more effectively in the digital age.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The two sides also discussed the joint production of content to commemorate significant dual royal occasions in 2027: the 100th anniversary of the birth of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great of Thailand and the 60th anniversary of the reign of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. The initiative aims to further strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries. The Royal Families of both countries have a close relationship, and their bonds of amity give bilateral relations an enduring strength.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>PRD, as Thailand&rsquo;s government agency responsible for public communication and information, has maintained longstanding cooperation with Brunei Darussalam under the MOU, signed on 16 August 2001. The Thailand&ndash;Brunei Darussalam Joint Technical Committee serves as a key mechanism for advancing this cooperation. The MOU has also played an important role in promoting people-to-people exchanges to help both sides better understand and appreciate each other&rsquo;s culture and traditions.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/533869","date_published":"2026-08-21T09:45:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202608212636b1b422d45d4dcd38a73d50e31e76095651.jpg"},{"id":"4e1bbf9e1b7178890458dc427155b7ac","title":"Relief Operations to Help People Affected by Flash Floods in the North","content_text":"<p><strong>Officials have been mobilizing efforts to urgently help flood-affected people in the northern province of Nan, which was declared a disaster zone, allowing immediate release of emergency funds and resources.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Heavy downpours have caused flash floods, river overflows and landslides across several districts of Nan on the early morning of 19 August. Pua District was reportedly the hardest hit, with flooding across seven subdistricts and 60 villages, affecting about 8,000 families and more than 16,000 people.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, currently on an official visit to Australia, has continued to monitor the flood situation and instructed all relevant government agencies to provide assistance for flood victims.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation issued early morning Cell Broadcast alerts to warn local residents. Officials have been told to work around the clock to deal with the flood situation and provide remedies for the affected people when the flood situation eases.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Residents in the northern, northeastern, and central regions have also been advised to watch out for flash floods, forest runoffs, mudslides, and stagnant water between 18 and 21 August.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Meanwhile, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi, who oversees the Government Public Relations Department (PRD) and MCOT Public Company, expressed her concern over the flooding in Nan Province. She instructed state media agencies to provide timely, accurate, and verifiable information throughout their news broadcasts, stressing that reliable information is essential to public safety during a flood emergency.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Information sent from the Nan Provincial Public Relations Office at 11.00 p.m. on 19 August stated that the water level in the Nan River is expected to continue rising. Residents in the following communities were urged to evacuate immediately:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>* Ban Aphai Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Phuang Phayom Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Phumin&ndash;Tha Li Community;<br \/>\r\n* Si Phan Ton Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ming Mueang Community;<br \/>\r\n* Monthian Community (some areas);<br \/>\r\n* Phai Lueang Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Phaya Phu Community;<br \/>\r\n* Chang Kham Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Don Si Soem Community;<br \/>\r\n* Suan Tan Community;<br \/>\r\n* Hua Wiang Tai Community (areas adjacent to Suan Tan);<br \/>\r\n* Don Kaeo Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Mueang Len Community;<br \/>\r\n* Tha Chang Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Phra Net Community;<br \/>\r\n* Suriyaphong Camp Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Nam Lom Community;<br \/>\r\n* Ban Fa Mai, Mu 9 (some areas).<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/533341","date_published":"2026-08-19T20:51:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202608203535175627beb95241d55ba44d16fc08091855.jpg"},{"id":"78e7470ec59924c19b8e805f9a806638","title":"Rising Foreign Business Investment in Thailand ","content_text":"<p><strong>A total of 736 foreign companies received approval to invest in Thailand, under the Foreign Business Act, during the first seven months of 2026, according to the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Director-General of the Department of Business Development Poonpong Naiyanapakorn stated that foreign business investments totaling 219 billion baht were approved for operation in Thailand from January to July 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Among the 736 foreign investors, 133 or 18 percent were from China (38.603 billion baht), 121 or 16 percent from the United States (6.226 billion baht), 97 or 13 percent from Singapore (61.112 billion baht), 94 or 13 percent from Japan (45.085 billion baht), and 72 or 10 percent from Hong Kong (14.077 billion baht).<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Compared with the same period in 2025, the number of approved foreign businesses increased by 153, or 26 percent, from 583 to 736. The investment value rose by 59.748 billion baht, or 37 percent, from 159.46 billion baht to 219.208 billion baht.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Foreign investors receiving licenses to operate in Thailand have employed 5,229 Thai workers, an increase of 1,144 workers, or 22 percent, over the same period in 2025.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) provinces during the seven-month period attracted 220 foreign investors, accounting for 30 percent of all foreign investors in Thailand. This represented an increase of 44 investors, or 25 percent, from 176 in the same period of 2025. Investment totaled 85.615 billion baht, representing 39 percent of Thailand&#39;s total investments. The largest group of foreign investors in EEC was China, followed by Japan and Hong Kong.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/48\/iid\/532929","date_published":"2026-08-18T21:23:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202608184bd0e172eb4811f215d0c9aad791fd99220042.jpeg"}]}