BANGKOK CITIZENS – On November 1, Thailand’s Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan met with Japanese business leaders to boost investment in advanced technology sectors and restore Japan as Thailand’s top foreign investor. He discussed this with Keita Ishii, president of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), and executives from major Japanese firms.
ACCORDING TO THAIGER – The minister highlighted the strong economic ties between Thailand and Japan, noting that Japanese investment accounts for a quarter of all foreign investment in Thailand. Pichai urged Japan to increase its involvement in modern industrial supply chains, especially in PCBs, semiconductor manufacturing, and digital AI sectors.
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Thailand Seeks to Boost Japanese Investment in High-Tech Sectors
Thailand’s government is ready to support Japanese investment, emphasizing its capability to manufacture advanced technology components. Additionally, the Commerce Minister highlighted Thailand’s potential as a food security hub, offering to serve as a warehouse and export center for countries including Japan.
Moreover, Japanese business leaders showed interest in expanding their investments into hydrogen technology, green energy, and service industries. The meeting underscored the robust trade relationship between the two countries, which reached $55.8 billion (1.8 trillion baht) in 2023.
Furthermore, Thai exports to Japan totaled $24.6 billion, while imports reached $31.1 billion. Thailand is also strengthening its semiconductor industry by preparing a skilled workforce. To attract foreign investment, Thailand plans to extend land lease terms to 99 years, aligning with its 2025 strategic vision.
(BEAM CHAYAPON)
