Thailand's finance minister pushes regional economic integration
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has outlined a vision to position Thailand and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) as a network of “trusted connectors” capable of navigating an increasingly fragmented global economy.
Thailand's Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas presented a vision at the Bangkok Business Summit 2026 to position Thailand and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) as interconnected entities, capable of thriving in a complex global economy. Thailand's "New Horizon" strategy aims to leverage the region's strengths to foster growth amidst geopolitical divisions.
Ekniti emphasized the importance of openness in both Thai and Asean economies, which have expanded through trade, investment, and connectivity. The concept of a "trusted connector," advocated by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has gained economic significance due to global competition demanding security and trustworthiness alongside efficiency.
Four major forces are reshaping the global economy, including geopolitics and geoeconomics, artificial intelligence (AI), climate change, and ageing societies. These issues transcend national borders and require collective action by Asean countries. Geoeconomic factors such as tariffs, export controls, subsidies, and stricter rules of origin are influencing trade and investment patterns.
Global companies are seeking reliable locations with diversified supply chains to withstand disruptions. AI is becoming a source of productivity and competitive advantage, with access to semiconductors, computing capacity, data, and skilled workers shaping economic security. Asean should attract data centers and AI investment while promoting digital infrastructure, AI talent, and SME adoption.
In the energy and climate domain, the Asean Power Grid exemplifies regional cooperation that can enhance energy security and competitiveness. Finally, ageing populations should be perceived as opportunities for growth in healthcare, medical services, wellness, and other sectors, with labour connectivity between countries having varying demographic profiles.
Written by urgent.news from Bangkok Post Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
