Thailand Business News — Morning Briefing | Tuesday, 3 November 2026 | Thailand, ASEAN and Global Markets

Today's briefing examines Thailand's strengthening manufacturing sector, South Korea's substantial AI investment program, China's attempts to control currency appreciation and stabilize its stock market, and varying manufacturing trends across Asia. Thailand's manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) reached a ten-month high of 54.8 in October, up from 54.3 in September, indicating a surge in new orders, accelerated production, and expanded customer bases.

However, manufacturers also reported an increase in outstanding business, indicating a supply-side constraint due to workforce limitations and employee resignations.

Meanwhile, South Korea announced a major expansion of public investment in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and data centers, allocating 21.3 trillion won (approximately US$16 billion) to AI and three strategic technology projects in the 2027 budget, nearly doubling this year's allocation. The proposed budget also establishes a Future Response Fund of 162.3 trillion won to support strategic industries, education, regional development, and younger workers.

Despite inflation remaining above the Bank of Korea's 2% target, this investment program reflects South Korea's commitment to maintaining its position in the global semiconductor industry while developing AI capabilities.

China is implementing measures to manage currency appreciation and stabilize its stock market. The country is taking steps to address currency pressures and ensure market stability, although specific details of these efforts were not provided in the source material. Finally, the briefing highlights diverging manufacturing trends across Asia, emphasizing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by different countries in the region.