Thai PM courts Chinese investors, vows to streamline regulations and tackle corruption

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is actively courting Chinese investors in Chengdu, China, emphasizing Thailand's advantages as a regional manufacturing hub and promising to improve the business environment.

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Amid growing geopolitical uncertainty, Thailand is well positioned to remain one of the region's leading industrial production hubs, thanks to its well-developed infrastructure and connectivity.

During his visit, Mr. Anutin highlighted that Chinese investors view Thailand's logistics network and strategic location as key competitive strengths. However, investors also called for faster government procedures and fewer redundant regulations. In response, the Prime Minister pledged to streamline approvals and enhance the ease of doing business, assuring them that Thailand is well-positioned to remain a leading industrial production center amid geopolitical uncertainties.

Addressing concerns about corruption, Mr. Anutin declared a zero-tolerance policy for bribery and unofficial payments, stating such practices undermine investor confidence and competitiveness. He also provided an update on transport policy, noting that while the Land Bridge megaproject is still under study, the government's immediate focus is on upgrading existing rail and road connections between the eastern and western coasts, as well as enhancing southern ports.

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The government would not tolerate corruption or the practice of demanding unofficial payments, known as 'tea money', warning such practices erode investor confidence and weaken competitiveness.

Mr. Anutin also opened a Board of Investment office in Chengdu and attended an investment forum, urging closer public-private cooperation. He framed the government's role as removing regulatory obstacles to allow businesses to drive growth. He also intends to accelerate free trade agreement negotiations to boost Thailand's global market access and competitiveness.

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Thailand and China are one family.