On 23 September 2025, Mr. Paisan Rupanichkij, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, presided over the opening of the MFA CEO Forum under the theme “Thailand to the World: Central’s Global Footprint.” The event was organized by the Department of International Economic Affairs at Narathip Auditorium with the participation of members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of foreign chambers of commerce in Thailand, as well as representatives from Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General abroad who joined via teleconference.

Mr. Giuseppe Oliveri, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Central Group, delivered the keynote address in which he shared the Group’s vision as Thailand’s leading retail and service business. He highlighted the company’s expansion into Europe and Asia, spanning 17 countries, with the goal of strengthening the Central brand at the global level, while simultaneously promoting Thai identity and culture through its diverse businesses abroad. He also underscored Central’s role as a platform to support Thai SMEs and local entrepreneurs, as well as the Group’s strong commitment to sustainable development through various corporate initiatives. In addition, the Department of International Economic Affairs invited Thai entrepreneurs who had previously showcased their products under the concept “From Local to Global” at Selfridges in London, a department store under the Central Group, to also exhibit at the event.

The MFA CEO Forum serves as a platform for members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of foreign chambers of commerce to gain insights into Thailand’s economic potential and opportunities in various dimensions. The Forum has been organized regularly since 2016 with this session marking the 23rd edition and the first to be held on-site following the COVID-19 pandemic.