as delivered

Statement by H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa 
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand (Lead Speaker)

Session 5.2: “Promoting investment in the digital economy
for resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability”

4 June 2025, 10.30-12.45 hrs.
Room CC6, OECD Conference Centre, Paris

Dear Colleagues,

1. The digital economy is a vital and dynamic force in advancing Thailand’s development – one that is resilient, innovative, inclusive and sustainable.
2. This year, it is projected to reach a value of almost 150 billion US dollars, or nearly a quarter of Thai GDP, marking a 7.3% growth from the previous year.
3. Such growth is result of consistent domestic policies, especially in digital infrastructure development, the promotion of cluster-based innovation, and the provision of funding and targeted incentives.
4. In 2023, Thailand’s Board of Investment approved investment projects for the digital economy worth 7.3 billion US dollars, focusing on data centers, AI, semiconductors, cloud infrastructure, and digital financial services.
5. We have also implemented measures to enhance cyber security, strengthen data protection, and promote e-government. Notably, our “Go Cloud First” policy requires all public agencies to use secure cloud platforms that align with international data protection standards.
6. We are committed to the use of clean energy in the digital sector - especially for energy-intensive data centers and cloud services.
7. At the regional level, Thailand, as Chair of the Negotiation Committee of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, is committed to concluding this high-standard agreement within this year.
8. Looking forward, Thailand’s goal is to submit the Initial Memorandum in December this year, and to complete the accession process by 2030. We take pride in using AI to support the Initial Memorandum and technical review process.
9. This will support regulatory reforms that will enhance the digital economy ecosystem and help address key challenges we currently face.
10. First, it will bolster Thailand’s efforts to build digital skills for our people.
11. Second, it will help improve coordination across national strategies and committees, particularly in inter-connected areas, such as AI and semiconductors.
12. Third, it will enhance our capacities to tackle cybersecurity threats and digital crime, while reinforcing the ethical, accountable, and trusted use of technologies.
13. Allow me to conclude with a few thoughts on the governance of the digital economy.
14. We must prioritise policy coherence, inter-operability, preparation of our people, and the promotion of shared principles across the digital ecosystem.
15. Thailand will continue to be an active participant in international discussions on digital governance – particularly within APEC and the OECD Digital Policy Committee.
16. In this regard, I am pleased to announce that Thailand will soon adhere to the OECD Recommendations on Artificial Intelligence, reaffirming our deep commitment to this shared endeavour.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.

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