Thailand Hosts IMF-World Bank Meetings to Promote AI-EV Investment
Thailand is hosting the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok from October 12 to 18, using the event to promote investment in AI, EV, digital infrastructure and clean energy. Deputy Prime Minister Ekannit Nitithatprasat will highlight Thailand's strengths and join discussions on economic resilience with global leaders. The government hopes the summit will generate long‑term growth benefits for businesses and the public.
On October 12, 2026, Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisivitthana said Thailand is hosting the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok from October 12 to 18. The government plans to use the gathering of economic policymakers, financial institution leaders, and international delegates to present Thailand's economic strengths, attract investment in future industries, and expand international economic cooperation to create long‑term growth opportunities. Lalida noted that the first day's key activity is the opening of the Thailand Pavilion, which highlights the country's development in digital public infrastructure, climate‑change resilience, and health‑economic systems for an ageing society, reflecting Thailand's strength in linking technology, innovation, and sustainable development to people's quality of life. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekannit Nitithatprasat said he will use the forum to showcase Thailand's readiness as a regional investment hub, focusing on digital infrastructure, clean energy, and target industries such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles to attract foreign investment and boost competitiveness. Lalida added that on October 13 Ekannit will join a panel titled 'Building Resilience in a Fragmented World' with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Finnish Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Riikka Purra to discuss ways to strengthen economic resilience amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Bilateral talks are also planned with international financial institutions, including a meeting between the Islamic Development Bank Group's President Muhammad Al‑Jasser and Ekannit to exchange views on economic and development cooperation. Government spokesperson Lalida said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stressed that hosting the global summit must go beyond a successful event and should translate into economic, trade, and investment opportunities that benefit businesses, services, and the public, with the government aiming to maximise Thailand's role on the world economic stage throughout the week. The plenary session of the IMF and World Bank governors is scheduled for October 16, 2026.
