Anutin Pledges Government Support for Chinese Investment

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Wednesday reaffirmed Thailand's close ties with China and pledged government support for investment and trade partnerships, saying the country is ready to welcome foreign businesses while protecting national security.

Speaking at the opening of the Thailand–China Cooperation Expo 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Anutin said Thailand and China's relationship was built on decades of diplomatic ties and centuries of historical connections.

The event was attended by Thai and Chinese business leaders, including representatives from the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Board of Investment (BOI), and Chinese business associations.

"Thailand and China are like family countries," Anutin said, adding that both nations should strengthen cooperation for mutual benefit amid global challenges. He said Thailand needed to work with China, describing the country as a major economy with advanced research and development capabilities.

Anutin said Chinese companies he met during his recent visit to China had expressed confidence in Thailand and were interested in investing, creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities.

Addressing concerns over Chinese investment, including criticism that Chinese companies may not transfer technology or rely heavily on Chinese supply chains, Anutin said cooperation itself could help develop Thai skills and capabilities.

"Technology transfer is not just about opening a book. It comes from training, working together, planning and developing strategies together," he said.

The prime minister said the government would fully support foreign investment through measures such as the BOI's "Thailand FastPass" initiative, which aims to streamline investment procedures. He also warned against anyone obstructing investment projects, saying those who create unnecessary barriers would not be allowed to hinder the country's economic progress.

"Those who obstruct or become obstacles to the government's policies will not be on the path that leads to our success," Anutin said.

On security, Anutin assured investors that Thailand remained stable and safe, saying the country was capable of protecting itself from external threats. "Thailand cannot be invaded or threatened," he said. "We have told our friends that we want to live peacefully. Do not threaten us, but if anyone comes to threaten us, we will not stand still."

Anutin said Thailand welcomed international investors and promised the government would remove obstacles while ensuring businesses operate under Thai laws.

The Thailand–China Cooperation Expo 2026 showcases products, businesses and investment opportunities from both countries. During his visit, Anutin toured exhibition booths, sampled Pu'er tea from China's Yunnan province and observed a demonstration of an autonomous passenger drone.