PM's Vision Key to Attracting Chinese Investment, Says Charoen Executive

Supachai Charoenphakdi, senior vice president of the Charoen Pokphand Group, revealed on July 19 that the business delegation's roadshow with Prime Minister Anusit Charnvirakul and Public Health Minister in Chengdu aims to attract investment from key regions including Chongqing and Guangdong Province, which serve as important manufacturing bases for China's advanced technology industries.

The push targets the semiconductor, electronics, advanced technology, and aerospace sectors. Establishing partnerships with these regions would significantly boost foreign direct investment into Thailand. Last year, Thailand attracted only $10 billion in FDI compared to Vietnam's $27 billion, a gap that directly impacts GDP growth and underscores the urgent need for Thailand to strengthen its role as a manufacturing and export base, particularly in electronics and semiconductors.

The core strategy for attracting Chinese investment centers on building trust and international relations, as Chinese investors place great emphasis on legal frameworks, tax incentives, and government facilitation to reduce investment risk. "This visit carries good omens because the prime minister has deep understanding across government, political, and private sectors—factors crucial for building confidence and good governance," Supachai said. "This positions senior Chinese leaders to listen to proposals that will give investors confidence Thailand is a viable manufacturing hub compared to Vietnam, Malaysia, or Indonesia."

Supachai concluded that this economic push represents a pivotal step to make Thailand a primary destination for Eastern investment, especially in future industries, strengthening Thailand's economic structure for sustainable long-term growth.