Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has introduced an ambitious "Three Arrows" strategy aimed at reviving the Thai economy and addressing significant challenges anticipated in 2026. Ekniti presented this plan during his keynote address at the POSTTODAY THAILAND ECONOMIC DRIVES 2026 seminar, where he provided insights into the current economic landscape and future prospects for Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Ekniti noted that while the Thai economy has shown signs of recovery, growing by 2.5% in the fourth quarter of the previous year due to government investment and the "Half-Price Plus" co-payment scheme, it remains fragile. He likened the economy to a patient recovering from a critical condition, facing looming challenges such as geopolitical and geoeconomic conflicts, climate change-induced natural disasters, and domestic issues like household debt, an aging society, and reduced private sector investment.
Ekniti's "Three Arrows" strategy involves a comprehensive four-year plan focusing on three key areas: infrastructure and green economy investments, human resource development, and legal reforms. The first arrow emphasizes clean energy initiatives and the liberalization of electricity trading to attract foreign direct investment, with a target of 970 billion baht. The second arrow concentrates on education reform to align with private sector needs and enhance digital and AI skills across the population. The third arrow seeks to streamline investment project approvals through legal reforms, reducing review times significantly.
Ekniti stressed that the essence of this strategy is centered on relentless investment in infrastructure, human resources, and legal reform. He envisions transforming Thailand from the "sick man of Asia" to the "strongest economy in Asia" by achieving sustainable long-term economic growth through these strategic investments. Ekniti expressed optimism that if the government completes its four-year term, it will successfully strengthen the Thai economic structure.