Tokyo: The Prime Minister has arrived in Tokyo to discuss strengthening investment and promoting the Thai-Japanese economy with "Team Thailand," and to send his support to the Thai athletes.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkapop Pienpises, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has arrived in Tokyo, Japan, and is scheduled to chair a meeting of Team Thailand in Japan at the Imperial Tokyo Hotel tomorrow. The meeting will address reports on performance, challenges, and suggestions to ensure that the work of Thai agencies in Japan aligns with the government's direction and goals in promoting Japanese business and investment, particularly in the automotive industry, which is crucial to the Thai economy. This includes expanding the production supply chain and promoting Thailand as an investment hub for future industries, creating opportunities for Thai citizens and the private sector.
"Team Thailand" comprises representatives from Thai agencies abroad who work together to promote and strengthen cooperation between Thailand and those countries. They integrate their work and drive Thai policies across various dimensions-diplomatic, economic, political, social, and cultural-in a unified direction to achieve national goals and safeguard national interests.
The Team Thailand in Japan comprises representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the Ministry of Industry, the Ministry of Labour, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the Board of Investment (BOI). Furthermore, the Prime Minister has also initiated the "Team Thailand Plus" concept to provide opportunities for Thai private sector businesses abroad to participate in setting goals and developing strategies for economic and social development together.
In terms of economic relations, Japan is Thailand's third-largest trading partner, after China and the United States, with a total trade value exceeding US$53,204 million, representing 7.77% of Thailand's total trade with other countries. Thailand exported US$23,549 million to Japan. Regarding investment, Japan remains the number one foreign investor in Thailand, with a cumulative investment value of 184,741 million baht by 2025. The Board of Investment (BOI) has approved 248 investment projects from Japan, totaling 67,158 million baht, ranking fifth among all approved foreign investment projects. Key investment sectors include machinery and automotive, metals and materials, and electrical and electronics.
In addition to preparing for tomorrow's Team Thailand meeting, the Prime Minister also sent his best wishes to the Thai athletes participating in this year's Asian Games. He urged everyone to perform to the best of their abilities. Regardless of the results, everyone is a representative of Thailand, committed to doing their duty and bringing honor to the country in this international competition. It is a source of pride for all Thais, Mr. Ekkapop concluded.