Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, has reiterated the nation's readiness to serve as a global manufacturing base, extending an invitation to major US companies to invest in future industries. She made this announcement during her speech at the Thailand - US Trade and Investment Summit 2026 held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, the event, organized by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM Thailand), and the US Chamber of Commerce, saw participation from prominent figures including U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Sean K. O'Neill, and representatives from the government and business sectors of both nations. The summit underscored the enduring partnership between Thailand and the United States, a relationship spanning over two centuries based on trust, mutual respect, and shared interests.
Supajee highlighted the significant role the United States plays as one of Thailand's leading trading partners and its top export market. She underscored the contribution of American companies in Thailand, noting their investment amounted to tens of billions of US dollars and has created numerous jobs. These companies are pivotal in technology transfer and human resource development, enhancing Thailand's competitiveness.
Looking forward, Thailand is poised to evolve into a high-income economy driven by advanced technology, innovation, and sustainable growth. Supajee emphasized the government's commitment to promoting investments in future industries such as digital technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, and clean energy. She invited US investors to join Thailand in this transformative journey, fostering new opportunities and prosperity.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of developing economic relations with the United States based on 'Partnership and Co-creation.' She assured that the Thai government is ready to support this through infrastructure development, workforce skills enhancement, and a competitive regulatory environment to ensure sustainable investment growth.
Regarding trade relations, Supajee expressed Thailand's commitment to pushing forward the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, aiming for balanced and mutually beneficial outcomes. She plans to visit Washington, D.C. to advance these negotiations further.
Additionally, she noted that Thai companies have invested more than US$19 billion in the United States, contributing to job creation and economic growth in both nations. Supajee concluded by affirming Thailand's readiness to be a strategic partner of the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to foster a resilient economy and shared prosperity for future generations.