The IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings provided Thailand with an opportunity to showcase its cultural strengths, generate business activity and lay the foundations for longer-term economic gains, according to industry leaders.
Throughout the week-long gathering, international financial leaders attending the meetings at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center experienced a blend of economic dialogue and Thai culture.
Delegates were introduced to carefully curated local cuisine highlighting regional rice varieties and locally sourced ingredients, while a welcome dinner at Government House on Oct 14 featured elaborate cultural performances. Among the highlights was a performance by Nene Royal, a young Phuket rocker who won this year’s America’s Got Talent competition.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul described her appearance as an example of “Thai youth power” showcasing the country’s creativity on the global stage.
Business leaders said the event, which concluded on Oct 18, strengthened Thailand’s image as a capable host of major international gatherings.
“The meetings showed a positive image of Thailand in the eyes of foreigners,” said Pimjai Leeissaranukul, chairwoman of the Federation of Thai Industries.
She said the country demonstrated its readiness to host world-class events, building on its experience in organising numerous international conferences and forums.
CREATIVE ECONOMY
The meetings brought together policymakers, executives, investors and representatives from 191 countries, creating an opportunity to promote Thailand’s creative economy while lifting activity across the service sector.
“Bangkok utilised the global stage to present its creative economy and rich cultural heritage,” Mrs Pimjai said.
Siam Piwat Group, a real estate and retail developer, joined the government in welcoming delegates through exhibitions showcasing Thai identity and craftsmanship, including displays inspired by the Royal Barge Procession.
According to Sangchai Theerakulwanich, strategic chairman of the Federation of Thai SMEs, the event helps to enhance Thailand’s international profile and encourages more foreign visitors to travel to the country.
“This benefit positively impacts tourism,” he said.
The meetings are expected to provide a short-term economic boost, as Mrs Pimjai said they should generate around 2 billion baht in economic value through increased spending on hotels, restaurants and transport services.
SUPPORTING INVESTMENT
Industry leaders said the meetings should support government efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen the economy.
Mrs Pimjai said the event highlighted opportunities in targeted sectors including data centres, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, green technologies and smart electronics.
The gathering also helped deepen multilateral cooperation while drawing attention from high-value travellers and international investors, she said.
Mr Sangchai said the meetings offered Thailand an opportunity to present its economic potential to the world and could support its ambition to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
The government set a goal of securing OECD membership by 2028 and established a national steering committee to oversee the accession process.
To ensure lasting benefits, he urged authorities to establish a dedicated follow-up team to compile key insights from the meetings and turn them into concrete national development plans.
“The momentum should continue after the meetings,” said Mr Sangchai.