Bangkok: The Prime Minister opened the GPO Pharmaceutical Summit 2026, emphasizing that pharmaceutical security is the foundation of health security. He affirmed Thailand's potential in food and medicine, and its readiness to become a global hub.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the opening ceremony of the GPO Pharmaceutical Summit 2026. In his opening remarks, he congratulated the Government Pharmaceutical Organization on its 60th anniversary, highlighting the organization's valuable role in ensuring and strengthening Thailand's pharmaceutical security over the years.
The Prime Minister stated that the Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO) has consistently demonstrated that pharmaceutical security is a crucial foundation for national health security. Regardless of health threats, the GPO is an organization the public can rely on, assuring them of a robust public health system with sufficient quantities of quality medicines at affordable prices. He emphasized that during crises such as global pandemics, equitable care is provided to all, regardless of social status.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of connecting pharmaceutical innovations globally to enhance competitiveness and ensure the sustainability of the country's public health system. He highlighted the need for developing pharmaceutical precursors, research, and vaccine development within Thailand's capabilities to achieve true security and self-reliance.
He further stated, "We believe that even if Thailand produces the most advanced medicines, it will be meaningless if the public does not have access to them. Our commitment is to maintain the standard of service to the public. The key challenge is to restructure and upgrade Thailand's industries to be strong and resilient for future health crises. Cooperation from all sectors, or 'Team Thailand,' is needed to make Thailand a hub for pharmaceutical security."
The Prime Minister emphasized that Thailand must focus on food and pharmaceutical security to successfully export its products and increase their value. He asserted, "Thailand has sufficient potential to assure the international community of food and medicine security. We may not compete in producing electric vehicles, but in food, medicine, agricultural products, and public health system quality, we can establish ourselves as a valued trading partner, not just a seller."