Bangkok:The Ministry of Commerce in Thailand has announced a collaboration with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCC) to strengthen economic ties between Thailand and Japan. The partnership aims to promote co-creation in building new industries and integrating Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into global trade networks.
According to Thai News Agency, on November 4, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, along with ministry executives, engaged in discussions with Mr. Abe Ichiro, President of JETRO Bangkok, and Mr. Kondo Hiroyasu, President of JCC Bangkok. The meeting included representatives from Japanese private companies affiliated with the JCC. The discussions focused on economic trends and suggestions from Japanese firms to enhance Thailand's trade and investment environment.
During the meeting, Ms. Supajee expressed gratitude towards Japanese investors for their sustained confidence in Thailand. She highlighted the historical economic relationship between the two nations, noting the upcoming 140th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2027. She emphasized the importance of transitioning their relationship from a production base to a strategic business partnership, fostering joint technology development, production, and market expansion.
The dialogue covered global economic volatility and evolving industrial competition impacting both countries. Ms. Supajee stressed the need for adaptation and cooperation to navigate these challenges while noting the resilience of the Thai economy driven by exports and private investment. Efforts are being made to upgrade trade agreements to boost business operations and investor confidence.
Ms. Supajee underscored the shift from an "Investment Partnership" to a "Strategic Business Partnership" with Japan. This involves moving beyond traditional investment models to co-create new business opportunities and leverage the strengths of Thai and Japanese private sectors. The collaboration aims to propel Thai SMEs into global value chains, expand distribution channels for Thai products, and facilitate business matching events.
The targeted industries for this collaboration include modern automotive, semiconductors, digital and artificial intelligence, future foods, the aging economy, green industries, and the circular economy. Emphasis will be placed on technology transfer, human resource development, and integrating Thai SMEs into Japanese supply chains.
In conclusion, Ms. Supajee affirmed the Ministry of Commerce's readiness to work with JETRO and JCC in identifying potential industries and mechanisms for collaboration, aiming to drive economic growth and establish a sustainable economic partnership between Thailand and Japan.