EABC: The EU- ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) Mission to Thailand 2025

On 19 February 2025, as part of the EABC / EU-ABC Mission Trip in Thailand, EABC, alongside EU-ABC delegates, participated in high-level discussions with key Thai government representatives on economic and policy issues.

In the morning, EABC met with the Ministry of Public Health, led by H.E. Somsak Thepsutin, Minister of Public Health, to discuss risk-sharing agreements and dedicated funding mechanisms aimed at improving access to innovative treatments, particularly for rare diseases.

Later, EABC paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra at Government House. EABC underscored the importance of the EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement in unlocking Thailand’s economic potential and strengthening its role in the global supply chain amid geopolitical shifts. Reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Thai government to drive economic transformation and enhance Thailand’s attractiveness as an investment destination for European businesses.

In the afternoon, EABC met with the Bank of Thailand (BOT), led by H.E. Roong Poshyananda Mallikamas, Deputy Governor, to discuss Thailand’s economic outlook, BOT’s key priorities, and strategic initiatives supporting the country’s net-zero emissions target by 2065. The meeting also included cross-border digital payments and financial integration.

Simultaneously, another group of EABC representatives visited the Ministry of Transport, led by H.E. Chayatan Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary, to discuss Thailand’s Master Transportation Plan for 2030, with a particular focus on technology, railway infrastructure, and procurement strategies.

Later in the afternoon, EABC had discussions with the Ministry of Labour, led by H.E. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, focusing on key labour policy priorities, including updates on the Labour Protection Act and the Freelancer Act. The meeting also explored potential collaborations between the private sector and the Ministry in labour market initiatives and regulatory developments.

At the same time, another group of EABC representatives met with H.E. Akanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, to discuss sustainability and investment priorities, key sectors targeted for investment, and strategies to enhance Thailand’s investor attractiveness.