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

On 20 February 2025, the last day of the EABC / EU-ABC Mission Trip to Thailand, EABC and delegates engaged in high-level discussions with key Thai government representatives.

In the morning, EABC visited the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), led by Adj. Prof. Wisit Wisitsora-At, Permanent Secretary for Digital Economy and Society, to discuss digital economy policies and regulatory frameworks. The meeting covered Thailand’s plans to ensure a smooth transition for businesses and collaboration opportunities to drive AI adoption, enhance digitalisation, and foster a competitive and sustainable digital economy.

Later, EABC visited the Customs Department under the Ministry of Finance, led by Director General Theeraj Athanavanich, to discuss trade facilitation and regulatory improvements. The meeting covered updates on the planned 2025 review of the customs code and opportunities for private sector input in the revision process

Ending the day, EABC met with the Ministry of Commerce, led by H.E. Pichai Naripthaphan, Minister of Commerce, to discuss Thailand’s trade policies and investment climate. The meeting focused on the Ministry’s key priorities for enhancing global competitiveness, supporting foreign businesses, and ensuring fair competition. EABC also inquired about the latest developments in the EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, the status of the Patent Act amendments, and potential challenges in sensitive sectors.