Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) reported a notable rise in investment activity during the first quarter of 2025, with applications totaling approximately USD 11.8 billion. This represents a 97% increase compared to the same period in 2024. A total of 822 investment promotion applications were submitted, marking a 20% year-on-year increase. The digital and automotive sectors attracted the most interest. Foreign direct investment (FDI) also showed strong momentum, with 618 projects valued at around USD 7.3 billion, reflecting year-on-year increases of 43% in project numbers and 62% in value.
Hong Kong led all foreign investors, followed by China and Singapore. Other key investors included Japan, Taiwan, and several European countries. The Eastern region of Thailand attracted the most investment, receiving over USD 6.7 billion from 444 projects. This was followed by the Central, Southern, Northeastern, Western, and Northern regions.
High-investment sectors included digital (USD 2.6 billion), electronics (USD 2.4 billion), automotive (USD 645 million), renewable energy (USD 481 million), petrochemicals (USD 383 million), agriculture and food processing (USD 350 million), tourism (USD 255 million), and medical (USD 221 million).
Investment promotion approvals covered 776 projects. These projects are expected to generate 60,000 jobs and increase exports by over USD 10.7 billion annually. Additionally, 82 applications worth USD 152 million focused on upgrading existing industries through automation, energy conservation, and digital technology. BOI anticipates that global economic shifts will require Thailand to adapt to remain competitive.
(Source: The Nation)
