Bangkok: The Board of Investment (BOI) is actively supporting Thai entrepreneurs in their transition to new-era industries with a goal to increase investment by 86% by 2025.
According to Thai News Agency, the BOI has projected that investment from Thai companies will surpass 670 billion baht by 2025, showcasing the adaptability and potential of the Thai private sector in embracing modern industries that are driven by technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
Mr. Narut Teodsathirasak, Secretary-General of the BOI, highlighted the critical role of Thai entrepreneurs in bolstering the economy alongside foreign investments. By 2025, Thai-owned companies are expected to submit 1,170 investment promotion applications, making up one-third of all projects seeking promotion, with a total investment value exceeding 676 billion baht. The BOI's data indicates that Thai entrepreneurs have significant potential in sectors such as infrastructure and transportation, digital and data centers, clean energy, metals and chemicals, agriculture and food, and medical services, among others.
In the infrastructure and transportation sector alone, investment is projected to reach 195,899 million baht across 98 projects. The digital and data center group is set to invest 187,494 million baht through 66 projects, focusing on critical digital infrastructure like data centers and cloud services to meet the growing demand for data and AI technology. The clean energy sector, with 319 projects, anticipates a total investment of 103,083 million baht, primarily in solar and wind power generation, reinforcing the transition to a green economy.
Furthermore, investments in the metal, chemical, and construction materials group are expected to total 91,433 million baht, while the agriculture and food sector is anticipated to attract 45,383 million baht. Beyond these core sectors, Thai entrepreneurs are also venturing into specialized medical centers, pharmaceutical manufacturing, electric vehicle infrastructure, and more, showcasing a diverse investment landscape.
The BOI has also introduced measures to facilitate investment promotions, such as a minimum investment requirement of only 1 million baht, and a reduced threshold of 500,000 baht for Thai SMEs. Benefits such as doubling the corporate income tax exemption limit are offered, alongside financial tools from the Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to support the development of skilled personnel and investment in modern technology, research, and green industries. These initiatives aim to enable Thai entrepreneurs to adapt and drive the country's sustainable new economy forward.