Bangkok: The Prime Minister supports the creative economy, aiming to position Thailand as a regional arts hub. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul fully supports the development of the creative economy as one of the country's new economic engines. He agrees in principle with the private sector's proposal to develop a New National Art and Culture Platform to elevate Thailand's cultural capital and create tangible economic value.
According to Thai News Agency, this issue was discussed between the Prime Minister, economic ministers, and executives from the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Chambers of Commerce on June 10, 2026. The private sector proposed establishing a national arts and culture platform as a new cultural infrastructure, serving as a learning center, skill development area, a platform for showcasing the potential of Thai artists, and a central hub connecting arts, culture, science, technology, and creative innovation.
Ms. Rachada also stated that the Prime Minister views the creative economy not merely as short-term cultural promotion activities, but as a new economic foundation capable of generating income, employment, and business opportunities in the long term, provided an appropriate ecosystem is designed. Thailand has key strengths in its cultural heritage, arts, handicrafts, local identity, and tourism potential, which can be further developed into a high-value economy.
"I believe that Thai cultural capital should not be viewed solely in terms of preservation, but must also be able to create economic opportunities, generate income for the people, and enhance the country's competitiveness. This is possible if art, culture, technology, and the business sector can be systematically linked together," Ms. Rachada said.
One of the key proposals from the private sector is the establishment of an Art Free Zone to attract world-class art, collectors, art institutions, and international event organizers to use Thailand as a regional hub for exhibiting and trading art.
The Prime Minister believes that this approach has the potential to create broad economic value because, in addition to attracting foreign investment, it will benefit the tourism, hotel, restaurant, logistics, and various creative services industries. It will also provide opportunities for Thai artists to showcase their work alongside world-class artists, leading to increased sales, commissions, and commercial development.
The benefits will not be limited to the arts and culture sectors but will spread to the wider economy, generating income and business opportunities for various industries, and helping to enhance the country's long-term competitiveness.