Bangkok:The IMF-World Bank 2026 conference has commenced, with Thailand leveraging the platform to highlight its economic potential. Prime Minister Ekniti is focused on attracting investment in future industries and enhancing global financial cooperation to foster new opportunities for Thailand's economy.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Lalida Perisvivatana, announced that Thailand will host the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings from October 12-18, 2026, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. The event aims to attract investment in future industries and expand international economic cooperation to drive long-term growth for Thailand.

A highlight of the first day was the opening of the Thailand Pavilion exhibition. This exhibition showcases Thailand's development approaches in digital public infrastructure, climate change risk management, and healthcare systems, supporting an economy geared towards an aging society. These areas reflect Thailand's strengths in technology, innovation, and sustainable development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha, is poised to present Thailand as a key investment hub, particularly in digital infrastructure, clean energy, and targeted industries such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. This presentation aims to attract foreign investment and boost Thailand's regional competitiveness.

Ms. Lalida also noted that on October 13, Mr. Ekniti will participate in a forum titled 'Building Resilience in a Fragmented World' alongside Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, Mr. Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, and Ms. Riika Purra, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Finland. The forum will address strategies to strengthen the economy amidst global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.

Plans for bilateral discussions are also underway, including a meeting between Mr. Mohammed Al-Jasser, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank, and Mr. Ekniti to exchange ideas on economic and development cooperation.

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the importance of using the conference to create economic, trade, and investment opportunities, ultimately benefiting the Thai people. The government intends to use the week-long conference to enhance Thailand's global economic role.

A significant event during the conference is the plenary session of the Governors of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, scheduled for October 16, 2026.