Bangkok:The World Bank has recommended that Thailand revise its agricultural policies to boost productivity and create quality jobs. This advice comes ahead of the IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026, set to occur from October 12-18, where Thailand is actively participating through various forums and activities.

According to Thai News Agency, Thailand is positioning itself as a hub for economic, financial, and development cooperation at both regional and global levels. A notable seminar titled "Reforming Thailand's Agricultural and Food System Empowering Farmers and Building Resilience with Innovation" was held at the headquarters of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives. This seminar, organized by research institutions and agricultural partners, aimed to address the slowdown in agricultural productivity and improve the country's competitiveness.

A senior agricultural economist at the World Bank highlighted that although Thailand's agricultural sector is a significant food production base in the region, its productivity growth has decelerated. The economist advised policy adjustments to support farmers by investing in research and technology. Such measures could increase productivity, add value, and create quality jobs in processing and service industries while minimizing environmental impacts.

In parallel activities at the AM2026 forum, the Ministry of Finance and the Islamic Bank of Thailand are collaborating to promote sustainable Islamic finance. The Islamic Bank of Thailand, a state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Finance, is set to host a seminar on "Islamic Finance From Strength in Crisis to Sustainable Transitional Finance" on October 14th at The Westin Grand Sukhumvit Hotel, Bangkok. The seminar aims to strengthen the economy, expand interest-free financing opportunities in the global financial system, and facilitate financial cooperation between the Middle East and ASEAN regions.