JETRO, BOI, and EECO Partner on AI and Green Tech for 2026

In a significant move to redefine the industrial landscape of Southeast Asia, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO Bangkok), the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), and the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) have formalized a strategic partnership.

The collaboration, announced at the Thailand-Japan Sustainable Business Forum 2026, focuses on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Green Transformation (GX) to drive long-term economic stability.
 

The partnership was solidified through two Memorandums of Cooperation (MOC) aimed at fostering mutual growth in decarbonization, resource circulation, and advanced digital adoption.

Strengthening a Century-Old Bond
Mr. Ichiro Abe, President of JETRO Bangkok, highlighted the evolution of the Thai-Japanese relationship from traditional manufacturing toward a high-tech, sustainable future.

"Thailand and Japan have enjoyed a long-standing and prospering relationship. Japanese companies have invested in Thailand and grown alongside the industrial development of both countries. Therefore, to further strengthen this partnership, two MOCs were signed... This aims to promote mutual collaboration in the dimensions of sustainability development and Green Transformation, which the business sector increasingly needs to prioritize."

To support this, JETRO launched the "Sustainable Business Desk" and a special publication, "VOICE FROM THAILAND," featuring in-depth insights into the nation's policy direction and business strategies.

Thailand: The Growth Epicenter of ASEAN
The forum revealed impressive economic data, positioning Thailand as a primary destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Ms. Sudhasinee Smitra, Deputy Secretary General of the BOI, noted that investment applications reached a decade-high in 2025, valued at 1.8 trillion baht—a 67% increase from the previous year.
 

"Today, sustainable investment is no longer an 'option' but a 'competitive advantage' and the heart of national strength. Currently, the world places the highest priority on decarbonization, clean energy, and the circular economy. This aligns with the BOI's policy of promoting the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) economy model... The BOI firmly reassures that Thailand is fully prepared to support investors in navigating this transition."

The EEC as a Hub for AI and Future Mobility
The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) remains the frontline for this technological transition. Mr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EECO, emphasized that the region is shifting toward "new-age industries," specifically Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Data Centers.

"The rapid expansion of the EV and Data Center industries demands stable and green electricity, meaning investors do not solely consider infrastructure readiness, but also prioritize renewable energy and carbon management capabilities. Sustainability is not merely about environmental conservation; it also directly impacts supply chain decision-making, global market access, and long-term investor confidence."

Innovation in Action: AI × Sustainability
The forum featured high-level panel discussions exploring the intersection of deep tech and corporate responsibility. Key industry figures shared how AI is being used to optimize energy consumption and enhance supply chain efficiency.

Featured Panelists Included:

Mr. Prempreedee Kitirattrakarn (CEO, ExpresSo NB, VC of PTT)

Mr. Om Kaosa-ard (Head of Venture Capital, INNOPOWER)

Mr. Niran Banleurat (Head of AI Strategy, SCG)

Ms. Suthida Jongjenkit (President, SAHA PATHANA INTER-HOLDING)