Thailand Sees Foreign Investment Surge to 71.7 Billion Baht in Early 2024
2024年初外資湧入泰國，金額激增至 717 億泰銖
A robust wave of foreign investment hit Thailand in the first five months of 2024, with 317 foreign companies receiving approval under the Foreign Business Act. The total investment reached 71,702 million baht, marking a 58 percent increase in value and a 16 percent rise in volume compared to the same period in 2023. Japan led with 84 projects worth 40,214 million baht, followed by Singapore (51 projects, 5,189 million baht), the United States (50 projects, 1,196 million baht), China (38 projects, 5,485 million baht), and Hong Kong (28 projects, 12,048 million baht). Notably, 99 foreign investors targeted the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), contributing 18,224 million baht, or 25 percent of the total foreign investment during this period.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Karom Polpornklang attributed the upward trend to Thailand’s potential and investor confidence, bolstered by government efforts to attract leading global companies. The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) reported a 31 percent increase in investment promotion applications in the first quarter of 2024, reaching 228,207 million baht (USD 6.2 billion). From January to March 2024, 724 project applications were filed, a 94 percent increase from the previous year, with 460 projects involving foreign investment. The electronics and electrical appliances industry saw the highest investment applications, followed by automotive and parts, petrochemicals and chemicals, digital, and agriculture and food processing sectors.
編者按： 2024年初，外國投資大幅激增，總金額達到 717 億泰銖，這主要受到投資者信心提升以及泰國政府積極吸引全球企業相關措施的推動。電子、汽車與石化等關鍵產業在投資申請中領跑，反映出泰國作為國際企業擴張策略樞紐的強大吸引力。
Thai Exports Surge by 7.2% in May 2024, Forecasted to Sustain Growth Through 2025
2024 年 5 月泰國出口激增 7.2%，預計增長動能將持續至 2025 年
Thai exports in May 2024 experienced a notable 7.2% increase compared to the previous year, driven primarily by agricultural product exports, especially fruits to China. This growth contributed to a trade surplus as imports decreased, marking the first contraction in four consecutive months. Despite the positive year-over-year growth, exports excluding gold and base effects contracted by -1.3% compared to the previous month. Exports to China and India saw significant increases, while those to Australia and the Middle East declined. The decrease in imports was primarily in vehicles and capital goods, although raw materials and consumer goods imports expanded.
SCB EIC projects continued export growth in June and throughout the second half of 2024, with an anticipated positive growth rate of 2.6% for the entire year. This growth is supported by a strengthening global economy, improved manufacturing sector performance, and favorable export product prices. Looking ahead to 2025, similar growth is expected, influenced by global economic conditions and trade volume projections. However, potential risks such as political outcomes and trade conflicts may affect the export growth potential.
編者按：在強勁的農產品出口（特別是銷往中國的水果）帶動下，泰國 2024 年 5 月出口激增 7.2%，並在進口減少的背景下促成了有利的貿易順差。儘管排除黃金後的出口額較上月略有萎縮，但在全球經濟穩健與出口價格有利的支持下，到 2025 年持續增量的整體展望依然樂觀。然而，政治不確定性與緊張貿易局勢等風險，仍可能影響未來的出口表現。
AI Expected to Have Limited Impact on Thai Employment but Skills in High Demand
AI 預計對泰國就業環境影響有限，但高階技能需求激增
The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is projected to have a limited impact on employment in Thailand, with less than 4% of employees in the service sector at high risk of being replaced by the technology, according to a report by Kasikorn Research Center. Despite the low risk of job displacement, AI skills are becoming increasingly important in the Thai workforce. A survey by Microsoft and LinkedIn found that 74% of Thai business leaders would not hire candidates without AI skills, and employers are willing to pay at least 41% more to workers with AI expertise, underscoring the high value placed on AI proficiency.
The survey also revealed that 92% of knowledge workers in Thailand currently use AI at work, with 81% employing AI tools of their choice. Furthermore, 91% of Thai business leaders believe that their companies need to adopt AI to remain competitive. In response to this trend, 90% of Thai leaders expressed a preference for candidates with AI skills over those with more work experience. The findings highlight the growing importance of AI skills in the Thai job market and the necessity for businesses to adapt to technological advancements to maintain competitiveness.
編者按： 根據開泰研究中心（Kasikorn Research Center）的資料，人工智慧（AI）對泰國就業市場的影響將變得微乎其微，服務業中面臨自動化高風險的職位比例不到 4%。儘管如此，AI 技能在泰國勞動力中正變得日益重要；一項調查顯示，高達 74% 的企業領袖會優先聘用具備 AI 專業知識的求職者。這凸顯了雇主對 AI 技能的巨大需求，且他們願意為精通 AI 技術的專業人士提供更高的薪資。
World Bank Urges Thailand to Invest in Infrastructure and Green Economy for Sustained Growth
世界銀行敦促泰國投資基礎設施與綠色經濟以維持長期增長
The World Bank has advised the Thai government to boost investment in ageing infrastructure and the green economy to drive the country’s economic potential beyond the forecasted 2.7% medium-term growth. The bank projects Thai GDP growth at 2.4% in 2024 and 2.8% in 2025, emphasizing that revitalizing infrastructure and enhancing the green economy could elevate growth. Kiatipong Ariyapruchya, a senior economist for Thailand at the World Bank, noted that Thailand’s potential growth for 2023-2030 is estimated at 2.7%, lower than previous decades due to an aging population and subdued productivity growth. He highlighted the importance of public investment in secondary cities and fiscal reforms to stimulate long-term growth and support vulnerable households.
Despite concerns about reconciling fiscal sustainability and short-term stimulus, the World Bank suggests that Thailand has room to increase tax revenue and create fiscal space. The government’s planned digital wallet initiative, if implemented, could enhance near-term growth but also impact fiscal and inflationary pressures. Public debt is expected to rise to 64.6% of GDP by fiscal 2025 and potentially reach 68.6% by 2028 due to increased spending needs. However, Mr. Kiatipong indicated that fiscal reforms and targeted social assistance could effectively support economic recovery, with the Bank of Thailand likely maintaining its policy rate in the absence of significant inflationary pressure.
編者按： 世界銀行建議泰國應優先投資基礎設施與綠色經濟，以提振其在 2024 年預計 2.4% 及 2025 年 2.8% 之上的經濟增長表現。世銀強調了泰國直到 2030 年的增長潛力，並特別指出振興老化基礎設施以及實施財政改革對於支持長期經濟韌性的重要性。儘管外界對支出增加導致的財政永續性感到擔憂，世銀對此建議透過提高稅收收入和實施精準社會援助，來緩解經濟挑戰並維持財政穩健。
Microsoft Announces Major Investments in Cloud and AI Infrastructure for Thailand
微軟宣布重大投資計畫：加速泰國雲端與 AI 基礎設施建設
Microsoft has unveiled significant commitments to build new cloud and AI infrastructure in Thailand, provide AI skilling opportunities for over 100,000 people, and support the nation’s growing developer community. This announcement, made by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event in Bangkok, aims to align with Thailand’s “Ignite Thailand” vision for 2030, which seeks to position the country as a regional digital economy hub. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin emphasized the importance of this partnership for innovation and growth in his special address at the event.
As part of its commitments, Microsoft plans to establish a new datacenter region in Thailand to expand its hyperscale cloud services, enhance AI proficiency among the workforce, and support various sectors, including tourism and public health. Additionally, initiatives like AI Odyssey aim to help 6,000 Thai developers become AI experts. The collaboration extends to major Thai organizations such as AIS, NHSO, SCBX, and the Office of the Council of State, showcasing the transformative potential of AI across different industries. These efforts are expected to significantly boost Thailand’s economic and technological landscape, positioning the country for sustained growth and innovation.
編者按： 微軟宣布在泰國進行重大投資，包括建立全新的資料中心區域（Datacenter Region），以及為超過 10 萬人提供 AI 技能培訓的計畫。這些努力與泰國在 2030 年成為區域數位經濟樞紐的願景不謀而合，旨在推動各行各業的創新與經濟增長。
Taiwan and Thailand Sign Investment Pact, First Under President Lai Ching-te
台泰簽署投資協定，為賴清德總統上任後首例
Taiwan announced a significant investment pact with Thailand on Friday, marking the first agreement of its kind since President Lai Ching-te took office in May. This agreement aims to enhance commercial and economic ties between the two nations amidst growing global supply chain shifts. Taiwan’s Office of Trade Negotiations highlighted Thailand as a key destination for Taiwanese investments, particularly in the electronics and electrical components sectors. The deal, signed by Taiwan’s de facto Ambassador to Thailand, Chang Chun-Fu, and Thai counterpart Narong Boonsatheanwong, emphasizes improved investment transparency and dispute resolution mechanisms, reflecting Taiwan’s increasing investment importance and a strategic pivot away from China.
This pact is part of Taiwan’s broader New Southbound Policy, initiated in 2016 under President Tsai Ing-wen, aiming to diversify economic ties away from China. Thailand is now the fifth country to formalize such an agreement with Taiwan under this policy, joining the ranks of the Philippines, India, Vietnam, and Canada. The new agreement promises enhanced protection and support for Taiwanese investors, updating a previous 1996 pact. Since the policy’s inception, Taiwan-Thailand bilateral trade and investment have surged significantly, with trade growing by 74.6% and investment by 119.8%, underscoring the strategic and economic importance of this renewed partnership.
編者按： 台灣與泰國簽署了一項重要的投資協定，旨在加強經濟與商業聯繫，這是賴清德總統執政後的首個此類協議 。該協議側重於提升透明度與爭端解決機制，反映了台灣在「新南向政策」下，將經濟合作從中國轉向多元化的戰略轉型 。此協議也突顯了泰國作為台灣投資（特別是電子與電氣組件等高科技領域）關鍵目的地的地位 。
Vietnam’s Q2 GDP Growth Accelerates to 6.93%, But Inflation Risks Loom
越南第二季 GDP 增長加速至 6.93%，但通膨風險隱現
Vietnam’s economy saw accelerated growth in the second quarter of 2024, with GDP expanding by 6.93% year-on-year, up from 5.87% in the first quarter, driven by robust exports, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO). The economy grew by 6.42% in the first half of the year, supported by a 14.5% rise in exports and a 10.9% increase in industrial production. Despite this positive trend, Vietnam faces significant challenges, including external risks and uncertainties, as it aims to achieve its annual growth target of 6.0%-6.5%.
However, rising inflation remains a pressing concern, with consumer prices in June climbing 4.32% from a year earlier, approaching the government’s ceiling of 4.5%. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects Vietnam’s economic growth to be close to 6% in 2024, supported by strong external demand and resilient foreign investment, but warns of high downside risks. Inflation pressures are compounded by recent government decisions to raise base salaries for state employees and pensions for retirees, which are expected to further impact the inflation rate. The GSO emphasized the need for close monitoring of price movements and adjustments in key service prices to manage inflation effectively.
編者按： 受強勁出口和工業生產驅動，越南 2024 年第二季 GDP 增長加速至 6.93% 。儘管增長強勁，但不斷上升的通膨（已接近政府 4.5% 的上限）構成了挑戰，促使政府進行嚴密的經濟監控與調整 。
Vietnam Liberalizes Direct Purchase of Green Electricity, Aiming to Boost Renewable Energy Investment
越南放寬直接購買綠電政策，旨在提振再生能源投資
Vietnam is gradually allowing businesses to directly purchase green electricity from power producers, aiming to stimulate the renewable energy sector and attract investment. The government is reviewing a draft decree on direct power purchase agreements (DPPA) for large power users, which has garnered significant interest from foreign enterprises. The DPPA draft outlines two forms of agreements: direct supply, where prices are negotiated between parties, and indirect supply, which uses the national grid and is subject to spot market prices and additional fees. However, the draft targets large users with a minimum monthly consumption of 500,000 kWh, excluding smaller-scale producers and dampening investment enthusiasm in rooftop solar and biomass power.
In a bid to make green energy more accessible, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha announced plans to allow local rooftop solar, waste-to-energy, and biomass power to bypass Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and be accessible through DPPA. This move aligns with Vietnam’s National Power Development Plan (PDP8), which does not impose scale limits on renewable energy projects. With over 103,000 rooftop solar projects currently installed and an additional 2,600 MW planned by 2030, the inclusion of smaller projects in the DPPA framework could spark a significant increase in installations and help businesses meet green certification requirements for exports.
編者按： 越南正推動改革，允許企業直接購買綠色電力，旨在加強再生能源投資 。直接購電協議（DPPA）草案最初針對大型用戶，但計畫將範圍擴大至屋頂太陽能和生物質發電等小型生產者 。這項倡議符合越南能源結構多元化及提升永續性的目標，可能促進全國再生能源設備的裝機量大幅增長 。
Vietnam’s First AI-Generated Sci-Fi Film Released for Free
越南首部 AI 生成科幻電影免費上映
Director Phạm Vĩnh Khương has released “Chạm,” Vietnam’s first entirely AI-generated and mobile phone-captured sci-fi film, free of charge. The groundbreaking film features stunning visual effects and an evocative sound design, all crafted using AI tools on a mobile device. Set in a dystopian world on the brink of apocalypse, “Chạm” explores themes of domestic violence and human connections, delivering a profound message about love and community amidst turmoil.
Khương’s ambitious project, which took 3,000 hours to produce, aims to inspire aspiring filmmakers by demonstrating the power of minimal resources and AI technology. By offering “Chạm” for free, the director encourages viewers to reflect on essential values like empathy, connection, and mutual care within family relationships. This non-profit venture not only optimizes production costs but also seeks to foster a positive and cohesive community through impactful storytelling.
編者按： 由導演范永姜（Phạm Vĩnh Khương）創作的越南首部 AI 生成科幻先鋒電影《Chạm》現已免費放映，展示了突破性的視覺效果及關於人類韌性的感人敘事 。該片完全在行動裝置上利用 AI 工具製作，探討了社會動盪背景下的愛與社群主題，旨在以其創新方式激發電影製作人與觀眾的靈感 。
Electric Vehicles Boost Green Transportation Efforts in Indonesia: An ESG Perspective
電動車推動印尼綠色交通發展：ESG 觀點
Indonesia is intensifying its efforts to combat climate change through the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) as a key solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the transportation sector. With Indonesia being one of the largest contributors to carbon dioxide emissions in the world, the adoption of EVs is crucial to mitigate environmental impact. EVs operate without fossil fuels, significantly lowering CO2 emissions and contributing to improved air quality, a pressing issue in cities like Jakarta. Government initiatives, such as President Regulation No. 55/2019 and new subsidies planned for 2025, aim to accelerate EV adoption, targeting 2.5 million users by 2025 and a 29% reduction in air pollution by 2030.
From a social perspective, the shift to EVs benefits not only public health but also supports drivers in transportation services like Grab and Gojek. These drivers receive subsidies and reduced operational costs, easing financial burdens compared to traditional motorbikes. Moreover, governance aspects are bolstered through supportive policies that incentivize EV purchases and expand charging infrastructure nationwide, though challenges like limited charging stations and regulatory oversight for electric bicycles remain. Through an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) lens, Indonesia’s embrace of EVs underscores its commitment to sustainable development, aiming to enhance environmental stewardship, social welfare, and effective governance in the transportation sector.
編者按： 印尼正加大力度推廣電動車（EV）以減少碳排放，藉此應對氣候變遷，特別是在雅加達等人口稠密的城市地區 。政府措施包括補貼和支持性法規，旨在加速駕駛者採用電動車，這對公共健康和交通服務業的經濟穩定皆有助益 。這些措施反映了印尼透過改善環境實踐、為駕駛提供社會支持以及加強電動車產業治理，實現永續發展的承諾 。
Indonesia National Data Centre Cyber Attack Disrupts Services, $8 Million Ransom Demanded
印尼國家數據中心遭受網路攻擊導致服務中斷，遭勒索 800 萬美元
Indonesia’s national data centre fell victim to a cyber attack that disrupted critical government services, including immigration checks at airports, Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi revealed to Reuters on Monday. The attacker, using a new variant of the Lockbit 3.0 ransomware, demanded an $8 million ransom. The incident caused significant delays at immigration desks, with automated passport machines now operational as efforts to restore full services continue.
The Lockbit cybercrime group, known for its ransomware operations, encrypted data within the national data centre, prompting concerns about data security and operational disruptions across governmental agencies. Digital forensics investigations are currently underway to assess the full extent of the breach and to determine whether any confidential data was compromised. This attack marks the latest in a series of cyber incidents targeting Indonesian entities, underscoring ongoing vulnerabilities despite previous security breaches affecting the country’s banking sector and government ministries in recent years.
編者按： 印尼國家數據中心遭到使用 Lockbit 3.0 勒索軟體的網路攻擊，導致機場入境檢查等關鍵政府服務中斷 。攻擊者勒索 800 萬美元，凸顯了印尼政府機構在恢復受影響服務及評估潛在數據洩露期間，所面臨的持續性資安挑戰 。