Thailand’s govt backs AI industry and boosts digital infrastructure

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced that the government is ready to support the AI industry and enhance the country’s digital infrastructure. The statement was made at the Microsoft Build: AI Day Event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, where he welcomed around 2,000 developers and business and technology leaders.

“AI has changed many aspects of our lives, workplaces, and business operations. Thailand is now ready for AI, and we are moving to fully back the AI industry.”

PM Srettha also affirmed that the country’s digital infrastructure is ready for the future.

Thailand is among the nations with the strongest Internet and digital infrastructure in the region, featuring broadband internet, mobile connectivity, 5G infrastructure, and an international submarine cable network. The Ignite Thailand vision, initiated in February, is a testament to the government’s goal to transform Thailand into a regional hub across eight key industries.

The 62 year old prime minister explained that an integral part of this vision is to make Thailand the digital economy hub of the region, if not the world. This goal involves attracting future high-tech industries and fostering a secure digital ecosystem, including infrastructure providers and developers.

Since taking office last September, Bangkok-born Srettha highlighted the government’s efforts in implementing several key policies to boost Thailand’s competitiveness and global standing. The government is pushing forward the second phase of the national AI strategy and action plan for 2024 to 2027 to leverage AI and cloud computing in the country.

The Thai prime minister also mentioned the Board of Investment’s decision to include the digital industry among the strategic investment options. This decision comes with an extensive investment incentive package designed to encourage digital-related activities.

AI industry

Furthermore, the government is focusing on the transition to green energy. PM Srettha asserted that businesses need renewable energy to meet their net-zero targets. The government is committed to achieving global climate change commitments and having 50% of energy production come from renewable sources by 2040.

In partnership with digital powerhouses like Microsoft, the government plans to establish a sustainability sandbox to stimulate environmental innovation. The prime minister expressed pleasure at learning that Thailand’s commitment to progress aligns with Microsoft’s vision. The government and Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding last November to advance the vision of a cloud-first, AI-powered Thailand, reported Bangkok Post.

“Microsoft will participate in the effort to develop our human resources and help increase access to education and opportunities for local communities nationwide.’

PM Srettha concluded by expressing optimism about the collaboration with Microsoft, stating that it will lead to a brighter future and that the government is dedicated to making Thailand an ideal destination for the digital industry.