TikTok Thai training twist: App eyes Thailand for next big move

TikTok, the popular video-sharing social media app, is considering establishing a training centre in Thailand. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin revealed this after meeting with the app’s executives during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. The intent is to utilise the platform’s popularity to promote Thai food and local products, often referred to as soft power.

The 61 year old prime minister highlighted that Thailand boasts approximately 43 million TikTok users. This number contributes to the over 325 million active monthly users across Southeast Asia, according to statistics from TikTok. The platform is also utilised by 15 million small businesses each month in the region, demonstrating its significant influence and outreach.

The Thai PM has stressed the potential mutual benefits of this collaboration.

“We have to find ways to help each other – helping them operate a good business and helping Thais, such as by promoting Otop (One Tambon, One Product) products.”

The Thai prime minister urged TikTok to consider the potential of Thailand’s lesser-known provinces, beyond popular cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. These regions, he believes, have their unique products, services, and food to showcase. Several Thai business operators have already gained traction on the platform by sharing cooking videos, further emphasising the potential of this collaboration.

The establishment of a TikTok training centre in Thailand could provide locals with guidance on optimally using the social media platform to promote their offerings. The Board of Investment has also proposed tax incentives to attract TikTok to this venture, an offer that has sparked interest, according to the Bangkok-born PM.

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke further explained that PM Srettha invited TikTok to support Thailand’s efforts in promoting its soft power in provinces with their unique Otop goods and services. This proposal was well received by the TikTok executives, who appreciate the platform’s considerable user base in Thailand. They are also interested in expanding into the field of education, reported Bangkok Post.

In addition to TikTok, the Thai PM also held discussions with executives from Booking.com, the online accommodation booking platform. He noted that the number of users visiting the website has surged seven-fold following the announcement of a visa-free policy for Chinese and Kazakh tourists. Consequently, these executives intend to liaise with the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand to explore mutual benefits.