Thailand’s push to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) more rapidly could significantly boost the nation’s productivity and competitiveness, as highlighted during a recent forum in Bangkok. Experts emphasized the urgent need for enhanced digital skills, stronger data capabilities, and improved collaboration between government sectors, universities, and businesses to leverage AI technologies effectively.
At the forum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Yodchanan Wongsawat, underscored the importance of focusing on sectors where Thailand can develop specialized technological capabilities. He pointed to agriculture, environmental technology, and biodiversity as key areas where AI could be pivotal, given their potential to generate valuable local data. Moreover, Yodchanan highlighted the need for expertise in advanced technologies such as sensors, photonics, and semiconductor packaging.
Education is set to play a central role in Thailand’s AI strategy. Yodchanan advocated for an increased emphasis on mathematics, science, creativity, and systems thinking, while also promoting lifelong learning, reskilling, and upskilling to keep pace with technological advancements.
Bangkok Bank executive Kobsak Pootrakool stressed the necessity for businesses to utilize AI as a tool to enhance productivity, rather than treating it as a mere demonstration project. He noted that the success of AI adoption hinges on having reliable and well-organized data, and called for investments in technology, infrastructure, and data systems alongside appropriate regulatory frameworks.
Jirayut Srupsrisopa, founder of Bitkub Capital Group, advocated for an AI-first approach across the Thai economy. He suggested that this could help mitigate demographic and workforce challenges by increasing business productivity. Panelists at the forum concurred that successful AI integration requires a robust educational foundation, improved data infrastructure, effective regulations, and close collaboration between public and private sectors to drive economic growth.