Anutin convened CEOs amid economic slowdown

Thailand's Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul Brings CEOs Together Amid Economic Slowdown

This morning in Krung Thep, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul gathered top corporate leaders to confront Thailand's sluggish economy head-on. The closed-door meeting, held just hours after sunrise on 16th May, 2026, signals urgent government action as growth forecasts dip below expectations.

Why the Sudden Summit?

Thailand's economy has faced mounting pressure from weak global demand and uneven tourism recovery. Exports in key sectors like electronics and automobiles have slowed, while domestic consumption remains cautious. Anutin, known for his pragmatic style, called the session to bridge the gap between policy and business realities.

"We need direct input from those on the ground," Anutin told attendees at the Government House complex. The event drew CEOs from banking, manufacturing, tourism, and logistics.

Key Concerns on the Table

Participants highlighted several pain points:

- Rising energy costs squeezing small and medium enterprises - Delayed infrastructure projects affecting supply chains - Uncertainty around global trade tensions impacting Thai exports

One executive from a major hotel group noted that while Songkran boosted visitor numbers, spending per head stayed lower than pre-pandemic levels. Others pointed to the need for faster digital transformation and green incentives.

Government Response in Focus

Anutin assured the room that targeted measures are already in draft form. These include tax relief for companies investing in upskilling workers and streamlined approvals for large-scale projects in the Eastern Economic Corridor.

The Bhumjaithai Party leader emphasised collaboration over confrontation. "We listen first, then act," he said, according to sources close to the meeting. Follow-up sessions are planned within the next two weeks.

Broader Context for Thailand

The slowdown comes at a delicate time. After strong post-COVID rebound years, Krung Thep's streets are lively again with street food stalls and temple festivals drawing crowds. Yet beneath the surface, analysts warn of structural challenges that require swift leadership.

Markets reacted mildly to news of the CEO gathering, with the SET index closing slightly higher on hopes of coordinated policy support.

Looking Ahead

Today's convening marks a proactive step rather than reactive crisis management. With Anutin steering the conversation, Thailand's business community now awaits concrete announcements that could stabilise growth through the second half of 2026.

This is Ann Srisawat for Global1.news, reporting from Bangkok. 🇹🇭

Source: The Nation Thailand via YouTube — 2026-05-16T07:45:09+00:00.