Anutin convened CEOs amid economic slowdown

Anutin Charnvirakul Gathers Top CEOs to Tackle Thailand's Economic Slowdown

Krung Thep, 16th May, 2026 — In a decisive move this morning, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul convened a closed-door meeting with leading CEOs from across the Kingdom. The gathering, held at a government complex in central Bangkok, focused squarely on strategies to counter the current economic slowdown gripping Thailand.

A Morning of Urgent Dialogue

Sources close to the meeting say Anutin opened proceedings by acknowledging the challenges facing exporters, tourism operators, and manufacturers. "We cannot wait for global conditions to improve on their own," he reportedly told the room. The session began shortly after 9 a.m. and ran for nearly three hours, with participants sharing firsthand accounts of softening demand both at home and abroad.

Key Sectors Under Pressure

Thailand's tourism sector, still recovering from uneven post-pandemic growth, reported softer arrivals during the recent Songkran period. Meanwhile, electronics and automotive exporters cited weaker orders from key markets in Europe and North America. Several CEOs highlighted rising costs for imported raw materials and the need for faster digital upgrades to stay competitive.

Business Leaders Speak Out

Executives from major conglomerates, including representatives from CP Group and SCG, stressed the importance of targeted government support. One participant, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that clearer policy signals on energy prices and infrastructure timelines would help companies plan investments with greater confidence. Another called for renewed focus on upskilling the workforce to meet the demands of a more digital economy.

Government Response in Focus

Anutin emphasized that the administration is preparing a package of measures aimed at easing liquidity for small and medium enterprises while accelerating public-private partnerships in green technology and logistics. Although details remain under wraps, insiders suggest the proposals could be unveiled within the next fortnight.

Looking Ahead

The meeting marks the latest in a series of high-level consultations as Thailand navigates global headwinds. With the rainy season approaching and Loy Krathong preparations already underway in many provinces, business leaders are watching closely for policies that balance short-term relief with long-term resilience.

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