BoI Partners with Citi to Boost Foreign Investment

The Board of Investment (BoI) has partnered with Citi Thailand, signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen efforts in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and support Thailand's long-term economic growth. With FDI inflows expected to remain strong in the coming years, strategic partnerships are becoming increasingly important to support the BoI's operations, particularly given its workforce of around 300 staff. Global partners can help expand the agency's international reach and attract investment from around the world, said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the BoI. The partnership leverages Citi's international networks, spanning nearly 95 countries and 180 business networks worldwide, to enhance FDI promotion efforts. The MoU formalizes this collaboration. In the first half of 2026, investment applications submitted to the BoI, including both foreign and domestic projects, rose 37% year-on-year to 1.47 trillion baht across 1,299 projects. FDI accounted for 1.37 trillion baht, a gain of 38%, driven largely by substantial investments in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) data centres, Mr Narit said. Amid a rapidly evolving global investment landscape, shaped by heightened geopolitical tensions, the rise of AI, and supply chain realignment, international investors are increasingly seeking destinations that offer resilient supply chains, economic stability, and strong investment fundamentals. Thailand is emerging as one of Southeast Asia's preferred investment destinations, and positive momentum in FDI inflows is expected to continue over the coming years, following record-high investment levels in recent years. The BoI is focusing on six new S-curve industries to attract investment and accelerate Thailand's transition to a future-oriented economy: the bio-economy and green industries; semiconductors and advanced electronics; electric vehicles and auto parts; AI and digital technologies; robotics, automation, and humanoid technologies; and regional headquarters for international companies. By combining the strengths of the BoI and Citi Thailand, the aim is to attract more FDI, enhance the country's competitiveness, and support long-term economic growth. Narumon Chivangkur, country officer and banking head for Citi Thailand, stated that the synergy between the BoI's targeted investment policies and Citi's global network and financial expertise would attract more foreign investment and bolster Thailand's economic expansion. She noted that despite intensifying regional competition for FDI, Thailand remains a key investment destination, with its strong economic fundamentals and the continuity of investment policies by both the BoI and the Thai government underpinning investor confidence. Citi Thailand has been operating in the country for 60 years. Backed by decades of experience and a full range of financial solutions, the bank is well-positioned to support multinational clients expanding into Thailand. Citi provides comprehensive cross-border banking solutions, including trade finance, foreign exchange, and treasury services, to facilitate complex international transactions and help clients manage global cash flows efficiently. Additionally, the institution offers a full suite of domestic banking services, including working capital, liquidity management, and cash management solutions, supported by direct connectivity to Thailand's digital payment infrastructure for efficient, real-time transaction processing and optimized cash flows within the country.