BoI Partners with Citi to Boost Foreign Direct Investment

The Board of Investment (BoI) has partnered with Citi Thailand to strengthen efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), supporting Thailand's long-term economic growth. The two organizations signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) yesterday to formalize their collaboration. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the BoI, noted that 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 each of the past several 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 Thailand's long-term economic growth. Naruemon Chivangkur, country officer and banking head for Citi Thailand, said that the BoI's targeted investment policies combined with Citi's global network and financial expertise would attract more foreign investment and strengthen Thailand's economic expansion. She added that amidst intensifying regional competition for FDI, Thailand remains a key investment destination. In addition to the country's strong economic fundamentals, the continuity of investment policies by both the BoI and the Thai government is another important factor 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. The institution offers comprehensive cross-border banking solutions, including trade finance, foreign exchange, and treasury services, to help clients manage global cash flows efficiently. Furthermore, it provides domestic banking services, including working capital, liquidity management, and cash management solutions, supported by direct connectivity to Thailand's digital payment infrastructure, enabling efficient, real-time transaction processing and optimized cash flows within the country. 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. 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.