The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) announced the global potential of Thailand’s creative industry by organizing Thai Night Cannes 2026 at the Cannes Film Festival in France, highlighting the vision“Reimagining Thailand”
On 22 May, reporters noted that recently the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, organized the event“Thai Night Cannes 2026”at the Cannes Film Festival in France, under the concept“Reimagining Thailand”to declare Thailand’s new vision in the global entertainment industry and creative economy, reaffirming Thailand’s role as both an international film production hub and a creator of quality content that connects audiences worldwide.
The event was graced by Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, who attended and delivered a speech reflecting on Thailand’s new role in the global film industry, emphasizing that Thailand is not only renowned for its filming locations but is also rich in creative potential. She highlighted how Thailand is expressing its identity and perspectives through films, series, and contemporary culture, gaining increasing attention and recognition from audiences around the world.
Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, said that the“Thai Night Cannes 2026”event not only promotes Thailand’s film and entertainment industry but also reflects the country’s new direction as a Creative Content Partner globally. Thailand is evolving from being a key destination for international film shoots to becoming a creator of original content with unique identity and competitive potential on the world stage. The country is open to collaborating with international partners to develop the entertainment industry of the future. Thailand possesses quality personnel, creativity, world-class production infrastructure, and continuous government support, all crucial factors to advance the Thai creative economy internationally.
At the event, the potential of Thailand’s film and content industry was showcased through works from 15 Thai companies participating in Marché du Film 2026 under the Thailand Pavilion. A diverse range of new projects and content were presented, including drama, action, thriller, fantasy, romantic comedy, series, and animation, aiming to expand opportunities for distribution, co-production, and partnerships worldwide.Meanwhile,a key highlight of“Thai Night Cannes”this year was the presentation of the film “The Confession of a Shaman” from M Studio, which attracted interest from attendees and international buyers. A special discussion was held with BamBam—Kanpimuk Phuwakul, Alec—Teeradech Methawarayut, Denis Jelilcha Kappoon, and director Nathanon Chollumpi to exchange views on opportunities for Thai films in the global market and expanding Thai content to global audiences.
Regarding the foreign film production industry, Thailand continues to attract global producers due to its diverse filming locations, quality personnel, and world-class production infrastructure. From January to March 2026, 162 foreign productions were shot in Thailand, generating over 1.18 billion baht in production expenditures. Throughout 2025, Thailand hosted more than 546 foreign productions, contributing over 7.7 billion baht to the economy. A key factor enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness is the Cash Rebate incentive of up to 30%, which plays a vital role in attracting ongoing foreign investment and content production in the country.
Ms. Sunanta added that this year’s event holds special significance as it marks the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France, reflecting the longstanding cooperation between the two nations in culture, economy, and the creative industries. Additionally, DITP brought 15 Thai companies to participate in business negotiations and networking with global partners at Marché du Film 2026 under the Thailand Pavilion. Leading Thai companies such as GDH 559, Sahamongkolfilm International, GMM Studios International, T&B Media Global, M Distribution (M Studio), and Benetone Films attended to showcase Thailand’s content potential and expand opportunities for distribution, co-production, and investment in the global market.“Thai Night Cannes 2026”this year marks an important step in elevating Thailand’s role in the global content and entertainment industry, reaffirming the potential of the Thai creative industry as a key driver of the economy and international cooperation in the future.
