The Minister of Digital Economy participates in the forum WEF 2026 highlighting the concept “Trust and Interoperability” connecting regional data systems to drive ASEAN-APEC joint actions against transnational scam gangs and cybercrime
Chaiyanak Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES) participated as a panelist on “APEC, ASEAN and the Art of Alignment” during the Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026 by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Dalian, People's Republic of China, exchanging views with government leaders, private sector, and policymakers from various countries on enhancing alignment between regional economic cooperation frameworks
In the panel, Chaiyanak emphasized that Thailand views APEC and ASEAN frameworks as mutually supportive mechanisms. APEC’s strength lies in broad, comprehensive cooperation, while ASEAN excels in deep, close collaboration among member countries. Together, these frameworks can reinforce each other to promote economic growth, security, and sustainability in the Asia-Pacific region.
At the same time, challenges from cybercrime and online scams cause significant economic damage to many countries in the region, including Thailand, which is actively implementing proactive measures to prevent and suppress online crime, successfully reducing online case damages steadily. Thailand is ready to expand cooperation and raise awareness of online threats within ASEAN and APEC.
Chaiyanak expressed to the meeting that APEC and ASEAN should emphasize true “Interoperability” — the ability to work together in data, standards, and interagency cooperation mechanisms — to effectively address cross-border threats, especially increasingly complex cybercrime and online scam networks, and support concrete joint operations among member countries.
He also highlighted the importance of building Resilience and Digital Sovereignty alongside openness to cooperation and investment from all countries. Thailand adheres to an open, neutral cooperation approach focused on maximizing benefits for its people and nation.
“In a world of growing volatility and uncertainty, international cooperation—especially coordination between ASEAN and APEC—will play a crucial role in strengthening stability and bargaining power for the region, advancing shared economic resilience,” Chaiyanak concluded.
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