THAIRATH FORUM 2026: Leading business figures share their expectations that the government should act as a “sponge,” emphasizing the need to deeply analyze issues causing the country’s slow progress and to clarify policies.
On 31 Aug 2026 GMT+7, at a major discussion hosted by Thairath Group, THAIRATH FORUM 2026: THAILAND IN THE NEW GLOBAL ORDER gathered national government and business leaders to exchange strategic visions under the theme “Transforming Thailand’s Economic Strategy” for survival and growth amid the new global order.
Many view that during this crisis, top global giants want Thailand’s government policies to act as a “sponge” to absorb geopolitical volatility. As leading executives of top Thai businesses, when asked what they want the current Thai government to do to become that sponge supporting businesses—from small to large, including the smaller groups—the question was what the government must do.
Arthit Nantawitaya, CEO of SCBX Public Company Limited, said, “We are not lacking ideas or plans. I think seminars discuss how to make Thailand competitive, but if we keep doing things the same way, it won’t be enough.”
“We need to identify what prevents us from making changes or pursuing new opportunities and investments. No matter which government comes in, why doesn’t this happen? Where is the problem in Thailand? I believe we must be serious. Making our ideas actually happen is the big challenge for Thailand.”
Meanwhile, Prasit Boondoungprasert, CEO of Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF), said, “The government has plans but faces limitations in managing many people and all industries. We have done this for a long time, yet the country moves forward very slowly.”
“If we talk about companies, they must choose what to compete with globally and which industries to focus on. Trying to do everything is impossible. Everyone must decide what they excel at. For some areas, we are adequate; for others, we can collaborate with others.”
“Once we make that choice, both long-term and short-term plans must be clear. Finally, we must examine the reasons behind failures and whether we have sufficiently analyzed the problems.”
“I think a government acting as a sponge doesn’t need to function as a CEO but perhaps as staff in various positions, bringing everyone together and uniting their efforts to push forward aligned state strategic goals.”
“The government must set clear targets, such as how much a particular industry should grow, identify competitors, and clarify market conditions. It must develop detailed operational plans and conduct thorough analyses.”