Anutin attributes the Financial Times' classification of Thailand as Asia's 'sick man' to evaluations based on the previous government. He emphasizes that the new administration maintains fiscal discipline to prevent any further decline in the country's ranking and is confident that the government will be stable going forward.
On 12 Feb 2026 GMT+7, at the Government House, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, addressed concerns about Thailand's economic outlook following the Financial Times' characterization of the country as Asia's 'sick man.' He explained that this assessment was based on the previous administration. After the recent elections, several foreign media outlets have expressed confidence in Thailand's prospects. Regarding the composition of the economic cabinet, Anutin stated that various factors are involved. The government has presented policies demonstrating tangible benefits for the public, not just for individuals, and policies that maintain strict fiscal discipline. They aim to uphold strong fiscal responsibility. They have proven to foreign investors, especially economic rating agencies, through prompt actions led by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Akniti Nitithanprapas. The government has allocated expenditures not to populist policies but to repaying BAAC debts, signaling to foreign parties that fiscal discipline remains intact. This has prevented Thailand's ranking from declining and has maintained the country's credibility and attractiveness for foreign investment.
When asked whether Thailand's ongoing political instability might affect foreign investors' decisions, Anutin replied that this is a matter of the past. Based on preliminary election results, the trend indicates political stability. Political factions and conflicts are not severe; although some campaign rhetoric remains, after the elections everything is orderly without prolonged disputes. This is a positive sign that will strengthen the government.
Regarding the possibility of bringing in outsiders to hold political positions, Anutin said he prefers not to comment on this matter at present.