Thailand rises as an "AI Hub" as the Prime Minister closes a deal with Microsoft, investing 36 billion baht to upgrade Thai skills toward becoming a regional digital leader.
On 31 March 2026 GMT+7, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed Mr. Brad Smith, Executive Vice Chairman and President of Microsoft Corporation, during his official visit to Thailand. A key agenda was confirming a major investment plan to drive Thailand toward the AI-First Nation goal.
The Prime Minister stated that Microsoft confirmed an additional investment plan in Thailand worth 1 billion U.S. dollars (approximately 36 billion baht) over the next two years to build cloud and AI infrastructure, including a regional Data Center. Confident in Thailand’s strategic position as the ASEAN hub, the focus is on human resource development through digital and AI skills training programs for teachers, workers, government officials, and non-profit organizations to prepare Thai personnel for rapid technological changes in Asia.
He added that this collaboration will help reduce digital costs and enhance the efficiency and accuracy of government services. The government is ready to support Microsoft in using Thailand as a sustainable long-term innovation production base.
The Prime Minister emphasized that cooperation with Microsoft will be a crucial driver for Thailand not only to be a technology user but to proudly become the AI leader in the region, reflecting global investor confidence in the stability and future of the Thai economy.