Warawut reveals that SME D Bank supports the use of AI to help SMEs increase competitiveness, access credit, reduce costs, and adapt to new global trade rules.
On 23 Jun 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Warawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Industry, stated that under the ONE MIND policy, he directed the Ministry of Industry to promote broader AI adoption across industrial sectors. This aligns with current challenges faced by Thai SMEs, who must increase productivity amid high business costs, a need for modern knowledge, limited access to funding for technology, and pressures from new trade regulations requiring adaptation to green business practices. Delaying support risks widening the competitive gap between SMEs and large enterprises, and between Thai SMEs and foreign rivals. Therefore, support is essential for SMEs to access modern technologies, especially artificial intelligence (AI), which can enhance business efficiency and competitiveness through precise analysis of customer and market data. He mandated the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank), a state financial institution under the Ministry of Industry, to elevate its organization by employing AI technology as a tool to support SMEs in accessing credit services.
Warawut said that Pichit Mitrawong, Managing Director of SME D Bank, reported that the bank has seriously advanced the minister’s policy by adopting a strategy focused on data and AI-driven organizational transformation. This includes upgrading workflows and integrating digital technology for data management, enabling flexible and rapid support for SME clients. For example, the bank uses an Early Warning System (EWS) to closely monitor client status and runs the Digital Data Intelligence Bootcamp 2026 (DDI Bootcamp) to develop key personnel skilled in advanced AI data analytics.
SME D Bank is enhancing SME capabilities by leveraging AI to grow revenue, expand markets, and manage business costs using AI tools. The bank has continuously conducted onsite AI skill-building activities for SME entrepreneurs, already holding over 20 sessions with more than 1,500 participants. It aims to elevate the capabilities of at least 2,500 entrepreneurs this year.
The bank also offers 24/7 self-paced learning through the DX Platform (dx.smebank.co.th), providing AI courses ranging from basic to advanced levels according to interest. Examples include "Prompt Engineering with GitHub Copilot by Microsoft Thailand" and "Microsoft 365 Copilot" courses.
Importantly, the bank provides special loans at a fixed interest rate of just 3% per year for the first three years, with repayment terms up to 10 years and loan amounts up to 30 million baht. These loans support SME investments in technology, machinery, and innovation to boost capabilities. SMEs can apply for these services at SME D Bank branches nationwide or via online channels such as the LINE Official Account: SME Development Bank and the website www.smebank.co.th.