The Cabinet approved the 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministers' Statement to promote inclusive infrastructure development, enhance public skills, cybersecurity, and support funding for SMEs and startups.
On 21 July 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertvivatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the Cabinet approved the draft 2026 APEC Digital and Artificial Intelligence Ministers' Statement and authorized the Minister of Digital Economy and Society or an assigned representative to endorse the draft at the 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministers' Meeting on 23–24 July 2026 in Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
The Deputy Spokesperson explained that the draft statement is a key outcome document of the meeting, aiming to promote the use of digital technology and artificial intelligence to empower and drive inclusive and sustainable growth of the Asia-Pacific community. It outlines five major cooperation areas: digital connectivity; digital technology and AI for development; participation and digital skills enhancement; creating a secure digital environment; and promoting investment to develop the digital ecosystem.
Regarding digital connectivity, APEC members will jointly promote the development of quality, reliable, interconnected, and affordable communication and computing infrastructure, aiming to reduce digital disparities between urban and rural areas and among population groups, especially women, indigenous peoples, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
For applying digital technology and AI in development, the focus is to accelerate innovation, support digital transformation, and exchange policies and experiences among member economies. It also promotes the development of AI-based products and services to improve quality of life, particularly in health, education, and elderly care.
The draft statement emphasizes enhancing digital skills across the population through expanding educational opportunities, vocational training, and exchanges of best practices. It also promotes understanding of AI to prepare the regional workforce to adapt and use technology appropriately and effectively.
In terms of security, APEC members recognize risks from harmful cyber activities, data breaches, the spread of misinformation and disinformation, and the use of AI to create harmful or illegal synthetic content. Therefore, they will strengthen policy discussions and share best practices on cybersecurity, data protection, supply chain and digital infrastructure security, and measures against online fraud.
The Deputy Spokesperson added that Thailand has advocated for the draft statement to reflect key priorities including combating online crime, ensuring cybersecurity, and sustainable digital transition, aligning with government policies to protect citizens from online threats and build confidence in digital services.
Moreover, the draft statement supports encouraging investors and financial institutions to increase access to funding for digital and AI transitions, especially for medium, small, and micro enterprises and startups. It also promotes innovation, respect for intellectual property rights, and appropriate use of open-source software to build a strong and open digital ecosystem.
“This APEC cooperation will enable Thailand to exchange knowledge, technology, and best practices with member economies, further developing digital infrastructure, enhancing public skills, increasing opportunities for entrepreneurs, and creating a safe online environment. The government aims to leverage AI and digital technology to boost competitiveness while delivering inclusive benefits and improved quality of life for the people,” Ms. Lalida said. Ms. Lalida said.
The draft statement represents a joint political commitment by APEC ministers, does not create legally binding obligations under international law, nor is it a treaty under the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand.