The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with his visit to Australia, securing win-win investments. He was pleased with the dual success of smooth business matching and Thai investors expanding real estate holdings in Australia worth 230 billion baht. He emphasized that the new generation workforce is now selling their skills.
At 17:40 local time on 19 Aug 2026, three hours ahead of Thailand, in Canberra, Australia, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul said after completing his official visit from 17-19 Aug that the trip was very satisfactory. He invited Australian entrepreneurs from various sectors to expand their businesses in Thailand. The government presented the “Thailand Fast Pass” policy from the Board of Investment (BOI), which acts as a one-stop service to facilitate and remove obstacles for foreign investors in a single location.
What made this visit exceed expectations was driving business matching between the private sectors of both countries. This created opportunities for exchange and negotiations, leading to joint ventures in large-scale businesses and fostering a win-win trade atmosphere with enormous economic value added.
“During discussions, many companies told me they had just decided to expand and invest in Thailand. Ultimately, they will choose Thailand as a new production base. This visit is a double success that satisfies me because it not only attracts investors to Thailand but also opens the door for Thai investors to grow in Australia.”
The Prime Minister said major Thai investors have merged and jointly invested in many areas, including energy, chemicals, and hotels. Especially Fraser Property, part of the Thai Charoen Corporation (TCC Group), a Thai-owned company holding Australian real estate valued at 230 billion baht. This changes Australia's perception of Thailand from an agricultural country to a nation with capital investing in large foreign industries. Another key issue discussed was private sector concern over short work visa durations for Thai workers. He held talks with the Australian Prime Minister, who acknowledged the problem and assigned the labor ministers of both countries to discuss and find a solution.
“Thai workers abroad were once seen as cheap labor who would not return. Today, Thai people come with skills, expertise, knowledge, and technology.” The success of young Thai professionals working at global tech companies like Canva reflects how their talents and intellect drive leading organizations prominently.”
Regarding Thai nationals arrested for drug smuggling in Australia, the Prime Minister stated this behavior is not due to ignorance. His government has declared war on all forms of drug trafficking and cannot assist those who break the law. He raised this issue directly with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, clearly requesting that offenders be prosecuted fully under Australian law. The Thai government will not interfere with the justice process. The Australian Prime Minister responded with understanding, acknowledging these as individual offenses that do not affect Thailand’s reputation. Meanwhile, Australia continues to view Thailand as a key partner in combating cybercrime and scam gangs. Thai authorities have previously demonstrated success by seizing assets worth over 50-60 billion baht from these networks.