The Deputy Government Spokesperson emphasized Thailand’s readiness to host the IMF-World Bank 2026 meeting, welcoming economic delegates from 191 countries from 12-18 October, highlighting Thailand’s potential through Soft Power such as culture and Thai cuisine to the world audience.
On 7 October 2026, Ms. Lalida Perntiwattana, Deputy Government Spokesperson at the Prime Minister’s Office, announced Thailand’s readiness to host the “IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026,” scheduled for 12-18 October 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The event is expected to attract over 15,000 participants from 191 countries worldwide.
The Deputy Government Spokesperson stated that the IMF-World Bank 2026 meeting is not only a global forum for economic and financial discussions and a short-term economic boost for the local economy, but also a key opportunity for long-term benefits for Thailand. These include promoting investment in future industries and the creative economy, fostering quality and sustainable economic growth, as well as developing human resources, preserving culture, and protecting the environment.
This meeting is held under the theme “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience,” focusing on four major issues: 1. The transition to digital and artificial intelligence for inclusive and resilient growth; 2. Opportunities for middle-income countries in a multipolar world; 3. Establishing new architectures to support climate change adaptation; and 4. Promoting an economy that supports an aging society amid demographic shifts.
Additionally, Thailand has planned activities throughout the meeting week to showcase its potential and unique identity to international attendees. The event will feature a Thai Pavilion presenting Thailand’s development journey, people-centered development approaches, the sufficiency economy philosophy, and royal initiatives related to national development. There will also be a “Visions of Thailand” photo exhibition by young photographers and visual storytellers residing in Thailand, alongside cultural and identity activities such as Muay Thai performances and presentations of sustainable tourism model communities, allowing participants to experience Thailand’s economy, innovation, culture, tourism, and way of life from multiple perspectives.
Meanwhile, the private sector and civil society will jointly organize parallel activities and forums on issues related to the economy and national development, including anti-corruption, safe financial and banking systems, monetary policy adjustments aligned with the green economy transition and climate change response, as well as social responsibility and community engagement initiatives.
Beyond the event’s internal activities, Thailand will integrate Soft Power and Thai identity into various aspects, from publicizing the hosting under the theme “Thai Smiles, United Hosting Spirit” to decorating the venue with distinctive woven and indigenous textiles such as Tai Lue tapestry, elephant-patterned checkered cloth, and the “Queen’s Floral” batik print. The event will also present Thai culture, cuisine, and local ingredients to reflect Thailand’s diversity and wisdom.
Regarding food and beverages, the event will emphasize the use of local ingredients and Geographical Indication (GI) products, accompanied by stories behind each dish. Featured will be local rice varieties such as Phayao jasmine rice, Thung Kula Rong Hai jasmine rice, and Phatthalung Sangyod rice, with dishes like “Thai Hearted Rice Salad” combining Phayao jasmine rice and Phatthalung Sangyod rice, and “Dry-Aged Nile Tilapia with Khao Yai Miso Sauce,” using Nile tilapia from Ban Pho District, Chachoengsao Province paired with miso fermented in Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Additionally, snacks and dishes made from ingredients sourced across Thailand will be featured, including Betong grilled chicken sandwiches, Sakon Nakhon Wagyu beef tarts, Nakhon Si Thammarat chocolate tarts with macadamia nuts, mango sticky rice, and seasonal fresh fruit carts, providing international participants with a taste of Thailand’s diverse ingredients, cuisine, and local stories.
“The IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings 2026 is not just a gathering of global economic leaders and policymakers, but an opportunity for Thailand to open doors to trade and investment, create opportunities for Thai businesses and entrepreneurs to connect with global markets, and promote tourism and the creative economy by showcasing Thai Soft Power and identity to the international community. Hosting this event is an important chance for all Thai sectors to participate and benefit together, helping elevate Thailand’s role on the world stage and prepare for ASEAN chairmanship in 2028,” Ms. Lalida said.