During a meeting in Tokyo, coinciding with the Japan-ASEAN summit celebrating five decades of partnership, Srettha and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to potentially initiate discussions focused on the future of the auto industry, particularly in response to energy and environmental concerns.

Kyodo News highlighted Kishida's suggestion for a framework that would ensure Thailand's competitive edge as a key production hub for Japanese car manufacturers. This initiative would center on the production and export of next-generation vehicles, like electric cars.

In discussions with Kishida, Srettha assured Japan of Thailand's continued support for Japanese automotive activities within the Southeast Asian nation. Additionally, Srettha confirmed Thailand's commitment to working with Japan through 'soft power' initiatives, building on the success of OTOP, a local development program inspired by Japan's OVOP movement.

Moreover, Srettha encouraged Japanese companies to participate in the growth of Thailand's digital economy. At the summit, leaders from Japan and ASEAN came together to endorse a joint vision statement, which included a new scheme to further the automotive industry in Southeast Asia, along with a commitment to enhanced cooperation on advancing low-carbon technologies and energy transition.