Thailand's Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan held a meeting with Google executives during the APEC Trade Ministers meeting in Jeju, South Korea, to discuss potential avenues for digital investment.

The dialogue centered around enhancing Thailand's digital economy and establishing the nation as a center for innovation and technology partnerships in the region.

In a notable economic trend, the Thai baht has appreciated to 32.70 baht per U.S. dollar, raising concerns among exporters regarding the impact of a stronger currency on their competitiveness.

Despite this appreciation occurring amid broader economic uncertainties, stakeholders are questioning the effects this may have on trade and economic recovery.

Thailand's automotive sector has recorded its first rise in car sales in nearly two years, with data from the Federation of Thai Industries indicating an increase in domestic sales in April.

This marks the end of a 23-month sales decline, although overall vehicle production and exports remain lackluster.

The uptick in local sales signals a potential recovery in consumer confidence.

In a bid to promote sustainable business practices, Bangkok Bank has initiated its 'Green Transition Academy,' aimed at assisting Thai entrepreneurs in shifting toward environmentally sustainable operations.

This initiative reflects a growing trend in green finance and sustainability within the Thai business sector.

In legal developments, Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court has ruled that former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is liable to pay over 10 billion baht (approximately $304 million) in compensation linked to losses from a rice subsidy program implemented during her tenure.

The ruling follows her ousting from office and subsequent self-imposed exile, stemming from allegations concerning the management of the subsidy scheme.

The Bank of Thailand has revised its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, now estimating 37.5 million visitors, a decrease from the previous projection of 39.5 million.

This adjustment particularly reflects a significant downturn in anticipated arrivals from Chinese tourists, underlining ongoing challenges in recovering the robust travel sector seen prior to the pandemic.

Following a record hotel boom in 2024, the hospitality sector in Thailand is experiencing a contraction in traditional real estate deals this year, as investor interests increasingly lean towards sustainable and green developments.

Market analysts are observing a shift towards environmentally conscious investments, which are garnering greater attention from both domestic and international investors.