Thailand Roundup: Healthcare industry growth, bilateral relations with Indonesia, illegal URLs blocked
Thailand’s healthcare and wellness market set for 9% annual growth
Thailand's healthcare and wellness market is projected to grow by nearly 9% annually, driven by an ageing population and rising beauty trends. The Global Wellness Institute estimates the wellness economy will surpass $7 trillion next year and increase to $8.5 trillion by 2027. According to TTW, With 20.7% of its population aged 60 and older, Thailand is on track to become a super-aged society by 2033, boosting demand for healthcare services, especially among seniors. Key factors fueling this growth include government healthcare initiatives, population dynamics, and increasing medical tourism, particularly in cosmetic surgery.
Thailand’s DES ministry blocks over 178,000 illegal URLs
Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has blocked over 178,000 illegal URLs, with an average of 12,757 blocked each month over the past 14 months. This marks an 8.6-fold increase from the previous year. DES Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong highlighted improvements in monitoring and collaboration with internet service providers as key factors. The Nation reports that Upon detecting illegal sites, the ministry promptly seeks court orders for blocking, which must be executed by internet providers within two to three days. Noncompliance can lead to daily fines, with potential penalties totalling 21 million baht ($615,862).
Hanwha ocean’s shipbuilding expertise praised
The Thai Parliamentary Defence Committee praised Hanwha Ocean’s shipbuilding expertise during their visit, highlighting its advanced ship design and automation technologies. They recognised the successful HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej frigate project and expressed interest in collaborating on Thailand's follow-on frigate program to enhance the Royal Thai Navy's capabilities. According to Naval News, Hanwha Ocean proposed strategies to improve Thailand’s shipbuilding industry in partnership with local shipyards. The delegation also acknowledged the quality of Hanwha Ocean’s training programmes for Thai trainees. Steve SK Jeong of Hanwha Ocean emphasised the importance of this partnership for Thailand’s maritime security and economic development.
TAT projects 40 million foreign tourists in 2025
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts 40 million foreign tourists in 2025, driven by government initiatives to boost tourism and the economy. TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool anticipates 29 million short-haul and 11 million long-haul tourists, with a 7.5% increase in tourism revenue compared to 2024. The "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025" campaign will support this growth, coinciding with major events like the Southeast Asian Games and the FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship, The Nation reports. TAT plans to enhance tourism through various activities and is urging airlines from India and China to increase flights. This year, Thailand expects 35 million arrivals, generating 2.9 trillion baht in revenue, with notable contributions from China, Malaysia, and India.
Indonesia and Thailand bolster bilateral relations
Indonesia and Thailand are strengthening their bilateral relations under new leadership, focusing on collaboration in trade, investment, security, education, and culture. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted a record bilateral trade of over $19 billion in 2022 and significant foreign direct investment from Thailand, reports Antara. He emphasised the need for deeper engagement, including business exchanges and people-to-people contact, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s priorities on food and energy security. As both nations approach 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, they are also collaborating on initiatives such as the Digital Economy Framework Agreement and seeking membership in BRICS and OECD to amplify the voices of developing countries. Hartarto expressed optimism for continued growth in bilateral and regional relations.
