On 3 June 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, attended the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Ministerial Council Meeting (MCM) at the OECD Headquarters in Paris, France, held under the theme “Getting Industrial Policies Right for Open Markets, Growth and Prosperity.” He also delivered a statement during the Plenary Session on “Balancing the Goals and Impacts of Industrial Policy.”

In his statement, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that while industrial policy remains important for economic development, it must evolve from supporting individual sectors to enabling economy-wide transitions that enhance competitiveness, strengthen resilience, and promote sustainable growth. Such a transition requires investment in people through skills development and lifelong learning, alongside support for innovation, digital transformation, and green technologies. He also highlighted the importance of deeper regional economic integration, as supply chains, technology, energy, and investment are becoming increasingly interconnected across borders.

The Deputy Prime Minister further underscored that Thailand’s OECD accession process is an integral part of the country’s broader economic transformation. While accession would help Thailand align with international best practices and strengthen its institutions, Thailand also stands ready to contribute its own experiences to OECD discussions and serve as a bridge between the OECD and emerging economies.

Thailand’s participation in this year’s MCM provides an important opportunity to engage in discussions and exchanges on key global issues, strengthen interactions with the OECD, its member countries, and relevant partners, as well as support the advancement of Thailand’s OECD accession process with the objective of achieving membership by 2028.