Thailand is accelerating its economic partnership with South Korea through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the deal would drive sustainable growth and expand cooperation in advanced industries.
Anutin emphasized that the economic partnership could help both nations reach a $30 billion trade target. He urged faster investment facilitation and innovation-focused collaboration in clean energy, digital technology, and creative industries.
Currently, South Korea ranks as Thailand’s 12th-largest trading partner, with $14.9 billion in trade during 2023. Although trade fell 9.4 percent from the previous year, both governments expect new policies to boost growth soon.
Negotiations for the CEPA began in 2004 but stalled over market access differences and overlapping trade frameworks. However, recent talks have regained momentum. In September 2025, officials met in Seoul, marking what both sides called a breakthrough in the discussions.
During the APEC summit in Gyeongju, Anutin met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. Both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense, energy transition, and digital safety. They also pledged to accelerate CEPA negotiations and support green technology exchange.
Anutin noted that Thailand aims to ensure digital progress comes with strong cybersecurity. He said the government is intensifying efforts against online scams and coordinating with Cambodia and China to tackle cybercrime. Thailand will also host an international conference on transnational crime next year.
Meanwhile, Thailand continues positioning itself as a key gateway to ASEAN’s 600 million consumers. The Eastern Economic Corridor project, launched in 2017, supports this vision through advanced ports, airports, and rail systems.
According to Anutin, South Korea’s expertise in semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewable energy complements Thailand’s industrial goals. He said their economic partnership can enhance regional supply chains and promote technological competitiveness.
Both countries now face global challenges in trade, supply chains, and innovation. Through this strengthened economic partnership, Thailand and South Korea aim to build a more resilient, forward-looking foundation for long-term cooperation.
