BMB Thailand summarized the key points on "The Role of Biotechnology in Agricultural Development" discussed at the "Unlocking Thailand's Future" seminar

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Section of the Science Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage (BMB) summarized the key points discussed at the academic seminar titled "Unlocking Thailand’s Future" organized by MCOT Public Company Limited. The seminar focused on the role of biotechnology in the development of the agricultural industry, a topic closely related to the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Section of the Science Association of Thailand (BMB). The information gained from the seminar can be applied to further benefit and advance the field.

On July 17, 2025, the academic seminar titled "Unlocking Thailand’s Future: Responding to Global Crises" was organized by MCOT Public Limited Company. The seminar brought together executives from both the public and private sectors to exchange views and seek solutions for the economic development of Thailand, which is facing challenges from global economic changes. The discussion focused on key issues that impact long-term economic development and the preparation needed to tackle emerging situations.

Credit : Facebook (9 MCOT)

The meeting was divided into three sections as follows:

• Section 1: Economic Development During Crisis, Domestic Issues, and Agricultural Development

• Section 2: Support for Technology and Innovation

• Section 3: Using Soft Power to Drive the Economy, Preparing Financial Measures to Stimulate the Economy

Section 1: Economic Development During Crisis, Domestic Issues, and Agricultural Development

During this section, executives from both the public and private sectors discussed strategies for reviving Thailand’s economy. The main points discussed were as follows:

Economic Development During Crisis

Thailand is facing an economic slowdown due to several factors, such as tax increases from major powers, trade deficits caused by trade wars, and the supply chain crisis arising from uncertainties in international trade. This discussion emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, private sector, and citizens to find solutions for economic recovery. Key points included:

• Supporting businesses and developing essential infrastructure, such as rail transport systems and international trade linkages, which can create new opportunities for the country.

Addressing Domestic Issues and Agricultural Development

• The development of the agricultural sector is considered a key part of Thailand's economic growth. The government is focusing on enhancing food security by increasing the production of high-value agricultural products and adopting agricultural technology to improve production efficiency.

• Additionally, the government is promoting the export of agricultural products as part of efforts to expand markets, particularly in ASEAN countries.

Promoting Tourism and Infrastructure Development

The tourism sector is viewed as one of the key industries that can stimulate Thailand’s economy in the short term. The seminar discussed promoting tourism, particularly by attracting tourists from new markets such as Israel, the United Kingdom, and India, which have shown continuous growth, even though the Chinese tourism market has declined due to the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis and political uncertainties.

• The government is also prioritizing infrastructure development, especially the expansion of rail transport systems to connect provinces across the country. For instance, the development of double-track railways will improve the efficiency of transporting goods and passengers, making it more convenient. Additionally, airport and seaport projects are planned to accommodate future economic growth.

Section 2: Support for Technology and Innovation

Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra (Former Prime Minister) discussed critical points in the seminar regarding the transformation of Thailand's economy, emphasizing the use of technology and innovation to drive the country’s future growth. Below are the key topics he addressed:

1. Transforming Thailand’s Economy with Digital Technology and Digital Assets (Cryptocurrency)

• Using Digital Technology as a tool to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness at both regional and global levels.

• Dr. Thaksin highlighted the importance of developing digital assets such as Cryptocurrency to help Thailand become a financial hub in the ASEAN region. He emphasized the need for digital financial transaction systems to make Thailand a leader in this field.

• He viewed Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology as key drivers that will stimulate Thailand's economy by creating an efficient and transparent financial system.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) was also mentioned as one of the technologies that will enhance production efficiency and business decision-making, enabling Thailand to compete effectively in the global market.

2. Creating Innovation and Economic Development through New Technologies

• Dr. Thaksin stressed the importance of developing new innovations to create economic opportunities and growth. He specifically pointed out the use of AI, Big Data, and IoT as tools to help predict and analyze data, which can lead to the optimization of business processes and enhanced efficiency.

• He also discussed the need to develop digital technologies in both the public and private sectors, which will help create a sustainable growth foundation for the future.

3. Developing a Sustainable Economic Framework

• Dr. Thaksin spoke about the importance of sustainable economic development, using resources and innovations to create added value for the economy. He mentioned that investing in infrastructure is crucial to support future technology growth.

• Investing in renewable energy and developing smart cities that can integrate new technologies and reduce the environmental impact of development were also highlighted as key areas.

• He believes that sustainable development will strengthen Thailand's economy and help the country effectively manage external crises.

4. Establishing a Financial Hub in the ASEAN Region

• Dr. Thaksin talked about driving economic growth by establishing a financial hub in the ASEAN region through the use of Cryptocurrency and the development of financial transaction systems. His vision is for Thailand to become a leading financial player in this region.

• The launch of financial technology and digital banking will increase Thailand's ability to compete in the global market and allow the country to play a key role in the regional financial system.

Credit : bangkokbiznews

Section 3: Using Soft Power to Drive the Economy, Preparing Financial Measures to Stimulate the Economy

In this section, there was a special interview with Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra, conducted by Professor Veera Theerapan and Ms. Nuntima Pungkhamsuk, discussing the following key points:

Using Soft Power to Drive the Economy

Thailand possesses significant Soft Power that can be leveraged to promote tourism and boost the economy. Dr. Thaksin highlighted the following aspects:

• Film Industry: Thailand’s film industry is a powerful tool for driving the economy by attracting tourists and promoting Thai culture to the global stage. The government has increased tax incentives for film production in Thailand, encouraging international filmmakers to shoot movies in the country. This not only generates revenue but also showcases Thailand’s cultural diversity and beauty globally.

• Sports Industry: Additionally, Dr. Thaksin emphasized the importance of developing the sports industry to stimulate economic growth. Hosting international sporting events can create job opportunities, boost tourism, and enhance the global image of Thailand. The government’s support for sports will help position Thailand as a key destination for global events and sports tourism.

Preparing Financial Measures to Stimulate the Economy

In terms of long-term economic development, Dr. Thaksin discussed the need for the government to implement appropriate financial measures to stimulate economic growth, including:

• Low-interest loans for entrepreneurs to support businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to expand and thrive even amid global economic uncertainties.

• Tax restructuring: Dr. Thaksin also discussed the importance of tax reforms to enhance the competitiveness of Thai manufacturers and exporters in the global market. Simplifying tax regulations and reducing burdens on businesses will allow them to stay competitive internationally.

• Private Sector Strengthening: The government must also focus on strengthening the private sector by creating new business opportunities and promoting investment in new technologies. This will not only help businesses innovate but also enable them to adapt to changing global economic conditions.

Credit : bangkokbiznews

The academic seminar was not only an exchange of ideas but also a platform for proposing solutions to Thailand's economic challenges during the crisis and preparing for the future. The focus was on fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and citizens to guide the country towards a sustainable and resilient future, both at the regional and global levels.

Live Broadcast of the Academic Seminar: "Unlocking Thailand's Future: Responding to Global Crises"