BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand welcomed International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva to Suvarnabhumi Airport on October 9, ahead of the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings, which bring global financial leaders to Bangkok from October 12–18.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas led the welcome alongside senior Ministry of Finance officials at the airport’s special AOT reception lounge.
Thailand is hosting the annual meetings for the second time, following its first turn as host in 1991. The October gathering is expected to attract more than 15,000 participants from around the world, placing Bangkok at the centre of international discussions on the global economy, financial stability and development.
Ekniti said the government had prepared not only world-class venues and infrastructure but also integrated digital technology and innovation with Thailand’s distinctive culture of friendship, warmth and attentive hospitality.
The government expects the meetings to generate an immediate economic impact of approximately 1.05 billion to 2.25 billion baht. The estimate is based on more than 15,000 participants staying an average of seven to 10 days and spending around 10,000 to 15,000 baht per person daily.
Hotels, restaurants, tourism operators and community businesses are expected to benefit from visitors’ spending throughout the event.
Beyond the immediate economic impact, Thailand intends to use the meetings to present its potential as a regional investment destination, particularly in future industries. The government plans to highlight the country’s digital infrastructure, clean energy capabilities and investment incentives to attract foreign direct investment in sectors such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles.
The Annual Meetings provide Thailand with an opportunity to showcase its readiness to international financial institutions, investors and policymakers while building connections that could support future investment and sustainable economic growth.
