BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Finance announced that Thailand’s hosting of the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings exceeded expectations, drawing record attendance and highlighting the nation’s economic potential and cultural identity to international delegates. Vice Minister of Finance Archawat Chareonsilp stated that the meetings, held in Bangkok from October 12 to 18, 2026, attracted over 19,000 registered participants, with the final count possibly reaching 20,000. The Vice Minister noted that attendance surpassed the previous record of approximately 14,000 participants and that international financial leaders commended Thailand’s organization and hospitality.
Archawat thanked the Thai public for contributing to the meetings’ success. He emphasized that the economic benefits would extend beyond immediate spending, potentially generating medium- and long-term opportunities through increased international confidence and recognition of Thailand’s capabilities.
During the meetings, Thailand demonstrated its cultural power by featuring Thai cuisine, traditional textiles from 36 communities, and Muay Thai, highlighting the country’s cultural heritage and identity. Thailand also joined discussions on artificial intelligence and climate change, showing its engagement with major global economic and development challenges. The Vice Minister expressed confidence that the international relationships formed during the meetings would strengthen Thailand’s economic opportunities and its global role. (NNT)
