Policy address sets priorities

Thailand’s new prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, delivered his first policy speech to lawmakers, pledging to ease living costs, support small businesses and revive tourism while keeping inflation in check. He said his government would pursue diplomacy to defuse tensions along the Cambodian border and improve cross-border trade logistics. Anutin also backed steps toward a new, more democratic constitution, signaling consultations with civil society and opposition parties. Investors will watch for stimulus details, including targeted tax relief and infrastructure outlays, as well as timelines for regulatory reforms meant to speed permits and digital payments adoption.

What happens next

The administration’s early tests include flood response coordination and budget passage. Attention will focus on cabinet unity, given coalition dynamics, and on whether the government can show quick wins—fuel price relief, SME credit access, and tourism visa facilitation—before year-end holidays. Any progress on a constitutional roadmap could ease political risk, but pushback from entrenched interests is likely. Regional partners will scrutinize Bangkok’s stance on Myanmar and Mekong water management as indicators of its foreign-policy balance.