On October 9, 2026, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the NESDC, welcomed H.E. Ms. Raylene Siale Tagaloa Liufalani, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, and her delegation. The meeting aimed to support the goals of both Prime Ministers in expanding comprehensive economic cooperation. Key topics included Thai economic trends, high-potential target industries, sustainable trade and investment opportunities, and progress on Thailand’s OECD accession. NESDC executives and officials also participated in the discussion.
During the meeting, the NESDC Secretary-General exchanged views on the economic situation, the development of high-potential industries, and the expansion of trade and investment opportunities to enhance the competitiveness of both nations. He emphasized cooperation to elevate relations to a Strategic Partnership between Thailand and New Zealand through key initiatives, such as increasing agricultural productivity and creating value-added in the food industry. This focuses on research and development of high-potential products and the commercial application of agricultural and food innovations to drive Thailand’s ‘Food of the Future’ industry. Furthermore, they discussed promoting investment and expanding trade opportunities to achieve Strategic Partnership goals by increasing bilateral investment in high-potential sectors to create economic opportunities and mutual competitiveness. This builds upon the success of the Thailand–New Zealand Closer Economic Partnership (TNZCEP) to increase trade value amidst the challenges of a volatile global context.
Additionally, the NESDC Secretary-General mentioned the progress of Thailand’s OECD accession, which is currently undergoing technical assessment. Thai agencies are enthusiastic and cooperating well with the OECD. Meanwhile, the Ambassador expressed support for Thailand’s membership and welcomed the provision of technical assistance and capacity-building activities for Thai officials throughout the accession process. Thailand’s membership will help enhance competitiveness, increase transparency in public administration, and contribute to the diversity of OECD member countries from various regions.
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International Strategy and Coordination Division
Competitiveness Development Strategy and Coordination Division
Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council
October 12, 2026
