Thailand to fast-track $9.2 bln in investment projects, accelerates debt buyback scheme

BANGKOK – Thailand will expedite more than 300 billion baht (USD 9.2 billion) worth of investment projects over the next four months in an effort to stimulate the slowing economy, according to senior government officials.

The initiative focuses on sectors such as data centres, electronics, renewable energy, and infrastructure, with streamlined approval processes to attract both local and foreign investors.

The announcement follows the finance ministry’s decision to allocate 10 billion baht for the repurchase of distressed household debt, part of a broader effort to ease financial strain on consumers and stimulate spending.

However, the Bank of Thailand has warned of “significant downside risks” due to renewed U.S.-China trade tensions and weakening global demand.

While the government aims for GDP growth above 2.2% this year, analysts caution that heavy reliance on state-led investment may strain fiscal stability if export conditions continue to deteriorate.