Thailand Prepares to Host 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Meetings

Thailand has finalized preparations for the 2026 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, scheduled for October 12 to 18 in Bangkok. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, led a press tour of the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center to demonstrate the venue's readiness to host more than 15,000 participants from 191 countries and regions.

The Thai government expects the event to generate an economic injection between THB 1.05 billion and 2.25 billion. Officials intend to use the forum to attract foreign direct investment by showcasing the nation's digital infrastructure, wellness economy, artificial intelligence, and electric vehicles.

To minimize environmental impact, the event is designated as a green meeting. This initiative includes paperless operations, a reduction in single-use plastics, and the deployment of a fleet of over 320 electric vehicles for delegate transportation. Security measures include a multi-tiered system with 24-hour monitoring of delegate hotels.