Thailand's rise in the latest IMD World Competitiveness Ranking has prompted the government to build on its strengths and address structural weaknesses to support long-term economic growth.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said the nation had risen four places to 26th among more than 70 economies in the 2026 competitiveness rankings compiled by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD).
The findings, released on Thursday, highlighted both strengths and weaknesses that would be addressed through the Joint Public-Private Consultative Committee on Economic Problems, whose first meeting is scheduled for Monday, Mr Ekniti said.
He identified energy intensity as Thailand's most pressing infrastructure challenge. Ranked 67th globally on this indicator, Thailand remains heavily dependent on imported oil and natural gas, with energy imports accounting for nearly 10% of GDP.
"The country must accelerate its energy transition to reduce long-term risks," he said.
The committee, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul with Mr Ekniti serving as deputy chair, is intended to act as a long-term mechanism for driving economic reforms.
Meeting agendas will focus on issues highlighted by IMD as well as international credit-rating agencies Moody's and S&P Global Ratings.
Earlier, S&P affirmed Thailand's BBB+ sovereign credit rating with a stable outlook, citing confidence in the country's economy and fiscal stability.
The agency projected economic growth of around 2% this year and said political stability would support policy continuity, economic restructuring and long-term investment plans.
Mr Ekniti said both Moody's and S&P had emphasised the importance of investment in infrastructure, human capital and regulatory reform.
He pointed to the proposed "Thailand Fast Pass" initiative as an example of how easing regulations could stimulate investment without requiring additional public spending.
Looking ahead, the government plans to establish four subcommittees focusing on infrastructure, trade and competitiveness, business laws and regulations, and labour. Mr Ekniti said meaningful improvements could be achieved within three to four years.
According to IMD's assessment, Thailand's performance improved in several areas.
International investment rose from 30th to 24th, reflecting stronger foreign direct investment inflows, while business efficiency improved, with private-sector capability rising from 39th to 37th. Fiscal performance also strengthened, supported by greater use of digital systems such as e-tax invoicing.
However, challenges remain. Thailand's ranking in international trade fell from fourth to ninth because of its reliance on exports and exposure to global economic fluctuations.
Infrastructure indicators also remained relatively weak, particularly in health and environment, ranked 56th, and education, ranked 52nd.
Mr Anutin welcomed the positive assessments, thanking the Thai public for their confidence and cooperation with government policies.
"The confidence shown by the international community reflects the confidence of the Thai people," Mr Ekniti explained.
