Thailand is eyeing growth in the "global pink economy" as speakers at a forum highlight rising market value, changing consumer behaviour and new investment opportunities.
The discussion took place at the Bangkok Post Pride Dialogue 2026: Where Diversity, Culture and Economy Meet, co-organised by the Bangkok Post and the Australian Embassy in Bangkok at Emsphere on Friday.
Speaking on the topic of "Pink Economy: From Visibility to Economic Value", Tanachai Kulsomboonsin, chief executive and co-founder of Canvas Ventures International, said awareness of the pink economy has expanded in Thailand over the past two years.
"Pink economy" refers to the purchasing power of the LGBTQ+ community. The global market is worth about US$4 trillion (about 133.51 trillion baht) and could grow up to $7 trillion within five years.
"The pink economy is no longer a niche discussion. It is becoming a structural part of global consumption," Mr Tanachai said.
Up to one-third of Gen Z consumers identify as LGBTQ+, contributing to a broader and more influential consumer base.
"This is not only about identity, but about purchasing power and influence across industries," he said.
Mr Tanachai said the pink economy now includes allies and wider communities, expanding its overall economic footprint.
Tourism remains the dominant sector, with growth of about 7.8%, followed by fintech, insurance and healthcare. Emerging opportunities include creative industries, aesthetic healthcare, surrogacy services and digital platforms.
Mr Tanachai said financial services are being reshaped by demand for tailored fintech and insurance products that reflect diverse family structures and modern lifestyles.
"Financial products must evolve with society. The demand is already there, and companies that respond early will lead the market," he said.
Thailand's marriage equality law has strengthened its appeal as an inclusive destination, supporting efforts to attract investment, talent and visitors.
Mr Tanachai said Bangkok could emerge as a regional hub for LGBTQ+ investment and talent across Asia-Pacific.
However, he warned that consumers are becoming more critical of superficial inclusion.
"Rainbow washing will not survive the next phase of the market. Consumers are far more aware and far more demanding," he said.
Alisa Phanthusak Kunpalin, managing director of Tiffany's Show Pattaya, said the entertainment industry was a long-standing example of inclusive economic value.
The cabaret show, running for more than 50 years, has become a major tourism draw in Pattaya.
"This is evidence that inclusion is not only social value, but also real economic value," she said, adding that the show, one of Pattaya's best-known attractions, also supports jobs and business activity across hospitality, transport, retail and tourism.
With about 90% of audiences coming from overseas, she said Tiffany's Show represents both cultural export and Thai soft power.
"This is really evidence of the pink economy that actually is more than economic value, and more than social value," Ms Alisa said.
Chindanai Dechawaleekul, actor and executive director of SOF Studios, said Thailand's Boys' Love (BL) and Girls' Love (GL) industries also show the commercial strength of inclusive content.
"About 80% of BL audiences are heterosexual women. That tells you this is not a niche market," he said.
He said the success of Thai BL and GL content lies in portraying LGBTQ+ characters as part of everyday life, portraying them as ordinary people, rather than framing stories around gender struggles or rigid categorisation.
"If you want to emphasise diversity, you have to accept diversity in it, not make it feel separate," he said.
