Thailand should recognise its LGBTQ+ economy as a new growth engine that requires legal and structural reforms to attract investment and enhance global competitiveness, according to several speakers.
This call to action was made during the Canvas Forum 2026, organised on Thursday by Canvas Ventures International at Nextopia Siam Paragon, with support from the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau. Held under the theme "The Right to Stay", the forum examined the intersection of investment, identity and inclusive economic growth as Bangkok seeks to attract global capital, high-net-worth migrants and the growing creative and LGBTQ+ economies.
During a panel discussion titled "The Policy Road to Pink City -- A World-Class LGBTQ+ Destination", Pornchai Witayalerdpan, a senator, emphasised the need for Thailand to identify a new economic driver after losing its competitive edge in sectors like agriculture and automotive manufacturing.
He highlighted the country's strengths in LGBTQ+-related industries, including Boys' Love (BL) and Girls' Love (GL) entertainment, as well as gender-affirming healthcare. Citing research, he noted that Thai BL and GL productions account for about 50-60% of global content in these genres, while the country's internationally recognised gender-affirmation surgeries continue to draw overseas clients.
"Thailand has viewed these sectors as aspects of soft power, but it is time to consider them as new growth engines," he said. "They have the potential to attract foreign investment, particularly from LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and investors."
He stressed the importance of legislative reform, suggesting measures such as a Gender Recognition Bill and an Anti-Discrimination Bill to provide legal protections, improve access to state welfare regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation and enhance confidence among international investors.
"The country must recognise that LGBTQ+ individuals are not only consumers but also investors, entrepreneurs and taxpayers," he added. "When people feel safe to be themselves, they can reach their full potential, benefiting the broader economy."
Karndee Leopairote, deputy leader of the Democrat Party and a party-list MP, pointed out that outdated regulations hinder Thailand from maximising its strengths.
She mentioned the country's medical sector, highlighting that medical professionals face regulations that restrict them from promoting their expertise, while unqualified individuals are permitted to market cosmetic and health services online.
"We need to enhance our existing strengths to better align with global market demand," Ms Karndee said, adding that regulatory reform should allow qualified professionals to showcase their expertise while ensuring consumer protection.
Sanon Wangsrangboon, Bangkok's deputy governor, asserted that legislative reform should be coupled with practical changes at the local level to foster a more inclusive city.
He said Bangkok must adopt more gender-sensitive public services, especially in healthcare, to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Mr Sanon cited Bangkok schools that allow teachers to dress according to their gender identity, noting that this policy has boosted teachers' confidence and classroom performance.
"When individuals feel comfortable in their own skin, the surrounding environment improves as well," Mr Sanon said.
