Thailand’s Appeal as an Investment Hub: Insights from CEO Giorgio Gamba
Thailand is preparing to leverage its robust infrastructure to support its economic momentum in 2025, according to Giorgio Gamba, CEO of HSBC Thailand. Gamba expressed confidence in the country’s long-term growth potential, especially amid global economic uncertainties.
In a recent discussion, Gamba highlighted the impressive interest demonstrated by foreign investors following a successful roadshow in China. This initiative showcased Thailand’s diverse investment opportunities across various sectors and attracted participation from both existing clients and potential newcomers.
HSBC Thailand actively engaged with investors across six Chinese cities in a five-day roadshow, in collaboration with the Board of Investment (BoI). This effort aims to position Thailand as Southeast Asia’s premier investment destination. Earlier, HSBC Thailand had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Eastern Economic Corridor Office to enhance global investment in the EEC project.
Through strategic partnerships with government entities, HSBC Thailand is dedicated to fostering economic growth. The bank plans to host additional roadshows this year to encourage foreign direct investment (FDI) into the region.
Despite anticipated slower economic growth rates, Gamba reassured stakeholders that FDI decisions are typically driven by long-term prospects and Thailand’s robust manufacturing sector. The high growth potential of Southeast Asia and strong regional connectivity further enhance Thailand’s attractiveness to international investors, offering ample opportunities to establish manufacturing bases and expand export operations.
In 2024, new international clients constituted 84% of HSBC Thailand’s total new clientele, reaffirming Thailand’s pivotal role in attracting investment. Last year, the bank facilitated investments from 38 countries, including significant contributions from China, other ASEAN markets, Europe, the Middle East, and the US. Thailand’s foreign direct investment approvals reached a record 727 billion baht in 2024, the highest level seen in two decades.
“We anticipate continued growth in BoI applications this year, reinforcing our belief that Thailand is the optimal location for investment at this time,” stated Gamba.
HSBC Thailand is well-prepared to support international investors looking to engage in the country, focusing on industries such as electric vehicles, data centers, advanced manufacturing, electronics, and renewable energy, all aligned with digital innovation and sustainability initiatives.
Additionally, HSBC Thailand is committed to assisting Thai businesses in expanding abroad, targeting strategic markets where the bank has a solid presence, including China, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. This strategy will enable Thai businesses to scale globally, contributing to Thailand’s overall economic growth.
HSBC Thailand remains dedicated to expanding its service offerings and enhancing client engagement. Recognized as “Thailand’s Best International Bank” for four consecutive years, the bank has been operating in the country for 136 years and is part of one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations, with a presence in 58 countries and territories.
