Various notebook computers are displayed at the 2026 Commart Gameforce. The government is promoting semiconductor production as chips are crucial components behind technologies ranging from computers to artificial intelligence. Wisuttipong Rodpai
Thailand cannot rely solely on foreign investment if it wants to develop the semiconductor industry as a new engine to drive long-term economic growth, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).Pimjai Leeissaranukul, chairwoman of the FTI, welcomed the recent establishment of the National Semiconductor Policy Committee to steer technological advancement, but noted various measures are needed to develop the country into a semiconductor manufacturing base.
The committee, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, set a target to draw 2.5 trillion baht in investment to the chipmaking industry by 2050.
"We need both investment and technological know-how," said Mrs Pimjai.
Foreign investors' pledges to spend several millions of baht developing semiconductor production facilities must be done in tandem with human resource development.
