China and Thailand Strengthen Investment Cooperation as Guangzhou and Thailand’s Department of Business Development Expand Business Connectivity Through International Trade Fairs
Bangkok, 2 July 2026 – Economic and trade relations between Thailand and Guangzhou continue to advance as a delegation from the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau met with Thailand’s Department of Business Development (DBD), Ministry of Commerce, to discuss investment promotion, business networking, and participation in international trade exhibitions. The meeting marked another important step toward creating new business opportunities and strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.
The meeting was coordinated by the Asian International Trade and Investment Association (AITIA), which led the delegation from the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau headed by Mr. Wang Xiaohua, First-Level Inspector of the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau. The delegation was welcomed by Ms. Suthida Ngernmuen, Director of the Business Promotion and Development Division at the Department of Business Development, where both sides exchanged views on enhancing investment cooperation and expanding business partnerships between Thailand and China.
During the discussion, the Guangzhou delegation sought information regarding Thailand’s investment regulations and business requirements for foreign investors. Representatives from the Department of Business Development provided detailed guidance on business sectors open to foreign participation, company registration procedures, documentation requirements, and relevant investment regulations, helping Chinese enterprises better understand Thailand’s investment environment.
The Department also highlighted that Chinese investment in Thailand has been particularly strong in manufacturing, the automotive industry, metal processing, mold production, warehouse and property leasing, and wholesale businesses. Currently, more than 450 Chinese companies have successfully established operations in Thailand, reflecting the country’s position as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations.
Beyond investment cooperation, both parties discussed opportunities to strengthen collaboration through international trade exhibitions. The Guangzhou delegation invited Michelin-recognized Thai restaurants and Thai food entrepreneurs to participate in the annual Boutique Food Week and International Food Festival in Guangzhou. These events aim to introduce authentic Thai cuisine to Chinese consumers while promoting Thailand’s rich culinary culture on the international stage.
The Department of Business Development noted that it had previously participated in these events in 2023 and 2025 and plans to encourage even more Thai businesses to join this year’s exhibitions, creating additional opportunities for Thai food exports and market expansion in China.
Another key topic of discussion was the invitation for Thai businesses to participate in the 140th Canton Fair, scheduled for October 2026 in Guangzhou. As one of the world’s largest trade exhibitions, the event offers valuable opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to build international partnerships and expand into global markets.
Meanwhile, the Thai side invited Chinese enterprises from Guangzhou to participate in THAIFEX – Anuga Asia, Thailand’s leading international food and beverage trade exhibition. Chinese representatives expressed strong interest in showcasing food products and innovations from China, further promoting bilateral trade and deeper cooperation within the food industry.
The meeting underscored the important role of the Asian International Trade and Investment Association (AITIA) as a bridge connecting economic and commercial cooperation between Thailand and China. Through business matching, entrepreneur exchanges, and international exhibition partnerships, AITIA continues to support sustainable trade, investment, and market expansion opportunities for businesses in both countries while reinforcing long-term Thailand–China economic relations.
