Unleashing the Potential: India-Thailand Partnership in 2025
India and Thailand seek increased commercial connections
India and Thailand are ushering in their 78th year of diplomatic ties, beefing up cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism, as both nations seek to capitalize on their long-standing historical and cultural connections.
Nagshesh Singh, the Indian ambassador to Thailand, highlights the growing economic partnership, particularly through the ongoing review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement. "Nearly a dozen rounds of dialogue between India and ASEAN members have taken place to upgrade the agreement to suit current economic realities," he disclosed to our publication.
Thailand's "Look West" policy, a strategy that utilizes Thailand's strategic maritime location linking Southeast Asia with South Asia, closely aligns with India's "Act East" policy. This policy, first introduced in 2014, is a diplomatic initiative to strengthen India's ties with Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific, with ASEAN at its center.
Mr. Singh revealed that both countries are active participants in several regional frameworks, such as the East Asia Summit, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, among others.
Trade and investments remain at the heart of the bilateral partnership. In 2021, Global Renewable Synergy Co Ltd, a Thai firm, made the largest investment in India's renewable energy sector worth US$453 million (approximately 16.5 billion baht).
Mr. Singh emphasized that the Indian market continues to spark interest among Thai investors, particularly in the sectors of hospitality, construction materials, and green energy. "The Indian market offers countless investment opportunities for Thai companies," he noted.
Tourism is another vital area targeted for growth. While connections between the two countries have improved, Mr. Singh pointed out that Indian tourist attractions still have limited exposure in the Thai market.
"India has a smorgasbord of vacation experiences, from snow-capped mountains in Kashmir to pristine beaches in Goa and Kerala, and thrilling wildlife safaris to soothing wellness retreats. However, many Thais remain unaware of these offerings due to an information gap," he admitted.
Misconceptions about safety in India persist, largely due to a lack of accurate information. "India is a vast nation offering something for every traveler. We hope more Thai people will consider visiting India," Mr. Singh shared.
Beyond tourism, cultural and spiritual ties bind the partnership. Over 95% of Thais practice Theravada Buddhism and share a deep connection to India, the birthplace of Buddha's enlightenment. Traditional Thai literature like the Ramakien is inspired by India's Ramayana, and Sanskrit and Pali influences can still be found in Thai names and customs.
Mr. Singh hailed the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Thailand, describing them as a "living bridge" between the two countries. "They act as brand ambassadors for our friendship and make meaningful contributions to Thai society across various sectors," he stated.
More than 400,000 people of Indian origin, including approximately 25,000 non-resident Indians, call Thailand home. Fueled by shared goals for regional growth and mutual prosperity, India and Thailand are poised to build on decades of cooperation and embark on an even closer partnership in the years ahead.
The Indian ambassador to Thailand, Nagshesh Singh, expressed interest in the renewable energy sector, particularly noting a large investment in India's renewable energy by a Thai firm, Global Renewable Synergy Co Ltd, worth US$453 million in 2021. Additionally, Mr. Singh highlighted the Indian market as an attractive opportunity for Thai investors, particularly in sectors like green energy, further indicating the potential expansion of the renewable energy industry within the India-Thailand partnership.
