Thailand attracts $2.15 bn Chinese tech investment and hosts IME 2026 manufacturing expo

Thailand has secured a $2.15 billion investment from four leading Chinese technology companies as part of its push to upgrade manufacturing capabilities. The funding is aimed at accelerating the adoption of automation, artificial intelligence, and green production methods across Thai industry.

From July 22‑24, 2026, Bangkok will host the Intelligent Manufacturing Expo Southeast Asia (IME 2026) at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center. Organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce Trade Development Bureau, DEXPO Shanghai, and Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai, the expo is the first overseas event run by the China International Industry Fair organizers. Around 150 firms from China and other markets will showcase industrial automation, AI, robotics, smart production lines and digital manufacturing solutions. Highlighted projects include Han’s Laser’s 40 kW bevel laser‑cutting system in Chonburi and DENAIR’s oil‑free air compressor used by a Bangkok pharmaceutical company, illustrating the concrete benefits of Chinese‑Thai collaboration.