Google launches AI initiative in Thailand

Google Cloud has launched the PanyaThAI flagship transformation programme to fast-track Thailand's adoption of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) to drive the AI economy.

- SUCHIT LEESA-NGUANSUK

Research from Public First found that if local organisations more effectively apply AI, they could contribute an estimated 730 billion baht (US$21 billion) in economic value to Thailand by 2030.

The programme intends to lay a foundation for a robust AI-driven economy that strengthens the nation's global competitiveness.

"The AI opportunity is as big as it gets. Google wants to drive the AI economy in Thailand through infrastructure investment, training workers through its transformative programme," Annop Siritikul, country director of Thailand at Google Cloud, said at the launch event yesterday.

Last year, Google Cloud announced a $1 billion investment in its data centre and cloud region in Thailand to reduce latency and strengthen digital infrastructure in the country. More recently, it invested in the TalayLink subsea cable connecting Australia and Thailand, positioning the country as a rising AI hub in the region.

Alongside these infrastructure projects, the company has trained more than 50,000 people in AI skills, including offering 3,000 free online AI classes, underscoring its commitment to building Thailand's AI economy and workforce readiness.

The new programme is designed to empower Thai organisations to develop, adopt and scale up enterprise-grade agentic AI solutions, Mr Annop said.