Why OECD membership matters

In a highly fragmented world, Thailand’s accession to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development (OECD) is more than just a diplomatic gesture — it marks a transformative opportunity to accelerate structural reform and attract high-quality investment.

- WERAPONG PRAPHA

Today, the 38 OECD member countries account for over 60% of global GDP and 75% of world trade, with over half of global energy consumption — underscoring the bloc’s strategic importance.

Thailand and Indonesia are the first Southeast Asian nations to launch a formal OECD accession process — an effort described as “historic” by the OECD Secretary-General during the recent Southeast Asia Regional Forum in Bangkok, which drew nearly 300 high-level delegates. A clear consensus emerged: accession is a marathon, not a sprint. For Thailand, the journey toward full membership is just as vital as the destination.

Put simply, this is a national undertaking — demanding long-term investment of time, resources, and political will. Thailand must pursue sweeping regulatory reforms and engage proactively on global priorities, from AI to the Green Transition.

With a target of full membership by 2030, the accession process offers a powerful pathway for Thailand to advance toward becoming a high-income country by 2037.

OECD membership isn’t just about ticking boxes but unlocks access to peer learning and constructive pressure, both powerful drivers of meaningful reform. While the accession has garnered bipartisan support across the political spectrum, expectations must be managed with care.

Gains in governance, transparency, and policy coherence will enhance Thailand’s global credibility, but for reforms to truly succeed, they must move at a pace that brings people along and ensures benefits are shared across the economy.