Japanese satellite analytics enters Thailand, boosting smart cities and security

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1 July 2026, 13:55

Bangkok, Thailand – Space Shift’s advanced satellite data analytics solutions have entered the Thai market through a Japan-Thailand joint venture by Nagase (Thailand) and B2G Solution, offering Thai government agencies and businesses a stable, trusted, and future-ready platform for space-based intelligence.

Thailand’s space technology market is expected to value over 1 billion US dollars. The technology is designed to transform satellite data into practical insights for real-world decision-making across key sectors. The collaboration comes at a timely moment as Thailand continues to advance its digital economy, smart city agenda, infrastructure development, environmental resilience, public safety, data-driven public services and national security.

Satellite data analytics can play an increasingly important role in helping public and private sector organizations monitor land use, assess environmental change, support agricultural productivity, strengthen national emergency preparedness, enhance situational awareness, and improve infrastructure-related decision-making.

Under this collaboration, the joint venture formed by Nagase (Thailand) and B2G Solution has been officially appointed as the sole distributor of Space Shift’s space technology solutions in Thailand, effective 1 June 2026. The appointment marks an important step in bringing Japan’s advanced AI-powered satellite data analytics technology to Thai government agencies, businesses, and industries.

Space Shift is recognized in Japan for transforming satellite data and space-based insights into practical solutions that can be applied beyond the traditional aerospace sector. Guided by the philosophy of connecting “views from space” to daily decision-making, the company focuses on enabling better coexistence among people, the Earth, and technology through the use of space data.

Bringing this technology into Thailand requires not only advanced innovation, but also strong local understanding, industrial networks, and policy insight. Nagase (Thailand), part of the global NAGASE Group, adds significant international credibility and industrial depth to the collaboration.

Founded in Kyoto, Japan in 1832, NAGASE Group has more than 190 years of business history and has grown into a global chemical distribution, manufacturing, and R&D company with 114 group companies, more than 7,000 team members, and operations spanning over 32 countries. With approximately USD 6 billion in annual revenue and a global network covering Japan, China and Taiwan, South Korea, ASEAN, India, the Americas, and Europe, NAGASE provides a strong platform for bringing Space Shift’s satellite data analytics solutions into real-world commercial and industrial applications in Thailand.

Dr. Masahiro Matsumoto, Team Leader for Sustainable Material Technology at Nagase (Thailand), said the collaboration reflects Nagase’s commitment to advancing technology-driven growth and sustainability in Thailand.

“Satellite data analytics is no longer a distant technology. It is becoming a practical tool that can help industries, governments, and communities make better decisions,” said Dr. Matsumoto. “Through this collaboration, Nagase aims to connect Japanese innovation with Thailand’s real economic and environmental needs, particularly in areas such as resource efficiency, infrastructure monitoring, environmental stewardship, and sustainable industrial development.”

Complementing Nagase’s industrial expertise, B2G Solution brings deep insight into Thailand’s public policy and regulatory landscape. Established in 2019, B2G Solution has built its reputation as a trusted government affairs consultancy, working with regulators, policymakers, and key institutions to help organizations navigate complex policy environments and deliver meaningful outcomes.

Dr. Kengkran Louvirojanakul, CEO of B2G Solution, said the partnership is not only about introducing new technology, but also about ensuring that space-based solutions are applied in ways that respond to Thailand’s national priorities.

“For advanced technology to create real impact, it must be introduced with a clear understanding of local needs, policy direction, regulatory frameworks, and public-sector priorities,” said Dr. Kengkran. “B2G Solution is proud to help bridge Space Shift’s AI-powered satellite data analytics technology with Thailand’s development agenda, from smart cities and agriculture to infrastructure planning, environmental monitoring, disaster management, public safety, and defense and security applications.”

Mr. Naruo Kanemoto, CEO of Space Shift, said Thailand is a strategic market for expanding the practical use of satellite data analytics in Southeast Asia. “Our technology is designed to utilize available satellite data sources from around the world and extract actionable intelligence through advanced analytics and artificial intelligence,” said Mr. Kanemoto. “Through this collaboration, we aim to support Thai government agencies and businesses with reliable space-based insights for monitoring, risk management, public safety, sustainability, and long-term planning.”

The appointment of the Nagase-B2G joint venture as sole distributor underscores a shared commitment to building long-term confidence in Thailand’s emerging space technology market. By combining Japanese technological excellence, Nagase’s industrial strength, and B2G Solution’s policy expertise, the collaboration is positioned to support Thailand’s ambitions in digital transformation, sustainability, and advanced innovation.

This strategic collaboration is expected to expand access to cutting-edge satellite data analytics in Thailand, while fostering trust among customers, government agencies, and partners seeking reliable solutions that translate satellite data from available global sources into tangible social, environmental, security, and economic value.

Rather than positioning space technology as a distant or highly specialized field, the partnership aims to demonstrate how satellite intelligence can become part of everyday decision-making, helping Thailand plan smarter, respond faster, and grow more sustainably.

Chinese Ambassador to Thailand: At a New Starting Point, Stride on a New Journey

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 13:20

Editor’s Note: The following article is written by H.E. Mr. Zhang Jianwei, the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, on the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China and the 51st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.

July 1, 2026 marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China and the 51st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.

Over the past 105 years of trials and hardships, the Communist Party of China has led the Chinese people in achieving a great leap from standing up and growing prosperous to becoming strong, and has brought about two miracles of rapid economic development and long-term social stability. In particular, since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, China has historically eradicated absolute poverty, comprehensively entered a stage of high-quality development, and steadily maintained its position as the world’s second largest economy. Its international influence has been significantly enhanced, deeply interconnected and mutually reinforcing with the rest of the world, continuously creating broad development opportunities for Thailand and other countries across the globe.

The Communist Party of China has always pursued an independent foreign policy of peace. It is dedicated to pursuing happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation and human progress and world harmony. Under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, China is committed to building a community with a shared future for mankind, actively implements the four major global initiatives, and advocates a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation. China is unwavering in its role as a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, a defender of the international order, and a provider of public goods. It has always been a trustworthy and reliable partner for Thailand.

Concerted efforts over the past 51 years have yielded fruitful results. No matter how the international landscape has evolved, China and Thailand have always stood together and forged ahead side by side. The two countries respect each other’s development paths and firmly support each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests. Our mutually beneficial cooperation has yielded remarkable results. Bilateral trade volume has increased by more than 6,000 times compared with the early days of diplomatic relations. China has been Thailand’s largest trading partner for 13 consecutive years, and is also Thailand’s largest export market for agricultural products, a major source of investment, and a leading source of tourists. The two countries have also maintained close coordination on regional and international affairs, jointly promoting peace and development, and have worked together to address risks and challenges, making themselves important forces in the Global South.

In 2025, China and Thailand celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn paid a historic visit to China. President Xi Jinping and His Majesty reached important new consensus on deepening the China-Thailand community with a shared future. Under the leadership and guidance of the two heads of state, China-Thailand relations have demonstrated robust vitality. In particular, since the beginning of this year, our cooperation in future-oriented industries has gained strong growth momentum. For the first time, China’s humanoid robot industrial chain has made a large-scale layout in Thailand, and a number of leading printed circuit board companies have expanded their investment in Thailand, helping to boost the country’s transformation towards innovation, sustainability, and smart manufacturing. People-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two sides have remained vibrant. As of June 20 this year, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand reached 2.54 million, up by nearly 19 percent year-on-year, ranking first among all foreign tourist sources. Meanwhile, the number of Thai tourists traveling to China has repeatedly hit new highs. Artificial intelligence, smart education, deep-space exploration, and aviation and aerospace have become new growth areas for bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation, contributing to the modernization drive of both countries and delivering tangible benefits to our peoples.

This year marks the first year of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the starting point of the new “Golden 50 years” of China-Thailand relations. Under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, China will continue to pursue the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness in its neighborhood diplomacy, and empower the region and the wider world with high-quality development and high-standard opening-up. At this new historical starting point, China stands ready to work with Thailand to further align our development strategies, carry forward traditional friendship, and deepen pragmatic cooperation, so that the fruits of development will benefit our peoples more broadly. We will jointly promote regional peace and prosperity, write a new chapter in the China-Thailand community with a shared future, and embark on a new journey of modernization for both countries.

King visits La Mode en Majesté royal Thai dress exhibition in Paris

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 12:34

PARIS, France — Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida on Tuesday visited the exhibition La Mode en Majesté – Royal Thai Dress: From Tradition to Modernity at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris during their state visit to France.

The exhibition is held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, who invited Their Majesties to view the showcase.

Running from 13 May to 1 November 2026, the exhibition is jointly organised by the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (SACIT), The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs.

The exhibition marks two milestones in Thai-French relations: the 340th anniversary of relations between the two countries and the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, spanning 1856–2026.

More than 200 exhibits are on display, including royal gowns, garments and accessories created by French couturier Pierre Balmain in collaboration with the renowned embroidery house Lesage, alongside works by leading Thai designers.

The exhibition traces the evolution of royal Thai dress from tradition to modernity, highlighting how royal attire has been presented on the international stage. It features garments worn by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, Queen Suthida and Princess Sirivannavari, as well as all eight styles of the Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom (royally endorsed Thai national costumes).

The collection also showcases traditional Thai craftsmanship, reflecting generations of artistic heritage and cultural wisdom.

Organisers say the exhibition also supports Thailand’s nomination of Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom for inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2026.

Australian authorities charge French women for drug smuggling from Thailand

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 12:15

Australian authorities charge French women for drug smuggling from Thailand

AUSTRALIA — 1 July 2026, Australian authorities have tightened border security after charging a French woman with importing a controlled drug concealed inside a body wash bottle following her arrival from Thailand.

The case comes days after the Australian Federal Police (AFP) announced the arrest of a 26-year-old Thai Airways flight attendant who allegedly attempted to smuggle about one kilogram of heroin hidden in a cloth bag into Australia through Melbourne Airport on Thursday. It was later revealed that Australian authorities had made another drug-related arrest just days earlier, when a 31-year-old French woman travelling from Thailand was also taken into custody for allegedly smuggling a controlled substance.

According to an AFP statement published on its website on Friday, the French suspect was brought before the Perth Magistrates Court to face charges over the alleged importation of a border-controlled drug into Australia.

The statement said the French suspect, who currently resides in Manning, was arrested by officers from the Australian Border Force (ABF) after arriving at Perth Airport from Thailand on Monday. During a baggage inspection, ABF officers allegedly found a suspicious liquid inside a container labelled as body wash.

Testing identified the liquid as 50 grams of 1,4-butanediol (BDO). The substance is classified as a border-controlled drug under Australian law.

Furthermore, ABF officers examined the woman’s mobile phone and uncovered images suggesting she may also have concealed additional prohibited substances internally. She was subsequently referred to the AFP for further investigation. The woman later excreted 40 steroid tablets, which authorities seized for forensic examination.

Authorities have not publicly identified the specific type of steroid or announced any additional charges relating to the tablets.

She has been charged with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, contrary to Section 307.2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said authorities remained vigilant against those attempting to smuggle illicit substances into Australia through the country’s airports.

ABF Superintendent John Eldridge stated that 1,4-butanediol is a highly dangerous chemical solvent. After entering the body, it is converted into gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a powerful central nervous system depressant. Even a dose of just a few milligrams can be fatal. Due to its extreme danger, 1,4-butanediol has been subject to Australia’s border controls since 2024. Consequently, the chemical is treated as a serious drug trafficking offence, comparable to the unlawful importation of substances such as methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.

Heavy rain floods Phuket roads as canal level rises

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 12:08

Heavy rain floods Phuket roads as canal level rises

PHUKET — Heavy rain to very heavy rain that began at around 04:00 on 1 July 2026 caused flooding in several parts of Phuket, with authorities warning motorists to avoid inundated roads and travel with caution.

Flooding was reported in Patong in Kathu district and at multiple locations across Phuket’s Muang district. Water covered road surfaces, making it difficult for small vehicles to pass and causing traffic congestion on some routes.

Officials advised residents to avoid flooded areas where possible and exercise caution while travelling.

Meanwhile, the water level in Bang Yai Canal, a major waterway stretching more than 20 kilometres from Kathu district through Phuket Town before emptying into Phuket Bay, rose by more than 3 metres.

Authorities warned that the elevated water level could cause the canal to overflow into nearby communities. Drainage operations are continuing to reduce the impact of heavy rainfall and accumulated runoff, while officials are monitoring the situation around the clock.

G-SHOCK unveils Pokémon 30th anniversary watch with lottery sales

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 11:04

G-SHOCK unveils Pokémon 30th anniversary watch with lottery sales

Casio has opened lottery registration in Japan for a limited-edition G-SHOCK x Pokémon watch celebrating the franchise’s 30th anniversary, bringing together two collector-heavy worlds: Pokémon nostalgia and one of G-SHOCK’s most recognisable modern silhouettes.

The watch features a transparent case accented with colour details referencing the original Pokémon Red, Green and Blue games. Its strap is printed with illustrations of 30 Pokémon to commemorate the anniversary, while the subdial is designed as a Poké Ball and the hands are inspired by Pikachu’s tail. Additionally, the case back is engraved with a 30th anniversary logo, and the watch comes in a Poké Ball-shaped box designed specifically for this release.

In addition to its themed design, the GA-110 retains the core features of the standard model, including G-SHOCK’s shock-resistant construction, 200-metre water resistance, world time, a stopwatch, countdown timer, multiple alarms and an LED backlight.

The timepiece is priced at 33,000 yen (about 6,700 baht or US$202.72), excluding applicable taxes and shipping charges.

Casio says the lottery is not first-come, first-served, and applicants must register for a Casio ID and are limited to one entry each. The Japan lottery is limited to residents of Japan, and Casio warns that entries may be invalidated if they appear to involve false information, multiple accounts, forwarding services or resale purposes.

The collaboration continues Casio’s long-running strategy of releasing special-edition G-SHOCK watches based on popular entertainment franchises, many of which have become sought-after collectibles in the secondary market.

A Thailand release has not been announced, but Singapore has been listed for a regional launch later in July. Thai collectors can monitor Casio Thailand and authorised G-SHOCK distributors for further updates.

Geology Department warns 13 provinces of landslide risk amid heavy rain

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 11:01

Geology Department warns 13 provinces of landslide risk

BANGKOK — 1 July 2026, Thailand’s Department of Mineral Resources has warned of possible landslides and flash floods in 13 provinces over the next two to three days due to persistent heavy rain.

The Department’s Geohazard Operations Center issued the alert, urging its volunteer monitoring network and residents in at-risk areas to remain vigilant between 1–3 July 2026.

The provinces under the warning are Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Tak, Nan, Phitsanulok, Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi and Trang.

The department said a monsoon trough stretching across northern Thailand and the upper Northeast, combined with a strengthening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, is expected to bring continued heavy rainfall.

Rainfall has already exceeded 100 millimetres in some areas over the past 24 hours, with flash floods beginning in several locations, increasing the risk of landslides.

Authorities have instructed geohazard monitoring volunteers to closely monitor rainfall, remain on alert, warn local communities of any landslide or flash flood threats, notify relevant agencies and follow established emergency response plans.

Host bar worker dies in Pattaya fire at unlicensed venue

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 10:20

Host bar worker dies in Pattaya fire at unlicensed venue

PATTAYA — A 28-year-old employee was killed after becoming trapped in a fire that tore through an unlicensed host bar in Pattaya early on 1 July 2026, authorities said.

The Pattaya City Land Disaster Relief Radio Center received a report of the blaze at 00:16. The fire broke out at the Catwalk entertainment venue in Soi Chalerm Phrakiat 29, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.

Police from Pattaya City Police Station, Bang Lamung district administrative officials, Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue workers and firefighters were dispatched to the scene.

The fire engulfed the pub-style host bar, sending thick smoke billowing into the air. Firefighters deployed three fire engines to contain the blaze. A private groundwater delivery truck passing nearby also joined the effort by supplying water to help extinguish the flames.

It took firefighters more than 30 minutes to bring the fire under control.

Investigators found the fire had started near the venue’s entrance. Inside, they discovered the body of Thanaphon Boonchan, 28, an employee of the bar. He was found dead beneath a table after apparently being unable to escape as the flames spread.

Somchai Nawacharoen, 63, the owner of the groundwater delivery truck, said he had been making a delivery to a nearby business when he spotted the fire and immediately reversed his vehicle to help firefighters by spraying water on the flames.

Other employees told police they received a phone call from a colleague who was inside the venue reporting the fire. They rushed to the scene, where a worker said the blaze appeared to begin near the roof before spreading toward the exit. Everyone attempted to flee, but the victim was not seen leaving and is believed to have been trapped inside.

A preliminary investigation found the entertainment venue was operating without a licence. Authorities also said the victim was unable to escape because the fire blocked the main exit, while the premises had no emergency exit.

The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Forensic police will conduct a detailed examination to establish the origin of the blaze.

Thailand named Asia’s top retirement destination in 2026 global index

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Khaosod English

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1 July 2026, 09:59

Thailand named Asia's top retirement destination in 2026 global index

BANGKOK — 1 July 2026, Thailand has been ranked the best country in Asia and ninth globally as a retirement destination in the Global Retirement Index 2026, according to the government, which said it will continue promoting the country as a leading destination for retirees from around the world.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana said on Wednesday that Thailand was ranked ninth worldwide and first in Asia by International Living, a leading US media outlet specializing in overseas living and retirement, receiving an overall score of 80.0 points.

The ranking evaluates seven key factors: housing, visas and retirement benefits, cost of living, development and governance, climate, healthcare, and overall lifestyle suitability. The assessment is based on input from experts, correspondents and expatriates living in each country.

The results reflect Thailand’s potential as a global retirement destination, citing its quality of life, healthcare system and welcoming living environment.

Lalida said Thailand received its highest score in the cost-of-living category, earning 96 points, reflecting the value it offers relative to the quality of life provided. It was followed by 84 points for development and governance, demonstrating the country’s readiness in infrastructure and public administration. Thailand also scored 79 points each for healthcare and retirement visas and benefits, highlighting its internationally recognized medical standards and policies that make the country an attractive destination for retirees from around the world.

The ranking aligns with the government’s policy of elevating Thailand into a global Medical and Wellness Hub. The administration is moving forward with developing the medical and wellness industry while promoting wellness tourism, elderly care and high-value medical services.

It also pledged to improve healthcare services, strengthen infrastructure and create a supportive living environment for both Thai citizens and foreigners, while promoting the country as a regional centre for the health economy.

The government said it would continue efforts to position Thailand as a global retirement destination, with the aim of generating tourism and healthcare revenue, attracting investment and sustainably distributing economic opportunities to the public.

DITP launches Thailand Content Market 2026 to promote Thai content globally

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Mc Marketing

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30 June 2026, 20:05

Thailand is set to unveil a landmark event for the content and creative industries with the launch of Thailand Content Market 2026, the country’s first comprehensive international trade show and business platform dedicated to content and creative industries. Taking place from 20–22 July 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), the event will bring together content creators, rights holders, producers, and creative businesses from Thailand and around the world under one roof. Thailand Content Market 2026 is organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), in collaboration with the Creative Economy Agency (CEA) and key private-sector partners.

More than just an industry event, Thailand Content Market 2026 is designed as a platform where the public can experience the world of creativity up close. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the present and future of Thailand’s content industry, spanning films, television dramas, series, animation, games, characters, digital publishing, and content-driven creative products such as art toys, board games, collectibles, toys, and emerging licensing businesses.

Attendees can look forward to discovering new ideas, projects, and innovations from some of Thailand’s leading content companies, including GMM, MONO, Kantana, GDH, and ONE Enterprise. These industry leaders will showcase their latest projects and demonstrate the growing strength of Thailand’s entertainment sector. The event will also feature special activities for content fans, including new project launches, appearances by artists and actors, and immersive experiences that bring audiences closer to the content they love throughout the three-day event.

For content enthusiasts, Thailand Content Market 2026 will serve as a gateway to emerging global trends and future opportunities. Visitors will gain insights into the latest creative concepts, fast-growing industry segments that is being elevated to another level (NEXT LEVEL), and next-generation content across film, television, gaming, animation, character licensing, and creative businesses that are shaping international markets.

For industry professionals, Thailand Content Market 2026 will provide a strategic platform to connect Thailand’s content ecosystem with global markets. Through business matching sessions, pitching opportunities, and networking activities, Thai companies will be able to engage directly with international buyers, importers, investors, and business partners. The event is expected to welcome more than 250 buyers and importers from over 30 countries, alongside international pavilions featuring leading companies and organizations from Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and ASEAN countries.

A key highlight of the event is the integration of two major industry platforms into a single marketplace: Bangkok International Digital Content Festival (BIDC), Thailand’s premier digital content business event, and Bangkok International Content Market (BICM), which focuses on film, series, and content development. Together, they will strengthen Thailand’s position as a leading creative and content hub in Asia.

The event will also feature a comprehensive conference program and learning sessions led by international industry experts. Topics will cover some of the most transformative trends shaping the future of content, including AI in creative industries, animation, gaming, intellectual property creation and management, and strategies for expanding Thai content into global markets.

Thailand Content Market 2026 presents an exciting opportunity for everyone—whether you are an entrepreneur seeking new business opportunities, a young creative exploring career possibilities, or a consumer passionate about content and entertainment. The event offers a unique space to discover inspiration, stay ahead of industry trends, and experience the future of Thailand’s content industry on a global stage.

Admission is free of charge.

Register and learn more at thailandcontentmarket.com.

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