NACC and Foreign Chambers Collaborate to Promote Transparency in Thailand
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), through its Bureau of Good Governance Development and Promotion, organized the event “Exchange of Views on Anti-Corruption Measures” in collaboration with the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT) on 1st September 2025 at the S31 Hotel, Sukhumvit Road, Wattana District, Bangkok.
The event brought together representatives from foreign embassies, government agencies, private sector businesses, and anti-corruption organizations to exchange perspectives and experiences.
The meeting aimed to provide a platform for dialogue, exchange of viewpoints, and reflection on corruption-related challenges faced by foreign investors and businesses in Thailand—particularly the risks of bribery and undue benefits in dealings with public sector agencies.
The forum also sought to introduce proposals for improving domestic laws and mechanisms to align with international standards, as well as preparing Thailand for accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Mr. Sornchai Choowichian, Deputy Secretary-General of the NACC, stated during his opening address that cooperation with the JFCCT is an essential mechanism to drive Thailand towards a transparent, accountable, and fair economic system. He emphasized that this direction is consistent with international commitments, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions.
Mrs. Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag, Chairwoman of the JFCCT, expressed her appreciation for the seminar’s opening. She highlighted the longstanding cooperation with the NACC, dating back to 2014 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on corporate governance and private sector anti-corruption, followed by the 2019 joint seminar on the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption, and the 2022 high-level seminar “Ending Corruption: Key to Boosting Investment in Thailand.”
She stressed that these efforts aim to strengthen foreign investor confidence by ensuring Thailand’s determination to address corruption structurally, across both public and private sectors. Such initiatives are expected to improve Thailand’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score and enhance the country’s competitiveness.
For 2025, the JFCCT’s cooperation focuses on four priority areas:
The seminar featured two key panel discussions: (1) Thailand’s preparation for OECD membership and legislative reforms to prevent and address corruption in line with global standards, including UNCAC and the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention. (2) Private sector engagement in driving anti-corruption, with contributions from Mr. Phonmes Benjarongkij, Director of the Thai Private Sector Collective Action Coalition against Corruption (CAC); Mr. Kittidej Chantangkul, Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand (ACT); and representatives from the JFCCT.
The discussions provided opportunities for participants to voice practical concerns, share experiences, and propose constructive solutions toward a more transparent and accountable business environment.
Mr. Sornchai Choowichian further remarked: “This seminar is not only a platform for dialogue, but also an opportunity for foreign business representatives to share their real-world experiences. Their input will serve as valuable policy guidance for the NACC to strengthen legal frameworks and anti-corruption measures.”
He concluded that sustained cooperation will help Thailand raise its CPI score and reinforce international confidence in the country’s commitment to building a transparent, accountable, and internationally recognized economic system—encouraging foreign investors to invest with confidence.
The NACC reaffirmed its proactive stance and commitment to working closely with all stakeholders—especially the business sector and international organizations—to foster a “transparent, fair, and stable investment environment,” which is crucial to strengthening Thailand’s competitiveness and supporting sustainable economic and social development.
