Malaysia - Thailand strengthen economic ties in high-level finance talks

LocalBusiness & Finance
8 Mar 2026 • 10:14 AM MYT
The Vibes
The Vibes

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MALAYSIA’S Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah held a bilateral meeting with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Dr Ekniti Nitithanprapas, at the Thai Ministry of Finance recently, focusing on current economic developments and strategies to enhance cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.

Accompanying Amir Hamzah was Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia, Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, as confirmed in a post on the official X account.

Speaking after the discussions, Amir Hamzah said that Friday’s meeting offered an important platform to deepen relations and expand collaboration between Malaysia and Thailand.

The two countries have set a target for bilateral trade of US$30 billion by 2027, emphasising cross-border trade, halal industries, and rubber exports as key growth sectors.

Strategic infrastructure projects, including the Second Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok Bridge and the Bukit Kayu Hitam–Sadao Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security (CIQS) corridor, are expected to further stimulate trade, investment, and tourism in the region.

Amir and Abdul Rasheed were in Bangkok to attend the Asia 2050 Conference, organised by the Bank of Thailand in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund.

The conference brought together regional experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to share insights and innovative ideas on future challenges and opportunities across Asia.

The meeting underscores Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Thailand while leveraging regional initiatives to enhance growth and resilience in the ASEAN economic landscape. - March 8, 2026