BOI, SET and SEC sign MOU to open capital markets to 10 New Economy industries
RegulationMacro
The Board of Investment, the Stock Exchange of Thailand and the Securities and Exchange Commission signed a memorandum of understanding on 17 September 2026 to drive the BOI to IPO programme, making it easier for businesses in the New Economy to access the capital market. The programme links the tools of the three agencies: the BOI will use investment incentives as the draw, while the SET and the SEC will help prepare companies and streamline the process for entering the Stock Exchange of Thailand, or SET, and the Market for Alternative Investment, or mai. The key point is the additional incentives for companies that enter the capital market. New Economy companies certified by the SET will receive an additional three years of corporate income tax exemption, or an additional 50% tax reduction for five more years. General companies that meet the conditions will receive an additional two years of corporate income tax exemption, or an additional 50% tax reduction for three more years, depending on the type of business. The programme's target group covers 10 New Economy industries: advanced agriculture and food, biofuels and biochemicals, medical and health care, creative tourism, modern automotive, aviation and logistics, digital and e-commerce, smart electronics, robotics, and technology and innovation development. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary-General of the BOI, said the measure aims to connect investment promotion with the capital market so that capable companies can raise funds in Thailand and use the money to keep expanding. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, said the government attaches importance to an Investment-led Growth approach, wanting investment to lead to technology transfer, the creation of high-skilled jobs, and the connection of Thai entrepreneurs into the supply chains of modern industries. The SEC is in the process of improving its IPO review process to make it faster and clearer, while the SET has adjusted its securities listing criteria to make it easier for BOI-promoted businesses to list, and will support some of the costs related to preparing for the capital market.
