Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, revealed that, “Amidst the global trend of an aging society and the focus on preventative healthcare, the Department of Business Development recognizes that the private sector understands the business landscape best. Therefore, the Department is working by opening opportunities for the private sector and partners such as the Department of Health Service Support, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), the Thai Spa and Wellness Association, the Thai Health Promotion Association, the Thai Association for Senior Healthcare Trade and Services, and PMG Corporation Co., Ltd., to play a key role in defining the direction and strategies, and jointly driving the ‘DBD Wellness 2026’ big project. We believe that the ‘private sector-led, government-supported’ model will be the key to creating the perfect blend of ‘High Tech’ – the use of AI and data to drive business – and ‘High Touch’ – the charm of heartfelt service.” The government will act as a "support system" to help Thailand achieve its goal of becoming a dignified and sustainable Global Wellness Hub.

Currently, the service sector has emerged as a powerful "new economic engine," replacing traditional manufacturing sectors that are facing challenges. In particular, the Health & Wellness industry is a key driver of national revenue. Data as of January 31, 2026, clearly shows this industry as an "economic treasure trove" and a true strength of Thailand, with over 30,712 legal entities, nearly 400 billion baht in investment, and projected total revenue exceeding 1.233 trillion baht in 2024. These figures confirm its strong potential. However, the challenge lies in equipping businesses with "digital skills" and "partner networks" to fill business gaps and strengthen this new economic engine so it can move forward at its full potential.

Under the "DBD Wellness 2026" project, the Department of Business Development and its partners have laid out a robust development roadmap to empower spas, health massage services, and senior care services. The initiative, aimed at supporting related businesses, involves three key steps: 1) Empowering businesses with intellectual tools (ConNext), focusing on AI and digital marketing to modernize management; 2) Expanding the foundation for sustainability (Scale-up), strengthening business plans, and ensuring sustainable business expansion; and 3) Showcasing potential internationally (The Pitching & Expo), selecting 12 outstanding business models to showcase their potential and facilitate business negotiations at the national-level ‘Thailand Wellness & Healthcare Expo 2026’.

“This collaboration is not just about organizing an event, but about creating a true ecosystem where the government and the business sector support each other. The Department of Business Development is confident that ‘DBD Wellness 2026’ will be a crucial mechanism for enhancing competitiveness and generating significant revenue for the country, aligning with the Ministry of Commerce’s vision of strengthening Thai entrepreneurs on the global stage,” Director-General Poonpong concluded.

For more information, please contact the Service Business Division, Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, at 0 2547 5158, hotline 1570, or visit the website. www.dbd.go.th

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