Latest news with #Krungsri
Bangkok Post
07-08-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial urges reform of Thai industry
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), a major shareholder in Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), views manufacturing reform in Thailand as more critical than US tariff changes in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). Speaking at the Krungsri-MUFG Business Forum 2025 on Tuesday in Bangkok, Kanetsugu Mike, chairman of MUFG, said Thailand is expected to post subdued economic growth in the short term amid mounting challenges such as high household debt, an ageing population, and the transition towards a digital and green economy. US tariffs would intensify the challenges facing the Thai economy and other economies around the world, he said. "In the face of these uncertainties and economic challenges, Thailand has an opportunity to reform its economy, particularly the manufacturing sector," said Mr Mike. He suggested reforming, redesigning and adopting new technologies to transition into novel industries to enhance the capabilities and competitiveness of Thailand's industrial sector. This shift should support the country's long-term sustainability, said Mr Mike. "Reform is more important than tariff rates when it comes to attracting FDI flows to Thailand," he said. "Southeast Asian nations are all on a similar level in terms of US tariffs." Foreign investors typically prioritise a country's industrial policies, investment promotion measures, and infrastructure systems when considering FDI, said Mr Mike. He said Asia-Pacific, particularly Thailand, remains a strategically vital market for MUFG. Roughly 60% of MUFG's earnings come from international markets, with 45% of that amount from Asia-Pacific. Of this amount, around half is generated in Thailand through Krungsri. According to Mr Mike, MUFG stands ready to support Krungsri and Thai customers in adopting new technologies, advancing digitalisation, and transitioning to a sustainable economy. Despite heightened economic uncertainties and challenges, MUFG has no plans to divest and remains focused on strengthening engagement with all relevant partners, he said. With a strong international ecosystem, a leading position in sustainable finance, and robust digital capabilities, MUFG is committed to advancing sustainable development and fostering economic resilience in Thailand and across the region, said Mr Mike. Kenichi Yamato, president and chief executive of Krungsri, said the bank's slower loan growth aligns with Thai economic trends. Krungsri is working with the government, the Bank of Thailand, and other stakeholders to help individuals and businesses ease their financial burdens during this period, he said. Krungsri wants to expand its social and sustainability finance portfolio to 250 billion baht by 2030, up from 220 billion, said Mr Yamato.
Bangkok Post
04-08-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Krungsri hosts seminar on business and economic shifts
Entrepreneurs, investors and interested parties are invited to "Krungsri-MUFG Business Forum: Thriving To Sustainable Future", a premiere annual seminar presented by Krungsri, at Bangkok Convention Centre, 22nd floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Road, tomorrow, from 8.30am to 5pm. The morning session features "Krungsri ESG Awards: Minute of Changes", a business pitching competition presented by exemplary ESG-minded SME leaders who will showcase their sustainable transition plans before a distinguished panel of judges. In the afternoon, national and global leaders in finance and economics will render a series of distinguished topics in an exclusive talk, which will open with remarks by Kanetsugu Mike, chairman of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. Topics include "Krungsri Sustainable and Regional Bank" by Kenichi Yamato, president and chief executive officer of Bank of Ayudhya; "Industrial Reform: Steering Thailand's Economy under Structural Disruptions" by Industry Minister Akanat Promphan; and "The Upcoming Thailand's Climate Change Act" by Phirun Saiyasitpanich, director general of the Department of Climate Change and Environment. Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of TDRI, will touch on "Navigating Global Shifts: Strengthening Thailand's Economic Competitiveness", Mari Elka Pangestu, former managing director of Development Policy and Partnerships at the World Bank, will talk about "Capturing Regional Opportunities in a Shifting Global Landscape". The programme will proceed with a panel discussion on "Strategic Growth through Innovation in Global Sustainable Finance" and conclude with "Achieving Sustainability and Growth Amid the Current Economic Climate: A Case Study of SCG" by Thammasak Sethaudom, president of SCG. There will also be an exhibition zone featuring a wide range of business and financial innovations and solutions, aimed at empowering customers to grow their businesses sustainably and securely. There is no admission fee. To register, visit
Bangkok Post
06-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Krungsri Champions Innovation at Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair
A startup is more than just a fledgling company. It's a bold idea, driven by science, technology, and social purpose, to solve real-world problems. From AI-powered healthcare to fintech tools for underserved communities, these innovations have the potential to reshape economies. Yet despite their promise, many startups face a common hurdle: a lack of early-stage funding and support needed to scale into the next 'unicorn'. Strategic Alignment with Krungsri's 2025 Vision At the centre of the initiative is Krungsri's long-term commitment to regional growth, sustainability, and innovation. Backed by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. (MUFG), Krungsri's Japanese Corporate Banking (JPC) arm reaffirms its leadership as the trusted partner among Japanese corporations and has outlined a clear 2025 strategy focused on expanding sustainable growth and supporting new Japanese investment in Thailand under the concept of 'Co-creating New Core Industries with Thai Government and Our Customers in Thailand.' Krungsri will drive innovation and business opportunities in new core industries that hold the potential to reshape Thailand's economic future through three key pillars: Expanding government collaboration to promote new core industries like smart agriculture, semiconductors, and food tech. Such moves have been made through the organizing of the startups event. Delivering ESG-aligned financial solutions, including sustainable deposits and social loans. Deepening regional integration through Krungsri ASEAN LINK and strategic consulting services. Startup development has long been one the Krungsri's strategic missions and priorities, aiming to further support and keep them prepared to enter new industrial trends. Hence, Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair 2025 reflects its strong commitment to its promise. That's why the Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair 2025, co-hosted by Bank of Ayudhya PCL (Krungsri), is becoming one of the region's most impactful platforms for innovation. Now in its third year, the fair continues to provide startups with strategic access to investors, governments, and corporate partners across Asia. Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair 2025 'We take pride in being the No.1 Trusted Partner for businesses entering new markets,' said Mr Kenichi Yamato, President and CEO of Bank of Ayudhya PCL. 'This platform allows us to support startups through partnership, funding, and strategic direction, connecting them to both the public and private sectors.' Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair 2025 Held on 26 June 2025 at Siam Kempinski Bangkok, this year's fair was co-organised by Krungsri, AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC), Tokyo SME Support Center, Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting (MURC), MRIV International and goverment agencies in ASEAN. The event welcomed over 500 participants from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The fair featured almost 400 business matchings between 54 startups and over 200 corporate investors. Sectors of focus ranged from AI, FinTech, and HealthTech to ESG solutions, gaming, animation, disaster prevention solutions, food technology, and smart agriculture, reflecting the region's evolving innovation landscape. High-Level Voices on Innovation and Growth This year's edition drew participation from senior government and corporate leaders, who offered a unified message: startups are central to Asia's sustainable development. H.E. Mr Otaka Masato, Ambassador of Japan to Thailand, noted that 'Startups are at the forefront of innovation. They hold the key to solving complex global challenges, ranging from decarbonisation to disaster prevention. Japan is proud to share our knowledge and technology with ASEAN's next-generation entrepreneurs.' He also referred to Japan's five-year national startup strategy, launched in 2022, which continues to drive Japanese startup globalisation. Mr Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary-General, Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), echoed the urgency, saying that 'This fair comes at a pivotal time. The world is rapidly evolving through technological disruption. Thailand offers a competitive startup environment through the LTR visa, 10-year work permits, and tax incentives in key innovation sectors like MedTech and FinTech.' Meanwhile, Mr Kazuhisa Takeuchi, Mayor of Kitakyushu City, shared the city's transformation from an industrial zone to an ESG hub: 'Kitakyushu has turned its pollution-ridden past into a clean, innovation-driven future. We're ready to welcome ASEAN startups focused on sustainability, automation, and disaster resilience. This fair is a powerful catalyst for cross-border collaboration.' According to Mr Bunsei Okubo, Head of Japanese Corporate Banking, Bank of Ayudhya PCL, Kitakyushu's evolution makes it a model location for ESG-aligned startup development. 'This is a city that reinvented itself through innovation and determination, offering real infrastructure and opportunity for green startups,' he said. Government at the Heart of Innovation In line with this year's theme, the fair underscored the crucial role of government in cultivating innovation ecosystems. Ministries and agencies from Thailand, Japan, and beyond came together to explore how regulation, public funding, and national policy can accelerate startup success. 'Government involvement is crucial in creating a nurturing environment for innovation,' said H.E. Mr Akanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, Royal Thai Government. 'Platforms like this fair are vital for unlocking potential in both the public and private sectors.' He also underscored the government's commitment to reform and startup empowerment, saying, 'This is a truly important and inspiring event. We are living in a time of great transformation, both globally and domestically. Change is inevitable and we not only embrace it, but drive it. We are introducing new regulations and simplifying processes to make doing business easier, especially in sectors where innovation and investment matter most. Today's businesses must strike a balance—creating new talent, fostering innovation, making a profit, and supporting society through ESG. This event reflects that balance in action.' The approach is rooted in three pillars: Global partnerships to share innovation and success stories. Public engagement to build confidence through collaboration between government and citizens. Driving ecosystem development, connecting startups with funding, banks, and enterprise partners. 'Startups must be kickstarted now. Thailand has received the wake-up call and my role is to help them seize this moment of change,' he said. Expanding Regional Impact with Taiwan One of a major milestone at this year's event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Krungsri, its innovation arm Krungsri Finnovate (KFIN), and Taiwan's Industrial Technology Investment Corporation (ITIC). The MoU aims to promote Taiwanese startups across ASEAN and Japan by leveraging Krungsri's extensive network to encourage business matching and co-investment opportunities, support platform and data infrastructure development, and share ESG and innovation best practices. This move signals Taiwan's strong intention to join the 2026 edition and further broadens the fair's regional scope. Knowledge Sharing and Opportunity Access Beyond networking and investment, the fair offered strategic insights through a packed agenda of panel discussions and educational sessions. Highlights included 'Entering Japan: Unlocking Opportunities and Incentives', which provided expert advice on market entry and government support schemes; workshops on doing business with large Thai and Japanese corporates; case studies on ESG-driven business models; and sessions on ASEAN-wide startup expansion. Mr Kenichi closed the event by affirming Krungsri's long-term commitment: 'This fair isn't just about networking. It's about building a movement. We are connecting startups not just with funding, but with purpose, sustainability, and partnership. Together, we are shaping Asia's future.' What's Next? As Krungsri celebrating its 80th Anniversary, the bank's focus remains firmly on driving digital transformation, ESG integration, and cross-border partnerships. Mr. Bunsei Okubo, Krungsri Head of Japanese Corporate Banking, amplified that 'Krungsri will remain a key driving force for Japanese corporations and support for the growth of Thai economy with a strong focus on fostering new core industries, aiming to connect Japan and ASEAN for a sustainable future. The organising of this event obviously represents its strong promise in developing businesses and startups to blossom beyond its potential.' With the momentum of this year's fair, Krungsri is well-positioned to lead the next wave of regional innovation, bringing startups, governments, and investors together for a smarter, more sustainable future.
Bangkok Post
04-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Krungsri-MUFG Forum to Spotlight Sustainable Growth
Bangkok, July 4, 2025 – Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited) cordially invites entrepreneurs, investors, and stakeholders to its flagship annual seminar, 'Krungsri-MUFG Business Forum: Thriving to Sustainable Future', taking place on Tuesday, 5 August 2025, at the Bangkok Convention Centre, 22nd Floor, Centara Grand at CentralWorld. The event will bring together prominent national and international thought leaders in finance, economics, and sustainability to discuss key strategies for thriving amid global transformation and achieving long-term, stable growth. The morning session features a special segment: Krungsri ESG Awards: Minute of Changes a dynamic business pitching competition where leading ESG-driven SME entrepreneurs will present their sustainable transition plans to a panel of distinguished judges. The programme will also include the announcement of award winners and presentation of certificates to participants in the Krungsri ESG Academy. The afternoon session features a series of exclusive talks and discussions by distinguished speakers, including: Akanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, on 'Industrial Reform: Steering Thailand's Economy under Structural Disruptions' Kanetsugu Mike, Chairman, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Kenichi Yamato, President and CEO, Bank of Ayudhya PCL, on 'Krungsri: A Sustainable and Regional Bank' Dr Phirun Saiyasitpanich, Director-General, Department of Climate Change and Environment, on 'The Upcoming Thailand Climate Change Act' Dr Somkiat Tangkitvanich, President, Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), on 'Navigating Global Shifts: Strengthening Thailand's Economic Competitiveness' Mari Elka Pangestu, Special Envoy of the President of Indonesia and Former Managing Director of the World Bank, on 'Capturing Regional Opportunities in a Shifting Global Landscape' A panel discussion titled 'Strategic Growth through Innovation in Global Sustainable Finance' will feature: The session will conclude with a keynote by Thammasak Sethaudom, President of SCG, on 'Achieving Sustainability and Growth Amid the Current Economic Climate: A Case Study of SCG.' Attendees can also explore the Exhibition Zone, showcasing a range of financial innovations and sustainable business solutions from Krungsri, its partners, and entrepreneurial networks. Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain insight into sustainable business strategies and the evolving regional landscape.
