Thailand stands at the forefront of a manufacturing revolution, with its strategic location in Southeast Asia and unprecedented foreign investment paving the way for a high-tech future that promises to redefine industrial landscapes. The upcoming co-located exhibitions, Automation Thailand and PCB Thailand, set for March 11–13, 2026, at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), are anticipated to be transformative catalysts in this journey. Organized under the Intelligent Asia Thailand platform by a collaboration of industry leaders, these events aim to propel advancements in automation and printed circuit board (PCB) technologies. Targeting critical sectors such as electronics, automotive, and digital industries, they mirror Thailand’s rapid rise as a global production hub. As the nation solidifies its position amidst a shifting supply chain dynamic, these exhibitions offer a glimpse into the innovative tools and strategies that could shape the future of manufacturing across the region and beyond.
Thailand’s Emergence as a Global Manufacturing Hub
Thailand’s industrial sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by an extraordinary influx of foreign direct investment (FDI) reaching THB 1.06 trillion (USD 32.5 billion) in the first half of 2025, reflecting a year-on-year surge of 139%. This capital is predominantly funneled into high-growth areas like electronics and electrical (E&E) industries, automotive production, and digital infrastructure, including data centers. Such investment highlights Thailand’s growing appeal as a stable and diversified supply chain destination, bolstered by its established expertise in key manufacturing domains. The nation’s ability to attract global manufacturers seeking resilience in their operations positions it as a pivotal player in the international market, setting a robust foundation for technological and industrial advancements that are likely to redefine regional dynamics.
Government policies further amplify Thailand’s ascent, with national agendas focused on innovation and technology adoption complementing large-scale infrastructure developments like the Eastern Economic Corridor. These initiatives are crafted to encourage local manufacturers to integrate advanced systems, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and enabling the production of sophisticated, high-value products. This supportive policy framework creates an environment conducive to growth, where events like those planned for 2026 can have a profound impact. By aligning governmental strategies with industry needs, Thailand is not only fostering economic progress but also positioning itself as a leader in high-tech manufacturing, ready to tackle global demands with cutting-edge solutions and a forward-thinking approach.
Automation Thailand: Pioneering Industrial Modernization
Automation Thailand is set to be a cornerstone event, presenting a broad spectrum of solutions tailored for diverse industries, from industrial automation and robotics to digital factory systems and logistics innovations. With Southeast Asia witnessing a rising demand for digitization and smart manufacturing practices, the exhibition will spotlight technologies such as AI-driven automation and carbon-efficient systems that resonate with the global shift toward Industry 5.0 standards. This platform goes beyond mere technology display, aiming to address pressing challenges faced by manufacturers in adopting these advancements. By showcasing tools that enhance productivity and sustainability, it offers a window into the future of industrial operations, where efficiency and environmental responsibility can coexist to meet the evolving needs of a competitive market.
A significant focus of Automation Thailand lies in overcoming barriers to technology adoption, particularly the persistent issues of skill shortages and limited expertise among workforces. Through dedicated initiatives like the SPS Stage Bangkok, which will host technology demonstrations and educational seminars, the event seeks to close knowledge gaps and empower businesses of all sizes—from small local firms to multinational corporations—with the necessary skills to implement automation effectively. This emphasis on education alongside access to cutting-edge tools highlights a comprehensive approach to industrial modernization. By fostering an environment of learning and collaboration, the event is poised to equip participants with actionable insights, ensuring that the benefits of automation are accessible and practical for a wide range of industry players striving to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
PCB Thailand: Fueling High-Tech Electronics Expansion
PCB Thailand emerges as a vital platform dedicated to printed circuit boards, a fundamental component of modern electronics, at a time when Thailand is projected to secure 20–25% of the global PCB market by 2027, spurred by demand from electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI), and electronics manufacturing services (EMS). This event will connect every segment of the PCB value chain, from raw material suppliers to assembly experts, while showcasing advanced components like high-density interconnect (HDI) boards and smart automation systems for fabrication and testing. As a specialized forum, it addresses the unique needs of a sector critical to Thailand’s high-tech ambitions, offering stakeholders a space to explore innovative solutions that can meet the escalating global appetite for sophisticated electronic products in an increasingly connected world.
As the only dedicated exhibition for the PCB and E&E sectors in Thailand, PCB Thailand is uniquely positioned to drive growth in an industry foundational to technological progress. By facilitating collaboration between local manufacturers and international suppliers, it ensures that all parties are equipped to navigate the complexities of a rapidly expanding market with cutting-edge approaches. The event’s comprehensive scope reflects the intricate nature of PCB production, providing a hub for knowledge exchange and partnership that can propel the sector forward. With Thailand’s strategic focus on emerging fields like EVs and AI, this platform will play a crucial role in strengthening the nation’s competitive edge, enabling industry players to capitalize on opportunities and address challenges through shared expertise and innovative practices tailored to future demands.
Shaping the Future of Manufacturing in Southeast Asia
The combined impact of Automation Thailand and PCB Thailand in 2026 is expected to resonate deeply within Southeast Asia’s manufacturing ecosystem, reflecting broader trends of digitization and technological integration across industries. These events will serve as critical junctions for introducing and disseminating advanced tools and strategies, from AI-enhanced automation to specialized PCB solutions, that are essential for maintaining competitiveness in a globalized economy. By addressing both overarching industrial needs and niche sector requirements, they underscore Thailand’s role as a leader in high-tech production, capable of influencing regional standards and practices. The exhibitions will likely set benchmarks for innovation, encouraging other nations to adopt similar approaches in their pursuit of industrial excellence.
Looking back at the groundwork laid by these initiatives, it’s evident that the events held in March 2026 marked a turning point for Thailand’s manufacturing sector, offering actionable pathways for growth and modernization. Industry stakeholders who participated found themselves better equipped to tackle skill shortages through educational programs and gained access to technologies that streamlined operations. For those navigating the PCB landscape, connections forged during the event opened doors to global markets, particularly in high-demand areas like EVs and AI. Moving forward, the focus should remain on sustaining this momentum by fostering continuous collaboration and investing in workforce development to ensure long-term resilience. These steps will be vital as Thailand and the broader region aim to solidify their standing in the ever-evolving world of high-tech manufacturing.
