The Securities and Exchange Commission, Thailand (SEC) in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), jointly organized the Roundtable as a high-level regional forum between Asian economies and the OECD to promote policy dialogue on corporate governance, corporate finance and sustainability in the corporate sector. This event convened over 150 participants from 23 countries, senior policymakers, regulators, corporate leaders, investors, and international organizations to exchange experiences and best practices in corporate governance and corporate sustainability.

The event also marked the launch of the OECD Capital Market Review of Thailand,an in-depth study that provides policy recommendations to strengthen Thailand’s capital-market ecosystem. Key recommendations include:

(1) Enhancing Corporate Governance and Transparency: Empowering market participants by increasing their accountability, revising the 2017 Corporate Governance Code, strengthening board independence, and disclosure practices, as well as improving oversight of related-party transactions and minority shareholder protection.

(2) Boosting Stock Market Access and Liquidity: Streamlining IPO approvals, simplifying secondary offerings, improving SME access through mai and LiVEx markets and supporting market research.

(3) Long-Term Debt Market Financing: Facilitating the use of corporate bonds, including sustainable and green finance instruments, as well as strengthening investor protection by refining the process for investor accreditation and easing SMEs access to the bond market.

(4) Mobilizing Private Capital Markets: Expanding the use of venture capital and private equity financing, increasing flexibility of fund structures, employee stock option plans and funding instruments, and fostering a more supportive ecosystem for new ventures.

(5) Deepening the Investor Base and Strengthening Household Savings: The OECD recommends expanding pension coverage, increasing institutional investors participation in capital markets, and continuing to promote financial literacy.

The SEC has consistently prioritized assessments against international standards. Therefore, the OECD Capital Market Review of Thailand 2025 was not merely an opportunity for evaluation, but a learning process to adjust practices in line with international standards and reaffirm our commitment to enhancing governance and market transparency. This initiative aims to build a strong, competitive Thai capital market that supports long-term sustainable economic growth.

Professor Wisit Wisitsora-at, SEC Chairman, said, “Collaboration has always been central to our policy process. Through open dialogue with the OECD and our stakeholders, we have ensured that this Review reflects real-world needs and a shared commitment to continuous improvement. We deeply value the diverse perspectives that have helped shape these findings into practical and forward-looking outcomes.”

Professor Pornanong Budsaratragoon, Ph.D., SEC Secretary-General, said, “These insights are beyond recommendations — they are policy priorities we are already addressing. The SEC is determined to carry this momentum forward, working with our partners to make our markets more dynamic, accessible, and resilient. We consider the OECD Capital Market Review of Thailand as an important opportunity to drive meaningful reforms that will strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of the Thai capital market.”

Asadej Kongsiri, SET President, stated, “The OECD Capital Market Review of Thailand 2025 highlights significant areas for development that require cooperation among all stakeholders in the Thai capital market. This collaboration is essential to advance these development opportunities, strengthen governance, and build a resilient and sustainable capital market."

Carmine Di Noia, OECD Director for Financial Affairs, said, “Thailand’s past capital market reforms and continued commitment to raising corporate governance standards demonstrate strong leadership in promoting transparent, efficient, and inclusive markets, aligning with the G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance. We highly value our collaboration with the SEC and believe this review can serve as a valuable instrument for supporting the investment climate and the overall dynamism of the Thai economy.”

Remarks:

* OECD’s information:

- Established in 1961, the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) is a forum and knowledge hub for data, analysis and best practices in public policy. OECD works with over 100 countries across the world to build stronger, fairer and cleaner societies – helping to shape better policies for better lives. More information is available at www.oecd.org  

** OECD-Asia Corporate Governance Programme’s information:

- The Roundtable is part of a long-standing OECD-Asia Corporate Governance Programme, co-organised annually with host jurisdictions. It provides a platform for peer learning among Asian and OECD economies, strengthening convergence toward global best practices.

- Thailand’s role as host underscores its commitment to upholding high corporate governance standards and advancing capital market development.