• The first Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits Collaboration between Singapore and an ASEAN country
• MOU signed between SBF and Thailand Board of Investment to enhance and strengthen investment collaboration between Thailand and Singapore
• Event held in celebration of 60 years of Singapore–Thailand diplomatic ties connecting 150 businesses from Singapore to counterparts in Thailand

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) successfully convened the 9th edition of the Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF), held in Bangkok, Thailand, for the first time. Organised in celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Thailand, the Forum welcomed 450 participants from 25 economies. It also brought together senior policymakers, business leaders, investors, and industry associations to discuss Asia’s growth and integration under the theme “Business Resilience in Asia: Thriving Amid Global Uncertainty and Trade Shifts”. As global uncertainties continue to shape the economic landscape, the importance of regional collaboration has never been more critical. By fostering deeper cross-sector collaboration, the Forum aims to navigate the structural shifts in the global economy and build long-term business resilience.

Highlights include keynote addresses by Dr Tan See Leng, Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology, and Mr Pichai Chunhavajira, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Both leaders emphasised adaptive policy frameworks, cross-border innovation, and green transformation as key to unlocking ASEAN’s full economic potential. A key milestone of the Forum was the signing of the Singapore-Thailand Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits Collaboration, a significant advancement in cross-border climate cooperation, and it is also the first Implementation Agreement Singapore signed with an ASEAN country. The agreement signed by Dr Tan See Leng and Mr Chalermchai Sri-on, Thailand’s Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, represents a critical step toward operationalising carbon market mechanisms in the region.

A Memorandum of Understanding between SBF and the Thailand Board of Investment was also signed to boost trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation.

Mr S. S. Teo, Chairman of SBF, opened the Forum with a strong call for collective leadership in charting a sustainable and inclusive economic trajectory for ASEAN and the region beyond. In his remarks, he emphasised the urgent need for deeper cross-sector collaboration to navigate structural shifts in the global economy, from climate change to digital transformation. Mr Teo reaffirmed SBF’s commitment to serving as a catalyst for regional cooperation, working closely with governments, businesses, and multilateral institutions to build long-term business resilience and unlock growth opportunities. Mr Teo also highlighted initiatives like the Centre for the Future of Trade and Investment (CFOTI), which helps businesses anticipate and navigate the evolving trade landscape.

Breakout sessions discussed themes that were centred around green financing and clean energy, regional connectivity and digital trade, and business solutions. The conversations also spotlighted Thailand’s rising prominence as a green economy leader, underpinned by its investments in clean energy, innovation, and regulatory frameworks aligned with climate goals, positioning the country as a key contributor to ASEAN’s sustainable future.

“As ASEAN’s economies continue to grow and transform, regional collaboration will be key to unlocking sustainable and inclusive progress. At Bangkok Bank, we believe in building long-term partnerships that not only drive innovation and connectivity but also create opportunities for businesses and communities across borders,” said Mr Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President, Bangkok Bank.

SBF also held an Overseas Marketplace Workshop, enabling 17 Singapore companies to explore market opportunities in Thailand, further strengthening ASEAN’s position as a united and competitive economic bloc.

Supported by Bangkok Bank as Platinum Partner; Kerry Flour Mills, PIL, and PSA International as Gold Partners; Frasers Property as Venue Partner; UOB as Internationalisation Partner; and Grab as Silver Partner; the Ministry of Trade and Industry Singapore, Thailand Board of Investment, Economic Development Board Singapore, Enterprise Singapore, Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Bangkok, and close to 30 trade associations and chambers, the Forum reaffirmed its role in fostering regional integration and future-proofing the business landscape across the region.