Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), stated that AI is the key driving force for the country’s future. The MDES has been working closely with Google to promote equal access to AI for all Thais, reducing gaps and creating opportunities for students in schools and universities.
The initiative starts with individuals aged 18 and above, as the new generation will play a crucial role in shaping Thailand’s future. These young people need the best AI tools for learning and skill development but, for the most part, do not yet have their own income. This program will grant them access to the premium “Google AI Pro” (which normally costs an average of THB 750 per month, totaling THB 9,000 for 12 months) free of charge for one year.
The MDES remains committed to making access to AI technology a fundamental right for every citizen. For those not included in the initial phase, there is no need to worry about being left behind. The MDES and Google are working closely together, with plans to collaborate with additional platforms in the future to expand opportunities.
It is estimated that there are currently about 3 million students holding student cards. The first phase does not place restrictions on registration rights, and there are plans to further expand access by adjusting requirements so that every Thai person can use premium AI services for free. The next phase is targeted to cover over 5 million people.
Having a data center located in Thailand will provide multidimensional benefits, making technology access faster and more localized. It will attract foreign investment, allowing international companies to easily invest and use services in Thailand without needing a physical office, leading to the creation of high-skill jobs and supporting related businesses.
Storing data in-country also increases control and security. Meanwhile, the draft of the new Cybercrime Emergency Decree is expected to see its first version soon.
Regarding measures to counter cyber threats, the government and MDES are pushing new legislation, shifting from a defensive to a proactive approach in handling transnational cybercrime. Even if the locations and IP addresses of perpetrators are known, the new draft law will grant more power for proactive action and response. It is estimated that cybercrime has impacted the GDP by around 3%.
Annop Siritikul, Country Director, Google Cloud Thailand, stated that the collaboration between MDES and Google Cloud to expand digital technology opportunities through AI initially focuses on granting free Google AI Pro packages to students aged 18 and above for personal use for 12 months. Registration for these privileges will close on December 9, 2025.
