Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (SET: BBL) remains steadfast in its international expansion strategy, positioning Permata Bank in Indonesia as its primary flagship for overseas revenue. Leveraging nearly 60 years of experience in the Indonesian market, the bank is using its extensive network to bridge investments across Thailand and the broader ASEAN region.
Mr. Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President of BBL, highlighted Indonesia’s robust long-term potential. The country’s economy grew by 5.6% in the first quarter of this year, with a projected full-year growth rate between 5.1% and 5.3%.
With a population of 280 million—predominantly younger demographics—Indonesia offers a massive consumer base and an economy approximately twice the size of Thailand’s. Significant government investment in infrastructure further enhances opportunities for Thai businesses in sectors such as food, energy, textiles, garments, and medical services.
Reflecting growing interest, attendance at the bank’s recent Indonesia seminar surpassed last year’s figures. To support these investors, BBL provides specialized risk management tools, including local currency loans to mitigate exchange rate volatility. Mr. Chartsiri noted that the bank’s presence allows it to offer more effective financial tools and local expertise than a business could find entering the market independently.
BBL is utilizing its branches in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong as a bridge to channel investment into Thailand and ASEAN. Domestically, the bank expressed confidence in the “Reinvent Thailand” policy and the Board of Investment (BOI), which has seen record-high application levels over the last 2–3 years. Key growth drivers include clean energy, data centers, health and wellness, and the food industry, which are expected to transform the Thai economy within the next few years.
Regarding the Thai property sector, the bank views the situation as manageable. BBL supports the Bank of Thailand’s Loan-to-Value (LTV) measures, believing they provide a beneficial framework for the sector’s gradual recovery.
Despite global volatility, BBL maintains its financial targets for the year:
- Loan Growth: ±3%.
- NPL Management: Targeted at approximately 3.5%.
While some customers have sought debt restructuring, the bank confirms that overall asset quality remains strong. BBL continues to provide liquidity and support to help clients navigate short-term challenges, such as fluctuations in oil prices and international trade tensions.
