Bangkok: Thailand has been recognized as the champion of Asian culture for 2025, securing a position in the top 10 globally, a testament to the country’s effective use of soft power to bolster its economy.

According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Government Spokesperson, Ms. Sasikan Wattanachan, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to conserve and preserve the nation’s cultural and natural heritage. This dedication not only aims to educate and inspire future generations but also seeks to generate income through tourism, a vital sector of the Thai economy.

The latest rankings from the 2024 US News and World Report place Thailand as the top nation in Asia for cultural heritage wealth and 8th globally out of 89 countries. This assessment is based on five main factors: cultural accessibility, rich history, food, cultural attractions, and geographic attractiveness. Despite tourism contributing only about 7% to the GDP, Thailand remains one of the most visited countries in the world.

The ranking underscores the influence of “Thai Soft Power,” which draws global tourists to explore Thailand’s rich history, culture, culinary delights, ancient sites, temples, and traditional Thai massage. This aligns with the government’s policy of leveraging the cultural industry to boost Thailand’s global influence, transforming the nation’s cultural allure into a significant economic driver.

Ms. Sasikarn reiterated the government’s pledge to persistently promote and conserve Thailand’s cultural and natural heritage. She emphasized that strengthening Thailand’s soft power will ensure the country’s sustained prominence on the global stage, fostering national pride and economic stability for its citizens.