Celebrating Half a Century of Friendship: China and Thailand Look Ahead
On July 1, 2025, China and Thailand marked the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties—a milestone that reflects a friendship growing stronger with each passing year. For two nations that share deep historical and cultural connections, five decades may seem brief, yet their partnership has blossomed into something truly remarkable.
China has become an indispensable partner for Thailand in multiple ways. Did you know that Thailand is home to the largest overseas Chinese community? In fact, studies show that about 40% of Thailand’s population has some Chinese ancestry. This shared heritage has paved the way for closer ties between the people of both countries.
Economically, China has been Thailand’s largest trading partner for over a decade. In 2023, China became Thailand’s biggest source of foreign investment, boosting industries and creating jobs. By 2024, China also reclaimed its position as the leading source of tourists visiting Thailand, helping to revitalize the tourism sector.
The cooperation goes both ways. When China began its reform and opening-up in the late 1970s, a Thai company, the CP Group, became the first foreign investor in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, with the registration number “0001.” By 2002, Thai businesses had invested in over 3,000 projects in China, strengthening economic bonds.
The tasty Thai durian fruit tells a story of growing connectivity. Thanks to the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Laos Railway, fresh Thai durians now reach Chinese markets in just a few days, delighting fruit lovers across the Chinese mainland. And with the upcoming China-Thailand high-speed railway, travel and trade between the two countries are set to become even more convenient.
Regional agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and new visa-free policies are also making a big difference. Thailand’s trade with RCEP countries increased significantly, accounting for over half of its total trade in the first ten months of 2024. Tourism is booming too. Following mutual visa exemptions in March 2024, there was a huge surge in travelers between China and Thailand, with cultural exchanges enriching both societies.
High-level visits and forums have further strengthened ties. In February, the Thai Prime Minister attended the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. Shortly after, the China-Thailand Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum in Bangkok highlighted flourishing cooperation in economy, culture, and technology. In 2024, bilateral trade reached nearly $134 billion, a 6.1% increase from the previous year.
The growing friendship between China and Thailand is a testament to their shared vision and mutual respect. Both countries have made strategic economic decisions that have propelled them forward, focusing on stability, development, and regional cooperation. As they celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, the future looks bright. With new infrastructure projects and collaborative initiatives on the horizon, the next 50 years promise even greater prosperity and closeness for the people of China and Thailand.
