In a significant move to promote international trade and economic cooperation, Thailand has been actively involved in the 58th session of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) held in Vienna, Austria, from July 7-23, 2025. The announcement made on 29 Jul 2025 marks a notable development in the country’s foreign policy efforts to shape global trade law.
Thailand’s delegation, led by Ambassador Suphanvasa Chotikajan Tang, participated in the session as the Head of the Thai delegation and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advocating for the establishment of an Advisory Centre on International Investment Dispute Resolution. The centre aims to foster a stable and predictable investment environment, thereby promoting economic growth and development.
Key milestones achieved by the 58th session of UNCITRAL include the approval of the Draft Convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents, the adoption of the UNCITRAL Toolkit and Background Notes on Asset Tracing and Recovery in Insolvency Proceedings, and the adoption of the UNCITRAL Toolkit on the Prevention and Mitigation of International Investment Disputes.
Thailand played a crucial role in the development of this Toolkit, including sharing its practice on the establishment of the Committee on International Investment Protection. The country’s active participation demonstrates its commitment to promoting international cooperation and shaping global trade law that benefits all nations.
The Commission’s endorsement of the Roadmap for the Operationalization of the Advisory Centre is a significant step forward in realizing Thailand’s bid to host the headquarters of the centre in Bangkok. If successful, this would enhance Thailand’s status in the international law community, promote legal services and international arbitration, and attract qualified workforce to the country.
Thailand’s involvement in UNCITRAL reflects its commitment to promoting international cooperation and economic development. As a key player in regional and global affairs, Thailand continues to play an active role in shaping the rules and regulations that govern international trade and investment.
In conclusion, Thailand’s participation in the 58th session of UNCITRAL demonstrates its dedication to promoting international trade law and fostering a stable and predictable investment environment. The country’s commitment to this effort is expected to have a positive impact on its economic development and global standing as an investor-friendly nation.
Thai Delegation’s Key Contributions
• Shared Thailand’s practice on the establishment of the Committee on International Investment Protection
• Participated in the deliberation on the work of UNCITRAL Working Group III
• Reaffirmed Thailand’s bid to host the headquarters of the Advisory Centre in Bangkok
Key Milestones Achieved by the 58th Session of UNCITRAL
• Approval of the Draft Convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents
• Adoption of the UNCITRAL Toolkit and Background Notes on Asset Tracing and Recovery in Insolvency Proceedings
• Adoption of the UNCITRAL Toolkit on the Prevention and Mitigation of International Investment Disputes
Thailand’s Commitment to Promoting International Cooperation
• Active participation in UNCITRAL sessions
• Promotion of international trade law that benefits all nations
• Hosting the headquarters of the Advisory Centre in Bangkok, if successful