Bangkok: The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) has officially launched the 'TH-AI Passport' project, with pre-registrations exceeding 1.3 million people in less than two weeks. The initiative aims to upgrade AI skills among Thais, reduce the technological divide, and provide access to AI for 5 million citizens. Minister Chaiyanok revealed that the 30-45 age group and Bangkok residents were the most numerous registrants, while assuring that personal data will remain secure.
According to Thai News Agency, the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (BDE), under the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), announced the launch of the TH-AI Passport project. Since pre-registration opened on August 19th, over 1.3 million people have registered, reflecting a strong interest among Thais to access AI technology. The AiPASS platform officially launching on August 31st, 2026, has already surpassed one million registrations, signaling readiness for the AI era. Registrants include students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and the general public from across the country.
The project intends to provide up to 5 million Thais access to world-class AI tools from over 14 leading developers, spanning more than 30 models along with a learning and skills development system on a single platform. This will allow citizens to select AI applications that suit their needs, applying them effectively and responsibly in various fields such as education and business operations.
The launch represents a collaboration between the government and global technology companies, including Microsoft, Google, and NVIDIA, as well as the Artificial Intelligence Entrepreneurs Association of Thailand. These entities will promote AI knowledge and skills among the public. Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, emphasized the growing role of AI in the economy, labor market, and public services, making preparation a vital mission under the National Artificial Intelligence Action Plan for Thailand Development 2022-2027.
According to data from the Microsoft AI Economy Institute, the proportion of Thailand's working-age population using Generative AI increased to 12.4% in the first quarter of 2026, from 9.1%. This marks a 36.4% growth, although still below the global average of 17.8%. Mr. Chaiyanok highlighted the importance of developing human potential to effectively use technology, stating that the TH-AI Passport is foundational in leading the country into an era where Thais are not just users of technology but creators of value.
Currently, most applicants are in Bangkok, with approximately 250,000 registrants, and the highest number of applicants are aged 30-45. The ministry plans to collaborate with regional networks and other ministries to enhance access among people in remote areas. Assurances have been made regarding data security, with measures in place to prevent leaks, as processing takes place on cloud systems abroad.
The TH-AI Passport project targets a broad audience including students, government personnel, the general public, and entrepreneurs. It aims to boost AI literacy and adoption, enhancing skills in line with labor market needs and supporting the digital economy's growth. The AiPASS platform will integrate over 30 AI models, allowing users to choose the best-suited models without multiple subscriptions.
Additionally, the platform connects access to tools with skill development through partnerships with global entities such as Google for Education and Microsoft Elevate. Users can engage in AI courses, experiment with models, and progress to the Innovator level by completing learning requirements. The event featured a demonstration of AiPASS, showcasing various model applications and real-world user experiences to inform future platform development.
Thai citizens aged 15 and older can pre-register via aipass.go.th using Google, Microsoft, or Apple accounts, with identity verification through government applications. The registration process includes pre-application and account creation, with the AiPASS platform set to launch on August 31, 2026. Upon activation, users will receive a 30-day Innovator status upgrade to explore advanced models and tools.