30/10/2026
'I came to Bangkok as the Head of the IMF, and I am so proud to leave as Ambassador of Thai silk!'
These words from Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, shared at the 2026 IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings, perfectly capture the spirit of the Amazing Thailand Global Thai Silk Grand Fashion Show. Drawing a prestigious audience of international diplomats and summit delegates, Mr Edward Kiti orchestrated the showcase. As President and Founder of the Association of Thai Silk and Culture Promotions, he presented the 'Global Thai Silk Movement' to a worldwide audience.
For the Finnish fashion and textile sector, this movement underscores a core national principle: exceptional design is both a cultural asset and a strategic engine for commercial growth. This forward-looking approach aligns seamlessly with Finland's focus on transparency and sustainability. Thailand's silk heritage provides a strong foundation for ethical craftsmanship and material innovation with tangible market potential. The Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) facilitates strategic connections, bridging Finnish design houses and Thai artisan producers to foster enduring partnerships.
The evening brought together a distinguished assembly of dignitaries, notably Guest of Honour Helene Budliger Artieda of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and H.E. Kristiina Kuvaja-Xanthopoulos, Ambassador of Finland to Thailand. Representing the TFCC at the reception, Board Members Outi Suojanen and Antti Rahikainen engaged with industry peers, including diplomatic correspondent Kathleen Pokrud. We sincerely thank the organisers for a magnificent celebration of Thai heritage, and we look forward to advancing these cross-border collaborations.
Event highlights captured and edited by Antti Rahikainen
