The recent edition of Global Cities Index 2025 from Kearney highlighted global competitiveness and adaptability of cities around the world. The report ranks the world’s most internationally connected and influential cities amidst the challenges from volatile economic situations and tension from geopolitics.

  In this year’s edition, Bangkok moved up one spot from 34th in 2024 to 33rd in 2025. The rise was driven by improvements in the Business Activity dimension (rose by 7 ranks), particularly in international business meetings (based on ICCA indicators) and capital market development. The growth of intra-regional trade also highly contributed to the result amidst the complexity from global polarization.  

Asia is gaining prominence

Cities in Asia are gaining greater prominence in the GCI (Global Cities Index), driven by continuous investment in infrastructure, human capital development, and digital readiness. These efforts have led to remarkable improvements across multiple dimensions of assessment, particularly in business activity. Notable examples include Taipei and Kuala Lumpur, which have climbed 13 and 9 places in the ranking, respectively.

The Asia-Pacific region stands out above other regions in terms of information exchange, with every region showing higher scores in this dimension. This reflects the growing importance of digital infrastructure and global integration in shaping urban competitiveness. Cities such as Shenyang, Osaka, Taipei, and Mumbai have shown outstanding progress, each investing consistently in connectivity and the development of service sectors.

Bangkok’s Opportunities and Strengths

Bangkok is making remarkable progress in several key areas to develop into a digitally-ready and adaptable global city. One highlight is the steady rise in several Information Exchange indicators, notably the improved ranking for Data Centers, moving from 78th in 2024 to 55th in 2025. Although its internet speed saw a slight dip, Bangkok still holds a high standing at 22nd, reflecting a significant development opportunity to drive Thailand’s economy toward greater technology and digitalization.

Another key growth opportunity is expanding the accessibility and subscription rate of broadband services in Bangkok, which currently stands at rank 118. Promoting digital equity will enable citizens and businesses to fully utilize the potential of the existing quality infrastructure and connectivity.

Despite Bangkok ranking lower in the number of foreign-born residents at rank 97th, below cities like Jakarta (rank 37th), Kuala Lumpur (rank 40th), and Singapore (rank 12th), this gap presents a future development opportunity for Bangkok. A diverse and international population would help strengthen global connectivity, foster innovation, and boost the city’s economic resilience, all of which are crucial factors for competitiveness and adaptability in the current era.

Future Outlook

The 2025 report concludes that a city’s long-term competitiveness depends on three interrelated factors: enhancing energy efficiency, fostering growth alongside livability and urban adaptability, and developing a workforce equipped for the age of artificial intelligence. Cities that systematically integrate these elements within a unified vision will not only be able to navigate change effectively but also define a new era of global leadership.