Analysis

Local and international partnerships prepare Thai graduates for a technology-driven labour market
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A changing economic landscape is the driving force for reform in Thailand’s higher education system, with the Thailand 4.0 economic strategy prompting universities to adapt curricula to meet government policy and industrial demand. Highlighting the current mismatch between skills and industry demands, Chen Namchaisiri, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, told local media in February…

Analysis

Thailand uses public-private partnerships to fast-track transport construction projects
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Recognising the need to tackle infrastructure deficiencies as part of plans to develop high-value industries and meet growing tourism demand, the government has shifted its construction targets from power and utilities to transport infrastructure. Indeed the government’s five priority areas for construction work between 2015 and 2022 target various modes of transport, specifically urban connections,…

Analysis

Land tax reforms could boost the real estate market in Thailand
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Legislative reform in various stages of consideration and implementation could help boost the property market, with positive effects for the wider economy. In particular, the liberalisation of land laws is expected to result in more investment and the optimal use of assets. However, change can also create challenges. Short-term disruptions may occur as laws work to correct historical hurdles,…

Analysis

Work ongoing to expand Thailand's railway network
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Across the country, Thailand’s rail network is being transformed. In Bangkok, the efficient three-line service – with two Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) lines and one Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) line – is extending outward and quickly evolving. Outside of the capital, four high-speed railways are being planned or under construction, while connections to China, being built under…

Analysis

Air travel growth supports Thailand's emerging maintenance, repair and overhaul segment
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Recent years have seen air travel in Thailand experience significant growth, pushing existing infrastructure to its limit. The government is working to address these capacity issues through infrastructure investments, gradually positioning itself as a global aviation hub. International Standards In 2015 Thailand faced concerns about its aviation sector and was downgraded by the US Federal…

Analysis

Smart cities to support Thailand's transition to a knowledge-based economy
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Smart cities form an essential component in the government’s broader vision of transforming Thailand into a high-income, knowledge-based economy. The ultimate aim is to create 100 smart cities across all 77 provinces by 2040, with an initial focus on three pilot cities in Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen. The initiative is being supported by the state-owned CAT Telecom, which is working to…

Analysis

Despite setbacks, Thailand makes progress towards 5G coverage
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In line with its ambitions to become a leading centre of high-value technology development and manufacturing in South-east Asia, Thailand is positioning itself at the forefront of global moves to adopt 5G. The new technology is expected to increase download speeds by up to 10 Gbps over 4G. To achieve this aim, the government has empowered the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission…

Analysis

Thailand builds its image as a high-end tourism destination
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While Thailand has developed a reputation as a budget-friendly destination, offering affordable accommodation and leisure attractions, tourism authorities appear keen to attract a new breed of high-end clientele. In recent years, several local initiatives and global campaigns aimed at promoting luxury tourism have formed a strategic focus for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), helping the agency…

Analysis

Government initiatives seek to maintain Thailand's position as a leading automotive manufacturer
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Auto manufacturing has long been at the centre of Thai industry. For more than half a century the segment has been the target of incentives, and these efforts have successfully attracted many foreign investors. As a result, the country is now a major international player in the making and selling of vehicles, and is the largest producer in South-east Asia. However, production costs are increasing,…