Meeting new job demands in the post-Covid economy

To survive the rapid digital transformation, the government must act fast to upskill and reskill the workforce while education institutions must equip students with new in-demand skills to grow in the post-Covid digital economy. “The pandemic has speeded up digital transformation with a drastic impact on job and market demands. If Thailand cannot adapt in […]

Leveraging special economic zones for the economy

 Saowaruj Rattanakhamfu One government policy which has gained much public attention is the creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs). The government under Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has given this policy a strong push by offering generous incentives for investors in the hope it will enhance the linkages between Thailand and other Asean countries and increase Thailand’s […]

Planned border SEZs no magic bullet, says TDRI

PATHOM SANGWONGWANICH The government’s planned special economic zones (SEZs) in border provinces should focus on developing value-added and innovative products from the knowledge-based sector to enhance the country’s competitiveness, says the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). SEZs are a good way to improve competitiveness and induce development in the border provinces, but questions have emerged […]

Software growth weakens

The country’s software market is expected to grow at a more sluggish pace this year, primarily due to the political strife and economic slowdown, says the Thailand Development Research Institute. The TDRI forecasts 8.6% growth in the local software sector in 2014 for a market value of 49.6 billion baht, down from 9.9% growth last […]

TDRI keen on Vietnam, Myanmar

Thai manufacturers should be more proactive in tapping opportunities in Myanmar and Vietnam, says the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). President Somkiat Tangkitvanich said Myanmar offers low labour costs and high workforce productivity plus inexpensive raw materials and a good location for exporting commodities. But the once-isolated nation must overcome weaknesses such as meagre infrastructure, […]

Investors shun Thailand, cross border

Investors are streaming across the border to take advantage of preferential trade arrangements, the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) says. TDRI president Somkiat Tangkitvanich said local businesses are moving to Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam where they can enjoy export incentives for goods sold to the United States and Europe. Mr Somkiat was commenting at […]