Thailand’s telecommunications sector has called on the new government to accelerate digital reforms to enhance competitiveness and attract foreign investment. Industry leaders emphasize the need for regulatory easing and more efficient administrative processes, particularly to support investment in digital infrastructure. For instance, the current process of landing submarine cables requires coordination with multiple government agencies, prompting calls for a one-stop service to streamline approvals and facilitate foreign investment.
Industry representatives also highlighted concerns about excessive competition among telecom operators, which can lead to inefficient overinvestment in infrastructure. They suggest that government oversight may be necessary to ensure more balanced and efficient industry development. Additionally, authorities are encouraged to carefully manage international data connectivity and traffic flows, as completely open systems without monitoring channels may create challenges for investigating illegal online activities.
Another key issue is technological readiness. Experts note that while the global industry is advancing toward 5.5G and 6G networks, Thailand has yet to auction the necessary spectrum bands. Emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles also require coordinated development across telecommunications, transport infrastructure, and vehicle technology. However, progress remains slow due to unclear government direction and the need for legal amendments and infrastructure investment.
Finally, industry leaders stress the importance of developing a skilled workforce to support digital transformation. Upskilling the Thai workforce, establishing clear policies on data sovereignty, and addressing geopolitical considerations are viewed as essential steps for Thailand to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global digital economy.
In addition, clearer regulatory frameworks and long-term policy direction from the government will be critical to support the development of future digital ecosystems in Thailand. Industry stakeholders note that projects involving next-generation telecommunications networks, smart infrastructure, and autonomous mobility systems require significant investment and long implementation periods. As such, consistent regulatory support, timely spectrum allocation, and coordination among relevant agencies will be necessary to provide certainty for both domestic and foreign investors. Establishing clear strategies in these areas could help Thailand strengthen its position as a regional digital hub and promote sustainable growth in the telecommunications and technology sectors.
Accelerating Digital Reforms in Thailand’s Telecommunications Industry_Bangkok Global Law