Risks and rewards of Beijing's BRI

Scholars stress strategic approach to 'Belt and Road' engagement, writes Poramet Tangsathaporn

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Thailand may play a pivotal role in advancing China's vision of regional connectivity through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), but scholars caution that while the initiative presents substantial opportunities, it also brings significant challenges.

They urge the government to adopt strategic policies that safeguard national interests and promote constructive global engagement.

Launched in 2013, the BRI, also known as the New Silk Road or One Belt One Road, is a global infrastructure and investment strategy that now involves more than 150 countries. The initiative comprises overland economic corridors across Central Asia and maritime routes through Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

In an interview with the Bangkok Post, Asst Prof Sineenat Sermcheep, director of the Asean Studies Center at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Economics, underscored Thailand's strategic importance due to its geographical position and economic compatibility with the BRI.

“Thailand is a vital link within the China-Indochina Peninsula Economic Corridor [CICPEC], connecting China with Asean nations,” she said, adding the country has also engaged in BRI’s regional trade and logistic projects such as the China-Laos-Thailand railway.

These efforts align with key national strategies, including Thailand 4.0 and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which focus on innovation and high-tech industries — areas that also attract Chinese investment under the BRI.