Reform effort urged for incoming administration

The new government is being advised to step up efforts to pursue economic reforms, with a primary focus on the tourism, agriculture and industrial sectors, or risk economic growth of only 1-2% a year, economists say.

- SOMRUEDI BANCHONGDUANG

Supavud Saicheua, chairman of the National Economic and Social Development Council, said investment in transport infrastructure is essential to upgrading the tourism industry. For example, connecting major tourist destinations by rail would improve convenience for travellers and enhance cost efficiency.

Such infrastructure development would help transform Thailand's economic structure, rather than relying on short-term stimulus measures. Improved connectivity would not only support tourism but also raise productivity and unlock new business opportunities nationwide, he said.

Agriculture is another key sector in need of reform, requiring a transition from traditional practices to a modern industry. This shift involves moving from low-value carbohydrate products to higher-value protein and food products that better match global demand. With the global population ageing, carbohydrate consumption is expected to decline, while demand for protein is likely to rise, said Mr Supavud.

However, these reforms are absent from the policy platforms of political parties, Mr Supavud said. Most policies are designed to please voters in the short term rather than drive meaningful change, he noted.