Thailand Faces Economic Imperative: A ‘4 Go’ Strategy for Survival
BANGKOK - Thailand’s economy is at a critical juncture,facing what leading economists describe as a chronic condition demanding immediate and comprehensive reform. Dr. Somprawin Manprasert and Khun Kriangkrai Thiennukul are sounding the alarm, asserting the nation can no longer afford complacency as global economic forces reshape the landscape. A new “4 Go” policy – Go Digital & AI, Go innovation, Go Global, and Go Green – is being presented as a vital pathway to transition from traditional industries to a future-proofed, competitive economy.
The urgency stems from a confluence of factors, including a persistent labor shortage and the need to adapt to a world increasingly defined by sustainability and technological advancement. This isn’t merely an economic adjustment; it’s a matter of national survival, impacting businesses of all sizes, the Thai workforce, and the country’s position in the global supply chain. Failure to act decisively, experts warn, risks Thailand falling behind as other nations embrace the next generation of industry.
The proposed “4 Go” strategy prioritizes leveraging digital technology and artificial intelligence to boost production efficiency and mitigate the impact of dwindling labor resources. Simultaneously, a shift is advocated from a focus on “doing more with less” to an innovation-driven model, fostering a dynamic industrial sector.
Expanding Thailand’s reach into new export markets and integrating fully into the global supply chain of emerging industries forms another pillar of the plan. Crucially, the strategy emphasizes aligning with global sustainability goals, specifically the Net Zero target, to ensure long-term viability in a world increasingly governed by environmental considerations.
Dr. Manprasert and Khun Kriangkrai stress that successful implementation requires unwavering commitment from both public and private sector leaders. This includes substantial reform within the public sector and proactive adjustments by businesses to build competitiveness in a radically altered global environment. The economic “alarm clock,” they contend, has already sounded, and Thailand must respond with swift and decisive action.
