Thai SME Federation Revives Provincial Public-Private Councils

The Thai SME Federation is proposing to revive provincial public-private partnership committees as a mechanism to connect government agencies, private businesses, and entrepreneurs at the local level to stimulate grassroots economic growth and advance tourism development in 50 secondary cities with multibillion-baht investment. Federation chairman Noppapong Thirawon disclosed the proposal after attending a meeting of the Trade and Service subcommittee, presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Supachee Sutthiraphan and Commerce Minister. The chairman stated that the meeting offered a crucial opportunity for public and private sectors and MSME networks to exchange proposals to drive Thailand's economy forward.

The federation urged the revitalization of provincial public-private committees to serve as a bridge linking government, private sector, and local entrepreneurs, believing this would enable problem-solving and economic development better aligned with each province's capabilities. The federation also proposed developing man-made tourist attractions in 50 secondary cities, allocating 200 million baht per province, with each provincial committee tasked to propose suitable attractions to generate new economic activity, distribute income to communities, and create opportunities for small business operators throughout the value chain.

Another key proposal involves supporting e-commerce for Thai entrepreneurs to expand marketing channels for MSMEs. The federation is preparing to launch an 'SME Proud' platform to connect entrepreneurs with markets and business opportunities, aiming to create careers, jobs, and income on a broader scale. "Thai SMEs don't just need relief measures—they need mechanisms that allow entrepreneurs to grow on their own," Noppapong stated. "Linking the strength of government, private sector, and MSME networks is the heart of driving Thailand's economy forward together."