SweCham team attended the launch of the World Bank Thailand Economic Monitor

Perspectives of Stakeholders: Thailand’s Strategies for Coping with Current and Future Floods and Droughts

Last Wednesday, 28 June 2023, the SweCham team attended the launch of the World Bank Thailand Economic Monitor ‘Building a Sustainable Future: Coping with Floods and Droughts’ at the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University. 

Professor Dr. Supot Teachavorasinskun, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, and Dr. Fabrizio Zarcone, the World Bank Country Manager for Thailand, jointly delivered an opening statement during the inaugural session of the seminar.  This was followed by keynote speeches, presentations and panel discussions by several experts in the area. 

Thailand experiences recurring floods and droughts each year, which are becoming increasingly severe, particularly in Bangkok, due to overpopulation and geographical factors.  This seminar focused on the government’s master plan for water management. Representatives from the World Bank highlighted the escalating water stress in Thailand over the past year.  The difficulties in dealing with floods and droughts, particularly in Bangkok, remain unchanged since the affected areas are privately owned.  Unfortunately, the solutions available only offer temporary relief.

 However, private companies in the eastern part of Thailand, such as Amata Water and Indorama Ventures, have actively embraced sustainability and made a commitment to take responsibility for their actions.  Ultimately, every speaker emphasised the importance of collaboration from all sectors in Thailand. Without cross-sectoral partnerships, the country will not progress, and the issues will persist. 

It was an honour for our team to be part of this informative and provocative seminar.  We are thrilled to share this important message with our members and aspire to create a meaningful impact within our community. 

To read full report ‘Thailand Economic Monitor. Building a Sustainable Future: Coping with Floods and Droughts’ (English): https://rb.gy/t8pjf 

To see Executive Summary: https://rb.gy/el98y  

To watch the seminar via Facebook: https://rb.gy/s4hme (English), https://rb.gy/8svne (Thai)