As digital platforms reshape industries and redefine economic structures worldwide, Thailand is witnessing a transformation driven by the platform economy. To explore this shift, a recent panel discussion titled “Redefining Growth: Transforming Thailand with the Platform Economy” brought together experts from academia, the public sector, and private enterprises. Hosted by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), the event examined research findings and perspectives on the evolving role of digital platforms in Thailand’s economy.
The discussion addressed both the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation, particularly its impact on gig workers and macroeconomic growth. A case study on Grab, a leading multi-service digital platform, underscored its significant economic contribution, generating THB 179 billion annually—equivalent to 1% of Thailand’s GDP. Experts also explored regulatory approaches, stressing the need for a balanced framework that ensures consumer protection while fostering innovation for sustainable development.
Economic Contribution of Digital Platforms
Dr. Nonarit Bisonyabut, a senior researcher at TDRI, presented a study on the economic impact of digital platforms, using Grab as a case study. As a platform encompassing mobility, food, and parcel deliveries, Grab has been a key driver of economic growth, creating new income streams and career opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and independent workers.
“In 2023, Grab’s business activities generated an economic impact of THB 179 billion, supporting over 280,000 jobs and contributing approximately THB 24 billion in household income,” said Dr. Nonarit. “This data underscores the pivotal role of digital platforms in macroeconomic development. Additionally, Grab’s ecosystem stimulates growth across various industries, including tourism, automotive, energy, telecommunications, finance, food, and retail, fostering widespread economic interconnectivity.”
The Growing Gig Economy and Workforce Resilience
Dr. Danuvas Sagarik, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the Graduate School of Public Administration, National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), highlighted the rapid expansion of gig work driven by technological advancements and artificial intelligence (AI). This shift, he noted, presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring policy adaptations to ensure workforce resilience in the digital age.
“The future of work is changing rapidly. If we do not prepare ourselves as other nations have—particularly in education, government, and the private sector—we risk falling behind global trends,” said Dr. Danuvas. “Upskilling and labour policies must align with the evolving landscape. A study on emerging job roles indicates that while 170 million new positions will be created globally, 92 million will disappear, with many shifting to platform-based work. This raises a critical question: How well is Thailand prepared for this transformation?”
Policy Framework for the Gig Economy
NIDA’s study on the gig economy identified four key elements—the 4Ps: Platform, People, Partner, and Public Sector—as the foundation for a policy framework. Dr. Danuvas introduced the ‘Synergistic Collaboration’ approach, which promotes free-market competition while ensuring gig workers have equitable access to government-provided social security. Achieving this balance is essential for sustained economic growth in the medium to long term.
Regulatory Perspectives on Platform Governance
From a regulatory standpoint, Supachok Jantarapatin of the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) emphasised the importance of striking a balance between user protection and fostering innovation.
“Effective digital platform governance must ensure fair and transparent regulations that facilitate growth for both large enterprises and Thai startups expanding internationally,” he stated. “Our goal is not merely regulation, but the creation of an ecosystem where all stakeholders—platforms, workers, and businesses—can thrive sustainably.”
As Thailand’s platform economy continues to evolve, policymakers and industry leaders must collaborate to enhance competitiveness, ensure fair regulations, and prepare the workforce for the digital era.
