The Thailand Smart City Competitiveness Index 2023 has identified Phuket as the top province-based smart city, with Wang Chan Valley in Rayong taking the lead for city-based smart areas. Conducted by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), the survey assessed 30 cities across 23 provinces to evaluate their smart city development, focusing on both strengths and areas for improvement.
According to DEPA President Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, the index encourages the continued development of smart cities across Thailand. In the city-based category, Wang Chan Valley ranked first, followed by Samyan Smart City and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, both located in Bangkok. Phuket took the lead in the province-based category, followed by Chachoengsao and Khon Kaen.
The cities were evaluated on vision and goals, infrastructure development, data and security systems, smart city services, and sustainable investment and management strategies. These measures support a comprehensive approach to assessing smart city progress.
DEPA is working toward its ambitious goal to develop 105 smart cities across all 76 provinces by 2027, with expected investments totaling 200 billion baht. The agency is also preparing to propose a second master plan to the national smart city development board chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to enhance Thai cities’ local and international profiles. (NNT)
