The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USDA) has awarded a technical assistance grant to Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) to advance the development of smart city projects and critical information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure for Phuket.
USTDA Director Enoh T. Ebong said, “Thailand has an ambitious smart cities agenda, and USTDA is proud to partner with DEPA and the Phuket Provincial Government to achieve their goals.” He added, “By helping Phuket deploy these innovative and cutting-edge solutions, we will have a positive impact on the lives of the Thai people and millions of international tourists who visit each year. Our work will also help create opportunities for U.S. companies to supply the kinds of technologies and services that meet Phuket’s specific needs.”
According to the U.S. Embassy in Thailand, the USTDA assistance will help develop technical requirements and a detailed strategy for the build-out of the Phuket Smart City Data Platform – a tool that leverages data and technology innovations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of city management and citizen services. The assistance will facilitate the upgrade of Phuket’s integrated operations center capabilities and core ICT infrastructure, including traffic control and emergency communications systems, fiber optic networks, data servers, cloud migration, cyber-security and 5G development.
Gwendolyn J. Cardno, Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, said, “This project is a great example of how the U.S.-Thai partnership can stimulate a vibrant digital economy and provide direct benefits for Thais, while contributing to Thailand’s efforts to build a greener, smarter, and higher-value tourism sector.” She also said, “With the United States as a partner, Thailand can benefit from decades of American innovation and thrive in this era of digital transformation.”
Dr Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, DEPA President and Chief Executive Officer, added: “Working closely with DEPA, Phuket has been proactive in adopting purposeful technological solutions to improve the well-being and economic viability of its citizens and visitors. Thanks to the strong support of both USTDA and the Phuket Provincial Government, we are confident that this technical assistance will lead to a long-term citizen-centric digital transformation and strengthen ties among all parties involved.” (NNT)
 |
 |
 |
