Multi-dimensional Review of Thailand 2018

Executive Summary, Assessment & Recommendations, Overview

Overview in Thai

Thailand’s achievements and challenges as it aspires to become an inclusive high-income country, Blog Post

The finalised full report is available here

	Since 1970, Thailand’s GDP growth per capita has averaged 4.2% per year in purchasing power parity terms. In 2016, income per head stood at 42% of the OECD average. Nevertheless, faster growth is needed for Thailand to reach its goal of high-income status by 2036. This calls for structural reforms to boost economic potential and inclusiveness, by improving education and skills training in all regions, fostering innovation, facilitating domestic competition, reducing cross-border barriers and accelerating public spending on infrastructure. Overcoming past implementation challenges requires strengthening institutions to ensure the delivery of the critical reforms outlined in the 12th Plan (2017-2021).
	Extreme poverty has largely been eliminated but disparities remain. The fragmented social security system does not adequately protect the large informal and precariously employed labour force, and many elderly are at risk of poverty. Better social security and pension coverage is essential for inclusive growth. While public finances are presently in robust shape, gradual revenue increases will be called for to fund rising pension and healthcare outlays amid a rapidly ageing population and a declining workforce. Inducing greater formal labour market participation will be key to expand social protection and boost tax revenue.
	Economic development has exerted a heavy environmental toll. Despite recent improvements, notably with reforestation, Thailand has to further enhance the management of its natural resources to safeguard sustainable development. Rapid urbanisation has put pressure on water resources and water quality. Water management needs to become more effective to minimise damage from droughts and floods. Solid waste has grown considerably, most of which is poorly managed. Policies to better mitigate and adapt to climate change are necessary to meet agreed international commitments and minimise economic and social losses.

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For further information, please contact the South East Asia desk, Economics Department. The Initial Assessment report of the Multi-dimensional Review of Thailand was prepared by Hidekatsu Asada, Adam Bogiatzis, Abu Zeid Mohd Arif, Mohamed Rizwan Habeeb Rahuman (OECD Economics Department), Martha Baxter and Andrea Colombo (OECD Development Centre), Lara Fleischer and Koffi Zougbédé (OECD Statistics Directorate) under the supervision of Vincent Koen and Jan Rieländer. Secretarial assistance was provided by Myriam Andrieux, Mercedes Burgos and Sisse Nielsen.