SINGKHON BORDER TRADE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN PROVINCE AND THE THAI ECONOMY

Abstract

This research studied and analyzed the economic potential of the border checkpoint, Singkhon Pass for Myeik, Myanmar and Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thailand. In addition, opportunities and economic links at the border checkpoint, Singkhon Pass for economic development in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province and Thailand were examined. Border trade is vital to the national economic system and provincial economy as a channel motivating trade and labor. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) was used as a tool for data collection and analysis of the in-depth interviews and focus groups discussion on the border checkpoints - Singkhon Pass and Prachuap Khiri Khan Province of the the public and private sector in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Research and official documents relating to provincial economic development plans, provincial economic indicators, and border trade were also evaluated. Results were that the economic potential of the border checkpoint, Singkhon Pass; Myeik; and Prachuap Khiri Khan Province facilitated mutual trade. Trade linkage opportunities included for goods and services; investment, especially in building materials; consumer goods; raw fishing industry materials; and tourism services, as well as investment in tourism, travel agencies, and hotels.