The Impact of SDGs Adoption on SME Competitiveness in Thailand
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Abstract
This study aimed to (1) examine the level of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation and the level of competitiveness among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand, and (2) analyze the relationship between SDGs-based operations and business competitiveness. A quantitative research methodology was employed. The sample consisted of 400 SME entrepreneurs from five regions of Thailand, selected using stratified random sampling. The research instrument was a five-point Likert scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that, overall, Thai SMEs demonstrated a moderate to high level of SDGs implementation, particularly in areas such as natural resource management, fair employment, and community engagement. In parallel, competitiveness in terms of product quality, innovation, and market access was found to be significantly and positively associated with the level of SDGs implementation. Specifically, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) were strongly linked to business competitiveness. The study recommends that the public sector promote knowledge and awareness of SDGs among entrepreneurs and provide incentives—both economic and market access-related—that support sustainable practices. Simultaneously, businesses are encouraged to integrate SDG objectives into their strategic frameworks in order to enhance competitiveness and generate long-term shared value.
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