Evolution of e-Service in Thailand: The Public Sector's Role in Streamlining Starting a Business
Keywords:
Ease of doing business, starting a business, digital services, e-registration, e-documentAbstract
The World Bank's ease of doing business index serves as a tool for international comparison, underlining that digital platforms and regulatory reforms are enablers, not absolute assurances, of entrepreneurial achievement. The discrepancies underscore areas needing development and strategies for streamlining business procedures. In Thailand, a range of laws and strategies are aimed at cultivating a conducive environment for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises. However, enhancements in government efficiency, transparency, holistic digital services, and regulatory reforms are critical for boosting ease of doing business and competitiveness. A mixed-methods approach is applied in this study to ensure comprehensive data precision. The initial stage involves qualitative research to gain a deeper grasp of the topic, followed by quantitative research to provide policy recommendations and laying down directions for effective public service.
Despite digital progress, the Thai government still needs to work on fully transitioning to a digital process, especially in relation to the World Bank's requirements for starting a business. Suggested improvements include integrating the process of reserving a corporate name into the online company registration system, creating a unified business registration platform across all departments, and revisiting the Electronic Transactions Act. The proposed enhancements involve establishing a best practice system for quality and transparency and a dedicated committee for integrating government databases. By adopting these initiatives, government services could be made more efficient, the process of setting up a business could be simplified, and digital services could become more cost-effective and time-saving, thus significantly elevating the ease of doing business in Thailand.
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