Prof. Dr. Surakiart Highlights Eight Major Challenges Shaping Thailand’s Future Economy
Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, outlined eight major disruptions affecting Thailand’s economic future during his keynote address, “Five Decades of the Thai Economy: Thailand Next,” at the PRACHACHAT BUSINESS AWARDS 2026 held in Bangkok.
He noted that crises have become the “new normal,” requiring governments, businesses, and educational institutions to adapt rapidly. The eight key challenges include technology, demographics, pandemics, the environment, education, energy, geo-economics, and geopolitics.
According to Prof. Dr. Surakiart, the rise of artificial intelligence is transforming workplaces and skills requirements, while Thailand’s aging population is creating new pressures on healthcare, welfare, and workforce sustainability. He also warned that future pandemics remain a possibility, emphasizing the need for equitable healthcare access.
Environmental challenges, including climate change and PM2.5 pollution, continue to impact tourism, agriculture, and business operations. Meanwhile, Thailand’s education system must focus more on lifelong learning, upskilling, and interdisciplinary approaches to meet evolving economic demands.
On the global stage, energy market uncertainty, shifting trade policies, financial realignments, and increasing geopolitical tensions are reshaping international economic dynamics. He stressed that Thailand must remain adaptable and strengthen its competitiveness to navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain world.
