Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has agreed to the proposal by the private sector seeking to develop the “New National Art and Culture Platform” in order to elevate Thailand’s cultural capital and increase economic value through the creative economy.

Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek stated that the proposal was submitted during the recent meeting between the Prime Minister and members of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand to exchange views on economic and trade issues.

The proposal involves the establishment of the Art Free Zone, or duty-free zone for art galleries, in order to develop Thailand as a regional hub for exhibitions, trade, investment, and creative economy. The New National Art and Culture Platform will serve as cultural infrastructure in the new era and a learning center for skill development. It will also serve as a forum to show the potential of Thai artists, bringing arts, culture, science, technology, and creative innovation all together.

According to the Government Spokesperson, the Prime Minister’s view was that the creative economy not only involved short-term cultural promotion activities, but also served as a foundation for the new economy that would be able to generate income and employment and provide business opportunities in the long run. 

The Prime Minister believed that, with proper ecological design, Thailand’s strengths, in terms of cultural heritage, arts, handicrafts, local identities, and tourism assets, could be developed further for greater economic value.

Ms. Rachada said that Thailand’s cultural capital should be considered not only in the preservation dimension, but also in creating business opportunities, generating more income for people, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness. 

The development of the New National Art and Culture Platform will contribute to tourism-related businesses, as well, such as restaurant, hotel, and logistics services. It will also open up opportunities for Thai artists to showcase their achievements on the same platform as world-class artists.