Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Mahasarakham University (Apr 2021)
Border Trade and Economic Development Model: Case Study of Sungai Ko-Lok, Narathiwat Province: International Border Trade City Model
Abstract
This research was mixed methods research that aimed 1) to study the current situation of border trade, problems and obstacles of Thailand-Sungai Ko-Lok border trade around Thailand -Sungai Ko-Lok border trade market, Narathiwat Province, 2) to study the preparation for the international border trade city model, 3) to analyze the internal and external environments, 4) to propose guidelines for the Thailand -Sungai Ko-Lok border trade and economic development model. The quantitative study was conducted using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation statistics. The samples were the 300 residents who lived around Sungai Ko-Lok, Narathiwat Province, sampled by the method of accidental sampling. The qualitative research was based on documents and in-depth interviews of the key informants who were entrepreneurs, public and private officers who were involved in the Thailand -Sungai Ko-Lok border trade, Narathiwat Province. The research findings were as follows.- 1) the current situation, problems and obstacles of Thailand-Sungai Ko-Lok border trade around Thailand -Sungai Ko-Lok border trade market, Narathiwat Province was found a standard variety of goods. The entrepreneurs were specialized in their consumers. The location was suitable. The problem found was a lack of effective management. 2) it was found that locals had a good level of knowledge for the preparation for the international border trade city model. Their awareness of the international border trade city model was good. 3.) It was found that the internal and external environments of the Thailand -Sungai Ko-Lok border trade market, Narathiwat Province took good advantage of appropriate location. On the contrary, the management of facilities and infrastructures had to be developed and improved. 4) the guidelines for the Thailand-Sungai Ko-Lok border trade and economic development model proposed that the policy should be presented to the governments to establish the place as a special economic zone and free trade zone in order to further increase the volume of trade.
