Guidelines for the Development of Special Economic Development Zone Management: A Case Study of Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

Guidelines for the Development of Special Economic Zone Administration in Kanchanaburi Province. This study aimed (1) to analyze the administration of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kanchanaburi Province across four dimensions—administrative structure, operational process, legal and regulatory framework, and environmental context—and (2) to propose guidelines for its development. A qualitative research approach was employed through in-depth interviews with three key groups: government agencies, private sector entrepreneurs, and civil society representatives. Documentary research using policy papers, official reports, and related literature complemented the field data. Content analysis following Krippendorff’s (2018) framework was applied with triangulation ensuring data validity.
Findings showed that SEZ administration faces major constraints (1) a centralized bureaucratic structure causing slow decisions and limited flexibility. (2) weak interagency coordination leading to redundancy and mismatch with local contexts. (3) overlapping and outdated laws hinder effective policy implementation; and (4) an economic and social environment still unsupportive of investment due to insufficient infrastructure and labor capacity. Four key development guidelines are proposed (1) establish a provincial-level special administrative unit with direct decision-making authority. (2) enhance operational flexibility through a one-stop service system. (3) enact a specific SEZ law to streamline governance and (4) develop infrastructure and human resources aligned with the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) model. In conclusion, SEZ administration should shift toward an integrated, localized governance system emphasizing coordination accountability and adaptability to strengthen its role in driving Thailand’s border economic growth sustainably and effectively.