The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) held discussions with local entrepreneurs and digital startups, planning to collaborate with the province, relevant agencies, and the private sector to advance the development of the Digital Khon Kaen Sandbox, a space aimed at enhancing digital technology and innovation in Northeastern Thailand. The initiative also emphasizes the application of digital technology in agriculture, particularly utilizing Big Data from Thai entrepreneurs to elevate the industrial sector. Following the discussions, they visited a digital upskilling event for local business operators, offering advice on highlighting the unique features of the Northeastern region to attract consumer interest.
Mr. Prasert Jantararuangtong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society presided over the opening ceremony of the 'Ignite Isan Digital Hub? event under the DIGINEXT by SEED THAILAND project. He also engaged in discussions with local entrepreneurs and digital startups to explore strategies, exchange ideas and experiences, and provide valuable insights that can be used to further business operations. This collaboration aims to contribute to driving the country toward a digital economy and society. The event was also attended by Mr. Phanthep Saokosol, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province, Dr. Chinawut Chinaprayoon, Executive Vice President the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) and Dr. Warin Ratchananusorn, Director of the Digital Startup Institute.
?The private sector in Khon Kaen Province is strong and unified, with a readiness to develop the province in a tangible way. This has made Khon Kaen a highly potential and prominent province in the Northeastern region. For this reason, the MDES and depa wish to invite the province, relevant agencies, and the private sector to discuss ways to develop the Digital Khon Kaen Sandbox, a space for promoting the advancement of digital technology and innovation in Northeastern Thailand. Initially, it is expected that tax measures will be introduced as part of the mechanism to attract investment. Additionally, there is an emphasis on applying digital technology to the agricultural sector, particularly through the use of Big Data from Thai entrepreneurs to enhance the industrial sector and prevent data leakage. Moreover, the MDES and depa are also promoting the adoption of other technologies through various projects, such as the ONE TAMBON ONE DIGITAL (OTOD) CHUMCHON DRONE JAI and Smart Living.? the Minister of Digital Economy and Society said.
Additionally, the delegation visited the 'Digital Content-Driven E-Commerce Workshop: Hands-on Training for Increasing Sales with Digital Content? activity in the Northeastern region. This event builds on the success of the CONNEXION project, which aims to enhance the skills and understanding of how to use digital content to effectively boost sales on e-commerce platforms. The workshop provided training to entrepreneurs who sell products and services in Khon Kaen Province and surrounding areas, covering various topics such as product photography techniques, storytelling creation, live selling, setting up shops on social commerce platforms like TikTok and Facebook, using data to analyze online sales channels with the eTailligence platform, and developing new local micro-influencers.
Mr. Prasert stated that after discussions with local entrepreneurs and influencers participating in the event, it became evident that the products and services from the entrepreneurs in the Northeastern region have unique characteristics and the potential to become a soft power for the country. However, the entrepreneurs also highlighted several issues, such as a lack of knowledge, understanding, and skills in using digital technology and tools to increase sales and plan marketing strategies. This gap prevents them from expanding their markets and effectively meeting the needs of modern consumers. Therefore, today?s activities are aimed at alleviating these issues. At the same time, entrepreneurs must leverage the unique strengths of the Northeastern region as selling points to attract consumers.