On Thursday 26th February, around 40 participants from across Thailand’s government departments and private sector came together for a discussion to develop practical recommendations on how to improve transparency of infrastructure investment in Thailand.
The CoST-hosted roundtable was a great success with high levels of energy and engagement, showing government officials willingness and appetite to work across departments and with the private sector to develop solutions. Key themes discussed were: publication of infrastructure procurement data, integration of data systems across government, fair allocation of risk, monitoring contractor performance in the sector, and improving standard pricing system.
Today’s discussion will shape final recommendations that are to be published in a “Transparency in infrastructure investment in Thailand” report produced by the CoST International Secretariat to support Thailand’s OECD accession efforts, promote a better international business environment and build upon the success of CoST Thailand to date.
This roundtable was organised by the CoST International Secretariat, supported by Comptroller General Department, Ministry of Finance in Royal Thai Government and funded by the British Embassy Bangkok. The session was facilitated by Professor Nick Torplus Yomnak.
The following departments and organisations were represented:
- Comptroller General Department, Ministry of Finance,
- Budget Bureau,
- Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council,
- Office of the Public Sector Development Commission
- Department of Rural Roads
- Department of Highways
- Department of Irrigation
- Department of International Economic Affairs
- Bangkok Metropolitan Authority
- Thai Contractors Association under the Patronage of His Majesty the King
- The Consulting Engineers Association of Thailand
- Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand
- The British Embassy Bangkok
- Hands Social Enterprise.