By The Nation
The report released on Tuesday (June 16) also showed that Thailand’s scores had dropped to 75.387 from 77.233 last year.
The Kingdom’s ranking in competitiveness had been further weighed down by its economic performance, which fell six places and government efficiency, which dropped three slots.
“Thailand’s place in the list has been affected by a sluggish economy, no longer being attractive to foreign investor and concerns about labour shortage in the long run,” said Teeranun Srihong, chairman Thailand Management Association (TMA).
“Another key factor is poor government efficiency, taking into account a weakening rule of law, poorly run key national institutions and a deterioration of financial stability.”
However, the country did better in business efficiency and showed slight improvement in infrastructure development.
“Thailand’s overall of competitiveness scores, however, remain low as it has many challenges to overcome such as education, public health, environment as well as science and technology infrastructure,” Teeranun said.
The IMD this year also added new indicators to its ranking methodology, namely sustainable development goals, democracy index and total early-stage entrepreneurial activity.
“Thailand’s ranking was up five places last year, but down four places this year, suggesting that the country’s ability to efficiently respond to fast-changing environments remains the biggest challenge in the long run,” he added.
The top three countries in this year’s competitiveness ranking are Singapore, Denmark and Switzerland in that order.
