The Industry Ministry plans to launch a digital platform and big data system to facilitate the industrial sector and smooth the government's ease of doing business next year.
The move seeks to improve the ministry's service to the sector through innovation, digital systems and high-tech automation, following the Thailand 4.0 initiative, said Thongchai Chawalitpichaet, director-general of the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
Despite the government's ambition to transform Thailand's industry to 4.0, or companies run using high technology, a ministry study found that only 2% of industries in the country meet the 4.0 level. Most industries (61%) remain at level 2.0, 28% are at 3.0 and 9% are at 1.0.
To improve industry standards, Mr Thongchai said Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreankit has instructed the OIE to outline measures and stimulus packages to support and promote the sector.
He said the digital platform and big data systems are key drivers to help businesses in the digital era.
A single form will facilitate requests for approval/permission from the ministry for services from agencies such as the Industrial Promotion Department.
"The digital platform can reduce workflows and procedures by half, helping operators provide information to competent authorities," Mr Thongchai said.
The big data system will help operators in all sectors and officials analyse information automatically, he said.
In separate news, the OIE plans to expand the Office of Industrial Affairs at the embassy in China to aid investors and boost investment in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
The OIE expects to locate its offices in Beijing and Shanghai to enhance cooperation and investment with China.
Mr Thongchai said offices on the mainland will support Chinese investors keen to make outlays in Thailand, notably in the EEC, an economic zone spanning parts of Rayong, Chachoengsao and Chon Buri provinces.
The ministry is speeding up new investment flows in the EEC and expects investment value of 100 billion baht in 12 targeted industries.