The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), which represents global internet companies, calls the telecom regulator's planned measures a barrier to growth of the over-the-top (OTT) service industry that contributes 36 billion baht and created 30,000 jobs for Thailand's economy.
Jeff Paine, the AIC's managing director, said he was surprised that Thailand is considering measures that could disrupt the growth of the OTT sector.
Internet platforms and services have enabled creative and entrepreneurial locals to build businesses that reach a global audience and marketplace, far beyond Thailand, creating significant value for everyone across the digital value chain, he said.
It's critical that the OTT sector can continue to create such opportunity, especially in line with Thailand 4.0 ambitions to become an inclusive economy supported by creativity, innovation and technology, Mr Paine said.
With Thailand's leadership of Asean this year, the AIC wants the government to take a holistic and long-term view towards digital economy policy, especially in supporting sectors like OTT that have a role to play in national and regional economic success.