Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has amplified its smart city ambitions, confirming that 37 municipalities across 16 provinces now hold official smart city certification—following fresh recognition granted to the so-called “Phuket Silicon Valley” and renewal of badges for 16 others. The ministry envisions growing this network to a total of 105 smart cities by 2027.

Acting Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong revealed that certification is reserved for cities that have achieved more than fifty percent of their development benchmarks. The newly recognised “Phuket Silicon Valley” joins a cohort including Khon Kaen, Wangchan Valley in Rayong, Chiang Rai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Bangkok, with others spanning the North, Northeast, Central, and Southern regions.

The smart city initiative aligns with a broader national digitalisation strategy under Thailand 4.0, employing Big Data, smart mobility, energy efficiency, public safety, and urban governance technologies to enhance citizens’ quality of life. A national plan unveiled in 2023 projects the certification of up to 105 smart cities by 2027. That marked the baseline for such efforts, with early targets already met and private-sector investment incentivised via tax breaks and platform procurement allowances.

To ensure the initiative’s continuity, a dedicated sub-committee has been established to steer policy, guidelines, and project planning consistent with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy. This institutional reinforcement accompanies Thailand’s commitment to global digital standards, including OECD-aligned artificial intelligence principles.

The acceleration of this programme is reinforced by Thailand’s expanding role as a regional digital hub. The minister has also led commitments to cloud-first policies, AI ecosystem development, and partnerships with leading global tech firms to advance the country’s digital prominence.

Broader significance This rapid expansion of certified smart cities signals Thailand’s evolving urban governance model—one anchored in data-driven infrastructure, sustainable development, and inclusive planning. By fusing strategic policy, regional equity, and global digital alignment, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is steering the nation toward resilient, future-ready urbanisation on an unequaled national scale.