Thailand's Digital-Content Businesses Thrive Amid Global Shift
E-books, gaming, and animation lead growth as the country positions itself in the digital-content market.
Thailand’s digital-content sector is emerging as a key player in the global market, driven by increasing adoption of digital devices and the transition to a digital economy, the Department of Business Development (DBD) announced on Sunday.
Rapid Growth in Digital Content
As of November 30, 2023, Thailand hosted 1,071 registered digital-content businesses with a combined capital of 4.8 billion baht.
These enterprises include 299 animation and character design studios, 257 game production companies, and 515 e-book publishers.
Most are concentrated in the North and Central regions, particularly in Bangkok.
Foreign investments in the sector totaled 833 million baht, with 272 million baht allocated to animation and character design, 422 million baht to gaming, and 139 million baht to e-books.
Malaysia led foreign investments with 172 million baht, followed by Japan at 146 million baht and Hong Kong at 117 million baht.
E-Books and Gaming Dominate Revenue
E-book publishers emerged as the most lucrative segment, generating 3.97 billion baht in revenue and 107 million baht in profits in 2023.
The DBD attributed this success to a growing preference for electronic reading amid the closure of many physical bookstores.
The gaming industry also attracted significant foreign capital and domestic interest, underscoring the rising global appeal of Thai-produced games.
Animation and Character Design in Focus
Animation and character design are gaining recognition internationally.
Thai characters like Plaplatootoo and Butterbear have found global acclaim, with potential to expand into merchandise such as art toys.
These developments highlight Thailand’s creative potential and cultural appeal.
Challenges and Opportunities
DBD Director General Auramon Supthaweethum emphasized that access to funding for hiring skilled creators and acquiring advanced digital tools remains a critical challenge.
She underscored the importance of nurturing Thai content creators to showcase their talents on the global stage, thereby driving economic growth.
To address these challenges, public agencies are collaborating with private entities to support the industry.
Initiatives include hosting international exhibitions, developing creator skills, and integrating Thai cultural identity into digital productions.
Positioning Thailand in the Digital Era
The digital-content sector is poised to contribute significantly to Thailand’s economy as it capitalizes on global trends.
The government's strategic support, coupled with the growing demand for e-books, games, and animation, highlights Thailand’s potential as a hub for digital creativity and innovation in the region.
Rapid Growth in Digital Content
As of November 30, 2023, Thailand hosted 1,071 registered digital-content businesses with a combined capital of 4.8 billion baht.
These enterprises include 299 animation and character design studios, 257 game production companies, and 515 e-book publishers.
Most are concentrated in the North and Central regions, particularly in Bangkok.
Foreign investments in the sector totaled 833 million baht, with 272 million baht allocated to animation and character design, 422 million baht to gaming, and 139 million baht to e-books.
Malaysia led foreign investments with 172 million baht, followed by Japan at 146 million baht and Hong Kong at 117 million baht.
E-Books and Gaming Dominate Revenue
E-book publishers emerged as the most lucrative segment, generating 3.97 billion baht in revenue and 107 million baht in profits in 2023.
The DBD attributed this success to a growing preference for electronic reading amid the closure of many physical bookstores.
The gaming industry also attracted significant foreign capital and domestic interest, underscoring the rising global appeal of Thai-produced games.
Animation and Character Design in Focus
Animation and character design are gaining recognition internationally.
Thai characters like Plaplatootoo and Butterbear have found global acclaim, with potential to expand into merchandise such as art toys.
These developments highlight Thailand’s creative potential and cultural appeal.
Challenges and Opportunities
DBD Director General Auramon Supthaweethum emphasized that access to funding for hiring skilled creators and acquiring advanced digital tools remains a critical challenge.
She underscored the importance of nurturing Thai content creators to showcase their talents on the global stage, thereby driving economic growth.
To address these challenges, public agencies are collaborating with private entities to support the industry.
Initiatives include hosting international exhibitions, developing creator skills, and integrating Thai cultural identity into digital productions.
Positioning Thailand in the Digital Era
The digital-content sector is poised to contribute significantly to Thailand’s economy as it capitalizes on global trends.
The government's strategic support, coupled with the growing demand for e-books, games, and animation, highlights Thailand’s potential as a hub for digital creativity and innovation in the region.
