Thailand Pushes DIPROM ITC to Help Southern SMEs Turn Local Resources into High-Value Products
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa highlights technology access, prototype development and regional industrial innovation as key mechanisms for strengthening SMEs in Thailand's southern border region.
SONGKHLA, THAILAND - Thailand's Ministry of Industry is promoting place-based industrial development through the Department of Industrial Promotion (DIPROM), with its Industrial Transformation Center (DIPROM ITC) in Songkhla serving as a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and community businesses to test production processes, develop prototypes and explore innovation before committing to major investments.
The initiative was highlighted during Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa's visit to DIPROM Center 11 in Hat Yai, Songkhla, on August 30, 2026, in connection with the government's first mobile Cabinet meeting of the year.
Turning Business Challenges into Opportunities
Varawut emphasized the importance of helping SMEs adapt to economic uncertainty and changing international trade conditions.
According to the ministry's policy direction, businesses need access to technical knowledge, appropriate financing and product development facilities to strengthen their ability to compete.
The initiative also emphasizes awareness of tariff barriers and international trade restrictions as local producers seek opportunities beyond Thailand.
At the center of the strategy is the integration of local raw materials, regional identity and modern production technology to develop higher-value commercial products.
DIPROM ITC: Testing Before Investing
DIPROM ITC provides access to technical advice, production equipment, prototype development and process-testing support.
These services are intended to help SMEs evaluate manufacturing techniques, improve production efficiency and assess product feasibility before investing in their own machinery or production systems.
For smaller businesses and community enterprises facing capital constraints, access to shared technological resources could help reduce development costs and investment risks.
The minister outlined a vision for the center as a space for learning, experimentation and business opportunities.
Connecting Technology with Market Readiness
DIPROM Director-General Nattiya Netyasupha said the department's regional development approach covers multiple stages of business development, including identifying operational challenges, improving product quality, applying technology and preparing businesses for market entry.
The center also facilitates connections with specialists and relevant organizations to strengthen production standards and support commercial development.
Rather than focusing solely on machinery, the strategy seeks to connect technological capabilities with product quality, business needs and market opportunities.
Building Greater Value in Southern Thailand
For businesses in Songkhla, Satun, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat, the approach presents an opportunity to move further along the value chain, from local materials and traditional expertise toward product development, processing, branding and market access.
However, sustainable commercial growth will also depend on product standards, production economics, market demand and reliable distribution channels.
IBiz News Insight
The business significance of DIPROM ITC lies in reducing the barriers between product ideas, prototype development and commercial production.
The next challenge will be measuring tangible outcomes: how many SMEs commercialize their prototypes, improve cost efficiency and enter new markets.
These indicators will help determine whether shared industrial technology infrastructure can translate into lasting economic value for southern Thailand.