Southern Border Confidence Index Sees Improvement in Third Quarter of 2024.

Bangkok: The confidence index in Thailand's southern border provinces showed improvement in the third quarter of 2024, with notable increases in fruit prices attributed to the government's economic stimulus measures, according to Anukul Prueksanusak, Deputy Government Spokesperson. According to Thai News Agency, the confidence index rose to 56.29 from 55.56 in the previous quarter. Economic confidence increased to 56.81 from 56.17, and social confidence improved to 53.28 from 53.05. These improvements were driven by an influx of tourists from Malaysia during a long holiday period, along with national economic stimulus efforts and a fruitful season leading to higher prices for key economic crops. Satun Province reported the highest confidence level at 61.14, attributed to greater security confidence, followed by Songkhla at 58.21, Yala at 55.03, Pattani at 55.00, and Narathiwat at 54.92. The survey also highlighted ongoing concerns within the southern border provinces, with issues remaining consistent with t he previous quarter. The top concerns include high living costs, insufficient income across all provinces, and drug-related issues, particularly in Satun and Narathiwat. The survey indicates a strong desire for government intervention to address these challenges. Mr. Anukul emphasized the government's commitment to collaborating with relevant agencies to enhance the livelihoods of residents in the southern border provinces. The focus is on promoting income generation, career development, and improving quality of life, especially through supporting agricultural markets to boost income for local communities.