Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce is spearheading a series of initiatives aimed at promoting Banthat Thong Road as a world-class street food landmark. The focus is on four urgent measures: uniting entrepreneurs, creating a local identity, reducing costs with Thai products, and organizing ongoing events.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatuporn Buruspat, the Minister of Commerce, along with Mr. Chantawit Tantasith, Deputy Minister of Commerce, and other key executives from the Ministry of Commerce, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Chulalongkorn University Property Management Office, visited Banthat Thong Road in Pathum Wan District, Bangkok. Their visit aligns with the "Reliable Commerce" policy, reflecting the potential of the area to become a significant street food destination.
Banthat Thong Road, a creative economic district with over 300 restaurants, was ranked as the "14th coolest street in the world" by Time Out magazine in 2014. Despite its impressive annual revenue, businesses are facing challenges such as declining tourist numbers, high rental costs, and slowing purchasing power.
Mr. Chatuporn highlighted the need to address these challenges through collaboration with various sectors, including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Ministry of Transport, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Chulalongkorn University. The proposed measures aim to create a cohesive and attractive environment for both local and international tourists.
The Minister of Commerce outlined the four urgent measures: establishing a joint committee to facilitate communication and decision-making among entrepreneurs, creating a unique identity for the area, reducing costs through the "Thai made, Thai used, Thai helped Thai" policy, and organizing monthly events to maintain a vibrant atmosphere.
Entrepreneurs on Banthat Thong Road noted a decrease in tourist numbers, urging the government and Chulalongkorn University to expedite development plans and promote the area as a "creative economic zone."
Assistant Professor Dr. Jaraspat Prueksarattanawut from Chulalongkorn University emphasized the comprehensive development of the Samyan-Banthat Thong area, focusing on economy, community quality of life, environment, and green spaces. The university is adopting a SMART CITY approach, enhancing energy efficiency and urban growth accommodation.
Chulalongkorn University is also fostering partnerships with tenants and has launched a roundtable program to provide consultation and knowledge on various business aspects. The "PMCU Restaurant Stronger Together" project is being promoted to build a collaborative network, aiming to serve as a model for sustainable commercial development and establishing Banthat Thong as a street food landmark.
All stakeholders agree that unity and common goals are essential for Banthat Thong to achieve its ambition of becoming a global street food landmark.