Managing integration for better jobs and shared prosperity in the ASEAN Economic Community the case of Thailand's automotive sector

This paper examines the socio-economic impact of regional integration through evidence-based analysis and projections for Thailand’s automotive industry. The paper discusses issues related to industrial and structural changes that will affect the labour market in Thailand after the ASEAN Economic Community 2015 takes effect. Thailand’s key macroeconomic variables in recent years indicate that there exists significant pressure on rising wage rates, tightness in the labour market and sluggish labour productivity. The greater ASEAN Community will enhance connectivity within and beyond the region, which will help Member States become more dynamic and competitive. In terms of the ASEAN automobile industry, production and sales have been expanding due to economic development and the investment strategy of Japanese carmakers. A higher degree of trade and investment integration will occur after investment and trade regimes are liberalized. New investment or the relocation of existing production from high-cost to low-cost production locations will take place; existing supply chains and production networks need to be adjusted. Skill development and productivity improvements will be critical ingredients for prosperity in the ASEAN Economic Community. Public and private collaboration at both the country and regional levels will be indispensible.