SONGKHLA, Thailand – The Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre, together with Songkhla Province and the southern border provinces, has launched the 5th Thai Deep South Connect Fair to promote grassroots economic growth and boost trade and tourism in Thailand’s southern border region.
The event runs from January 30 to February 1, 2026, in Sadao District, Songkhla Province, with the opening ceremony led by Songkhla Governor Ratthasart Chidchoo. Senior officials from SBPAC, provincial authorities, the private sector, and local networks also attended.
As a community-based economic marketplace, the fair gives local residents and entrepreneurs rent-free exhibition space to sell products, generate income, and expand market access. The initiative aims to stimulate trade and investment, attract Thai and foreign tourists, especially from Malaysia, and promote unique community products from the southern border provinces.
More than 300 booths from the five southern border provinces offer local food and beverages, apparel, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs that reflect local identity. The event features live music and promotional activities to encourage spending and cross-border tourism.
A business matching session will also be held at a hotel in Sadao District on January 31 to create new trade opportunities for local entrepreneurs, with buyers from Thailand and abroad participating.
Officials noted that the event highlights the potential of the southern border provinces, especially Sadao District, as a key gateway for tourism and economic activity. It also helps support communities recovering from recent flooding and promotes sustainable local development. (NNT)
