BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chandraruangthong chaired the first meeting of the National Space Policy Committee for Fiscal Year 2025, during which the committee approved a draft policy permitting foreign satellite services in Thailand. Known as the Landing Rights Policy, this measure seeks to manage growing interest from international satellite operators while ensuring fair competition and broader access for users nationwide.
The meeting also endorsed a draft announcement outlining government criteria for evaluating foreign satellite operations. Both drafts were submitted by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society through the Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission. Once finalized, the proposals will be forwarded to the Cabinet. Officials indicated the policy supports Thailand’s efforts to expand the use of satellite data in areas such as agriculture, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
The committee also granted initial approval to the revised National Space Master Plan, which now includes recommendations from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council. The plan outlines strategic direction for public and private investment in space-related projects and will proceed through the formal approval process.
In addition to policy matters, the committee reviewed ongoing and upcoming activities in Thailand’s space sector. These include preparations to join the Artemis Accords on lunar exploration, continued collaboration with China on the International Lunar Research Station, and development of a national plan for space traffic monitoring. Updates were also presented on progress in three priority areas, including legal and regulatory frameworks, global partnerships, and the development of space infrastructure. (NNT)
