ส.อ.ท. ผนึก 9 พันธมิตร ยกระดับการบริหารจัดการน้ำของประเทศสู่ “เศรษฐกิจน้ำที่มั่นคงและยั่งยืน”FTI Collaborates with 9 Partners to Enhance Water Management Towards a “Stable and Sustainable Water Economy”

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with 9 key water agencies from both the public and private sectors to drive integrated water management under the concept of “Stable Water, Sustainable Water.” This reflects the commitment of all sectors to create a water economy ready to tackle future challenges, whether they be droughts, floods, or the impacts of climate change, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Dr. Chana Poomi, President of the Sustainable Water and Environment Institute of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), stated, “The Federation of Thai Industries recognizes the critical importance of efficient water management for the growth of the industrial sector and the sustainability of the overall economy. We must enhance water usage efficiency and increase economic value from our limited resources, ensuring that no one is left behind,” Dr. Chana remarked.

Data from the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) in 2021 indicates that Thailand has an average water usage efficiency of only 7.5 USD per cubic meter, or approximately 238 THB (based on an exchange rate of 31.76 THB per USD), which is nearly three times lower than the global average. Particularly in the agricultural sector, which uses 75% of the country’s water, the value created is only 11.4 THB/m³. In contrast, the industrial and service sectors use less water (totaling 25%) but generate values of 1,059 and 931 THB/m³, respectively. This reflects the opportunity to develop and enhance the value of limited water resources and the necessity for comprehensive water resource management planning to address economic demands, consumption, and sustainable environmental concerns.

Dr. Chana emphasized, “We are facing significant challenges related to water resources in every dimension. Today’s collaboration is a critical starting point in driving water management, which is not just the responsibility of one individual but a collective mission of Thai society, reflecting a shared awareness of the importance of sustainable water resource management amidst the challenges of climate change, economic growth, and increasing water demand. Although Thailand has experience in dealing with flooding and drought issues, this collaboration marks an important step in strengthening the country’s water management system in a holistic manner,” to create an efficient, comprehensive, and sustainable water management system.

Furthermore, the advancement of water management in the country will be conducted through 5 key pillars:

1.  Water Balance & Data: Promote data exchange, continuous monitoring, assessment, and forecasting of water situations for effective decision-making.
2.  Systematic Management: Support data and integrated management to create a balance between water demand and supply, both quantitatively and qualitatively.
3.  Water Innovation: Promote the development of technology and knowledge through training and study visits both domestically and internationally.
4.  Local Water War Room Network: Enhance collaboration at the local level by creating networks for data exchange and water situation assessment.
5.  Water Communication: Synthesize and present water situation data and risk management approaches in an accessible manner for all target groups.

This collaboration includes partners from 3 main groups:

•  Policy and Water Resources: Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EEC), Royal Irrigation Department, Department of Water Resources, Department of Groundwater Resources.
•  Data and Forecasting: Water Resources Information Institute (WRII), Meteorological Department, Pollution Control Department.
•  Water Use and Private Sector: Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), Private Industrial Estate Association, Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

This initiative aims to enhance the capability of water management and create economic value from water usage sustainably, particularly in key strategic areas of the country, such as special economic zones, Bangkok and its vicinity, Maeklong River Basin, and Thachin River Basin, to support economic growth, reduce risks, and strengthen long-term water security.

The FTI believes that this collaboration will be a crucial force in driving the country’s water management towards sustainability, creating a positive impact on Thailand's economy, society, and environment.

List of agencies that signed the MOU:
1.  Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EEC)
2.  Royal Irrigation Department
3.  Department of Water Resources
4.  Department of Groundwater Resources
5.  Water Resources Information Institute (WRII)
6.  Meteorological Department
7.  Pollution Control Department
8.  Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT)
9.  Thai Industrial Estate Association and partners
10.  Federation of Thai Industries (FTI)

💧 This is not just a signing, but the beginning of “real action” for a stable and sustainable water system in Thailand 💧

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For further inquiries:
Sustainable Water and Environment Institute, Federation of Thai Industries 
Telephone: 02-3451184
E-mail: manitat@fti.or.th