Warunthorn Puthong has shared her insights into shaping Thailand's economic future, emphasizing the importance of creating a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economy. "I am driven by the opportunity to explore what more can be done to help the country achieve higher growth while reducing inequality," she said. Puthong stressed that collective efforts are crucial, involving social responsibility, natural resource protection, and inclusivity.
Puthong's role as a country economist involves supporting economic policies that promote sustainable growth and providing technical support to the government. "Beyond fostering growth, a major focus of this assistance is to ensure that economic progress translates into broader opportunities and improved well-being for people across different income levels, social backgrounds, genders, and races, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society," she noted.
Thailand faces several economic challenges, including an aging population and sluggish investment. Without urgent reforms, potential growth could decline from 3.2% in 2011-2021 to 2.7% in 2022-2030. However, structural reforms could enhance competitiveness and attract investment. Labor market improvements, particularly increasing female workforce participation, are also key. "Despite progress made towards gender equality in Thailand, persistent gaps continue to impede development and socio-economic growth," Puthong highlighted.
Women face significant challenges in the workforce. "The labor force participation rate for women is only 59% compared to 75% for men," Puthong commented. Representation of women in national parliament remains low at 15.7%. "Strengthening these systems will not only empower women but also help increase the future skilled labor force," she stated.
Puthong urged young women to consider careers in economics and policymaking, as diverse perspectives are crucial for effective policies. "For young women considering this path, know that your ideas and leadership have the potential to drive meaningful change for a sustainable growth and more inclusive Thailand," she encouraged.