Bangkok: ETDA announced its national development direction for 2027, focusing on comprehensively upgrading the digital lives of Thais. The plan includes pushing forward the "VC National ID Card" towards a photocopy-free era, coupled with stricter law enforcement to ensure transparency in digital platforms and ride-hailing applications. Furthermore, it aims to combat cybercrime at its source, prepare an AI Sandbox to control technological risks, and accelerate the development of a digital solution matching model to help SMEs reduce costs and generate sustainable income.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Chaichana Mitraphan, Director of the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), revealed at the press conference on "16 Years of ETDA: CO-CREATING A FUTURE OF DIGITAL TRUST" that in the next step, in 2027, ETDA is ready to fully assume its role as a "Co-Creation Regulator and Facilitator," after having laid a comprehensive foundation for the system in 2026. The agency is preparing to build upon this foundation with a proactive approach, or "Big Move," through four key missions.
The first mission is expanding Digital ID to verifiable digital documents. The agency is preparing to structure digital certification documents (VC), piloting a VC-format national ID card to reduce redundant photocopies, and promoting a Digital Document Wallet service, which will provide citizens with access to documents anywhere. Additionally, a Digital ID structure is being prepared to support foreigners and legal entities.
The second mission focuses on advancing AI governance for practical applications. The AI Governance Practice Center (AIGPC) is being promoted as a central hub connecting experts through an AI Governance Sandbox mechanism. This initiative will focus on the safe and ethical use of AI, particularly in education and the justice system.
The third mission involves accelerating the SMEs Growth Model 'Proven to Grow Real Results'. Building on this year's success, the "SMEs Profile" program, in collaboration with partners, is being expanded into regional areas. The focus is on three key sectors: retail, manufacturing, and tourism, with the aim of addressing pain points and matching technologies to generate real revenue.
The final mission is strengthening digital platform (DPS) regulation for transparency and fairness. ETDA is vigorously enforcing laws to regulate platforms, focusing on upgrading standards for e-marketplaces, ride-sharing services, and content moderation measures to prevent cybercrime on social media.
Dr. Chaichana emphasized that, amidst technological challenges, digital trust is not just a matter of systems, but a foundation for the quality of life and the country's competitiveness.