Journal of politics, administration and law

Thailand Provincial Administration: Origins, Transitions and Prospects

2026-01-09T14:57:01+07:00

Thailand's provincial administration has long served as a critical mechanism for extending central government authority to the local level. Originating from administrative reforms during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), the national administrative structure was organized into three tiers: central, provincial (regional), and local administration. Initially, provincial administration played a vital role in disseminating policies, budgets, and development projects to rural areas, largely through provincial governors and district chiefs. However, in recent decades, this role has come under scrutiny amid ongoing bureaucratic reforms and decentralization efforts. Challenges include functional overlaps with local government organizations and structural fragmentation arising from central ministries operating local offices independently. This article traces the historical evolution of Thailand's provincial administration, analyzes institutional problems that have emerged due to reforms, and proposes strategic recommendations to redefine the role, authority, and institutional relevance of provincial administration within a modern governance framework responsive to future development needs.

Land and Building Tax: A Mechanism for Promoting Equity and Reducing Inequality in Thai Society

2026-01-06T11:37:03+07:00

This article examines the Land and Building Tax as a policy instrument for promoting economic equity and reducing asset ownership inequality in Thai society. It analyzes the Land and Building Tax Act B.E. 2562 (2019), which represents a pivotal shift in Thailand’s property tax regime from an outdated and opaque system to a more progressive and purpose-driven framework. The new law introduces differentiated tax rates based on land use and adopts a progressive tax structure aimed at promoting fairness. Despite these intentions, several challenges persist in practice, including incomplete property databases, undervaluation of land for taxation purposes, excessive exemptions, and limited capacity of local authorities in tax administration. The article also draws comparisons with East Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where effective property taxation is underpinned by accurate valuation systems, digital technology integration, and decentralized tax administration. Based on this comparative analysis, the article proposes policy reforms to enhance the effectiveness of Thailand’s land taxation, focusing on structural improvement, regulatory enforcement, and integration with broader public policy goals. Ultimately, the study argues that a well-designed land tax system can serve as a sustainable mechanism for narrowing inequality and strengthening fiscal justice.

A Guideline for Qualitative Data Synthesis for Accounting Records in Financial Statement Preparation for Investment Project Feasibility Analysis in Intellectual Property and Investment Consulting Business

2026-02-11T13:51:54+07:00

This study aims (1) to develop guidelines for synthesizing qualitative data for accounting recognition in the preparation of financial statements for project feasibility analysis, (2) to apply the developed guidelines in preparing projected financial statements, and (3) to evaluate the investment feasibility of the project based on the resulting financial reports using key financial indicators, namely Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period (PBP). The research employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 experts, a comprehensive review of relevant literature, and triangulation to ensure data validity and reliability. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis to synthesize and develop accounting guidelines suitable for businesses characterized by intangible assets and limited quantitative data.

The findings indicate that five key accounting guidelines were developed: (1) a framework for synthesizing qualitative data into accounting practices, (2) revenue recognition guidelines, (3) personnel cost management guidelines, (4) pre-operating expense recognition guidelines, and (5) guidelines for the recognition and consideration of intangible assets. These guidelines were subsequently applied to formulate financial assumptions and prepare 20-year projected financial statements, systematically reflecting the project’s revenue structure, cost structure, and financial position in accordance with financial reporting standards.

The financial feasibility analysis demonstrates that the project yields a Net Present Value (NPV) of 15.74 million baht, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 88.20%, and a Payback Period (PBP) of 1 year and 3 months. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis confirms the project’s robustness under variations in key assumptions. The results suggest that the developed guidelines serve as an effective tool for preparing financial statements and supporting investment decision-making in emerging businesses characterized by intellectual property–driven models and limited historical financial data.