Development

"Thailand’s development is defined by rapid urban expansion, government mega-projects, and shifting investor priorities. From Bangkok’s transit hubs and mixed-use towers to regional infrastructure driving secondary city growth, development is both a signal of opportunity and a source of risk. Policies, capital flows, and community impact converge to shape the future. In this section, The Thailand Advisor decodes the projects, trends, and forces steering Thailand’s long-term growth trajectory."

U-Tapao to Trat: Thailand’s Next Rail Bet — and a Reality Check for Tech-Minded Expats

Bangkok’s long-delayed airport rail may now leap east to Trat. For expats and founders, this promises faster coastal living and new startup corridors — but contracts, PPP risk, and economics could still derail the vision. Here’s what’s real — and what isn’t.

By Jonathan Reid

/ 29 Oct 2025

Elevated rail corridor alignment skirting orchards on Thailand’s eastern seaboard at sunset.

Why Bangkok Land Prices Are Still Surging — Even With a Slowing Economy

Bangkok’s land market defies gravity. Even as Thailand’s economy cools, prices in prime districts—from Sukhumvit to Sathorn—keep climbing. Scarcity, zoning limits, and deep-pocketed investors sustain record values, proving that Bangkok’s real estate boom is far from over.

By Jonathan Reid

/ 22 Oct 2025

View of Chong Nonsi BTS with the iconic Mahanakorn Building

Big Dreams, Small Budget: The Lean Startup’s Office Dilemma

For entrepreneurs starting on a shoestring budget, office space can either accelerate growth or drain precious funds. We weigh the cost savings and trade-offs of flexible co-working spaces versus traditional private offices – and why this choice matters more than ever in Thailand’s startup scene.

By David Chen

/ 13 Oct 2025