The Paradox of Mukdahan Special Economic Development Zone within the AEC Regional Collaboration and Connection Contexts

Abstract

The current study aimed to consider international economic policies influencing the development of Mukdahan economic development zone in relations to its roles and contexts on ASEAN economic cooperation. For research methodology, the qualitative secondary data were analyzed with reasoning correlations and presented with the narrative technique.

The results revealed that Mukdahan province has a number of developmental policies that aim to build a hub for global economic integration. However, in reality, being a center of trade and investment has not materialized. Investors seek for their business opportunities in neighboring provinces, such as Nakhon Phanom, because they have better infrastructures essential for economic growth.  Mukdahan has faced multiple problems related the allocation of land properties on the main route, train route services, and the establishment of new airport. A boom in the development of special economic zone is a result of local residents and investors raising their land prices, speculating on short-term profitability rather than building long-term economic stability and improving the province’s potential.  Theses problems have led to new investors’ and entrepreneurs’ hesitation to invest in their business ventures, and served as an indicator of the paradox of the special economic zone.