Global Street Food Icon Status Advocated by Commerce Minister Through Urgent 4-Point Strategy for Banthat Thong
In the heart of Bangkok's Pathumwan district lies Banthat Thong Road, a street once known for its vibrant energy and economic contribution. However, over the years, it has faced challenges such as declining tourism, rising rents, and reduced local purchasing power[1]. Recognising its potential, the Ministry of Commerce, under the leadership of Commerce Minister Jatuporn Buruspat, is spearheading an initiative to transform Banthat Thong into a global street food landmark[1].
The 4-point plan to revive Banthat Thong as a global food hub includes:
- Uniting vendors: By forming a joint committee with genuine participation from the local businesses and street food vendors, the aim is to strengthen collaboration and collective action[1].
- Defining the district’s unique identity: Leveraging its reputation as a creative economy district with over 300 eateries and its 2014 recognition as the 14th “World’s Coolest Street” by Time Out magazine, the plan is to clearly define Banthat Thong's unique identity[1][2].
- Cooperation among multiple agencies: The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Transport, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Chulalongkorn University (landowner) will work together to provide coordinated support on infrastructure, promotion, and regulation[1][2].
- Implementing themed events and vendor support programs: Regular events will be organized to boost attractions, improve vendor capabilities, and enhance the visitor experience, thereby increasing both tourist and local patronage[1][2].
Currently, Banthat Thong Road is seeing renewed activity and popularity, especially in the evenings between 6pm and 10pm, when street food vendors offer a mix of affordable, diverse, and authentic Thai food that appeals to both locals and international visitors[2][3]. This revival effort is supported by these on-the-ground improvements and active promotion of the area as a vibrant food destination[2][3].
The plan also includes creating special weekend zones with distinctive atmospheres to attract tourists. Chulalongkorn University has committed to supporting vendors with cost-reduction schemes, environmental management initiatives, and sustainable space development[1].
Jatuporn's vision for Banthat Thong is to make it a safe, unique, and lively street food hub, similar to Chatuchak or Song Wat[1]. The proposed plan for reducing operating costs includes promoting the "Thai Make, Thai Use, Thai Help Thai" policy, linking quality, fairly priced products to restaurants in a farm-to-table model[1].
Banthat Thong entrepreneurs, representing 385 shops, have noted a significant drop in tourist numbers from 30,000-40,000 per day to far fewer[1]. Despite these challenges, the future of Banthat Thong Road looks promising, with the community and the government working together towards its revival as a globally recognized food hub in Bangkok.
[1] Source: Bangkok Post [2] Source: The Nation [3] Source: Time Out Bangkok
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