Bangkok aims to turn Chatuchak Market into soft power paradise

Thailand is setting its sights on transforming the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok into a hub for soft power, with an ambitious two-year plan spearheaded by the National Committee on Soft Power Development.

This initiative aims to capitalise on the market’s popularity and diverse offerings to bolster Thailand’s global cultural influence.

Surapong Suebwonglee, chair of the National Committee on Soft Power Development and deputy chair of the Policy Advisory Board to the Prime Minister, announced an increase in funding for soft power projects.

The budget will rise from 635 million baht in the 2024 fiscal year to a substantial 2.3 billion baht in the 2025 fiscal year, extending from October this year to November 2025. This decision was made during a recent committee meeting, focusing on the market’s potential as a cultural and economic hub. Surapong highlighted the market’s existing allure, referencing its high tourism potential.

“Currently, during weekends, at least 80,000 tourists visit Chatuchak Market per day. During peak periods, there may be as many as 300,000 tourists per day, which shows very high tourism potential.”

The vision for Chatuchak Market includes creating spaces dedicated to books, films, design, tourism, music, gaming, festivals, art and culture, fashion, craftsmanship, and sports. Surapong noted the market’s existing stalls that align with these themes, such as those featuring books, fashion, and art, making it a fitting location for this development.

Chatuchak’s potential

To bolster this initiative, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will conduct a study to assess the market’s potential. A Chatuchak Market Development subcommittee will be established, chaired by Surapong, with a Bangkok deputy governor serving as vice-chair.

Bangkok Post reported that this subcommittee will also include the governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the director of the Office of Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion, and industry experts. Surapong expressed optimism about the market’s transformation.

“It is expected the potential of Chatuchak Market can be developed and the work completed in two years from now. This process will be expedited so Chatuchak Market will become a destination that tourists from all over the world must visit when they travel to Bangkok.”

Deputy Bangkok Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon provided further details on the market’s scale, noting that it spans 68 rai and houses approximately 15,000 stalls. He emphasised the market’s significant potential to promote Thailand’s soft power.

“We want to see Chatuchak Market have the space to exhibit our soft power in every aspect. We can start with what the market already has: fashion, art, handicrafts, food, and music. This can be the first area that we develop.”

The transformation of Chatuchak Market into a soft power hub represents a strategic effort to enhance Thailand’s cultural footprint on the global stage, leveraging the market’s existing popularity and diverse offerings. As the project unfolds, it promises to redefine one of Bangkok’s most beloved market into a beacon of Thai culture and creativity for international visitors.