Technology
NBTC Outlines Future Roadmap for Thai Radio Broadcasting
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has announced plans to modernize Thailand's radio sector, focusing on FM frequency allocation and the introduction of DAB+ digital radio.
On August 18, 2026, the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) held a forum titled 'Opportunities and Future Directions' to discuss the evolution of Thailand's broadcasting industry. Air Marshal Thanaphan Raicharoen, an NBTC commissioner, detailed the regulatory roadmap for 2026, following the successful transition of radio stations into a formal licensing system by the end of 2025.
The primary focus of the new policy is to elevate Thai radio to international standards. Key initiatives include the allocation of remaining FM frequencies and the introduction of a selection process for digital radio network providers using the DAB+ system. This forum served as a platform for the NBTC to exchange information with operators regarding the status of local radio stations and the technical criteria for digital network licensing.
For residents and travelers, these developments signal a shift toward a more standardized and technologically advanced radio landscape. While the transition aims to support sustainable social and economic growth, the specific timeline for the full rollout of DAB+ services and the impact on existing local radio programming remain to be confirmed. The NBTC continues to emphasize its vision of integrating global broadcasting practices into the local market, though further details on how these changes will affect daily listener access are expected in subsequent regulatory updates.