Economy
NBTC Finalizes USO 3 High-Speed Internet Auction
Thailand's broadcasting regulator has concluded the auction for the third phase of the Universal Service Obligation (USO) project, valued at 5.4 billion baht.
According to a report by Matichon Online on September 12, 2026, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has successfully closed the bidding process for the third phase of the Universal Service Obligation (USO 3) project. The auction, which covers five distinct groups, reached a total value of 5.4 billion baht.
This initiative is designed to expand high-speed internet infrastructure across Thailand, aiming to bridge the digital divide in underserved areas. For residents and long-term expatriates living in rural or remote provinces, this development is significant as it suggests a continued government commitment to improving connectivity, which may lead to more reliable internet access in areas that previously struggled with digital infrastructure.
While the auction process has concluded, specific details regarding the timeline for the physical rollout of these services and the exact locations prioritized for the new infrastructure remain to be confirmed. Stakeholders are now waiting for the NBTC to release the implementation schedule and the specific service providers assigned to each of the five groups. As the project moves from the procurement phase to the deployment phase, further updates are expected regarding how these improvements will impact local digital accessibility.