Digital Ministry Concerned Over NBTC Internal Conflict
Thailand's Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society has expressed concern that ongoing internal disputes within the NBTC could jeopardize national digital infrastructure.
According to a report by Matichon Online on October 21, 2026, the Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) has voiced significant apprehension regarding the internal conflicts currently unfolding within the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
The Ministry fears that these administrative tensions could negatively impact Thailand's critical digital infrastructure. A primary concern highlighted by the Ministry is the potential for service disruptions to the 'marginal internet' (universal service obligation) projects, which provide connectivity to remote and underserved areas. The Ministry noted that if these essential services were to fail, the MDES would likely face public scrutiny and accountability for the resulting connectivity gaps.
For residents and travelers, this situation is significant as it highlights potential risks to the stability of internet services in rural or remote regions of the country. While the NBTC is responsible for regulating these telecommunications standards, the Ministry’s warning suggests that internal governance issues are now being viewed as a threat to national digital reliability.
It remains to be confirmed how the NBTC will resolve these internal disputes and whether any specific contingency plans are being implemented to ensure that internet services remain uninterrupted during this period of administrative uncertainty.
