THAI SATELLITES : WHERE ARE THEY HEADED?
“Therefore, Thailand is transforming from the Concession System to a Licensing System to give existing and new operators equal opportunity to clearer licensing processes promoting free and fair competition according to international standards. This is to further develop Thai satellites while also granting opportunities for foreign satellites to be used for the benefit of Thailand. This will provide more alternatives for Thai people/consumers to access satellites. However, if balance between Thai and foreign satellites is not maintained in a free market there is a change that Thai satellites may not be able to compete or persist, like what has happened to many businesses in a free market void of any conditions. Since satellite operations require high levels of capital, investment, and technology as well as very specialized expert personnel in this field to constantly collaborate and create new supporting high-technology; it is thus the responsibility of the regulator (NBTC) to create a balance between the 3 key components: the “people/consumer” who must receive good and affordable service, the “government/government agency” that must protect the State from damage and protect its security, and the “operator” who shall be able to invest in the development of better services and remain operational.”