Community Entrepreneur Development to Enhance Trade Competitiveness in the Thai–Cambodian Border Area of Surin Province

Abstract

This research examined community skills and trade competitiveness and proposed development approaches to enhance trade competitiveness in the Thai–Cambodian border area of Surin Province. A qualitative research design was adopted. The participants comprised 20 residents of Khok Muang Village, Ban Jarn Subdistrict, Sangkha District, Surin Province, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out in two stages: the first stage involved an analysis of community skills and trade competitiveness, while the second stage focused on community development initiatives aimed at strengthening trade competitiveness. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

          The results indicated that: 1) The community demonstrates a high level of expertise in product production, particularly in traditional weaving techniques and the use of raw materials based on long-standing local wisdom inherited from previous generations. Nevertheless, limitations were identified in management skills, as the community lacks formal organization as a community enterprise and has insufficient understanding of production cost management. In terms of marketing and trade, market access is predominantly restricted to local and nearby areas, with products mainly distributed through direct sales. Moreover, most community members have limited proficiency in modern technologies. With regard to trade competitiveness, the community’s major strengths are its local wisdom and enduring cultural identity, which can be further developed into unique characteristics of products and services in the Thai–Cambodian border context. 2) The proposed community development guidelines to enhance trade competitiveness encompass three key dimensions: (1) upgrading products and quality, (2) strengthening management capacity, and (3) expanding markets. These guidelines represent an integrated development process that incorporates cultural heritage, local wisdom, and the application of modern knowledge.