Since August 1999, the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board had implemented the Ninth National Economic and Social Development Plan Preparation Process according to careful steps which opened up opportunities for broad participation of people from all layers of society, covering provincial, sub-regional and national levels.  The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board then received permission from the National Economic and Social Development Board to submit the plan for official approval of the Cabinet, and requested royal consent from His Majesty the King to inaugurate the Ninth National Development Plan, resulting in the Plan being in effect from October 1, 2001.

The Ninth National Economic and Social Development Plan (2002-2006) adopts the philosophy of sufficiency economy bestowed by His Majesty the King to his subjects as the guiding principle of national development and management.  The philosophy of sufficiency economy, based on adherence to the middle path, is advocated to (a) overcome the current economic crisis that was brought about by unexpected change under conditions of rapid globalization, and (b) achieve sustainable development.

The Ninth Plan is a strategic plan that serves as a framework for medium term national development, consistent with the long term vision.  It builds on the Eighth Plan that advocated a holistic people-centred development approach.  In the Ninth Plan, major emphasis is placed on balanced development of human, social, economic, and environmental resources.  A priority goal is pursuance of good governance at all levels of Thai society in order to achieve real sustainable people-centred development.

Thailand's development vision for the next 20 years focuses on the alleviation of poverty and the upgrading of the quality of life for the Thai people, so that "sustainable development and well-being for all can be achieved".  The sufficiency economy philosophy will be followed as a shared value of the Thai people, guiding the transformation to a new national management system based on efficiency, quality of life, and sustainability objectives.

Achievement of this vision of Thai society is best realised by focusing on areas of economic potential.  People in communities will build strong foundations for social and community development, incorporating good management systems at all levels.  Thai national cultural identity, which stresses open mindedness, will contribute to the establishment of peace in the Region.  Realization of economic potential will result in Thailand becoming a regional economic centre, particularly in primary agriculture, food processing, tourism, and education and technology.  At the same time, by building on Thailand's advantages in terms of geographic position, and existing infrastructure strengths, economic gateways will be developed that enhance linkages with neighbouring countries and the region, strengthening Thailand's international competitive position.

For further details, please see
Complete summary from the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB)
Presentation on Thailand's Overall Economic Policy and Outlook