The National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), through the National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC) in collaboration with the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the "Thailand Nanotechnology Research and Development Roadmap 2026–2030" project. This initiative aims to promote the advancement of Thailand's science, research, and innovation system (STI) and to establish a robust nanotechnology network. The roadmap focuses on four key areas: High-Value Medical and Healthcare Applications, Green Energy and Climate Change, Sustainable Agricultural and Food Production, and Nanosafety. The ultimate goal is to elevate research outcomes and translate scientific innovations into practical applications across all sectors.
Professor. Dr. Sirirurg Songsivilai, M.D., Chairman of National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation Promotion (CSRP), stated that nanotechnology has played a crucial role over the past decades. The academic cooperation agreement for the nanotechnology research and development roadmap, signed between NSTDA-NANOTEC and NXPO, represents an excellent opportunity to review the national nanotechnology research and development roadmap to align with the current goals of the STI system. This system emphasizes the development of science, research, and innovation in line with Thailand’s strategic goals.
"Thailand is fortunate that the government recognizes the important role of the science, technology, and innovation (STI) system as a key driver of national development. In 2026, the Cabinet approved a budget of over 160 billion baht for higher education, science, research, and innovation, reflecting a strong commitment to advancing cutting-edge research and technological progress. I am confident that this roadmap will serve as a vital mechanism in accelerating Thailand’s transition toward a science-, technology-, and innovation-driven economy. Moreover, it marks a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s economic resilience by transforming research and innovation into tangible benefits," stated by Professor Dr. Sirirurg.
Dr. Uracha Ruktanonchai, Executive Director of NANOTEC, NSTDA, emphasized that since 2010, Thailand has developed three editions of the Nanotechnology Research and Development Roadmap, with the third edition in effect until 2021. This initiative was led by the former National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Office, now NXPO, in collaboration with NANOTEC, NSTDA, and key partner networks. To ensure that Thailand’s nanotechnology research, development, and innovation remain aligned with national policies, strategic frameworks, and the missions of higher education and research institutions, while also addressing the needs of the industrial sector, it is essential to continuously review and refine the roadmap. This will ensure that the direction of nanotechnology research and development remains clear, adaptable, and responsive to evolving challenges and opportunities.
Dr. Uracha explained that The Thailand Nanotechnology Research and Development Roadmap 2026-2030 aims to develop a five-year roadmap to promote the advancement of the STI system and to establish a nanotechnology research, development, and innovation network. This network will include research agencies, educational institutions, the private sector, and the government, which will help elevate nanotechnology research outcomes to practical applications across all sectors.
Nanotechnology is a future production technology with significant market growth potential. The upcoming roadmap is expected to play a crucial role in various industries, particularly in three leading sectors: High-Value Medical and Health, Green Energy and Climate Change, and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Production. It aims to elevate research outcomes to practical applications across all sectors.
Dr. Surachai Sathitkunarat, President of the National Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), emphasized NXPO’s commitment to driving Thailand’s progress through the development of modern, actionable policies in higher education, science, research, and innovation. As a key player in policy research and strategic development, NXPO provides recommendations that guide research and innovation institutions in effectively implementing national development strategies. Nanotechnology is crucial for national development in various dimensions of Thailand’s advancement.
"Nanotechnology has the potential to be a transformative key in emerging industries such as Future Food, Semiconductors, and Electric Vehicles. Additionally, advancements in nanotechnology research and development can support Thailand’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions. NXPO is pleased to collaborate with NANOTEC-NSTDA on the Thailand Nanotechnology Research and Development Roadmap 2026–2030. This initiative will integrate and optimize research efforts across the agricultural, industrial, and service sectors, ensuring that nanotechnology innovations lead to tangible, real-world applications. By strengthening Thailand’s global competitiveness, we aim to help the country transition out of the middle-income trap in a sustainable and impactful manner," Dr. Surachai concluded.