Internet accessibility is considered a factor affecting economic growth in the digital economy. In Thailand, although the rate of internet use is increasing, household internet access is less widespread than in developed countries. This study examines the situation, affordability, and factors affecting Thai households' internet affordability during the 2013-2021 period. Descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis were used to analyze the secondary data from the National Statistical Office of Thailand. According to the study, 72.48% of Thai households pay for membership or internet service expenses, and 49.03% of these households are required to pay an unreasonably high percentage of their income. The characteristics of a household's internet connection and residential area affect a household's internet expenses, income, and affordability. This study also discovered that the important factors affecting internet affordability are the internet connection style, the socioeconomic class, and the number of computers. The internet connection style, the household size, and the living area have an important impact on the internet expenses while the number of computers and the internet connection style which relate to digital technology skills have an important impact on the income.

Authors:
Shanisara Chamwong, Rangsit University, Thailand
Narissara Charoenphandhu, Rangsit University, Thailand
Thoedsak Chomtohsuwan, Rangsit University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Narissara Charoenphandhu is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Rangsit University in Thailand

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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