Strengthening ties through water

Thai Water Week showcased the depth and relevance of Dutch expertise in the context of Thailand’s pressing water issues. From urban water resilience to basin-scale water management, the Dutch cluster demonstrated innovative, integrated approaches that resonated with Thai counterparts across government, industry, and finance.

With a strategic focus on high-level alignment and the active involvement of key decision-makers, the week underscored the strong potential for long-term partnerships. The event also laid important groundwork in the lead-up to the IWA World Water Congress, taking place this December in Bangkok, where the Thai-Dutch partnership is expected to take centre stage.

Opportunities on the horizon

Several promising areas for collaboration emerged during the week. Thailand’s Royal Irrigation Department (RID) shared its ambitions around major basin projects, such as sediment management and smart water control in the Chao Phraya River, areas where Dutch expertise in innovation, data, and climate adaptation can add substantial value. Likewise, developments surrounding the Bang Pa Kong barrage and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) open new doors for joint solutions.

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is taking important steps toward urban flood resilience and integrated water management. The proposed “Canal Championship” feasibility study, a concept that weaves together smart technology, sponge city design, and public-private partnerships, reflects the type of integrated innovation the Dutch water sector is known for.

Moreover, productive engagement with Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE), as well as with international financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank, further reinforced the strategic position of Dutch expertise in shaping Thailand’s long-term water strategies.

Moving towards a deeper partnership

Building on the momentum of Thai Water Week, the we also had the Knowledge Week in the Netherlands which offered an exciting opportunity that deepened Thai-Dutch cooperation. By bringing together key Thai partners, including RID, ONWR, and BMA, with Dutch companies and knowledge institutes, the programme focused on strategic planning, capacity building, and practical innovation, supported by a strong pool of experts from both countries.

The remainder of the year also features several key milestones: we had the WEIS session in August, there will be visits by MWA and RID to the Netherlands, and a shared presence at both the IWA Congress and the Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) event in December. These efforts, combined with ongoing collaboration on the Samsen Canal project and the Water as Leverage programme, ensure continued progress and a clear, coordinated pathway forward.

A catalyst for lasting collaboration

Thai Water Week proved to be more than just an exhibition, it was a catalyst for collaboration, learning, and future opportunity. By aligning efforts around shared priorities and continuing to foster partnerships at all levels, the Dutch water sector stands ready to contribute to Thailand’s sustainable water future.