THE IMPACT OF GREEN ECONOMY AND NET ZERO CARBON ON THAI SMEs EXPORTS

Abstract

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) examine the impacts of the Green Economy and Net Zero Carbon goals on the exports of Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); (2) investigate the costs and adaptation strategies of Thai SMEs in response to environmental measures in international trade; (3) assess the competitive opportunities arising from the transition toward a Green Economy; and (4) propose policy recommendations to promote sustainable exports. This study employed a concurrent mixed methods design. Quantitative data were collected from 200 Thai SMEs in four industrial sectors: food and agro-processing, textiles and garments, electronics and electronic parts, and metal and construction materials. In addition, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 key informants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

The findings revealed that Thai SMEs were moderately to highly affected by environmental measures imposed by trading partners, particularly in the metal and construction materials sector. Multiple regression analysis indicated that carbon measurement and reporting readiness, renewable energy adoption, green supply chain development, and access to green finance had significant positive effects on SMEs’ export competitiveness (R² = 0.612, F = 78.45, p < 0.001). Among these factors, carbon measurement and reporting readiness had the strongest influence (β = 0.380). The findings further suggest that preparedness for the Green Economy and business operations aligned with the Net Zero Carbon goal can enhance the competitiveness of Thai SMEs. Therefore, the government should promote access to green finance, strengthen carbon measurement and certification systems, and enhance SMEs’ capabilities to improve competitiveness and achieve sustainable export growth.