Abstract:
The objectives of this research were 1) to study the local history as well as the
history of special cities as special economic zones 2) to study about people's efforts to
develop themselves, reduce dependence from the government and 3) investigate the
form appropriate for the administration of "Nakhon Mae Sot." This qualitative research
included the review of related literature as well as in-depth interviews. The key informants
were superior officials from Mae Sot Municipality, the private sector, the Civil Society of
Tak Province. The data were analyzed using three sectors of administrative governance.
The result showed that Mae Sot district has historically been a border trade city
and a natural trade route linking to India and Yunnan of China. As an overnight stay spot
for trade caravans in the ancient time developed into a trade city, Tak is an economic
route connecting Thailand to Myanmar. Currently, this trade route is considered
important for Thailand as a starting point for trade on the East West Economic Corridor
(EWEC).
Policy implementation in special economic development zones. The construction
bridge of the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship along with the construction of an industrial
area. To support the transportation vehicles to cross the border to Myanmar Due to the
Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No.1, narrow and damaged, the construction of a
distribution center truck parking Including airport expansion. Which is expected to be
completed no later than 2020, even during the implementation of the policy. But it does
not make the value trades at Mae Sot decreased. Because Mae Sots people find new
method to trade and investing in Myanmar to attract foreign investors to invest in Mae Sot
district.
The model suitable for local government is the special local government, "Nakhon
Mae Sot" consisting of the Mae Sot City Council with thirty-six members elected by those
living in the Mae Sot Metropolitan Area divided into twelve districts, twenty-one members
of the Mae Sot City Policy Advisory and Development Committee, The authority and
duties of Nakhon Mae Sot as a local government organization.In terms of income and
expenses, additional income could support the administration of Nakhon Mae Sot and be
spent on international trade policy as prescribed by the law or provision.