KHON KAEN — The Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with the newly established Khon Kaen University Economics Association, held a press conference on 2 July 2026, to officially launch the association. Officially registered on 26 January 2026, the association is the first and only such association in Northeast Thailand (Isan).
Operating under the concept of “Connect • Collaborate • Contribute,” the association aims to serve as a central hub linking alumni, faculty members, students, economists, experts, and partner networks. Its mission is to advance economic knowledge and research, inform public policy, and support sustainable economic development across the northeastern region.
Associate Professor Sumet Kaenmanee, President of the KKU Economics Association, stated, “The establishment of this association is a major milestone in strengthening the network of economists in Isan. It will serve as a collaborative platform connecting professionals from the public, private, financial, academic, and international sectors to drive regional economic growth and address local development needs.”
Assistant Professor Prasert Wichitnopparat, Deputy Dean for Research, Innovation, Academic Services, and Corporate Communications at the KKU Faculty of Economics, added that the association will systematize collaborations with external networks, particularly in translating academic research into practical policy and local implementation.
Isan Household Economic Survey Highlights Vulnerabilities
During the launch event, the association, in partnership with the E-Saan Poll of the KKU Faculty of Economics, released the results of its latest survey, “Isan Household Economy in Q2/2026 and Outlook for Q3.” The survey, conducted between 27 and 29 June 2026, gathered opinions from 1,058 residents aged 18 and older across 20 northeastern provinces.
The survey revealed that the household economic and financial index for Isan in Q2/2026 stood at 4.83 out of 10, which is below the “fair” threshold and indicates a fragile grassroots economy. While respondents expected conditions to improve slightly to 5.04 in Q3, overall confidence remains limited.
Key findings regarding household challenges over the past three months include:
- Increased expenses: 31.1%
- Decreased income: 20.3%
- Rising debt or repayment difficulties: 12.5%
To cope with financial shortfalls, 41.5% of respondents chose to cut non-essential expenses, 17.8% sought supplementary income, and 12.7% relied on savings or asset sales.
When asked about urgent issues requiring government intervention, respondents highlighted:
- High cost of living and rising goods prices: 33.1%
- Economic slowdown and low cash circulation: 14.6%
- High agricultural production costs: 11.8%
- Low wages and insufficient income: 10.3%
Regarding the government’s “Thai Chuay Thai Plus 60/40” economic stimulus programme, 36.0% of respondents believed it could stimulate the local economy moderately, while 22.8% felt it helped significantly. However, the government’s economic performance scored only 4.73 out of 10, while its overall performance rating stood at 4.67. 42.2% of respondents said they had seen no outstanding results from any economic ministry.
Associate Professor Dr. Sutin Wianwiwat, Head of the E-Saan Poll project, concluded that the government must urgently implement measures to lower the cost of living, boost income, and increase liquidity for grassroots households. He emphasised that assistance should be targeted directly at vulnerable groups, and economic achievements must be communicated more clearly to rebuild public confidence and revitalise the northeastern economy.
