Thailand

Last update: 09.04.2025 - older versions

After the NBTC announced criteria for permits to use radio frequencies for temporary testing and experimentation, the NBTC meeting on March 26, 2025 approved two operators to conduct testing for six months, namely:

1. The Dharma Radio Station Group, Block 9A in the Bangkok and surrounding areas. Stations participating include Dharma for the People Station and Santi Radio Station;

2. The Khon Kaen Station Group: block 6C in the areas of Khon Kaen and Maha Sarakham, with stations such as Khon Kaen Mahanakhon Radio Station, Sai Fah Radio Station, Thai Local Radio Station, etc. 

In October/November 2024, the NBTC published three key digital radio broadcasting technology announcements:

The radio frequency plan "covers the assignment of frequencies, technical specifications and conditions of use of frequencies for digital broadcasting in the 174 - 230 MHz radio frequency band. It defines the radio frequency blocks that can be permitted for use in each area and specifies the use of the Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system with MPEG-4 High Efficiency Advanced Audio Coding version 2 (MPEG-4 HE AAC v2) audio codec, or DAB+ Audio."

In June 2024, the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station presented a summary of the results of its DAB+ experiment. It has tested both outdoor and indoor listening, as well as testing sending short messages and Emergency Warnings or breaking news. The test results were satisfactory, broadcasting quality is good in every sector, except in Chonburi, where parameters need to be adjusted in some areas. “The results of this experiment allow the NBTC office to receive useful information that can be further developed. The next step is to present it to the NBTC for approval in the criteria and methods for granting permission to create a network operator that can provide services to radio station operators in community, public and business categories,” said Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanaphan.

From 2018, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand (NBTC) in conjunction with the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television ran a high power DAB+ trial in the Thai capital of Bangkok. This was completed in July 2023.

There are DAB+ broadcasts in four major regional areas, Chon Buri south of Bangkok, Chiang Mai in the north, Khon Kaen in the northeast, and Song Khla in the south of Thailand. These cover around 7 million people, over 10% of the population.

 

Last update: 10.12.2024 - older versions

There are DAB+ broadcasts in four major regional areas, Chon Buri south of Bangkok, Chiang Mai in the north, Khon Kaen in the northeast, and Song Khla in the south of Thailand. These cover around 7 million people, equivalent to 10.63% of the population.

Last update: 05.03.2021 - older versions

In this country there is

on air.

Please note:

(a)    These web pages are updated regularly to reflect current services on air, however they may not be exactly up to date.

(b)    The logos shown on these pages are for illustrative purposes only – manufacturers and broadcasters are directed here for information on implementing station logos.

Simulcast on AM / FM Exclusive on digital Total of services
DAB+ programmes 17 0 17

Last update: 27.09.2019 - older versions

NBTC has continuing cooperation with automotive manufacturers in Thailand such as organising focus group meeting on Digital Radio Strategies development plan.

In Thailand, 35% of radio listening takes place in the car.

Last update: 31.05.2023 - older versions

NBTC has consulted with radio receiver manufacturers for sourcing digital radio receivers.

During the regional trial TV5, the system provider, worked with a number of receiver manufacturers to develop a domestic receiver which includes a colour screen, is Thai language text capable and also has controls for Announcements such as traffic and news and includes the Emergency Warning function.

Last update: 31.05.2023 - older versions

In the beginning phase in 2019, the frequency plan for the DAB+ digital radio trial was planned to cover 10 major cities within eight provinces – Bangkok, Chiangmai, Kon Kaen, Nakorn Ratchasima, Sriracha, Pattaya, Prachaup Khiri Khan, Nakorn Si Thammarat, Songkla and Phuket. In 2021, the trial refocused on six major cities: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Song Khla / Hat Yai and Chon Buri area (Sri Racha and Pattaya).

The objectives of the trial are to discover appropriate network parameters in different environments, to demonstrate interference-free audio and business models, and to introduce new data services on DAB+ including slideshows, data communication, emergency warning system (EWS), electronic programme guide (EPG), and pop-up services.

The initial trial started in April 2019 carried out in Bangkok and the immediate vicinity. The second trial was signed up in January 2021 for further development and in response to the emerging issues.

Today, the trial network consists of one DAB+ multiplex with capacity for up to 18 audio services (see Services on air) including the top ten most popular commercial channels in Bangkok plus six regional services and two data services.

Last update: 20.05.2022 - older versions

In alignment with digitalization and digitization frameworks such as the Digital Economy and Society Development Plans  (No. 1 (2016 - 2018) and No.2 (2018 - 2037)), digital transformation has been adopted in the First Thailand Broadcasting Master Plan B.E. 2555 – 2559 (2012-2016) and following the Second Broadcasting Master Plan B.E. 2563 – 2568 (2020 - 2025) as guidelines to enhance the standards of the broadcasting service and to increase access/options for people to continually receive services and necessary basic information throughout the nation.

The use of VHF radiofrequency for digital radio was as well collaboratively prescribed under the Spectrum Management Master Plan B.E. 2564 (2021) and its amendments. Thus, the roll-out of terrestrial digital radio has been continuously proceeding as one of the ultimate achievements since 2012. Today, the trial operation has been set as one of the key indicators of Strategy No.1 - the Development of Audio Broadcasting Service in Thailand - under the Second Broadcasting Master Plan.

Last update: 27.09.2019 - older versions

 

Thailand's workshop on “Building your own digital broadcasting (DAB+) receiver”
24.10.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
On 14 October 2025, NBTC Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan Harijaroen presided over the opening ceremony of a workshop titled "Building your own digital broadcasting (DAB+) receiver using a small data processing device and a receiver" at the Pullman Khon Kaen Hotel in Khon Kaen Province. The workshop, organized by the Broadcasting and Television Engineering Standards Certification Office (B.T.S.C.), aimed to enhance the process and expand the reach of the broadcasting system. The focus was on building knowledge and understanding of building your own digital broadcasting receiver. This training reflects the NBTC's role in promoting and supporting the development of the capabilities of technical and engineering personnel.

(NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission)) Read more


NBTC launches first regional DAB+ digital broadcasting trial in Khon Kaen Province
21.10.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
The NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) is proceeding with a regional trial of digital audio broadcasting using DAB+ technology on 14 October 2025, the first of its kind in Khon Kaen Province. The trial will cover Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, and Roi Et provinces, marking a significant step forward for Thailand in its digital radio development. Air Chief Marshal Thanapan Haricharoen, NBTC official, revealed that this digital audio broadcasting trial and test represents another significant step forward for Thailand in its push towards digital radio. In addition to being the first regional trial, it also involves the development of transmitters and broadcasting network controls entirely by Thais.

(NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) ) Read more


Smart RadiO joins in testing the complete DAB+ digital broadcasting system
17.10.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
On October 14, 2025, at the Adlip Hotel in Khon Kaen, Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan Harijaroen, NBTC Commissioner (Broadcasting), along with Mr. Chakraphan Kwan-ngan, Managing Director of JKP Engineering Radio Limited Partnership, the licensee for the digital radio broadcasting test station and network operator in Khon Kaen Province, held a press conference to launch the trial of the integrated DAB+ digital radio broadcasting system. Dignified guests also congratulated and witnessed a demonstration of the integrated DAB+ digital radio broadcasting system, developed by Thais, as well as a demonstration of a disaster warning system integrated with DAB+ technology.

(MGR Online) Read more


MCOT tests digital radio network for radio reception and national emergency warnings
30.09.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
The digital radio transition has taken another step forward. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) recently approved a resolution granting MCOT Public Company Limited (MCOT) temporary use of its DAB+ digital radio frequency for experimental or testing purposes. This permit allows MCOT to use the 6D radio frequency block in the Bangkok metropolitan area (Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan) for a period of six months. Air Chief Marshal Thanapan Raiyacharoen, NBTC Commissioner for Broadcasting Affairs, stated that under the licensing conditions, MCOT must establish a DAB+ digital radio network by installing transmitter equipment that meets the standards set by the NBTC.

(Post Today) Read more


NBTC Thailand training on digital radio broadcasting technical knowledge
24.09.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
On September 15, 2025, NBTC Chairman Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan Harijaroen presided over the opening ceremony of a training session on technical knowledge related to the digital radio broadcasting process for 2025. This training aimed to prepare radio broadcasting operators and NBTC staff members with essential technical knowledge and understanding of the digital radio broadcasting process, equipment inspection and certification, and related announcements and regulations. This training will serve as a crucial starting point for developing and elevating Thailand's radio broadcasting industry to international competitiveness. The training took place at the Best Western Hotel, Chatuchak, Bangkok.

(National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)) Read more


Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna joins NBTC for "Building Your Own Digital Broadcasting Receiver" workshop
24.09.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
On September 17–18, 2025, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, in collaboration with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), organized a workshop on "Building Your Own Digital Broadcasting Receiver Using a Microprocessor and a DAB+ Receiver" at the Thin 1 Room of the Academic Resources and Information Technology Building. This provided Telecommunications Engineering students with the opportunity to participate in training and learn about modern digital radio technology. The objective of this training was to provide participants with an understanding of the Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB+) standard, which uses MPEG-4 HE AAC v2 (DAB+ Audio) audio encoding, enabling high-quality, clear audio transmission with reduced noise.

(Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna) Read more


Now on-air: Digital radio trial - listen to 18 stations
05.08.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
Air Chief Marshal Thanapan Haraijaroen, National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) Commissioner for Broadcasting, revealed that on National Communications Day, August 4, 2025, the NBTC, in collaboration with Phra Rajwachiradhammacharn, President of the Sound of Dharma for the People Foundation and Abbot of Wat Pa Ban Tad, opened Suan Saeng Tham Radio Station, marking the first digital broadcasting using Digital Audio Broadcasting Plus (DAB+) technology, at Suan Saeng Tham in Phutthamonthon District, Nakhon Pathom Province. This follows the NBTC's approval of radio frequencies in Bangkok and the surrounding area for testing the DAB+ radio network.

(PostToday) Read more


Thailand's NBTC licences Dharma and Khon Kaen radio to test DAB+
09.04.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
After the NBTC announced criteria for permits to use radio frequencies for temporary testing and experimentation, the NBTC meeting on March 26, 2025 approved two operators to conduct testing for six months, namely: 1. The Dharma Radio Station Group, Block 9A in the Bangkok and surrounding areas. Stations participating include Dharma for the People Station and Santi Radio Station; 2. The Khon Kaen Station Group: block 6C in the areas of Khon Kaen and Maha Sarakham, with stations such as Khon Kaen Mahanakhon Radio Station, Sai Fah Radio Station, Thai Local Radio Station, etc. “The permission to test DAB+ digital radio this time is another step forward in the development of the broadcasting business in Thailand,” said Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan (NBTC).

(National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)) Read more


NBTC leads Thailand DAB technical update meeting
09.01.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
NBTC Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan Harayacharoen chaired a meeting on 19 December 2024 to clarify and provide understanding on the technical aspects of digital radio transmitters and receivers. The objective was to provide operators with an understanding of the practices and requirements after the Commission’s announcement on technical standards for digital radio transmitters and its announcement on technical standards for digital radio receivers were published in the Government Gazette. The meeting was held at Crystal Room 1-2, 3rd floor, Century Park Hotel, Bangkok.

(National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) Read more


NBTC briefs on technical aspects of digital broadcasting transmitters and receivers
09.01.2025 - National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand WorldDAB Member - Thailand Thailand
Air Chief Marshal Dr. Thanapan Haraijaroen, a member of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), chaired a meeting in December to assist understanding around the technical standards of digital radio transmitters and receivers, as well as to enable operators and related industries to understand better the practices and requirements under the announcement after it was published in the Government Gazette on October 31, 2024. This announcement focuses on promoting the industrial sector in Thailand to be able to produce both transmitters and receivers by themselves to be used in accordance with the standards set by the NBTC.

(National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)) Read more


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Key Information

Status: trial and/or regulation
Population: 66.1 million
Population coverage: Sparkline Graph 10.6%
Services: 17 DAB+
Last update: 11.12.2024

Useful Links

broadcast.nbtc.go.th/home/
Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission