Water and Maritime

Finding solutions together.
© Arissara Weiler

Thailand and the Netherlands have a long history of living with water. Both countries face challenges such as flooding, drought, water scarcity and the effects of climate change. By sharing knowledge and experience, we work together on better water management, climate adaptation and more sustainable maritime transport.

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Our colleagues are happy to help you!

A long history of water cooperation

The relationship between Thailand and the Netherlands goes back more than 400 years. Our cooperation on water management began over a century ago.
In 1902, during the reign of King Rama V, the Canals Department was established to improve the management of Thailand's waterways. Dutch irrigation expert J. Homan van der Heide was appointed as its first Director General. The department later developed into today's Royal Irrigation Department (RID).
In 2021, Thailand and the Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Water Cooperation, further strengthening our cooperation on water management and climate adaptation.

Working together on water management

The Netherlands works with Thai government agencies, businesses, universities and local communities on water-related challenges, including flood protection, water scarcity and coastal erosion. One example is the Water as Leverage Academy in Bangkok. Through workshops and field visits, Thai and Dutch experts have explored new approaches to urban water management, including nature-based solutions and ways to improve Bangkok's canals. The programme also brings together different organisations and local communities to discuss how water can become a greater asset to the city.

Connecting businesses and expertise

The Partners for International Business (PIB) Greater Bangkok programme brings together Dutch companies specialising in water management, flood protection, climate adaptation and water technology.

Through the programme, Dutch and Thai businesses, government agencies and knowledge institutions exchange expertise and explore opportunities for cooperation. The aim is to develop practical solutions that meet Thailand's water management needs.
 

Walk the Talk (credit Pantipa S)

Towards a more sustainable maritime sector

Thailand and the Netherlands also work together on maritime transport and technology. The Netherlands has extensive experience in shipbuilding, maritime technology, port development and sustainable shipping.
The Embassy supports cooperation between Dutch and Thai partners on maritime electrification and cleaner waterway transport. Through activities such as the Thailand–Netherlands Maritime Dialogue, government agencies and businesses share knowledge and discuss opportunities for electric vessels, new technologies and the infrastructure needed to support them

 

Let's connect

Interested in cooperation on water management or maritime technology? Our Embassy team can help you get in touch with relevant Dutch and Thai partners. Please contact the Netherlands Embassy in Bangkok.