Competitiveness Development to Solve Poverty Problems and Reduce Economic Inequality Among Community Enterprises in Mae Hong Son Province

การพัฒนาศักยภาพการแข่งขันของวิสาหกิจชุมชนเพื่อขจัดความยากจนและลดความเหลื่อมล้ำทางเศรษฐกิจ กรณีศึกษาในจังหวัดแม่ฮ่องสอน

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to analyze strategic approaches for enhancing the competitive capacity of community enterprises in Mae Hong Son Province, as a means to strengthen business operations, alleviate poverty, and reduce economic inequality in a sustainable manner. Key informants included members of community enterprises, government officials, community leaders, and support organizations across seven districts: Mueang Mae Hong Son, Pang Mapha, Pai, Khun Yuam, Mae La Noi, Mae Sariang, and Sop Moei, totaling 25 participants. Data collection methods comprised in-depth interviews, field observations, focus group discussions, and documentary review. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis and SWOT analysis techniques.

          The findings revealed that while community enterprises possess significant development potential, they continue to face internal and external constraints. Consequently, four strategic recommendations were formulated: (1) proactive strategies focusing on product development and organizational innovation, (2) corrective strategies emphasizing participation, local identity, and technological skills, (3) defensive strategies targeting risk management related to environmental changes and production costs, and (4) adaptive strategies promoting external collaboration and community-level self-reliance. The study concludes that sustainable development of community enterprises requires an integrated approach that leverages social capital, local wisdom, and multi-sectoral cooperation in a systematic and contextualized manner.