The World Bank released a report recommending Thailand shift investment focus toward secondary cities (20% Bangkok / 80% regional cities) rather than concentrating on Bangkok alone. Analysis shows this distribution would boost per capita GDP by 12.4% by 2050—outperforming Bangkok-focused investment (11.6%) and balanced allocation (10.9%). Bangkok faces declining growth rates (2% projected by mid-century vs. 5.2% needed for high-income status by 2037) and ranks 33rd globally but only 105th in future competitiveness. The report suggests secondary city development is critical for Thailand to meet its growth targets within the decade.