The Competitive Potential of Two ASEAN Countries: Thailand and Vietnam Thailand and Vietnam

Abstract

                 The objectives of this academic article were to 1) review Article 1 and Article 34 of the ASEAN Charter in relation to the competitive potential of two ASEAN members (Thailand and Vietnam) particular in regard to education and English ability, and 2) discuss certain conditions concerning the strengths and weaknesses of the two countries. It was found that 1) both Thailand and Vietnam have put in a considerable effort to consolidate the people’s English language proficiency, 2) Thai people had some weaknesses, and 3) Vietnamese people carry certain strong and beneficial characteristics.  Thus, joining the ASEAN can be better beneficial to Thailand only if Thai people eradicate the weaknesses.