A Bibliometric Analysis of Interpreting Studies in Thailand

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive review of the evolution of, and the latest developments in, interpreting studies in Thailand over the past two decades, based on the Thai-Journal Citation Index (TCI) database and publications in the Journal of Translation and Interpretation Thailand (JTIT). Bibliometric analysis was used to analyse the data. The result shows that the field of scientific research in interpretation in Thailand is still in its early stages, with fewer than 20 related publications over the specified period. However, areas such as interpreting for the medical, legal, military, diplomatic and industrial sectors, along with interpreter training, are emerging as central research interests. Language pairs such as Japanese-Thai, Chinese-Thai, and English-Thai dominate, likely influenced by market demand and societal changes. The increasing importance of the Chinese language in Thai society, coupled with shifts in international relations and economic dynamics, suggests a growing focus on Chinese-Thai interpreting in the future. Furthermore, research relating to community interpreting and the design of interpretation courses to meet diverse needs are identified as key trends for further exploration in the field.