EEC ready with 6,500 rai

State eyes B300bn in investment

The government has prepared industrial land spanning 6,500 rai in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to prepare for new investment projects in the 12 targeted industries next year.

Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said most industrial plots are located in Rayong, where there are three developers: the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), WHA Corporation and Amata Corporation.

“The government expects new projects from local and foreign investors in the 12 targeted industries to begin construction on the 6,500 rai next year,” he said.

Mr Suriya said once the plots are fully booked, the government has 5,000 rai developed to further serve investors.

“We have highlighted that the corridor is the flagship scheme meant to connect Thailand to other countries in Southeast Asia via trade and investment,” he said.

Mr Suriya said the government expects roughly 300 billion baht of investment value in the EEC.

“The target has not been changed though there are many uncertainties such as the bearish global economy, the strong baht and sluggish Thai exports,” he said.

“The government is optimistic about investment in the EEC and potential opportunities for investors.”

According to the Board of Investment, investment applications totalled 360 projects during January to September with a combined value of 168 billion baht for the EEC locations, spanning Chachoengsao, Chon Buri and Rayong.

Mr Suriya said the government is accelerating five megaprojects in the corridor to build up investor confidence.

They consist of a high-speed railway linking three airports (225 billion baht); U-tapao aviation city (290 billion); a maintenance, repair and overhaul centre (10.6 billion); the third phase of Laem Chabang seaport (114 billion); and the third phase of Map Ta Phut seaport (55.4 billion).

The development of the 12 targeted industries are part of the government’s roadmap to attract new investment projects in the EEC.

Finance Minister Uttama Savanayana said many investors are interested in the flagship corridor and targeted industries under the S-curve policy.

“The EEC will make Thailand an attractive investment destination,” said Mr Uttama.

He said the government plans to expand the corridor’s development to western and southern regions as the government wants to create new jobs and raise the potential for prosperity.

The government has been training workers and cooperated with private companies and educational institutions for the 12 industries.

‘‘ The government is optimistic about investment in the EEC and potential opportunities for investors. SURIYA JUNGRUNGREANGKIT

Industry Minister