Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO)

The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) is an ambitious and comprehensive plan that builds upon the success of Thailand's Eastern Seaboard Development Program, which for decades has been a powerhouse for the country's industrial production. The EEC goes beyond traditional manufacturing to create a full-fledged economic ecosystem for the future. Key Objectives: * **Infrastructure Development:** A core focus is to build world-class infrastructure to support the targeted industries and improve connectivity. Major projects include the **high-speed rail link connecting three major airports** (Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao), the expansion of **U-Tapao International Airport**, and the development of deep-sea ports at Laem Chabang and Map Ta Phut. These projects are intended to create a seamless logistics network. * **Targeted Industries:** The EEC focuses on attracting investment in 12 key "S-Curve" industries. These are a mix of industries being upgraded and new, emerging industries. * **First S-Curve:** Next-generation automotive, smart electronics, medical tourism, biotechnology, and food for the future. * **New S-Curve:** Automation and robotics, aviation and logistics, biofuel and biochemicals, digital, medical and comprehensive healthcare, defense, and education and human resource development. * **Investment Incentives:** To attract foreign and domestic investors, the government offers a range of incentives that are more generous than those available elsewhere in the country. These include corporate income tax exemptions for up to 15 years, exemptions on import duties for machinery and raw materials, and long-term land lease rights. * **Human Capital Development:** The EEC plan recognizes that a high-tech economy requires a highly skilled workforce. It includes initiatives to develop human resources and education, ensuring that the local population has the skills needed for the new industries. This involves partnerships with academic institutions and providing training in advanced technologies. * **Livable Smart Cities:** The plan also includes a focus on creating "livable smart cities" and financial centers within the EEC. These new urban areas will incorporate smart technology for things like mobility, energy management, and public services, with a goal of creating a sustainable and high-quality living environment for residents. The EEC is overseen by a dedicated policy committee chaired by the Prime Minister of Thailand, and its development is an integral part of the country's 20-year National Strategy. It is designed not only to be an economic driver for Thailand but also to serve as a regional gateway for trade and investment in Southeast Asia.