Developing Eastern as a Major Economic Base (24/6/2016)

The Government is pushing for the development of the eastern region as one of Thailands major economic bases, which will help enhance the countrys competitiveness and sustain economic growth.

Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha on 22 June 2016 made an inspection of on the Eastern Seaboard, where several transport infrastructure development projects are being accelerated to contribute to industrial, agricultural, and tourism development.

The Prime Minister said that Rayong has great potential for further development that would attract more investors and that the provinces petrochemical, energy, and automotive industries have continued to grow steadily. As for agriculture, Rayong is famous for fruit crops that can be developed for more economic value. He said that the Government was ready to support research and development, so that innovation would be applied to improve agricultural productivity.

The Prime Minister pointed out that industrial development and population growth have led to environmental degradation, thus affecting the peoples quality of life. In this regard, he called on all sectors to join forces in rehabilitating marine resources and developing Rayong as an eco-industrial city. This would generate more income for the fishery sector, promote tourism, and help develop the community economy.

The Prime Minister also called for the promotion of \"green businesses and the acceleration of the solving of environmental problems, especially those concerning air and water pollution.

During this inspection, the Prime Minister also chaired a meeting of government agencies involved with the development U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport, commonly known as U-Tapao Airport. This airport will be developed into a commercial airport, linking with Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang international airports. Thai Airways International reported that its Aircraft Maintenance Facility at U- Tapao has high quality standards and is ready to respond to the Governments policy to develop U- Tapao as an aviation industrial estate.

Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said that the Government emphasized the development of the rail system and motorway networks on the Eastern Seaboard in order to shorten travel time and reduce logistics costs. These transportation links would connect with major cities and neighboring countries. A ferry port will also be constructed to connect various areas in the , such as Pattaya, Ko Samet, and Ko Chang.

Industry Minister Atchaka Sibunruang said that investment promotion on the Eastern Seaboard would be given high priority in order to develop this area as a leading economic zone in ASEAN. The Government is preparing a draft bill to promote industrial investment and services on the Eastern Seaboard.

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