Guangzhou: The Office of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (OIE) has partnered with seven leading companies in China to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for investment in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The collaboration with companies from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Special Economic Zone aims to boost investments totaling over 4.34 billion baht, highlighting the EEC's potential as a new investment hub in Asia.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee, co-signed a Letter of Intent with the Chinese companies, marking a significant step toward enhancing economic cooperation. The signing ceremony, witnessed by key Thai officials, underscores Chinese investors' confidence in the EEC's strategic value. Mr. Kajthiti Vivatwanon, Consul-General in Guangzhou, emphasized the importance of the Thailand-China "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" in driving trade and investment growth, noting a 26% increase in trade value during the first five months of 2025.
The "Thailand-GBA Investment Gateway 2025: Unlock EEC Opportunities Forum," held at the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Guangzhou, was a crucial event for attracting investments from the GBA Special Economic Zone to the EEC. Organized by the EEC Office, SIDTA, and the Royal Thai Consulate-General, the forum celebrated 50 years of Thai-Chinese friendship, drawing over 80 participants from 49 leading companies in industries like clean energy, biotechnology, and medical innovation.
Mr. Kajthiti Vivatwanon highlighted Thailand's strategic location as a hub of ASEAN with world-class infrastructure, such as Laem Chabang Port, serving as a gateway to regional trade. The country's 15 free trade agreements offer investors duty-free access to markets in over 19 countries, enhancing its appeal as an investment destination.
Dr. Chula Sukmanop stated that with full government support, the EEC aims to become a global investment hub by promoting 12 targeted industries, including modern automotive, smart electronics, and digital technology. The EEC's investment-friendly ecosystem, featuring tax incentives and simplified procedures, positions it as a regional opportunity to build a global supply chain for the future.
Dr. Zonglin Guo, President of SIDTA, emphasized SIDTA's role as a "bridge" for Chinese investors in the EEC, fostering stable and sustainable investment. He noted that the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China relations marks a golden era of economic cooperation. Mr. Ekkapol Yuangnak, Secretary-General of SIDTA, added that SIDTA operates as a one-stop solution, facilitating joint investment and enhancing the Thai economy's competitiveness in the long term.
This event marks a milestone in strengthening Thailand-China cooperation and aligns with the Thai government's policy to promote investment in the EEC. The connectivity with China's Greater Bay Area is set to enhance competitiveness, create economic opportunities, and propel the EEC towards becoming a high-quality investment hub.