The government expects to invest a combined 136 billion baht in developing the eastern region between 2017-2021, with a major portion projected to be splurged on the much-touted Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).
A report by the National Economic and Social Development Board projected spending to cover 209 development projects, with 117 billion baht of the total budget scheduled to develop the EEC as the most modernised investment zone in Asean.
The state investment aims to upgrade the eastern region to become a food manufacturing hub that meets international standards and as a gateway to neighbouring countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak said the EEC will play an important role in reducing income disparity in the eastern region, while a regional development plan will focus largely on competitiveness enhancement, tourism development and environmental preservation.
The eastern region covers eight provinces comprising Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.
The government last December approved a regional development plan and assigned five deputy prime ministers to monitor and supervise it as part of efforts to tackle poverty.
The regional development committee members include five deputy prime ministers, representatives from related ministries, the private sector, civil society and local administrative organisations.
The development plan divides the country into six regions -- the North, Northeast, Central, East, South and three southern border provinces.
Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam was assigned to supervise the development of the North, Deputy Prime Minister Prajin Juntong was assigned to take care of the Northeast, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon will oversee Bangkok and the central region, Mr Somkid will watch over the East and Deputy Prime Minister Chatchai Sarikulya was tasked with the South and three border provinces.
The key development plan for the North will focus on the development of a creative economy centre, linkage with the Greater Mekong Sub-region and watershed conservation.
Northeastern development is geared towards water development, solving poverty and linking the EEC with neighbouring states.
The central region and Bangkok will tackle making the capital a world-class city and tourism destination, linkage to the Dawei project in Myanmar and the EEC.
The East is centred on EEC development, while the South and three Deep South provinces will target tourism development and adding value to rubber and palm products.
The government expects investment in the EEC to increase from 500 to 600 billion baht over the next five years, fuelled by stimulus measures and infrastructure projects.
