Thailand approves four new EEC special economic zones

The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has approved four additional special economic promotion zones in Chonburi and Rayong provinces. Covering a total of 1,759 rai, the new zones include E-Tech Smart Park (610 rai), New Horizon City (572 rai), Phanat Nikhom (507 rai), and Pluak Daeng (70 rai). The expansion is expected to attract investments exceeding 25,664 million baht.

The decision comes amid ongoing concerns from environmental academics and local citizens regarding industrial waste management in the eastern region. Reports indicate significant amounts of residual industrial waste in Rayong, including approximately 123,000 tons related to the Win Process case, which require substantial budget for remediation. Additionally, illegal dumping of industrial waste has been reported in Chonburi, Chachoengsao, and Prachinburi.

While the government maintains that the new zones follow economic development criteria and that waste management is being strictly handled by relevant agencies, critics question the expansion of industrial areas while existing toxic waste issues remain unresolved.