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Thailand’s 10 border special economic zones (SEZs) have secured 55.2 billion baht in investments from 2015 to 2025, according to a recent report by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). While infrastructure development is 90% complete, private investment hasn't matched expectations. This investment, primarily from private sectors and industrial estates, highlights a significant gap between government ambitions and actual economic activity in these zones.

The initiative to promote border SEZs began in 2015 as a strategy to boost border economies and enhance trade connectivity with neighboring countries. Despite the government's efforts, the anticipated level of investment has not materialized. Between 2015 and 2025, the zones in Tak, Sa Kaeo, Mukdahan, Trat, Songkhla, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, Kanchanaburi, Narathiwat, and Chiang Rai have seen investments mainly flowing into industries like garments, plastics, automotive, and medical supplies.

Board of Investment (BOI) data reveals 92 implemented projects with a total investment of approximately 26.5 billion baht, with Songkhla and Sa Kaeo receiving the largest shares. Additionally, foreign investors, particularly from Japan and other countries, contributed to 45 projects worth 5.8 billion baht focused on industries such as machinery and healthcare. Private investment in Treasury Department lands and industrial estates further augmented these figures but still fell short of earlier projections.

NESDC indicated that although infrastructure — including transport and utilities — is mostly complete, private sector contribution hasn't kept pace with public expenditure. The zones' development into high-value economic bases remains uncertain, as many projects have not progressed beyond their initial stages. The question now is whether these areas can evolve to attract broader investment scopes and transform into value-added economic hubs.

Looking ahead, the focus will likely shift toward strategies to enhance investment appeal and fully leverage existing infrastructure. Enhancing connectivity and broadening industrial bases may be critical to boosting the zones’ relevance as economic drivers. The continued development and investment growth are essential for fulfilling the original vision of these zones, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand's border SEZs saw 55.2 billion baht in investments from 2015–2025.

• Infrastructure is near completion, but private investment lags expectations.

• Future strategies will focus on transforming zones into value-added economic hubs.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2026-01-02

 

 

The Government has no clue what is going on in the country as it is outside Bangkok.. Besides that they are too busy with enriching themselves and making laws to protect themselves.. This is a prove.. Too busy with a piece of land and a few temples instead of seeing the value of cooperation with Cambodia