Prachin Buri Excluded from EEC Expansion, Minister Confirms

On August 18, 2026, Suchart Chomklin, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, visited Prachin Buri province to address local concerns regarding regional development. During his visit, the Minister clarified that the government has decided against including Prachin Buri in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) expansion.

According to Thai Post, the Minister emphasized that this decision reflects the government's commitment to listening to the voices of local residents. The administration aims to prioritize a balanced approach to development, focusing on the intersection of economic growth, environmental preservation, and the overall quality of life for the local population.

For residents and those considering long-term stays in the area, this announcement provides clarity on the province's development trajectory. It suggests that the region will likely maintain its current character rather than undergoing the rapid industrialization associated with the EEC zones. This policy stance is intended to protect the local environment and community well-being from the pressures of large-scale industrial expansion.

While the Minister has provided a clear stance on the current exclusion, stakeholders may still look for further details regarding alternative development plans for the province. It remains to be confirmed how the government intends to support local economic growth without the infrastructure incentives typically provided by the EEC framework.