Politics
Prachin Buri Excluded from EEC, Minister Confirms
Natural Resources Minister Suchart Chomklin has officially clarified that Prachin Buri is not part of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) following local environmental concerns.
On August 19, 2026, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin visited Prachin Buri province to address public concerns regarding the potential inclusion of the area in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Representing Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the Minister met with the 'Strong Prachin Network' to discuss local anxieties surrounding land use, water resources, and environmental impacts.
Minister Suchart explicitly stated that Prachin Buri is not included in the EEC, which currently remains limited to Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao provinces. He emphasized that the government is prioritizing public feedback and environmental sustainability over purely economic development. The administration has committed to addressing ongoing issues related to illegal waste dumping and water pollution in the region.
For residents and those interested in the area, this confirmation provides clarity on the province's development status and signals a government focus on environmental protection. While the government has pledged to base future development on academic data and public participation, specific timelines for the remediation of existing pollution and waste management enforcement remain to be confirmed. The government maintains that any future development plans will be balanced against the preservation of local agricultural land and community rights.