Prachin Buri Excluded from EEC Development Plan

According to a report by Matichon Online on August 19, 2026, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has clarified the government's stance regarding the development of Prachin Buri province. The Minister explicitly stated that Prachin Buri will not be integrated into the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) project.

Instead of industrial expansion associated with the EEC, the government intends to focus on a balanced development model for the province. This strategy prioritizes the integration of economic growth with environmental conservation and the improvement of local quality of life. The objective is to ensure that the province’s development remains sustainable and does not compromise its natural resources or the well-being of its residents.

For residents and travelers, this decision suggests that Prachin Buri will likely maintain its current character rather than undergoing the rapid industrialization seen in neighboring provinces within the EEC zone. This may be of interest to those who value the region's environmental preservation and slower pace of life.

While the Minister has confirmed the exclusion from the EEC, specific details regarding the exact policies or projects that will replace this development model remain to be confirmed. Stakeholders are awaiting further announcements on how the government plans to implement this balanced approach to economic and environmental management in the coming months.