In the first seven months of the present year, there has been a significant 17% increase in foreign investment, taking it to a staggering 58.9 billion baht. This captivating news was confirmed by Rachada Dhnadirek, the deputy spokesperson for the government. The main origins of this steep inflow of funds were five key countries.
Japan took the prime position, with 94 investors collectively contributing 19.89 billion baht. Next in line was the US, with their 67 investors injecting 3 billion baht into the Thai economy. Following closely was Singapore, with 61 investors contributing a substantial 12.92 billion baht. China also featured in this elite group with 28 investors and 11.55 billion baht. Rounding off the top five was Germany, with 16 investors bringing in 1.29 billion baht. The flow of this foreign capital ushered in employment opportunities for 3,594 local Thai people. This marked a significant 9% surge in job creation as per Ms Rachada’s report.
In the scorching month of July alone, green lights were flashed for 51 foreign investors to pump in as much as 10 billion baht into diverse sectors. This cash flow resulted in the employment of an additional 372 Thais. Moreover, 73 foreign investors are exploring options to invest their capital in the acclaimed Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in the period spanning from January to July. This corresponds to about 19% of the total number of foreign investors manifesting an interest in the vibrant Thai economy, according to the deputy spokesperson.
The total value of investments coursed through the EEC is substantial, amounting to 12.34 billion baht, making up about 21% of the total investment value. The star contributors were, yet again, Japan and China; Japan leading with a mammoth 5.37 billion baht followed by China tipping in with an investment value of 893 million baht. South Korea also made a significant contribution totalling 287 million baht. The rest of the investments, amounting to 5.78 billion baht, came together from 25 investors from various locations across the globe.
The businesses that were privileged with these investments spanned across various sectors. These included management and manufacturing consultants, engineering and technical services, and subcontracting services for manufacturing machines, machine parts, and vehicle parts. Ms Rachada underscored that the government’s policies in encouraging foreign investment played a crucial role in drawing more investors to Thailand.
It’s vital to note that these investments not only boosted revenue and employment but also paved the way for knowledge and technological transfers. This included advancements in data analysis for web development, marketing, and testing of automobiles and auto parts for research and development. Pouring optimism and buoyancy, the government anticipates a minimum of 100 billion baht in foreign investment this year. Furthermore, the previous year saw a whopping 56% surge in the value of investments by foreign investors, hitting a high of 129 billion baht, with Japan leading the fiscal venture to foster business in Thailand.
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