BOI collaborates with partners to stimulate the economy in the Isan region and the Northeastern Economic Corridor (NeEC), establishing a new hub for the biotechnology industry to attract global investors to the emerging era in Isan.
Khon Kaen Innovation Center, Ad Lib Management Co., Ltd. and Glowfish Khon Kaen, in conjunction with the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Chamber of Commerce in Khon Kaen, organized the NeEC Business Forum: Way Forward to the New Chapter. The event aimed to enhance potential and promote investment opportunities in the Isan region and the Greater Mekong Subregion, pushing the Northeastern region towards becoming a Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) and Wellness hub in the ASEAN region. Over 100 participants of Thai and international business owners explored the potential of Isan, particularly its distinction as a leading sugarcane cultivation area globally. The event showcased connections to production, innovation, research, and foreign trade, indicating increased foreign investments in Isan. This transformation positions Isan and NeEC as a special development zone for driving biotech industries.
Mr. Narucha Ruchuphan, senior executive investment advisor of Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), highlighted the strategies to promote investment and support entrepreneurs in the Isan, focusing on BCG and Wellness industries. This emphasis aligns with Isan’s potential to be a major player in the ASEAN economic landscape, connecting with neighboring countries and boosting competitiveness.
Mr. Gavin Vongkusolkit, representing Khon Kaen Innovation Center, discussed the opportunities and potential of Khon Kaen as the central hub for innovation, agricultural development, and biotechnology in the region. The Innovation Center aims to create an innovation ecosystem, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive economic growth effectively.
Prof. Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Innovation and Enterprise of Khon Kaen University, emphasized the potential and investment opportunities in agriculture, food, and bio-technology industries. Cooperation between the government and private sector is crucial for advancing the economic structure and increasing the value of products in the region.
Additionally, the forum covered the topic “New Ecosystem Driver to New Opportunity ISAN & GMS,” featuring discussions led by Mr. Tak Sriratanobhas – director of Joint Venture and International Trade at Mitr Phol Group. He highlighted Isan’s potential as a significant contributor to global sugarcane cultivation and its integration with production, research, and innovation, attracting increasing foreign investments. This development positions Isan and NeEC as key players in driving the biotech industry.
Mr. Channarong Buristrakul, president of the Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the role of soft power in supporting science, technology, and innovation. Soft power, coupled with advancements in science and technology, will elevate the region’s economic status and increase the value of its products. The region’s readiness and commitment to clear government policies position NeEC as a high-potential area for economic competition, contributing significantly to Thailand’s new economic landscape.
Prof. Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., vice president for Innovation and Enterprise of Khon Kaen University, discussed the potential and opportunities for investment in the agriculture, food, and bio-technology industries. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive economic growth and increase the value of products in the region.
The forum highlighted the transformation of Isan and NeEC into a strategic development zone; attracting foreign investments; positioning the region as a leader in the biotech industry, agriculture, and wellness sectors in the ASEAN region. The collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and educational institutions underscore the commitment to fostering innovation and driving economic growth in the Isan region.
