Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate in Rayong province is among 11 estates operated by the IEAT, which also jointly operates 49 estates with the private sector. TAWATCHAI KEMGUMNERD

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) says it sold 1,750 rai of developed land in the first half and expects better sales in the second half, crediting the government's policy to support special economic zones (SEZs).

First-half sales were well above the target of 1,500 rai, said IEAT governor Verapong Chaiperm.

The rise in land sales was due to the government's policy to support SEZs and the plan to promote targeted industries. Several privileges offered by the Board of Investment (BoI) helped attract buyers seeking land for expansion and investment.

The BoI is providing support and privileges for the 10 targeted industries that are classified as next-generation industries. The 10 are cars; smart electronics; medical and wellness tourism; agriculture and biotechnology; food; robotics for industry; logistics and aviation; biofuels and biochemicals; digital; and medical.

"The government's clear policy to promote investment has helped raise confidence and stimulate investment in Thailand substantially," Mr Verapong said.

According to the plan, the government has been promoting investment in SEZs, with the first phase starting in the targeted provinces of Trat, Sa Kaeo, Nong Khai, Songkhla, Mukdahan and Tak. Construction of the first phase is due to start next year and the operation of the industrial estates is due to commence in 2018.

Mr Verapong said the IEAT has prepared the available land in the eastern region of the country to serve rising demand from both domestic and foreign investors.

With the government's strong support, Thailand has become an interesting country to invest in, with its location in the centre of Asean making it the ideal production base for several industries.

"The IEAT has prepared around 30,000 rai of land, mostly in the eastern region, for the policy to promote investment in clusters and super-clusters," Mr Verapong said, adding that half of the land has been gradually developed.

He said investors are interested in the eastern part of Thailand due to the region's good logistics and transportation systems, including deep-sea ports, that can serve business expansion. As a result, investment is worth up to 200 billion baht and is expected to rise substantially next year.