PUBLISHED : 30 Jan 2026 at 05:36
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has unveiled a plan to transform the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) into a global entertainment and tourism hub, anchored by a proposed "Disneyland Thailand".
Mr Phiphat, also a deputy prime minister, said the project aims to position Thailand as a leading economic and tourism centre, while firmly ruling out any casino element. He stressed the plan was realistic and achievable with strong political will and coordination among state agencies.
He said the Sports Authority of Thailand is working with the government to prepare suitable land in Chon Buri province to support the mega project. The EEC already has key advantages, including extensive land availability and advanced infrastructure such as the hig…
PUBLISHED : 30 Jan 2026 at 05:36
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has unveiled a plan to transform the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) into a global entertainment and tourism hub, anchored by a proposed "Disneyland Thailand".
Mr Phiphat, also a deputy prime minister, said the project aims to position Thailand as a leading economic and tourism centre, while firmly ruling out any casino element. He stressed the plan was realistic and achievable with strong political will and coordination among state agencies.
He said the Sports Authority of Thailand is working with the government to prepare suitable land in Chon Buri province to support the mega project. The EEC already has key advantages, including extensive land availability and advanced infrastructure such as the high-speed rail link connecting three airports and the expansion of U-Tapao International Airport.
"With the foundations already in place, the next step is attracting private investment through public-private partnerships," Mr Phiphat said, adding policy support could allow the project to move forward without delay.
The development is envisioned as an "Entertainment and Lifestyle Complex" meeting international standards. Planned facilities include a concert and event hall capable of hosting world-class performances, a new 80,000-seat national stadium to attract major international sporting events, and a global-standard theme park.
Addressing concerns over grey-area businesses, Mr Phiphat said the project would be strictly free of gambling.
"There will be no casino and no exploitation of the public," he said. "The focus is on a clean, creative and sustainable space for music, sports and family-friendly activities."
Economically, the project is expected to generate value comparable to the other Disneyland outlets in Asia. Mr Phiphat said it would create tens of thousands of jobs across sectors such as engineering, performing arts and event management, while helping distribute income to local communities nationwide.
Meanwhile, U-Tapao International Aviation and the Eastern Economic Corridor Office yesterday signed a management agreement to kick-start the long-delayed U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aerotropolis project.