Thailand is stepping up efforts to become a leading aviation and logistics hub in Southeast Asia, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul promoting the country's aviation potential during his recent visit to France.

According to government spokesperson, the Prime Minister highlighted Thailand’s strategic advantages in meetings with Thai ambassadors and consuls in Europe, French business leaders from MEDEF International, and executives from major French companies. Aviation, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and advanced logistics emerged as key sectors attracting strong investor interest.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Thailand’s strength extends beyond its geographic location. The country offers a comprehensive industrial ecosystem, including U-Tapao International Airport, the Eastern Aviation City project, modern rail and port infrastructure, industrial estates, and a workforce capable of supporting high-technology industries.

A cornerstone of Thailand’s aviation strategy is the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The project is designed to accommodate up to 60 million passengers annually and serve as a major air cargo gateway. It will also include aircraft maintenance facilities, free-trade zones, and advanced logistics infrastructure, with a total investment value of approximately 218.8 billion baht.

The government believes Thailand’s strategic location, infrastructure network, integrated supply chains, and skilled workforce position the country to become a major aviation and logistics hub for ASEAN in the years ahead.