The government plans to develop the eastern provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao into a major Asean economic zone. The project set into motion the industrialisation of Eastern Thailand, marking the "Chote Chuang Chatchawan" era, which means "the illuminated success of the Thai economy". "But as we've learned from 30 years of the Eastern Seaboard, the EEC may not be so beneficial to us." Currently, in Chon Buri, it is expected there are over 1.5 million unregistered people living there. The varying growth rates of household income and GPP are raising questions about who will really benefit from eastern development between long-time locals and investors.

Source: Bangkok Post May 21, 2017 00:56 UTC