The ministry plans to encourage the expansion of businesses in the following areas, namely industrial robots, complete medical services, aircrafts and transportation, and encouraging the development of Thai SME entrepreneurs.

The ministry’s key projects for 2016 include establishing a national automobile and tires testing centre, a campaign to add value to rubber and rubber products, and more support to 4,400 new entrepreneurs.

Minister of Industry Atchaka Sibunruang noted that the principles required to achieve the Industry 4.0 era in Thailand’s industries will come into effect during the second phase of the efficiency and productivity enhancement master plan. The National Industrial Development Committee will be tasked with scrutinising steps to enact the plan, which will include measures to upgrade big industries and SMEs, bringing down manufacturing costs and enhancing long-term competitiveness.