Special economic zones highly interest developers

BANGKOK, May 20 (TNA) -- Numerous privileges motivate as many as 19 property developers to bid for contracts to build special economic zones covering up to 1,000 rai each in Nong Khai, Trat and Mukdahan provinces. Jakkrit Parapuntakul, director-general of the Treasury Department, said on May 19 that the 19 contenders presented their documents during the bid application period from April 11 to May 19. Ten contenders vie for the development in Nong Khai and Trat each and 11 others compete for the Mukdahan industrial zone. The turnout was higher than expected due to a wide range of promotional privileges covering those from the Board of Investment and customs and income tax privileges as well as exemption from thorough scrutiny under public-private partnership regulations. Besides, infrastructures were ready in the provinces, Mr Jakkrit said. Authorities would consider contenders' financial status, development plans, proposals on environmental conservation and land use, and capabilities to attract industrialists. The results of the bidding contests would be proposed to the cabinet in August and investment in the special economic zones should start late this year. Contenders included CP Land, TCC Land Development and Property Perfect, Mr Jakkrit said. (TNA)