Paris: Leading European companies are expressing interest in establishing aircraft maintenance and clean energy centers in Thailand. The Thai Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is actively seeking to attract European investment, with major companies showing interest in setting up aircraft maintenance centers and clean energy facilities in the Southeast Asian nation.
According to Thai News Agency, discussions were held today at the InterContinental Hotel in Paris between Prime Minister Charnvirakul and Mr. Pierre Jaffre, President of the Thai-European Business Association (TEBA), along with senior executives from four French companies: Rotortrade, Satys, Verventia, and Virya Energy. The talks focused on investment opportunities in future industries such as aerospace, aviation, and clean energy.
Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Rotortrade, a company specializing in new and used helicopters, expressed interest in establishing a helicopter maintenance center in Thailand. This move aims to use Thailand as a regional maintenance hub for the Asia-Pacific, building on the company's existing centers in France and the United States.
Satys, known for aircraft painting and coating services, is considering expanding its operations in Thailand. This expansion would boost Thailand's aircraft maintenance capabilities, enabling the country to offer comprehensive end-to-end services in the region.
Verventia acknowledges Thailand's potential as a regional hub, while Virya Energy, operating in Thailand under Constant Energy, focuses on solar power and has plans to expand its investment in the country. With accumulated investments of 2 billion baht, Virya Energy is keen to enhance its clean energy projects in Thailand.
Ms. Rachada further noted that Thailand's appeal to foreign companies aligns with the Prime Minister's efforts to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union. Additionally, Thailand's Board of Investment (BOI) offers incentives to attract investment in future industries such as aviation and AI. European companies recognize the opportunities and potential in these sectors within Thailand.