Policy and Machanisms for Promoting Investment in Special Economic Zones for Sustainable and Equitable Development : A Case Study of the Eastern Economic Corridor Area

Abstract

This Research Article had objectives of this research were to study and analyze the characteristics, concepts, and limitations of investment promotion policies and mechanisms in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) that contribute to sustainable and equitable development in the economic, social, and environmental dimensions. This will provide information to guide the design of sustainable and equitable investment promotion policies and mechanisms. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using interviews to collect data from 3 groups, 25 key informants who selected by purposive sampling from policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in promoting investment in the EEC area. These informants represented government agencies, the private sector, and local communities, and were selected using purposive sampling. The interview results were then analyzed and summarized to achieve the research objectives. The study found that the the investment promotion policies and mechanisms in the EEC have three key strengths: clear supporting laws granting special powers to administrative agencies, a strategic location with comprehensive transportation systems, and the reduction of bureaucratic procedures through a One Stop Service system. Key limitations include policy discontinuity when governments change, fragmented interagency, and public participation that remains at the level of mere listening rather than empowering collective decision-making. These factors hinder sustainable development, particularly economic, due to the concentration of benefits and the lack of systematic attention to participation and changes in community lifestyles.