Local business operators are calling for the government to launch soft loan measures for companies to encourage investment in robotics and automation, says the Industry Ministry.
Siriruj Chulakaratana, the ministry's deputy permanent secretary, said it is working on a new plan to propose to Pasu Loharjun, permanent secretary for acknowledgement and approval.
"Thailand's industrial development plan emphasises adoption of robotics and automation in the private sector, with financial support from government agencies," he said.
Mr Siriruj said the S-curve policy, which includes robotics and automation, has received a positive response from companies, but to create new demand financial incentives are needed to encourage investment in technology for operations and manufacturing.
The ministry's development plan also aims to generate demand for electric vehicles, another S-curve industry, he said.
The 12 targeted S-curve industries are: cars; smart electronics; affluent, medical and wellness tourism; agriculture and biotechnology; food; robotics for industry; logistics and aviation; biofuels and biochemicals; digital; medical services; defence; and education development.
All the industries are expected to be implemented at the flagship Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme, spanning Chachoengsao, Chon Buri and Rayong.
The S-curve policy can also be implemented at other special economic zones (SEZ) such as the future Southern Economic Corridor.
Mr Siriruj said the EEC project has become very attractive among local and foreign investors because it claims to be the largest SEZ in Southeast Asia.
"The government has such high expectations for the EEC to improve the country's industrial sector and improve competitiveness, following the Thailand 4.0 initiative to escape the middle-income trap over the next 20 years," he said.
In separate news, the Board of Investment and the Thai Subcontracting Promotion Association will be co-organisers with UBM Asia Thailand, the showcase organiser, of two industrial events: Intermach and Subcon Thailand 2019.
The two events will be held at Bitec Bangkok during May 8-11.
Some 12,000 companies from 45 countries are scheduled to join the showcases, offering the latest in manufacturing and industrial technologies.
The organisers expect 47,000 visitors to join the two showcases and generate 12 billion baht.