North Thailand / Economy

The northern region of Thailand is very rich in a number of important minerals, particularly lignite (brown coal), fluoride, gypsum, tungsten, antimony, lead, zinc, manganese etc. Lignite deposits at Mae Moh have proven reserves of 812 million tons, which is adequate for generating 4,500 megawatts of electricity. Some 20,000 barrels per day of crude oil are currently produced in Kamphaeng Phet and the natural gas by-product is used by the nearby gas-fired electric power plant.

Agricultural products are abundant in the north. They comprise rice, maize, beans, cotton, tobacco, sugarcane, tea, longan, lychee, as well as temperate fruits and vegetables. Livestock farming is also widespread in the north.

As mentioned, regional resources in terms of tourist attractions are abundant, with many beautiful mountains, forests, and waterfalls.

The manual skills and dexterity of northern workers, developed over the years in numerous handicraft industries, are now supporting the development of new industries such as electronics and garments.

As far as infrastructure facilities are concerned, the northern region has, according to the Thai Board of Investments, an excellent network of transport, telecommunications, and public utility services. Chiang Mai airport is the second largest international airport in the country and the Northern Industrial Estate at Lamphun provides comprehensive facilities. There is also an international school offering teaching in English for children of expatriate workers.