The new project is expected to impact Thailand’s economy significantly. According to the BOI, it will boost exports by 200 billion baht annually and create around 10,000 new jobs. “Western Digital’s investment will not only expand our production capacity but also contribute substantially to Thailand’s economic growth,” said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, BOI OfficeSecretary-General.
Expansion Details and Benefits
The investment will primarily target the Bang Pa-in Industrial Estate in Ayutthaya and the 304 Industrial Park in Prachinburi. This expansion will establish Thailand as a central hub for hard disk drive production, a sector in which it already holds a dominant position, accounting for 80% of global output.
The investment is also set to boost local procurement. The BOI anticipates that Western Digital will source approximately 81 billion baht worth of local materials annually, including circuit boards and plastic components. This will foster the development of local industries and support the broader supply chain.
Industry Context and Future Outlook
Western Digital, a leading global player in data storage solutions, has expanded its presence in Thailand since establishing its first facility in 1997. This latest investment follows a similar move by rival Seagate, which invested 16 billion baht last year. As Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, Thailand will see 800 billion baht in investment applications in 2024.
Conclusion
In summary, Western Digital’s significant investment in Thailand marks a pivotal development for the company and the Thai economy. The project reflects Thailand’s growing importance in the global hard disk drive market by enhancing production capabilities, generating substantial job opportunities, and supporting local industries.
