The source said a group of French investors would approach the government in the near future to show their interest in investing in the construction of subway lines, which are scheduled to open for bidding early next year.

Alstom expects to set up a subway maintenance centre and train assembly plant here.

The State Railway of Thailand has in the past ordered locomotives from the company.

If the government follows its logistics development plan in constructing railway routes and five subway lines worth Bt165 billion, Alstom could have great business opportunities in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Airbus is interested in setting up an aircraft maintenance centre at Don Muang airport.

Airbus has received a significant number of aircraft orders from many countries in Asia. In addition, the Asian economy, which is mainly driven by China and India, is growing strongly and more aircraft will be needed in the future.

Above all, the company believes Thailand would be a good location geographically as an aircraft maintenance hub for the continent.

Both of the giant French companies have proposed many forms of investment, including joint ventures with the government.

Watcharapong Thongrung

The Nation