In the coastal area east of bustling Bangkok lies Thailand's largest industrial zone, a production hub where hundreds of Japanese car- and auto parts makers had once rushed to gain a foothold in Southeast Asia.

As Japan and Thailand mark the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations Tuesday, the Thai government is seizing the moment to revive Japanese investors' enthusiasm with its plan to transform the industrial zone into a high-tech center for member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Earlier in September, the Thai government invited Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Hiroshige Seko and more than 570 delegates from the private and public sectors — including major firms as well as smaller ones in Tokyo and other regions — on a three-day trip to the tropical country to promote new investment opportunities.