WHAID Secures Haier for AI-Driven Smart Factory for Commercial Air Conditioning System at WHA ESIE 5

WHA Industrial Development Public Company Limited (WHAID), a subsidiary of WHA Corporation PCL (WHA Group), consistently embodies the group's strong commitment to its vision of "The Ultimate Solutions for Sustainable Partners." The continuous and strategic development of WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 5 (WHA ESIE 5) in Rayong Province serves as a major recent testament. Conceptualized as a "Smart Eco Industrial Estate," WHA ESIE 5 exhibits sustained progress—with Phase 1 now over 80% complete and Phase 2 actively advancing to accommodate growing investment demand. The entire project encompasses approximately 7,000 rai.

The strategic advantages of WHA ESIE 5—including its prime location, integrated infrastructure, and sustainable development principles—have consistently attracted leading companies from diverse industries. In its latest success, WHAID has secured Haier Smart Home, a global leader in home appliances and smart home solutions, to establish its third "AI Intelligent Manufacturing Base" in Thailand. This pioneering facility will be the world's first AI intelligent agent factory dedicated to central air conditioning manufacturing and the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. The investment reflects Haier's confidence in WHA's world-class infrastructure and the strategic potential of Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to drive the nation's progress in the Data Center and AI Economy.

Mr. Pajongwit Pongsivapai, Chief Executive Officer of WHA Industrial Development Public Company Limited (WHAID), said, " Haier is a crucial, long-standing business partner that has consistently placed its trust in WHAID. This relationship began with their residential air conditioner factory on a 200-rai plot in WHA ESIE 3, Chonburi, which commenced operations in 2025. Haier's decision to expand investment at WHA ESIE 5, to construct ASEAN's largest AI intelligent central air conditioner production base, affirms their confidence in WHAID. It also highlights the comprehensive readiness of our industrial estates, encompassing strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and a sustainable ecosystem, positioning us as a complete manufacturing hub for future industries.”

The groundbreaking ceremony for Haier's new production base at WHA ESIE 5 took place on May 12, 2026. Construction is slated for completion, and operations are expected to commence in June 2027. This state-of-the-art factory will incorporate over 65% AI-driven automation, and a dedicated Research & Development (R&D) Center focus specifically on developing customized HVAC solutions tailored for tropical climates. These offerings will address the rapidly increasing demand from urban development, real estate, hospitality, industrial estates, and infrastructure sectors across the region. The facility aims to export its products throughout Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.

Haier's continuous expansion of investment further solidifies WHAID's position as a vital production base for future industries and the New S-Curve sectors. Our readiness in infrastructure, technology, and a comprehensively developed and sustainable industrial ecosystem is underscored by the following key strengths:

• Superior Digital Infrastructure: A robust foundation of digital connectivity, including underground fiber optic (FTTx) and 5G Network, combined with intelligent energy management systems. This infrastructure seamlessly supports data connection and processing for smart factories and large-scale data centers, ensuring AI-driven production lines and advanced automation systems operate at full potential, guaranteeing operational stability and efficiency.
• Green Industrial Ecosystem for the Future: Advancing the "Smart Eco Industrial Estate" concept, WHAID invests in clean energy technologies such as solar-powered street lighting and advanced water treatment and reuse systems (Reclamation Water). This not only enhances resource management efficiency and reduces environmental impact but also significantly lowers long-term operating costs for investors, aligning with global goals for Carbon Footprint reduction.
• Center for Workforce Development and Quality of Life: Beyond its role as a production base, WHA ESIE 5 is evolving into a comprehensive "Industrial Town," integrating residential and commercial areas. This creates an environment conducive to an enhanced quality of life and work in the digital era. Furthermore, WHAID fosters strong collaborations with nearby educational institutions, including King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok and Ban Khai Technical College, to cultivate a skilled workforce matched to the demands of future industries, supporting long-term industrial growth.

The continuous establishment of production bases by world-class companies within the WHA ESIE 5 generates significant positive impacts for the surrounding society and economy. These include creating quality jobs for Thai workers, promoting the growth of Thai SMEs within the supply chain by elevating their standards and global competitiveness, and stimulating the surrounding community's economy for sustainable, shared growth.

WHAID remains dedicated to driving investment and future industrial innovation, committed to delivering a perfect industrial ecosystem, world-class infrastructure, smart utilities, and clean energy, coupled with excellent management. This reflects WHA Group's "WHA SHAPE THE FUTURE FOR THAILAND" mission, collectively enhancing Thailand's industrial potential and forging a sustainable future for both the nation and the wider region.

Illustrations & Press Release From:

Eakkapop Panthurat

Senior Media Relations Manager

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