Chinese businesses are broadening their horizons, and Thailand is seen as a hot investment destination. China now is Thailand’s third largest investor.

This is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of diamond cutting tools. Ninety per cent of its orders are for export.

It’s been operating in China for more than 20 years - but has now opened a seven million US dollar factory here in Thailand.

Gang Yan Diamond Tools is one of an ever-growing number of Chinese businesses, which see big advantages in expanding overseas.

"Thailand is close to China and has a good location in Southeast Asia. We think Thailand has a bright future. We hope to stay here, expand our factory and bring our products to this region," said Qi Bin, managing director of Gang Yan Diamond Tools (Thailand) Ltd..

At this Thai industrial estate, there are more and more signs in Chinese. Dozens of Chinese-owned solar power, rubber and manufacturing plants have opened here. China is Thailand’s third biggest overseas investor, pumping in much-needed cash worth billions of dollars.

With full capacity at home, Chinese companies are being encouraged to shift production overseas. For Thailand, attracting investment is a priority.

"This is one of the major tasks of the government and the BoI. We are moving towards a business-friendly environment, the government plans to do many things to make Thailand an easy place to do business, so the registration process and the regulatory process has been reformed to provide more service and convenience for foreign investment," said Ajarin Pattanapanchai, deputy general secretary.

Many Thais are of Chinese descent and Thailand is a doorway to Southeast Asia’s 600 million consumers. Gang Yan employs 150 Thai workers and says it’s glad it made the move. Many believe Chinese investment in Thailand will continue to grow.