The growth corridor concept implies the adoption of a regional approach in a comprehensive, coordinated and coherent manner.

In planning the development of the ECER, every project to be carried out should not only benefit the state concerned, but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the ECER as a whole. The most resource-effective locations for projects have been considered, taking into account the prevailing production factors, market consideration and strength of supporting industries and business services.

It is also important to consider the role of the ECER and the possibility of pooling the states’ resources to maximise mutual benefits and face future challenges, in terms of competition from neighbouring countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.

Within the ECER, several growth corridors have emerged and have been developing strongly along the main transportation and communication routes. The transportation network is still a major determinant where development will occur and influence the scale of growth.

The ECER development thrust will focus on existing established corridors in the region