Thailand

Known for its resorts and Buddhist temples, Thailand is also a regional centre of R&D and high-tech manufacturing. | A major player is the state-backed National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). | Thailand's contribution to basic science has also grown in recent years, with its researchers doubling their output in physical sciences journals in the index between 2012 and 2015. | It's the world's second-largest exporter of hard disk drives and a major centre for car production. | Established in 1991, it supports centres of excellence in genetic engineering, biotechnology, electronics and nanotechnology.