With the country's rapid economic growth starting from 1957 onwards, groups of Chinese businessman in Thailand were able to fundamentally diversify into businesses ranging from banking, finance and manufacturing industry so as to offset import, with the blessing of the government. In the meantime, Bangkok itself expanded to become a metropolis featuring an array of new business hubs. The turning point having a direct impact on business in Yaowarat area occurred with the construction of New Phetchaburi Road just after 1967. With a large number of companies, department stores as well as entertainment places that had earlier clustered in Yaowarat area relocating there, the heyday of Yaowarat as business and entertainment center came to and end, although its status as Bangkok's biggest retail and wholesale trade center is still retained. Besides, the fact that it plays an important part as the center of national gold trade and features traditional Chinese community with unique Chinese cultural characteristics has made Yaowarat Bangkok's major economic hub and attractive tourist destination up to the present.
