Bangkok: The Prime Minister reviews the land bridge project, adjusting plans to accelerate investment in "Missing Links" to connect Thailand to become an ASEAN logistics hub. Today, Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed relevant agencies to review the development guidelines for the Land Bridge project. This initiative is coupled with accelerating investment in infrastructure that can be implemented immediately, particularly focusing on filling in missing links in the transportation network, both rail and road systems, to enhance transportation, trade, and investment efficiency within the country.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister emphasized Thailand's strategic advantage as a regional hub. By addressing the gaps in its transportation network, Thailand can expedite goods transportation, reduce logistics costs, boost competitiveness, and attract investment without the need to wait for the completion of large-scale projects.
Ms. Rachada highlighted that the unpredictability of global shipping routes, especially due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, accentuates the necessity of a seamless transportation network that includes roads, rail, sea, and air to ensure long-term stability of supply chains.
The government is particularly focusing on filling the missing links along the North-South Economic Corridor, which links China, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Recent discussions between the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of the People's Republic of China during an official visit to China underscored the intention to expedite the construction of a railway link from Chiang Khong District in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand, to Na Teuy City in Laos, extending to Mohan City in China. This development aims to establish a comprehensive regional railway network, improve freight transport efficiency, and enhance international trade.
In the short term, the government plans to fast-track the development of Ranong Port, linking it with Chumphon Province through rail and road systems. This initiative will provide additional options for transporting goods between the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand. A thorough assessment of feasibility, investment models, and economic returns will be conducted before moving forward with the next steps.
Ms. Rachada stated that the government prioritizes investments that are achievable, deliver quick results, and provide tangible benefits for the public and businesses. Completing the gaps in the transportation network is expected to reduce logistics costs, increase trade and investment opportunities, and reinforce Thailand's position as a regional connectivity hub. This approach is complemented by studying large-scale investment projects to ensure they offer the highest return on investment for the country.