Thailand expects to become logistics hub in ASEAN

Thailand’s Ministry of Transport has proposed a scheme to turn Thailand into a key logistics hub to cover land, air and maritime transport in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). September 15, 2022

Minister of Transport Saksayam Chidchob unveiled the plan on September 14 after the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Transportation Working Group met in Bangkok.

The meeting, lasting from September 14-16, is being held under the theme of “Seamless, Smart and Sustainable Transport” to ease trade and restore global connectivity in travel and tourism. Representatives from 14 member economies attended the meeting in Bangkok, while others participated via teleconference.

Experts from various sectors, including land, air and maritime transport exchanged experience on how to promote transport structure and supply chains. They stressed the idea of the Bio-Circular-Green Economy model and the use of smart technology.

To reach the above-said target, Thailand is carrying out its flagship project, the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), the third phase of the Laem Chabang deep-sea port and the motorway extension linking to U-tapao airport in Rayong all key features. Thailand would connect with the Laos-China high-speed railway and various countries in Europe to complete the picture.

The ministry also planned to use the southern land bridge megaproject, which connects the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand via Ranong and Chumphon provinces, as a transit hub.

A feasibility study is being conducted and a proposal could be submitted to the cabinet this year. Construction could start by 2030 with a roadshow to be held first to attract investors.

Source: VietnamPlus