The Thai Ministry of Transport has laid out plans to transform the Thai economy through significant investment in the country’s infrastructure. The announced investment of 652 billion baht (US$18,345,526,120) is part of the initiative to grow the Thai economy into a high-value economy that is driven by technology and innovation.
This initiative was created with sustainability as one of the key objectives, as the Ministry is prioritizing several projects that should improve the environmental impacts from both production and consumption. These infrastructure projects are set to significantly boost Thailand’s economy by improving connectivity, increasing capacity, and promoting sustainability, and should help position the country as a key player in regional and global trade.
As per the official announcement from February of last year, 95 of the total 152 transport projects were to begin in the calendar year of 2024. The remaining 57 projects will start in 2025. The improvement strategy is all-encompassing, as there will be changes made to the infrastructure of airports, seaports, railways, and roads from a transportation aspect. In addition, developments to the digital infrastructure, warehousing services, and several miscellaneous items are to be included. Learn more about some of the more interesting projects below.
Airport Expansion
U-Tapao International Airport Expansion in Rayong involves the construction of passenger terminals, a second runway and taxiway, a cargo logistic center, an aviation training center, and an airport city. This project aims to enhance connectivity to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) area and is expected to handle 60 million passengers per year upon completion in 2029.
Seaport Developments
Laem Chabang Deep Seaport Phase 3 Expansion in Chonburi includes the construction of a deep-water berth and other facilities over an area of 1,600 rai (256 hectares). This project, divided into four parts, aims to increase capacity and reduce traffic congestion, with a target completion year of 2027.
Map Ta Phut Industrial Port Phase 3 Expansion in Rayong will develop two terminals for natural gas and liquid materials, along with related industrial areas. This project is set to start in 2027 and aims to handle 31 million tonnes of gas and liquid cargo per year.
Railway and Road Projects
The High-Speed and Double Track Railways in the eastern provinces will connect Thailand’s three major airports, reducing travel time between Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao to less than an hour. This project, starting in 2025, will also enhance rail transportation in the EEC, improving on-time and cost-efficient delivery.
The Thailand-China Railway Project will connect Bangkok with the Laos-China railway, enhancing connectivity to ports and other infrastructure within both the EEC and SEC. This 873km high-speed rail project is expected to be completed by 2028.
The Land Bridge Project in the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) is a mega project that includes the construction of two ports on opposite coasts, a six-lane motorway, a double-track railway, and a two-lane service road. This project aims to serve as a new gateway for cargo transport and trade exchanges within the region, reducing transport time and costs.
Digital Infrastructure
Thailand is also focusing on digital infrastructure development, including digital-related laws, digital government, cyber security, technology innovation, and digital talent development. These strategies aim to support the country’s focus on becoming technology-driven.
Warehousing Innovations
The Omega Bangna Logistic Campus in Bangna is transforming traditional warehousing into “Infrastructure as a Service,” with investments in automated cranes and AGVs to manage over 100,000 pallet positions. This project also includes digital services for monitoring and sustainability efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Expeditors Thailand Capabilities
As Thailand continues its rapid growth, Expeditors in Thailand is ideally positioned to offer comprehensive solutions that will enhance the efficiency and reliability of your supply chain operations.
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For more information on South Asia's market and how it can benefit your supply chain, contact your Expeditors representative today. If you are looking for alternative solutions to import your goods from South Asia to the U.S., you may also be interested in our Multimodal Truck-Ocean U.S. Solutions.