Thai Transport Deputy Minister Visits Automated Laem Chabang Port
Transport Deputy Minister Sanpet Bunyamanee inspected the automated D berth at Laem Chabang Port, a 20-billion-baht facility featuring AI-driven autonomous trucks and remote-controlled cranes. The visit aimed to evaluate port-automation technologies that improve cargo handling, cut logistics costs, support EEC growth and advance Thailand's 2050 Net-Zero ambition. Officials said the terminal can handle three mega-vessel ships and 3.5 million TEU yearly while adopting eco-friendly operations.
On 12 October 2069, Transport Deputy Minister Sanpet Bunyamanee and his team visited the D berth of Hutchison Laem Chabang Terminal to examine its smart-port technologies. HPT executives explained that the berth, built with about 20 billion baht, can accommodate three mega-vessel container ships simultaneously and handle up to 3.5 million TEU per year, while pursuing environmentally friendly operations toward a Net-Zero target by 2050.
Key technologies showcased included remote-controlled quay cranes (RCQC) and rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RCeRTGC) operated from a distance, AI-powered autonomous trucks that use sensors and positioning systems to plan routes and move containers inside the terminal, electric trucks with battery-swap stations that allow a five-minute change-over, reducing fuel use and emissions.
HPT also presented its nGen terminal operating system, which supports planning and real-time control of operations, together with the HPT Digital Platform and the UBI app that lets users track container status, check vessel schedules and access related data 24/7. Electronic transaction services such as e-DO, e-Billing and e-Tax, plus RFID-based gate-control, were highlighted to speed up and improve accuracy for shippers and supply-chain managers.
Deputy Minister Sanpet said the Ministry of Transport prioritises developing water-based logistics infrastructure to raise transport efficiency and strengthen national competitiveness. The study tour demonstrated how automation, remote-control and digital tools can be combined to modernise Thai ports, improve service levels and enhance workplace safety.
He added that the ministry is ready to back the adoption of technology and innovation from container handling to data linking and digital services to make port management more efficient.
