Thailand Accelerates Infrastructure Gaps to Boost Landbridge Plan
Thailand is accelerating infrastructure projects to support its Landbridge strategy, with the government prioritizing port upgrades in Ranong and rail connections across the country over the next five years.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has revised the government's Landbridge strategy based on private sector input, pledging to accelerate the completion of missing transportation links and rail connections while immediately upgrading ports on both coasts. Speaking in Chengdu at a time difference of one hour ahead of Thailand, Anutin told reporters that the Landbridge remains a government policy under study, but the priority now is to urgently connect existing infrastructure gaps and railway systems. He noted that Thailand's central location in ASEAN and unique ability to link with other nations by both land and sea make these connections critical.
When asked whether the western port would be developed first, the Prime Minister confirmed that the government will begin by upgrading the deep-water port in Ranong to connect with Chumphon and terrestrial logistics systems, enabling links with neighboring countries. The Transport Ministry is conducting parallel studies to assess value and optimal investment timing to maximize long-term national benefit.
Earlier, during a luncheon with over 150 Thai private sector executives, Anutin told business leaders to look ahead with confidence. He revealed that private sector representatives, including heads of industry associations, banks, and chambers of commerce, had previously requested that the government prioritize connecting existing infrastructure gaps, completing rail links to both the western and eastern regions, and upgrading the two southern ports—stating this alone would be sufficient for investment prospects over the next 5-10 years. The Prime Minister emphasized that the Landbridge would take 3-5 years even without opposition, whereas port upgrades, rail connections, and road completions can proceed immediately. He assured investors that the government is listening and will provide every necessary support, assuring them that Thailand has adequate infrastructure and remains a competitive investment destination.
