The Government of Thailand has directed relevant government agencies to revise the proposed land bridge project while accelerating road, rail and port projects that strengthen transport connectivity between China, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. According to the government, priority will be given to projects that can address existing gaps in the regional transport network, improve freight movement and deliver near-term economic benefits without waiting for the completion of large-scale infrastructure developments.
The revised approach focuses on eliminating missing links along the North–South Economic Corridor connecting China with Southeast Asia. As part of the initiative, Thailand will advance plans to extend the railway from Chiang Khong in Chiang Rai Province to Nateuy in Laos, where it will connect with the China–Laos Railway at Mohan in China. The government also intends to upgrade Ranong Port and improve rail and road links between Ranong and Chumphon, creating an alternative freight route between the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand. These projects are expected to enhance cargo transport efficiency, reduce logistics costs and strengthen regional trade connectivity.
The revised strategy comes as the government reassesses the proposed THB1 trillion land bridge project linking Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand with Ranong on the Andaman Sea. Officials stated that future decisions will be based on comprehensive assessments of project feasibility, investment requirements and economic returns. The government said it will prioritise practical infrastructure investments capable of delivering rapid benefits to businesses and communities while supporting Thailand’s role as a regional logistics hub connecting China and Southeast Asia.