Thailand's Transport Ministry has announced plans to enhance facilities and services at Ranong Port following a substantial 200% increase in import-export volumes since January 2024. This surge aligns with the government's initiative to promote the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) and elevate Thai logistics to international standards.

The escalation in trade activity is attributed to geopolitical unrest in Myanmar's Myawaddy and Tachilek townships, leading entrepreneurs to favor Ranong Port over traditional checkpoints at Mae Sot and Mae Sai.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri emphasized the port's strategic potential for logistics services in southern Thailand, highlighting its role as a pivotal maritime hub on the Andaman coast.

In response to the increased demand, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has been directed to expand container yard areas and upgrade facilities to improve shipping services.

Statistical data from PAT indicates that in the fiscal year 2024 (October 2023-September 2024), Ranong Port experienced a 69% increase in ship arrivals, totaling 281 vessels; a 111% rise in container traffic, amounting to 2,796 containers; and a 251% surge in cargo throughput, reaching 324,933 tonnes.

The first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (October-December 2024) continued this growth trend, with a 91% increase in ship arrivals (61 vessels), a 458% rise in container traffic (2,002 containers), and a 26% increase in cargo throughput (21,294 tonnes).

PAT Director Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk noted that this growth reflects the expansion of the economy and the logistics industry, particularly in relation to neighboring countries like Myanmar, which serves as a significant market for Thai exports.

Ranong Port currently operates two piers: a multi-purpose pier accommodating cargo ships up to 500 gross tonnes and a container pier designed for vessels up to 12,000 deadweight tonnes.

These developments underscore Ranong Port's potential to become a major maritime commercial hub on the Andaman coast.