Thailand Seeks Enhanced Rail Connectivity with Laos and China
State Railway of Thailand aims to promote trade and logistical efficiency through improved rail networks.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced plans to enhance the efficiency of its freight transport services with Laos and China, in an effort to stimulate trade and position Thailand as a pivotal regional rail hub.
SRT governor Veeris Ammarapala recently engaged in discussions with Daochinda Siharath, the governor of Lao National Railway Enterprise, and Liu Hong, general manager of the Lao-China Railway Company (LCR).
The objective of these discussions was to establish a seamless and more efficient rail freight network that connects Thailand, Laos, and China while also improving logistical operations with Malaysia.
Key issues addressed during the meetings included infrastructure improvements, advancements in transport technology, the development of stations, connection of routes, and the streamlining of cross-border freight processes.
A systematic management plan aiming to maximize transport efficiency was also agreed upon by the three parties.
These initiatives are significant as they are expected to reduce logistics costs, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Thai farmers on the international stage, particularly in the export of products such as durians, mangosteens, and tapioca starch.
Mr. Veeris noted that once the Laem Chabang-Kunming railway is operational, transit times could decrease significantly—from approximately a week by sea to just 2-3 days by rail for shipments between Thailand and China.
Mr. Veeris emphasized that these developments would strengthen Thailand's role as a regional rail transport hub within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).
Additional discussions encompassed issues related to transshipment yards and preparations for the forthcoming durian export season.
Updates were also provided regarding the construction progress of the Thai-Lao Friendship Railway Bridge, which is expected to enhance connectivity further.
As part of the initiative, Mr. Veeris undertook a visit to the Vientiane South and Thanaleng cargo stations in Laos, identified as key logistics hubs for rail freight transport to China.
SRT governor Veeris Ammarapala recently engaged in discussions with Daochinda Siharath, the governor of Lao National Railway Enterprise, and Liu Hong, general manager of the Lao-China Railway Company (LCR).
The objective of these discussions was to establish a seamless and more efficient rail freight network that connects Thailand, Laos, and China while also improving logistical operations with Malaysia.
Key issues addressed during the meetings included infrastructure improvements, advancements in transport technology, the development of stations, connection of routes, and the streamlining of cross-border freight processes.
A systematic management plan aiming to maximize transport efficiency was also agreed upon by the three parties.
These initiatives are significant as they are expected to reduce logistics costs, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Thai farmers on the international stage, particularly in the export of products such as durians, mangosteens, and tapioca starch.
Mr. Veeris noted that once the Laem Chabang-Kunming railway is operational, transit times could decrease significantly—from approximately a week by sea to just 2-3 days by rail for shipments between Thailand and China.
Mr. Veeris emphasized that these developments would strengthen Thailand's role as a regional rail transport hub within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).
Additional discussions encompassed issues related to transshipment yards and preparations for the forthcoming durian export season.
Updates were also provided regarding the construction progress of the Thai-Lao Friendship Railway Bridge, which is expected to enhance connectivity further.
As part of the initiative, Mr. Veeris undertook a visit to the Vientiane South and Thanaleng cargo stations in Laos, identified as key logistics hubs for rail freight transport to China.
