Dubai-based global logistics provider DP World has expressed its readiness to proceed with a landmark investment in Thailand’s land bridge initiative, according to a senior official at the country’s Ministry of Transport.
A source within the ministry confirmed that Chayatan Phromsorn, the ministry’s permanent secretary, recently chaired a high-level meeting with DP World executives to discuss the company’s intention to participate in the project, which is valued at approximately 1 trillion baht. The meeting signified a continuation of earlier dialogues aimed at bolstering the Southern Economic Corridor and improving the strategic freight link between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
DP World has also requested further engagement with Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, underlining its ongoing interest in aligning with Thailand’s long-term logistics and infrastructure vision.
While no additional joint investment has been proposed at this stage, DP World is currently undertaking an in-depth analysis of the project’s technical and financial requirements. This evaluation is expected to inform the company’s investment strategy and commitment going forward.
The project, overseen by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), is set to be implemented in four structured phases:
Phase 1, valued at approximately 522 billion baht, will focus on the foundational infrastructure, including the development of Ranong Port (with a planned capacity of 6 million TEUs) and Chumphon Port (4 million TEUs), as well as a new railway line and a four-lane motorway. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2028 and conclude by 2030.
Phase 2, estimated at 164 billion baht, will concentrate on expanding port capacities—Ranong Port to 12 million TEUs and Chumphon Port to 8 million TEUs—and upgrading the motorway to six lanes. This phase will begin in 2032 and conclude in 2033.
Phase 3 will see an additional 228 billion baht invested to further increase port throughput, with Ranong Port targeted to handle 20 million TEUs and Chumphon Port 14 million TEUs by 2035. Construction will commence in 2034.
The final phase, valued at 85.1 billion baht, aims to complete the expansion of Chumphon Port to 20 million TEUs and develop the Single Rail Transfer Operator (SRTO) facility. Work is scheduled to begin in 2036 and be finalised by 2038.
The Transport Ministry’s confirmation of DP World’s involvement marks a significant step forward for one of Southeast Asia’s most ambitious infrastructure ventures, aimed at positioning Thailand as a critical logistics hub for regional and global trade.
-The Nation
