Transport minister vows to press ahead with land bridge mega project

14 Sept 17:33 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Transport Ministry is advancing a mega-project to create a land bridge connecting deep-sea ports in Ranong (west) and Chumphon (east) via rail and motorway, aiming to bypass the Straits of Malacca for international cargo shipments.
The ambitious project is estimated to cost one trillion baht, with each seaport designed to handle 20 million cargo containers (TEU) annually, significantly enhancing Thailand's role in global logistics.
The government plans for the project to be entirely private sector funded, providing land for the ports and transport routes, and the minister intends to hold roadshows abroad to revive interest among potential foreign investors.
Currently, the project is under careful study by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, with the environmental and health impact assessment (EHIA) expected to be completed by mid-next year.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.