The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has officially launched its inaugural Multimodal Transport service from Ranong Port, reducing shipping times from the previous 14–21 days to just 3–6 days, while significantly lowering logistics costs.
The opening ceremony, held on September 23 at Ranong Port, marked the beginning of the new Multimodal Transport route linking China–Lao PDR–Thailand–Myanmar–BIMSTEC. The first shipment was dispatched to Yangon Port, Myanmar, underscoring Ranong Port’s growing role as Thailand’s Andaman trade hub and a vital link to regional economies.
The new multimodal service integrates trucking, rail, and sea transport into a seamless logistics corridor, positioning Ranong Port as a strategic hub for ASEAN and South Asia. The initiative also aims to build confidence among shippers, freight forwarders, and international shipping lines.
PAT Director Mr. Kriangkrai Chaiyasirivongsuk emphasized that Ranong Port is the only state-owned port on Thailand’s Andaman coast, serving as a direct gateway to the BIMSTEC region. He added that the project reflects PAT’s commitment to developing Ranong into a modern, transparent, and sustainable logistics hub that connects Thailand’s economy with the wider region and the world.
Transit times from Ranong Port have now been cut dramatically:
- 3 days to Yangon, Myanmar (previously 12 days via Laem Chabang)
- 4 days to Chittagong, Bangladesh (down from 13–15 days)
- 6 days to Chennai, India, and Colombo, Sri Lanka (down from 14–21 days)
This substantial reduction in shipping time and cost enhances competitiveness for both Thai and international businesses.
The project is backed by Thai Transport Center Co., Ltd. in collaboration with business partners including SCG JWD Logistics Plc. (SJWD), Ever Flow River Group Public Co., Ltd. of Myanmar, and SPT Smart Creation Co., Ltd. The joint effort focuses on developing a modern, interconnected transport system with Ranong Port as the main hub for distributing goods to BIMSTEC countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—an emerging market with strong growth potential.
The inaugural multimodal shipment marks a significant step in public–private collaboration, reinforcing Thailand’s ambition to become a key trade hub in the Andaman and BIMSTEC regions. The initiative is expected to reduce logistics costs, expand access to new markets, and strengthen Thailand’s long-term economic resilience and competitiveness.
Photos and news article from https://www.kaohoon.com/news/local/784397 (September 23rd, 2025)
