Laem Chabang Port's Expansion Project Steams Ahead Despite Delays

Laem Chabang Port's third development phase has reached 45% completion, as confirmed by Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. This prominent project is a key element of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Development Plan, ranking among the top 15 infrastructure priorities under the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration.

Despite progress, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) reports a slight lag due to adverse weather, with the construction behind schedule. However, Minister Manaporn is confident in overcoming these setbacks. The Ministry has advised PAT to collaborate closely with CNNC Joint Venture, the project contractor, to make up for the lost time.

Adjustments include extending work hours during favourable weather and optimising machinery usage to reduce delays. While these challenges persist, the project's timeline remains on track, with the first phase expected to conclude by June 2026. Handovers, like Area F1 to GPC International Terminal Ltd, are anticipated by next November, and Pier F, a central component, is on course for a late 2027 debut.

Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, PAT Director General, notes progress in other project areas, with Phase Two preparations underway after a recent contract with CHEC (Thai) Co Ltd. Additional phases focusing on railway and IT infrastructure are lined up for bids early next year.

Upon completion, the enhancements will significantly expand the port's container handling capacity from 11 million to 18 million TEUs, reducing logistics costs and strengthening Thailand's position as a major logistics hub for the region, connecting southern China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

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